Prime Minister Gaston Browne says internal polling commissioned by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party shows him holding a clear lead in public support for national leadership.

Speaking on his weekly programme, Browne said 75% of respondents expressed a preference, with 55% backing him. UPP leader Jamale Pringle recorded 15%, while former leader Harold Lovell polled 5%, with 25% undecided.

Browne argued the undecided voters would likely swing in his favour, suggesting the opposition’s support could remain limited. He used the figures to challenge Lovell’s political viability, questioning his claim to leadership.

The Prime Minister also pointed to the party’s recent by-election win in St. Philip’s North and comments from regional pollster Peter Wickham as signs of favourable conditions for a possible early election.

He attributed the results to what he described as public frustration with divisions within the UPP, contrasting that with his administration’s development agenda. Browne further accused Lovell of attempting to reclaim leadership rather than working within the party’s current structure.