The United Progressive Party (UPP) has rejected claims made by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) linking it to a controversial letter circulating in the public domain, describing the accusation as baseless and politically motivated.
In a press release issued Thursday, the UPP said it had “no connection to any anonymous website nor to the document being circulated,” and accused ABLP Chairman Chet Greene of attempting to deflect from legitimate public concerns.
“The ABLP’s pathetic attempt to attach political blame without evidence is irresponsible, misleading, and intended to intimidate,” the party said.
The opposition party argued that instead of addressing questions surrounding the contents of the letter, the government was seeking to shift the narrative through what it described as “manufactured outrage” and allegations of conspiracy.
“What Mr. Greene’s response reveals is an administration that is unable to respond to legitimate scrutiny without resorting to personal attacks. This is not leadership; it is political damage control,” the statement said.
The UPP pointed to broader concerns raised by the public, including issues related to a reported U.S. visa ban and bond, and their potential impact on travel, education, medical treatment and business.
“The issues raised in the circulated letter are matters that require answers — not cheap press releases designed to insult opponents and seek sympathy,” the party added.
The statement also defended the role of civil society in raising questions, warning against attempts to dismiss criticism.
“In a democracy, scrutiny is not sabotage, and accountability is not an attack,” the UPP said.
The party called on the government to provide clear and transparent responses, saying confidence in its record should be demonstrated through openness rather than “blanket accusations.”
It added that it remains committed to presenting what it described as a credible alternative to the current administration and would not be “intimidated nor misrepresented into silence.”