Caribbean Women in Leadership (CIWiL) Antigua and Barbuda has congratulated the five women contesting the country’s 2026 general election, describing their participation as vital to strengthening democracy and representation.

The organisation named Gail S. Pero, independent candidate for St. George; Malaka Parker of the United Progressive Party (UPP) in St. John’s Rural North; Kiz Johnson of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) in St. Philip South; Maria Bird-Browne of the ABLP in St. John’s Rural East; and Senator Pearl Quinn-Williams of the UPP in St. John’s City East.

CIWiL said women in politics contribute diverse perspectives and help advance key issues, including healthcare, childcare and governance, while also strengthening democratic institutions.

The group also encouraged Antiguans and Barbudans to participate in the electoral process, noting that each vote plays a role in shaping the country’s future.