The Antigua and Barbuda government is introducing new accountability measures requiring ministers, permanent secretaries and senior public officials to submit written progress reports as part of a broader push to improve performance across government ministries.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the initiative was discussed during the first Cabinet meeting following the April 30 general election victory of the Gaston Browne administration.

Merchant said Prime Minister Gaston Browne has made it clear that ministers will be expected to deliver measurable results and maintain higher standards of performance during the government’s new term.

“One of the methods implemented is closer collaboration with the leadership within each ministry, ensuring that leadership fits the purpose for which the ministry is designed,” Merchant said.

He said the Prime Minister specifically stressed that ministers of state “are not on a free ride” and must perform in keeping with the expectations of the public.

Under the new system, ministers and senior officials will no longer rely solely on verbal Cabinet updates but will instead be required to formally document the status of projects and government initiatives.

“Updates, progress reports on particular projects and the implementation of certain projects will now be required to be placed in writing by ministers and ministers of state, permanent secretaries, other leadership within government ministries,” Merchant said.

According to Merchant, the Prime Minister believes the overwhelming mandate secured by the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party has raised public expectations for faster and more effective delivery across government.

“He will be on the heels of all of his ministers to ensure that all of them perform at the highest level of expectations,” Merchant added.

The government has repeatedly stated that accountability and delivery will be major priorities during its fourth consecutive term in office.