Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he is seeking a young person in their 20s for Senate as part of succession planning push

Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he is looking to appoint a young person in their 20s to the Senate, outlining what he described as a broader effort to prepare the next generation of leadership in Antigua and Barbuda.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne said he is actively monitoring the political landscape for emerging talent, including individuals who could serve in the Upper House and on statutory boards.

“I’m hoping, for example, that I can find someone in their 20s… to put in the upper house as a senator,” Browne said.

He indicated that such appointments would be based on merit, noting that individuals will be assessed on their current contributions rather than past loyalty.

“I’m asking the youth to step up… let’s see what you’re made of,” he added.

Browne framed the initiative as part of a deliberate succession planning strategy within his administration and party, aimed at ensuring continuity in governance and building on past gains.

“There’s also a renaissance taking place within the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party itself, as we seek to attract new talent, younger talent, and to ensure leadership continuity,” he said.

He said the transition toward younger leadership is already underway, pointing to a reduction in the average age of candidates and a wider effort to include more young people in decision-making roles.

The Prime Minister argued that leadership development is critical to sustaining national progress, adding that the goal is to ensure that future leaders are equipped to continue advancing the country’s social and economic agenda.

Senate and board appointments are expected following the upcoming general election.