Elected Members of Parliament Antigua/ABS photo

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for unity following Antigua and Barbuda’s April 30 general election, urging the country to move beyond political divisions and focus on national development.

Speaking during Tuesday’s swearing-in ceremony, Browne said the government must govern in the interest of all citizens as it begins a new term after the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party secured 15 of the 17 parliamentary seats.

The Prime Minister stressed that the election campaign had ended and that the focus must now shift to governance, productivity and national advancement.

“We have to continue the transformational build of this country,” Browne said, outlining priorities including “infrastructure, people, competitiveness, pride, environment, safety and security.”

He also urged ministers to remember their responsibility to the wider population and not only political supporters.

“You are here to serve the people of this country,” Browne said, as he called on public officials to honour the mandate they received at the polls.

The Prime Minister warned against division and complacency, emphasizing that the government’s responsibility is to improve the lives of all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

“We must work boldly,” Browne said, while encouraging collective effort and cooperation as the country enters a new political term.

His comments echoed remarks made earlier by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, who told ministers they are “not of a party alone, but of Antigua and Barbuda as a whole.”

Browne also emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in office, insisting that the administration must deliver meaningful results following its decisive election victory.

“There must be no mediocrity,” he said.

The Cabinet was formally constituted Tuesday during the ceremony at the American University of Antigua.