Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has dismissed reports that he intends to step down as Political Leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP), insisting he remains committed to leading the party into the next general election in Antigua and Barbuda.

In a statement issued on March 23, Pringle described the speculation as false and said it was aimed at destabilising the party.

“I am not resigning,” he said. “I remain your Political Leader. I remain committed to holding the Gaston Browne administration accountable. And I remain committed to building this Party into an organisation worthy of leading this Nation.”

Pringle accused a media source linked to the Prime Minister of spreading rumours about his resignation and an alleged rift with former party leader Harold Lovell in an effort to distract from national issues.

He reaffirmed his support for Lovell, stating that both remain focused on strengthening the party and preparing for the upcoming general election, which Browne has indicated could be called within 90 days.

Addressing criticism of the party’s performance in the St Philip’s North by-election, Pringle defended the UPP’s participation, saying it formed part of a broader strategy to build support and demonstrate its commitment to change.

He noted that the party has not held the constituency in the past 50 years and rejected suggestions that the result should be used to question his leadership.

“To use the result of the by-election as a crowbar to dislodge elected Party leadership is not merely disingenuous. It is an insult to the intelligence of the public,” he said.

Pringle also acknowledged internal concerns within the party, noting that open discussion and differing views are part of a healthy democratic organisation.

He said the UPP remains focused on presenting itself as a credible and united alternative to the ruling administration.

“To the people of Antigua and Barbuda: You deserve a credible, united, and focused Opposition. Building that is exactly what we intend to do,” he added.