Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he plans to dissolve parliament on April 1, clearing the way for a general election in Antigua and Barbuda.

Speaking during a sitting of the House of Representatives on March 27, Browne said a decision will be made on whether to ask the Governor General to issue the writ of election on April 1 or within a week of that date.

Under the Constitution, at least 21 days’ notice must be given before a general election, meaning the earliest possible date for a vote would be April 22.

However, Browne indicated the campaign period could extend beyond the minimum timeframe, suggesting a slightly longer lead-up to polling day.

He said members of the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) had encouraged him to show some “mercy” to the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP).

“In as much as we want to be strategic, we don’t want to put the opposition at a major disadvantage,” Browne said.

He added that Cabinet will decide whether the writ of election is issued on April 1 or at a later date. A formal letter is expected to be sent to the Governor General next week outlining the proposed timeline, including nomination day and the election date.

Browne also urged the opposition to use the upcoming holy week to resolve internal divisions and present a united front ahead of the polls.

In the last general election in 2023, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party won 9 of the 17 seats in the House of Representatives, while the UPP secured 6 seats. The Barbuda People’s Movement retained its single seat, and former ABLP MP Asot Michael was elected as an independent candidate.