PM Browne Defends Giving Cash to Supporters as ‘Obligation to Share’

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended his practice of giving money to individuals at public events, saying it reflects a personal obligation to help people rather than any improper conduct.

Speaking at the joint Antigua Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU) and Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Labour Day rally, Browne acknowledged that he sometimes gives small sums of money to members of the public who approach him.

“When you see I leave the platform… and they say they want $100, $200… and I give them… I have an obligation to share,” Browne said.  

He framed the practice as an expression of care for citizens, rejecting any negative interpretation of the gesture.

“I have an obligation to care… to love the people of this country,” he said.  

Browne said his actions are rooted in empathy and his connection to ordinary people, noting that he and members of his administration come from working-class backgrounds.

“We are product of you,” he said, adding that he remains committed to supporting people in tangible ways.  

The prime minister’s remarks come amid ongoing political debate about the appropriateness of such gestures in public life.

His comments formed part of a wider Labour Day address in which he outlined policies on wages, working conditions and social support, while reaffirming his administration’s focus on improving the lives of workers and vulnerable groups.

Browne said he will continue to assist people where he can, describing it as part of his responsibility as a leader.

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