Jamale Pringle Appointed Leader of the Opposition

Governor General Sir Rodney Williams on Monday described the Office of the Leader of the Opposition as a “vital institution” within Antigua and Barbuda’s parliamentary democracy as he officially appointed United Progressive Party (UPP) Political Leader Jamale Pringle to the post at Government House.

During the ceremony, Pringle took the Oath of Allegiance, the Oath of Office and the Oath of Secrecy before formally assuming the constitutional role of Opposition Leader.

“It is not merely political in nature, it is also constitutional in purpose,” Sir Rodney said during the ceremony.

The Governor General said the Opposition plays an essential role in ensuring accountability, scrutiny, constructive debate and balance within the governance of the nation.

“Our democracy is strengthened not only by elections, but by the continued functioning of strong institutions, constitutional order and respectful engagement among those entrusted with public office,” Sir Rodney stated.

Pringle’s appointment follows Antigua and Barbuda’s April 30 general election, which resulted in only two non-government members being elected to the House of Representatives — Pringle of the UPP and Trevor Walker of the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM).

Sir Rodney said the appointment was made in keeping with Section 79(2) of the Constitution, which guides the Governor General in determining who should lead the parliamentary opposition.

“After careful consideration of the constitutional provisions and the circumstances arising from the general election, I have appointed the Honourable Jamale Pringle as the Leader of the Opposition,” Sir Rodney said.

The Governor General explained that the Constitution requires the appointment of the member “most likely to command the support of the majority of members who do not support the government.” Where no such majority exists, the Constitution allows for the appointment of the member commanding support from the “largest single group” opposing the government.

Sir Rodney said the decision reflected the UPP’s national political presence and Pringle’s electoral support.

“Mr Pringle leads the United Progressive Party, which is a national political organisation with representation and support across multiple constituencies within Antigua and Barbuda,” he stated.

The Governor General also noted that Pringle received “substantially more votes within his constituency than the other opposition member elected to the House.”

“The appointment therefore reflects the constitutional principles relating to support, representation and the wider national democratic framework envisioned within our Constitution,” Sir Rodney added.

He also acknowledged BPM leader Trevor Walker for his continued representation of Barbuda and the role the BPM continues to play in Antigua and Barbuda’s democracy.

Governor

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