ABEC Demands Retraction, Threatens Legal Action Over Bruce Goodwin Allegations

The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission has called on former chairman Bruce Goodwin to retract what it described as “false, reckless and malicious” allegations against the Commission, warning that it is prepared to pursue legal action to defend its independence and the integrity of the electoral process.

In a strongly worded statement issued Tuesday, ABEC said it “rejects utterly” comments made by Goodwin during an appearance on the programme Eye on the Issues, hosted by Louisa Tully, in which he questioned the independence of the Commission and the legitimacy of the 30 April 2026 General Elections.

“The Commission calls for Mr. Goodwin to retract the statements which are unfounded, irresponsible and damaging,” ABEC stated. “The Commission rejects them utterly and will take whatever legal action is necessary to defend its independence, its officers and the integrity of the electoral process.”

ABEC described the allegations as “grave, wholly unsubstantiated, and entirely devoid of credible evidential foundation,” insisting that its policies, systems and operational procedures remain lawful, transparent and institutionally independent.

The Commission said it had “not been captured by the State,” was not under partisan control, and maintained no improper links to any state apparatus. It labelled any suggestion to the contrary as “false, scandalous and deeply irresponsible.”

ABEC also expressed disappointment that the comments came from a former chairman, stating that Goodwin should understand “the constitutional importance of ABEC’s independence and the damage that reckless public misinformation can do to public confidence in democratic institutions.”

“It is an attack on the integrity of the electoral process itself,” the statement added.

The Commission defended the work of the Supervisor of Elections, commissioners, staff members and scrutineers, saying they had carried out their duties “professionally, honourably and tirelessly.”

ABEC further stated that if anyone possesses credible evidence of electoral wrongdoing, such information should be submitted to the relevant authorities rather than aired publicly without proof.

“The dissemination of serious accusations in the public domain, without proof and in a manner calculated to inflame suspicion and disrepute, is a reckless abuse of public commentary and an affront to responsible democratic engagement,” the Commission said.

ABEC also pointed to the presence of local, regional and international observer groups during the election process, arguing that the transparency of its operations would have been evident to those missions.

The Commission urged the public to disregard Goodwin’s allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to impartiality, legality and transparency in electoral administration.

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