Lennox Weston: ABLP Friends Abandoned Asot Michael but ‘Reclaimed Him in Death’

Lennox Weston: ABLP Abandoned Asot Michael but ‘Reclaimed Him in Death’

Former MP Lennox Weston stirred emotions and sparked conversation during his tribute at Hon. Asot Michael’s funeral, claiming that Michael was abandoned by his close friends in the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), only to be embraced once again after his passing.

“Asot Michael, a man who gave so much to the ABLP and its cause, found himself abandoned in life by many he once called friends. And yet, in death, those same individuals have reclaimed him as their own,” Weston said, addressing a packed congregation.

Weston’s comments cast a reflective and, at times, critical light on Michael’s later years, particularly on his strained relationship with the political party he represented for much of his career.

Despite the controversies surrounding his later political life, Weston painted a vivid picture of Michael as a bold and generous leader who revolutionized politics in Antigua and Barbuda.

“Asot was a political trailblazer—a master campaigner and fundraiser who knew how to connect with people at a personal level,” Weston said. He described Michael’s focus on direct assistance to constituents, from providing health and education support to organizing festive giveaways during the holidays.

Weston also recalled Michael’s ability to captivate audiences, both on the campaign trail and in Parliament. “He was a showman, a performer, and a man of action,” Weston noted.

Weston did not shy away from addressing the fractures in Michael’s relationship with the ABLP. He recounted Michael’s decision to run as an independent candidate in the 2023 general election after parting ways with the party, achieving a historic victory in St. Peter.

“Abandoned by those he trusted, Asot mused his way to within six votes of a stunning electoral upset that could have changed the political landscape,” Weston said. “In doing so, he became the first independent candidate to win the St. Peter seat, a feat that sent shockwaves through the Labour Party.”

Weston’s remarks reflected the complexities of Michael’s career, which saw him shift from being a key figure in the ABLP to an independent force who continued to serve his constituents with the same vigor and dedication.

While Weston celebrated Michael’s enduring legacy, he did not hold back from critiquing the political dynamics surrounding his funeral. “In death, the ABLP has reclaimed Asot as their own—a true Labourite, a comrade,” Weston said. “But the question remains: where were these voices of support during his darkest hours?”

The statement drew murmurs from attendees and underscored the complicated relationship between Michael and his former allies.

Weston’s tribute blended celebration with critique, capturing the essence of a man who was as dynamic and impactful as he was polarizing.

“Asot’s generosity, charisma, and passion for service will never be forgotten,” Weston said. “He gave everything he had to his constituents and his country, and that is the legacy we should remember.”

Michael’s legacy, as Weston described it, remains one of resilience, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to the people he served—even in the face of adversity.

WATCH THE FULL TRIBUTE BY WESTON HERE:

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua! We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.Contact us at [email protected]