LETTER- The UPP’s PAC Fiasco: Missteps, Misinformation, and a Manufactured Spectacle

The UPP’s PAC Fiasco: Missteps, Misinformation, and a Manufactured Spectacle — What a Clownshow!

St. John’s, Antigua — Yesterday’s so-called Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting, loudly and prematurely promoted by Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, collapsed under the weight of its own contradictions. The absence of a quorum rendered the event non-functional from the outset. But the real story is not just poor attendance—it’s the deepening chaos, questionable tactics, and mounting credibility issues now haunting the leadership of the United Progressive Party (UPP).

A Performance Without a Script

From the beginning, signs pointed to dysfunction. With Government-side members Hon. Daryll Matthew and Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. both off-island, and Hon. Melford Nicholas reportedly unresponsive to the meeting notice, PAC Chair Pringle knew a quorum was unlikely, having received an excuse from his counterpart, Trevor Walker. Yet instead of canceling formally and informing all stakeholders—as proper parliamentary protocol dictates—he proceeded to invite supporters and members of the public to what was effectively a non-event.

Even more troubling is the revelation from Shirfield Bowen, UPP Deputy Political Leader, who disclosed during a media interview that Pringle had received official correspondence indicating the meeting was canceled. Bowen, a senior figure in the party, claimed he was never informed by Pringle—a glaring communication breakdown at the highest levels of the opposition.

Manufactured Drama or Political Strategy?

The episode descended into farce when the Special Services Unit (SSU) was called to clear the parliamentary chambers. Pringle later accused the police of “overreach,” claiming that taxpayers had merely accepted his invitation to observe democracy in action. But observers are asking: Why would the Opposition Leader lead civilians into a closed parliamentary precinct when he was aware that no meeting could legally or procedurally take place?

Additionally, Hon. Jamale Pringle must be asked why he canceled the original date of the PAC meeting.

The answer may lie not in oversight but in strategy—albeit a flawed one. Was this a staged moment meant to portray the UPP as victims of political suppression? If so, the execution was clumsy and amateurish, reflective of the UPP’s usual approach. The optics of a confused crowd, locked doors, and law enforcement present painted not a picture of injustice but of internal disarray.

Where Are the Advisors?

This incident raises serious concerns about the advisory structure around the Opposition Leader. Where are Paul “Pablo” Ryan? Where are Dr. Emanuel and the cadre of supposed strategists meant to guide the party’s messaging and parliamentary conduct? Is it the puppet master alone making decisions for the party? So, who, if anyone, is providing Pringle with competent procedural advice?

The UPP’s political operation seems rudderless—more street theatre than statesmanship. Jonathan Whener’s appearance on Jacqui Quinn’s show, promoting the debacle, appeared less like serious policy discussion and more like promotion of the chaotic script. Meanwhile, political commentator Franz DeFreitas’ inflammatory suggestions that citizens should have unimpeded access to Parliament even during closures risk inciting public misunderstanding of how democratic institutions function.

A Serious Committee, Not a Side Show

The PAC is not a stage for spectacle—it is a vital part of parliamentary accountability. With its operations already challenged, the Leader of the Opposition should be resolute in scrutinizing public spending, ensuring transparency, and holding the government to account. Reducing it to political theatre undermines not just the committee’s credibility but also the public’s trust in the UPP’s ability to govern effectively.

In their rush to make headlines, the UPP seems to have forgotten that good governance requires more than outrage and optics. It demands diligence, discipline, and above all, respect for the institutions they aspire to lead.

The Way Forward

This is a moment for reflection, not retaliation. The UPP must get its internal communications in order, clarify its leadership structure, and ensure parliamentary engagement is conducted professionally. If the party hopes to present a credible alternative to the electorate, it must abandon the circus and return to serious, structured politics.

The nation deserves more than theatrics — it deserves leadership.

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