LETTER: Young People Feel Used After Election Promises Go Quiet

To Whom It May Concern,

Since Election Day on April 30, 2026, many young people across Antigua and Barbuda have been left feeling disappointed, discouraged, and unheard. During the campaign period, representatives strongly appealed to the youth, encouraging participation and promising opportunities, support, and change. Unfortunately, for many, those promises have not materialized. Here’s their experience and what they had to say.

A number of unemployed youths placed their faith in the process with the hope of receiving assistance, employment opportunities, or meaningful support. To date, many remain without jobs, without financial relief to the unemployed that helped campaign, and without any meaningful follow-up communication. It is heartbreaking to witness the growing frustration among young people who genuinely believed their voices and votes would matter.

Imagine being at your lowest point, reaching out to a representative for help, only to be met with flirtatious advances instead of genuine assistance and support.

Imagine being asked to submit your resume or fill out applications for organizations as per your representative and absolutely no communication after then, yet, every organization has a new face(new employee).

There is also growing concern regarding the lack of communication and accountability from some elected officials after being placed into office by the very people they sought support from. Many individuals now feel ignored and hesitant to speak openly due to fears of victimization or discrimination.

Additionally, the condition and efficiency of certain government entities within Antigua and Barbuda continue to raise concern. It is disheartening to see situations where individuals report to work only to leave their posts throughout the day for personal side businesses, while many capable and hardworking youths remain unemployed and eager for an opportunity. Far too often, it appears that favoritism, personal connections, and “company” outweigh fairness, professionalism, and competence. And to piggy back from that, there are individuals in positions that have nothing more than primary school education or can’t even read and write.

The state of the roads and public infrastructure also remains a major issue. Many roads receive only partial repairs that quickly deteriorate, leaving citizens frustrated and questioning the quality and sustainability of the work being carried out.

One thing that cannot be ignored is that the youth are paying attention. They are observing the decisions being made, the promises being kept or broken, and the treatment of the people who entrusted leaders with their votes. The next election will undoubtedly reflect the experiences and frustrations many are feeling today.

Respectfully,

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