Lovell says UPP must rally behind Pringle as election nears

United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate for All Saints West Harold Lovell is calling for unity within the opposition, urging members to rally behind Political Leader Jamale Pringle as the country moves closer to a general election expected within weeks.

Speaking on Observer Radio’s Connecting with Dave Lester Payne, Lovell said the party must now focus on campaigning rather than internal divisions, describing the upcoming election as a serious moment requiring discipline and collective effort.

“The Honourable Jamale Pringle, he was elected at the convention. He’s the leader of the opposition. He’s the leader of the party. And we all have a duty now to rally and to move forward,” Lovell said.

He urged party members and those in leadership positions to “buckle down,” warning that the election should not be treated lightly.

“This is not a joke business. This is not something to play with. This is a very serious matter,” he said.

Lovell acknowledged that internal issues within the party have been widely discussed but said they have been overstated, particularly given the challenges opposition parties face.

“The issue has been magnified and exaggerated, but that happens when you’re in opposition,” he said, adding that governing parties benefit from resources that help maintain cohesion.

At the same time, he stressed that unity must translate into action on the ground, with candidates increasing their presence in constituencies and strengthening engagement with voters.

“You have to focus on getting to meet the constituents through engagement… if people don’t know you, if people have never seen you, chances are you’re just shooting in the dark,” Lovell said.

He said the party intends to run an issues-driven campaign, highlighting concerns such as the cost of living, infrastructure challenges and governance.

“It’s going to be, I hope, an issues-driven campaign. And if it’s an issues-driven campaign, the issues are there,” he said.

Lovell added that while some internal matters remain for party leadership to address, the immediate priority is ensuring readiness for the election and presenting a clear alternative to voters.

“Everybody… has to be out there meeting constituents,” he said, as the party works to consolidate support ahead of the polls.

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