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PM Dismisses ‘Soul of the Nation’ Protest as Political Gimmick

06 April 2025
This content originally appeared on Antigua News Room.
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Small March, Big Claims: PM Dismisses ‘Soul of the Nation’ Protest as Political Gimmick

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has dismissed the recent “Soul of the Nation” march organized by opposition forces as a hollow and ineffective display of political theater, pointing to the low turnout and perceived lack of leadership as evidence of the opposition’s growing irrelevance.

Speaking during the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM this weekend, Browne said he had not even realized the protest had occurred, noting, “I swear—I didn’t know a march took place. It probably was so small I completely missed it.”

The protest, reportedly led by public figures including William “Zizi” Thomas and known activist Wehner was aimed at voicing public dissatisfaction with the current administration over issues ranging from land rights to alleged corruption. However, Browne argued that the event was more of a publicity stunt than a meaningful political movement.

“You have politicians hiding behind Zizi and Wehner? That alone tells you everything you need to know,” Browne said, calling the march an example of the opposition’s “deep failure” to connect with the people or organize a credible demonstration.

Browne also used the moment to take a swipe at the United Progressive Party (UPP), saying the group has “disintegrated into nothingness” and now depends on fringe figures to generate attention.

He further criticized the event’s messaging, saying it lacked cohesion and failed to offer serious solutions. “They’re trying to use the Alfa Nero sale and other issues as a political lifeline, but the people of this country are too smart for that,” the Prime Minister said.

Government supporters have echoed Browne’s view online, with some referring to the event as a “political balloon” rather than a serious threat.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come as he and his administration face ongoing legal and political scrutiny related to the sale of the Alfa Nero vessel and other high-profile issues. However, he remains confident in his government’s standing, asserting that the opposition’s focus on personal attacks indicates they have “no other hope” of regaining power.

“They can’t touch our record of delivery, so they’re resorting to gimmicks. But the people are watching,” Browne said.

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