Pringle Warns Citizenship Programme May Be Doing More Harm Than Good, UPP Reviewing CIP

Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle says the United Progressive Party is reviewing Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme to determine whether it is still working in the country’s best interest, amid growing international scrutiny and ongoing restrictions affecting access to United States visas.

In his 2026 New Year’s message, Pringle said the opposition is already examining the programme internally, noting that key government obligations have become increasingly dependent on it.

“Already, we are in caucus, weighing the viability of our Citizenship by Investment Programme,” Pringle said. “Because of the Browne Administration’s poor management, so many critical functions now depend on the CIP, including Government’s monthly payments to the Social Security Scheme.”

He said the party intends to engage experts and stakeholders to assess whether the programme’s benefits still outweigh its risks.

“Therefore, we intend to consult with experts, analysts, and other stakeholders to determine whether the current negatives dogging the CIP outweigh the benefits to our people,” Pringle said.

The opposition leader also directly linked the issue to recent developments affecting U.S. visa access, saying many Antiguans and Barbudans have been unable to obtain certain classes of visas as of the start of the new year.

“As of today, January 1, nationals who had had hopes of acquiring certain classes of visa in this new year will be unable to do so,” he said. “Unless you are already in possession of a valid visa, you will not be granted one in the foreseeable future.”

Pringle said the situation persists despite public assurances from the government that diplomatic engagement would resolve the matter.

“Despite the prime minister’s assurances that diplomatic negotiations would reopen those doors … the situation has not changed,” he said, adding that Antiguans and Barbudans are “paying the price for believing the word of Prime Minister Gaston Browne.”

He said a future United Progressive Party administration would prioritise repairing relations with the United States and protecting the country from further restrictions.

“A new United Progressive Party Administration will employ all strategic avenues, and our reputation for good relations with the United States Government, to resolve this matter in the shortest time possible,” Pringle said. “We will work in your interest to avoid any further restrictions or sanctions that could disrupt our economy and the stability of our country.”

Pringle framed the proposed review of the CIP as part of a broader effort to restore credibility in governance and safeguard Antigua and Barbuda’s international standing as the country heads into 2026.

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