Attorney General Says Time Has Come for Antigua and Barbuda to Become a Republic

Attorney General Says Time Has Come for Antigua and Barbuda to Become a Republic

Attorney General Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin on Tuesday urged Antigua and Barbuda to begin formal discussions on becoming a republic, saying the country’s long colonial history and level of development mean it is ready to complete its break from the British monarchy.

Speaking in Parliament, Benjamin argued that independence remains incomplete while Antigua and Barbuda continues to swear allegiance to a foreign monarch, and said the issue must now be confronted openly.

“The time has come for this country to look seriously at changing over status to become a republic,” Benjamin told the House. “We should become a republic. That has to happen.”

He traced the country’s political journey from colonial rule to independence, noting that Antigua and Barbuda spent centuries under British control before achieving independence in 1981. “For over 300 years, from the middle 17th century to 1967, we were a colony,” he said, adding that associated statehood and independence were important milestones but not the final step.

Benjamin questioned whether the region has become complacent about sovereignty, asking MPs, “Are we in this region so unconcerned about our independence?”

The attorney general said the country has the legal expertise and institutional capacity to govern itself fully as a republic, pointing to the qualifications and experience within the Ministry of Legal Affairs. He rejected suggestions that Antigua and Barbuda is not ready to undertake such a transition.

“We are not mature enough to do that?” Benjamin asked rhetorically, before listing senior legal officials and staff with advanced qualifications as evidence that the country is prepared.

He appealed directly to Prime Minister Gaston Browne to initiate discussions on the issue, urging national leadership to take action rather than delay. “At least invite the talk. Have discussions on those matters,” Benjamin said.

Benjamin said raising the issue publicly was part of his duty as attorney general. “It’s my duty to let the people know it’s time for us to consider becoming a republic,” he said.

He concluded by tying the push for republic status to wider constitutional reform, telling Parliament that the issue should be addressed alongside other long-standing constitutional questions. “The Constitution must be revised,” Benjamin said.

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