A political party that has struggled to gain traction since its formation has announced it will not contest the upcoming snap general election.
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) said its management committee had unanimously decided to sit out the poll, which is expected to be called by the prime minister within 90 days.
In a brief statement, the party urged all stakeholders to act within the law and called for elections to be “free and fair, and free from fear”.
The DNA was founded in April 2017 following a divisive leadership dispute within the United Progressive Party (UPP) after its 2014 election defeat. Many of its early members were former UPP figures, prompting long-standing claims that the party was intended to split the opposition vote — allegations it has consistently faced.
Its electoral performance has done little to counter those criticisms, with the 2023 general election proving particularly damaging and followed by the resignation of most of its candidates.
Led by former MP and senator Joanne Massiah, the party said it remains committed to the long-term development of Antigua and Barbuda.
It also thanked supporters and members for their “unwavering support” over the years.
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Didn’t know Bruce Goodwin was still a member of the DNA. DNA can absolutely sit out this one because they know UPP is much weaker and Joann knows Gaston doesn’t need her help this time around. You can bet they will be voting ABLP though
Joanne Massiah and DNA (didn’t even realize it still existed) are clearly living in a fantasy. Of course the party will be sitting out the next election — not by strategy, but because they have no choice, having lost all their candidates. For them to even put out such an article is nothing short of laughable.
Ok then DNA, this actually bodes well for tactical voting to eventually remove ABLP from office. If only you had decided to “step away” at the last GE, the UPP would have been duly elected.
Sadly, the many DNA votes denied this great country of ours a new and better future/challenge.
You can now help by putting this right for Antigua by helping us rid ourselves of not only the ABLP, but the removal once and for all of the ridiculously – over long – 50-year-old Bird-Browne dynasty.
We beseech you DNA for the return of the good name of Antigua & Barbuda, 🇦🇬 that you call on your supporters to vote tactically to remove Gaston & Co, so that accountability; transparency and the improvement in the lives of hardworking Antiguans.
DNA, OUR COUNTRY NEEDS YOU … 🫵🏾
Does DNA still exist?
DNA have struggled to gain significant traction since its formation. The concept of low traction often applies to new, third-party, or fringe parties in systems dominated by two major parties, or formerly dominant parties that have lost their base. Whilst I have tremendous respect and admiration for its party leader, the party just haven’t been able to move upwards and have practically lost all of its former candidates.