Greene Criticizes Opposition Leadership for Missing Farewell to Sir Gerald Watt

“Minister Greene Criticizes Opposition Leadership for Missing Farewell to Sir Gerald Watt”

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, E.P. Chet Greene, has expressed disappointment in Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle for his absence at the special parliamentary sitting honoring Sir Gerald Watt, KC, the outgoing Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Speaking during an interview on Pointe FM, Minister Greene described Pringle’s decision to skip the farewell event as a missed opportunity to recognize Sir Gerald’s contributions to parliamentary democracy in Antigua and Barbuda.

Greene suggested that Pringle’s absence was not accidental but the result of poor advice from political handlers.

“I believe he was misguided by those around him, who failed to see the importance of this seminal moment in our parliamentary history,” Greene remarked.

He also criticized what he called a culture of “color-coded politics,” which he argued often prevents constructive engagement across party lines.

Sir Gerald Watt, who served as Speaker of the House since 2014, was lauded by Greene for his leadership and his efforts to maintain order and professionalism in parliamentary debates.

“He was fearless and strict, ensuring that parliamentary standards were upheld,” Greene said, adding that Sir Gerald played a significant role in modernizing standing orders and mentoring MPs, including members of the opposition.

Reflecting on Sir Gerald’s relationship with Pringle, Greene noted that the Speaker often guided the Opposition Leader in parliamentary conduct and procedure, despite what he called a perception of hostility from within Pringle’s party.

“Too often, Sir Gerald’s constructive feedback was misinterpreted as adversarial, but anyone who takes an honest look will see his efforts were aimed at improving the quality of debate,” Greene said.

Pringle’s absence at the farewell sitting was particularly disappointing, Greene said, given the Speaker’s legacy and his efforts to elevate parliamentary standards.

The minister expressed hope that Pringle would reflect on the significance of the occasion and the guidance Sir Gerald had offered during his tenure.

The parliamentary session also saw the swearing-in of Osbert Richard Frederick as the new Speaker of the House.

Greene congratulated Frederick on his appointment and expressed optimism about his tenure, calling it a continuation of the strong leadership tradition established by his predecessors.

The interview highlighted ongoing political tensions in Antigua and Barbuda, with Greene doubling down on his criticism of the opposition while reiterating his commitment to fostering a more collaborative and respectful political environment.

However, he made it clear that moments like Sir Gerald’s farewell deserved bipartisan acknowledgment and respect.

For Greene, the opposition’s decision to skip this milestone event was a missed opportunity for unity and mutual respect in Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape.

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