New Senator Ashworth Azille Promises “Very Robust Discussions” in Upper House

Newly appointed Opposition Senator Ashworth Azille says he intends to approach his role in Parliament “with great vigor,” promising robust debate and strong representation in the Senate as Antigua and Barbuda enters a new parliamentary term.

Speaking to ABS Television following his swearing-in ceremony at Government House on Monday, Azille said he is prepared for the seriousness of the task facing the Opposition and is looking forward to engaging legislation in the Upper House.

“I look forward to very robust discussions on the legislations that will come before the Senate for discussion,” Azille said.

The newly appointed senator described his elevation to Parliament as both “a deep honour” and “a great honour,” saying it reflected the confidence that Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle and the United Progressive Party have placed in him.

“To ask me to serve at this level is a profound, profound honor,” Azille stated.

He said the appointment also reinforced the importance of the Opposition’s constitutional role in Antigua and Barbuda’s democracy, referencing earlier remarks made by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams during the ceremony.

“I take note of the earlier indications and entreaty of the Governor General as it relates to the seriousness of the task of the opposition in the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda,” Azille said.

The former educator and trade union leader said he hopes his appointment will inspire greater youth participation in national development and politics.

“I certainly hope that this will spur among our young nationals that great desire to become involved in a very serious way in nation building, particularly as it relates to their political involvement,” he said.

Azille argued that political leadership should not remain limited to a select few.

“Very often we leave it as the preserve of a chosen few,” he said.

Reflecting on his recent election campaign experience, Azille said he observed what he described as “a hunger for leadership” across the country.

“There is a hunger for leadership in this country,” he said. “I certainly stand here as one who’s putting up my hand together with my colleagues to say that we are ready to take this mantle of leadership.”

While acknowledging that partisan politics can often become divisive, Azille said he wants political engagement to focus more on addressing the real concerns of citizens.

“We are looking forward to an engagement that really takes into consideration all of the hopes, aspirations and dreams of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” he stated.

He added that he hopes to help ensure justice in representing the concerns of the public.

Azille also spoke about his personal background and public service career, revealing that although he was born in Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda has been his home for more than four decades.

“One of the things that many persons expressed surprise about during my recent political campaign is the fact that I’m not originally from Antigua,” Azille said.

“I was born in Dominica and like so many others, I was brought here as a child. Antigua has been my home for the last 40 odd years.”

Azille described himself as a product of Antigua and Barbuda’s public education system, having attended Phillip Primary School, Clare Hall Secondary School and Antigua State College.

He said he served for 23 years as a teacher and principal before entering frontline politics.

Azille also highlighted his extensive involvement in the trade union movement, particularly with the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers, where he served as a member, general secretary and president. He also served as president of the Caribbean Union of Teachers.

“My work has really been grounded in the principles of justice, fairness and equity,” Azille said.

He said much of his professional life has been dedicated to advocating for people who “may appear voiceless.”

“That is why I’m so very delighted at this opportunity because again it’s an opportunity to advocate at a different level,” he added.

Azille was among three Opposition senators sworn in Monday at Government House alongside Jonathan Wehner and Chester Hughes. Opposition Senator-designate Malaka Parker is expected to be sworn in at a later date after missing the ceremony due to travel.

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