Democracy Denied: Gaston Browne Silences Budget Debate, Shortchanges the People
In a shocking display of political strong-arming, Prime Minister Gaston Browne orchestrated the abrupt shutdown of Antigua and Barbuda’s 2024 Budget debate. With only three government speakers and two from the opposition bench allowed to contribute, the debate was swiftly forced into the committee stage, where the Budget was rubber-stamped with minimal scrutiny. This deliberate move robbed citizens of their right to hear from elected representatives on how their money will be spent.
More troubling, seven government members including five ministers were denied the chance to report on their stewardship. These updates are vital for public accountability, especially in critical areas like health, education, agriculture tourism and foreign affairs. By gagging his own ministers, Browne dodged transparency, raising suspicions about what the government might be hiding. What have these ministers failed to deliver that they’re now being shielded from explaining?
This is more than just a political maneuver — it’s a mockery of the parliamentary system. Parliament exists to facilitate robust debate, not to serve as a stage for government theatrics. By shutting down discourse, Browne treated Parliament like a personal fiefdom, silencing dissent and stifling democracy in plain view.
The citizens of Antigua and Barbuda deserve better. Budget debates are not mere formalities — they determine how national resources are allocated and impact the daily lives of every citizen. Denying the public this critical insight is a direct assault on their right to transparency and accountability.
Critics have labeled Browne’s tactics as “head games,” and for good reason. The strategy is clear: project control, avoid tough questions, and leave the people in the dark. But head games have real consequences. Democracy erodes when leaders play politics with public trust, and this latest stunt signals a dangerous shift toward executive overreach.
The message is clear — Antigua and Barbuda’s democracy is being tested. Silence in Parliament must never be mistaken for strength. If citizens don’t demand accountability now, they may soon find it’s no longer an option.
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Lies lies lies. On many occasions the prime minister yielded and gave them an opportunity to speak. No one stood up to speak. Stop with the misleading of information.
What utter hogwash!
The incompetent and illprepared Opposition MPs have no respect for the people of Antigua and Barbuda and no substance.
Childish games were more important than addressing the nation.
Clearly the Opposition has little to complain about on governance matters since whining over the speaking order took precedence over making “powerful and informative” presentations.
How valuable could Serpent or Shugy’s presentations truly have been when they did everything to avoid speaking?
Serpent in particular seems mortally afraid of debate in parliament. The radio is his comfort zone.
Sherfield Bowen has one foot out the door so he could care less.
Trevor “I lift my notes at home” Walker is the most embarassing of all, given his substantial parliamentary experience.
A bunch of jokers!
These people are simply not ready for prime time and no amount of after-the-fact excuses or damage control editorials can convince sensible people otherwise.
Baldwin must be shame lakka wan darg. Harold of course doesn’t care. His mindset is if he can’t be PM no one else can.
Didn’t the BROWN PAPERBAG guy said he forgot his notes/speech at home???? He lving comfortable in Royal Gardens in Antigua, but still brainwashing Barbuda people into not accepting Title Deed to Land for $1.00
what a clown!!!!
DisInformation is Rampant
After all that ranting and raving and misbehaving, MP for Barbuda could not debate the budget because he claimed to have forgotten his notes. Smh! You can’t make this stuff up.
Well Lord! As far as the little education I have has taken me. It’s clear to see that people being disenfranchised is a staple for the UPP clan! Everytime is some kinda charade in parliament, then blame ABLP. Y’all better get ya’ll shit together. It nah sweet now!