Small March, Big Claims: PM Dismisses ‘Soul of the Nation’ Protest as Political Gimmick
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has dismissed the recent “Soul of the Nation” march organized by opposition forces as a hollow and ineffective display of political theater, pointing to the low turnout and perceived lack of leadership as evidence of the opposition’s growing irrelevance.
Speaking during the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM this weekend, Browne said he had not even realized the protest had occurred, noting, “I swear—I didn’t know a march took place. It probably was so small I completely missed it.”
The protest, reportedly led by public figures including William “Zizi” Thomas and known activist Wehner was aimed at voicing public dissatisfaction with the current administration over issues ranging from land rights to alleged corruption. However, Browne argued that the event was more of a publicity stunt than a meaningful political movement.
“You have politicians hiding behind Zizi and Wehner? That alone tells you everything you need to know,” Browne said, calling the march an example of the opposition’s “deep failure” to connect with the people or organize a credible demonstration.
Browne also used the moment to take a swipe at the United Progressive Party (UPP), saying the group has “disintegrated into nothingness” and now depends on fringe figures to generate attention.
He further criticized the event’s messaging, saying it lacked cohesion and failed to offer serious solutions. “They’re trying to use the Alfa Nero sale and other issues as a political lifeline, but the people of this country are too smart for that,” the Prime Minister said.
Government supporters have echoed Browne’s view online, with some referring to the event as a “political balloon” rather than a serious threat.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come as he and his administration face ongoing legal and political scrutiny related to the sale of the Alfa Nero vessel and other high-profile issues. However, he remains confident in his government’s standing, asserting that the opposition’s focus on personal attacks indicates they have “no other hope” of regaining power.
“They can’t touch our record of delivery, so they’re resorting to gimmicks. But the people are watching,” Browne said.
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You didn’t know a March took place, just like you don’t know where all the missing people in Antigua are.
How ironic that the man who claims he knows nothing, is running a country.
What a joker.
But when it comes to money, he knows where it’s hidden and knows how to get it..
Really funny man you are..
But don’t worry, your seeds are coming to light..you best believe that part.
Everything that happen in Antigua is always a political gimmick in the creative self en-richer Gaston Browne. Browne clown just can’t tek the heat. if it goes against his grain, it’s a political gimmick. He need to up his doses of risperadal. In fact he should tek all one time.
Why on earth would a good leader seeing 1 or more people (in this case, many) having a grievance or problem or calling for his, PM Browne, attention and help and he the PM dismiss their call for his attention and help as a gimmick?
Well he did the same thing to me, turned his back on an Antiguan and Barbudan citizen, who actually supported his party and him at that time. Imagine how these folks here begging for him to fix a problem or issue they have is being treated by PM Browne. Why would he not take this action seriously.
Why can’t he just care, once?
The march was a resounding jump start of what to come and well done zizi, the onliest gimmick here is Pringle unable to inspire leadership to drive people into action, so he is hiding under zizi and lone wolf umbrella, the fact that it took zizi to pull him out against his friend Gaston is quite telling, but Gaston the real protest is coming on . you may have to seek asylum somewhere, and not even PLH will hide you in those properties they built on Barbuda stolen lands, because they too will be in trouble with the real power of the Barbuda council under a new government.
This guy is so very myopic and self-centered. There’s always a cause for protest since you attained governance. You behave like the real Mob Boss presiding over recruits but your tenure is winding down very rapidly. Your friends to the North are coming to visit so be prepared to accommodate them.
Don’t worry Mr. PM…there are many of us who are not marchers but our vote will tell the time in the next general election.
People waiting years for backpay. Back pay that they done work for. From 2018- 2019 backpay, marching asking for our monies is a gimmick? You dam ass.
Your salary was increased and your back pay was paid in full, what about poor people you wicked man?;
I think All Antigua politicians need to take “serious person training ” think ahead be wise in choices, good communication skills, diligent and does the things he knows he should do.These are some of the qualities a good representative should have.And I am a big believer of Freedom of Speach,females sometimes possess those qualities,females of Antigua and Barbuda this is 2025 times are changing its not just a man’s world ,with Education She can be a woman of the world.Antigua needs a big change to much personal buisness going on Antiguans are not the agenda.