PM Urges Opposition to Cooperate in 2026, Says ‘It Cannot Always Be About Tearing Down Each Other’

Prime Minister Gaston Browne used Tuesday’s VC Bird Day ceremony to call for greater political cooperation as the country approaches 2026, telling supporters and opponents alike that national development requires unity beyond party lines.

Addressing the gathering during the wreath-laying observance, Browne said too much energy is spent on political confrontation and not enough on collaboration that advances the country.

He urged opposition figures to work with the government on shared priorities in the year ahead.

“Going into 2026, I would like to see greater cooperation and collaboration coming from our political opponents. It cannot always be about tearing down each other,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister argued that while political differences are inevitable, they should not prevent national progress. He said his administration is committed to mobilizing the “entire population,” including those who oppose the government, to move the country forward.

“Even though we have our political differences, there must come a time when we can join our efforts in order to advance our country,” he told the audience, adding that leaders alone cannot build the nation without contributions from every resident.

Browne tied his call for unity to the broader message of the ceremony, which honoured the legacy of Antigua and Barbuda’s first National Hero, Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr., and the collaborative movement that brought the nation from colonialism to statehood.

The Prime Minister’s appeal comes at a time of heightened political activity ahead of 2026, with the government and opposition frequently clashing over economic and governance issues. Browne said he hopes the coming year will see a shift toward constructive engagement.

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