Dear Editor
In the wake of the dramatic resignation of Mr. Anthony Smith, the youngest member of Antigua and Barbuda’s parliament, from the opposition Unity Progressive Party (UPP), one cannot help but question whether this was truly a surprising development.
The move by Mr. Smith, an ambitious young politician, to challenge the UPP chairperson in the party’s recent internal elections appears to have been the catalyst for his move. Whispers around the country suggest that he was viewed as a “marked man” within the party, with speculation swirling about how long he would last as the chairperson of the party was “gunning for him”.
Sadly, this is not the first time the UPP has been faced this internal turmoil.
The recent resignation of Cleo Athill from the party in the past few months has been linked to the chairperson’s apparent unwillingness to tolerate dissent, preferring a “my way or the highway” approach to leadership. This “one-man-ism” seems to be the order of the day for those aspiring to be political dictators and it is a class of politics that the younger and more experienced politicians alike are rejecting hands down.
Jamal Pringle’s apparent approach of “if not them (the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party), then me” highlights the fuel that is feeding the UPP’s core, but it also serves as a glaring testament to the party’s myopic vision on leadership. Coupled with the “do it my way or else” attitude of the party’s chairperson, Ms. Giselle Isaac and Mr. Pringle’s apparent belief that he is destined to become prime minister “by default,” it is no wonder that the limited talent within the UPP is bolting for the exits, leaving behind a wasteland of incompetence.
This toxic combination of egotistical ambition and authoritarian tendencies is the recipe the for the pending UPP’s implosion. As the party’s core supporters cling to the false hope of a victory, the reality is that the UPP does not have credible leader and is it driving away the very individuals who could breathe new life into their ranks.
As we wait with bated breath for the other shoe to drop, the burning question is who will be the next to exit the UPP.
In contrast, the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has maintained a laser-like focus on addressing the concerns of the people, showcasing a dedication and commitment to moving the country forward to the next level of progress and prosperity. This stark difference in approach is resonating with the electorate, further compounding the struggles faced by the UPP.
Mr. Smith should be commended for having the courage to step away from the madness that has taken up permanent residence within the UPP. His decision to distance himself from this toxic environment is a clear sign that he is taking his political career seriously.
The ABLP would be wise to take note of his interests and intentions, as the party may find an invaluable ally in this young and ambitious politician.
The implosion of the UPP is not just a political earthquake – it is a symptom of a deeper malaise within the party. Until the UPP confronts and addresses the rot at its core, the cracks in the center will continue to widen pushing them deeper into the political wilderness.
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The UPP needs a leader that is strong and can bring the party together and that is not Pringle.
Well penned. I could not have stated it any better. Their motto of “People over Party” is manifesting itself in ways not intended but in execution, it appears to be moreso, “Person(s) over Party”.
When will UPP listen????
@ LETTER WRITER:
This has absolutely NOTHING to do with ‘cracks’ and ‘implosion’ within the UPP. If as you say the UPP is devoid of aspiration and ideas then why does Gaston and the ABLP keep taking ‘talents’ away.
You obviously DO NOT KNOW that the hearts of men are deceitful and desperately wicked. JUST ASK ANTHONY THE EC$6,500,000.00 (the six and a half million dollars he was paid to ‘jump ship’ so that at least he could service his EC$700,000.00 DEBT.
Do not blame the UPP. Anthony like Dwayne, Lamin et al has NO SOUL. They are Judas’ and can be bought for ANYTHING!
If the ABLP are so confident that this latest ploy will work in their favour (and remember it will be down to the people and not a dictator like Gaston Browne) then call an election.
Moving around the deck chairs on ABLP’S sinking ship will not halt UPP’S UNSTOPPABLE march to winning by the electorate.
Politics nasty in this country … but we ready for change.
Every man has a right to decide his own destiny, can anyone prove that these people are bought money? Outside forces don’t push you out it is internal forces that does it.
@ For Sale Boy bye!
@ Chups
The price of his principle and character and the votes of over 2,000 souls ANTHONY SMITH sold HIS SOUL FOR, just like Judas George, Lamin etc, these people lack human decency.
How LONG will the EC$6,500,000.00 (SIX AND A HALF MILLION DOLLARS) last? YOU ANTHONY HAVE LOST THE RESPECT and support of All Saints West.
Such a dam pity!
@ Positive direction
‘Outside forces don’t push you out it is internal forces that does it’……………with EC$6,500,000.00 (SIX AND A HALF MILLION DOLLARS) IT WAS DONE.
HE JUST SOLD HIS SOUL TO THE MOST CORRUPT PARTY IN ANTIGUA, ACCORDING TO HIS OWN WORDS!!!
I’ve never shied away from my criticism of the leadership of the UPP, but in politics, perception beats reality, and the fact is, Anthony Smith resigned from the UPP because he was offered a Ministry in the ABLP cabinet. He could not have been facing any more heat than Richard Lewis, who has now challenged and lost the leadership race on two occasions. He had such a bullseye on his back but yet he participated in all party activities leading up to the resignation. His letter and reasons for resigning are all red herrings. He should have been man enough to resign and call it a day and not feel the need to blame the leadership. This is another Dwayne George fiasco. An opportunity on the other party pops up, let me forget all what I’ve said, let me forget my morals and convictions, and take the opportunity. He’ll go down in history as another politician who jumped ship for “greener”, or in this case, “redder”, pastures.
I continue to admire the likes of Joanne and Cleon. Keep staying true to what you believe in.
@Positive Direction, he’ll be sworn in as a Minister of Agriculture. What more evidence you want that this move was about money and position?
“Cults can’t be bought they get promotion on corruption” if a cult member try to change party they are threatened if they leave.
Is that u D. Gisel? U seem really hot and bothered. The time u are taking to reply to everyone on u should use it to do some soul searching and reflection. 10,000 French man can’t lie. All of the people who left your party are singing the same tune. The obvious problem is U D. Gisele!!!!! From how ABLP corrupt it is so strange that almost every time someone leaves UPP they end up a COMRED
@DunlopJ, clearly, something is wrong within the UPP leadership. Even if this particular resignation is about money, how do you explain Dr. Cleon Athill and that other lady Maliaka resignation from UPP? These were two highly educated women that I’m sure would have brought great ideas to the party. Imo, someone feels threatened by members that can think for themselves and are not only yes persons.
UPP will not become the leading party if they don’t change course!
@ Chupes
I am not Giselle but you obviously is Gaston.
All of you: Colin, Lamin, Donna, Dwayne, Namba, Winston, Driftwood- IT IS NOTHING MORE THAN MONEY AND POSITION, I HAVE PROOF THAT HE RECEIVED IN EXCESS OF EC$6,000,000.00 MILLION DOLLARS JUST LIKE JUDAS SELLING JESUS FOR 30 PIECES OF SILVER. This has absolutely nothing to do with the UPP leadership BUT MONEY TALKS AND BULL CHIT WALKS- ANTHONY WAS UP TO HIS EYE BALLS IN DEBT AND THIS WAS A QUICK SOLUTION.
I HOPE HE CAN FACE THE 2,000 PERSONS WHO VOTED FOR HIM, BECAUSE NEITHER HE NOR LAMIN COULD COME IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE OR ELSE I WILL THROW STALE ”PISS” ON THEM.
The writer of the article is reminded, slavery is not a bygone product. There are misconceptions that it was the Europeans who were entirely responsible for the Middle Passage slave trade. That’s a complete and utter lie.
There were African Turncoats who initially sold blacks to the white slave traders, as the Europeans were not au fait with navigating the interiors of the lands were most slaves were trafficked from.
The defectors from UPP is a confirmation that the DNA of their slave ancestors are still alive in them today. It’s highly probably that there are undemocratic issues that needs to be addressed with UPP, however, it’s not sufficient for individuals to jump ship when the goings gets stormy. The reality is, there are some unpatriotic bad minded Antiguans who wouldn’t hesitate to put money before principles, as seen by those Turncoats.
UPP should spend less time bickering amongst themselves and come up with a credible plan of actions to ensure ALP’S defeat at the ballot box. It is obvious that post election, majority of UPP elected members have become stagnant.
Yarwood’s consistency is on the verge of becoming vacant. UPP should take notice of that position. The people of Yarwood ‘s consistency voted resoundingly that the Yarwood’s time is up. Surely, UPP should be capitalising on that possibility of turning that district blue, but nothing is forthcoming.
Additionally, I have been a supporter of PLM first fromaged 17and continued with UPP now, I am in my 60s.if there was an election tomorrow I wouldn’t vote, but would abstain because I am not impressed with my UPP parliamentarian.
He would have to make significant changes to gain my confidence. Incidentally, I cannot be bought and I am not one of those that go cap in hand to politicians, but I would prefer actions that inspires youths, challenge the government to concentrate on gentrifications of neighbourhoods, hold the government to account.
Having said that, the PM should take a bold step and call a snap election and let’s see if he keeps his seat.
UPP, for the interest of our homeland stop the petty fighting and get on with the job of working towards sweeping ALP out of government. Keep in mind the outcomes from Lovell and the DNA leader and learn lessons.
@DunlopJ
That’s a unique name. My youngest brother’s name.
It’s ironic that you congruent to admire Joanne Esq and Dr. Cleon Athill, but lest we forget, al is you castigated and demeaned Joanne even though she was expelled from the their party. They were of the view that she would take way many of their voters.
They went on air to chide her in the early stages, but until they realize that her party was not a factor, they have pushed back on calling her out. They even predicted that she would join the Labour Party. They’re usually wrong on their prognostications.
Both Dwayne George and Anthony Smith will do just fine in their new dispensation.
Strategy is everything in politics
@for sale- work that burner account Gisele work it girl careful u don’t break ur manicure nail while refreshing the page. But at the end of the day 10,000 +1 French man can’t lie. U are the problem and U Gisele is the reason UPP is imploring.
PS I’m not Gaston Browne
On another note, the headline article of ‘Things fall apart’ reminded me of one of my all-time favourite books of the same name by ~ Chinua Achebe.
A tremendous read by a very skilful writer. Highly recommended 👍🏾
The banker is the house, which will always win in Antigua, where money is god! There is no legal money for a snap election, but dark money sitting and now clean can buy elected politicians with great savings to an expensive election.
Who is writing these nonsense articles. Sound a lot like Gaston himself and they should be dismissed accordingly . ALP(BPM has erased the B) is laser-focused? Really? On what? Self-enrichment? The only thing I see is them trying is to mash up UPP, and is willing to spend any amount to achieve this. What UPP needs now is a counter-stategy. Not to seek money from nefarious persons as ALP is purported to be doing but to let Antigua people see clearly what they are doing and trying to do.
It really seems as if evil is having most of the sway, even throughout the world, but I warn people to be alert. Wrong is being called, and treated as right and vice-versa. It really takes a strong mind to stay on top of this but, be strong and be wise because no matter how things look now, the lies and evil perpetrated by ALP shall never prevail.
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