Antigua in Full Election Mode

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC



A carnival-like atmosphere filled the streets of St John’s as supporters of the two main political parties descended upon the capital after candidates filed nomination papers ahead of general elections next month.



“It’s official. The UPP has duly nominated 16 candidates,” Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer told cheering supporters of his ruling United Progressive Party at a midday rally, where police estimated 2,500 people were in attendance.



The main opposition Antigua Labour Party (ALP) held a buoyant motorcade through the streets of St John’s, with loudspeakers blasting campaign songs and supporters waving flags and other campaign paraphernalia.



In all, 42 candidates declared their interest in running in the upcoming poll.



Both the UPP and the ALP nominated candidates in all 16 constituencies on Antigua, while the ALP and the UPP-aligned Barbuda People’s Movement put forward candidates to vie for the lone seat on the sister island.



The fledgling Organisation for National Development, contesting its first general election, nominated four candidates.



Four independent candidates have also filed in the necessary papers and paid the required EC$500 (US$187) deposit to contest the poll.



ALP leader Lester Bird said Wednesday’s nomination was significant as this will be the last time he intends to seek political office. Bird, 71, served as prime minister for 10 years, before being defeated by the Baldwin Spencer-led UPP in 2004.