Antigua political parties stage concerts

Campaigning for the March 12 general elections is nearing its end, following two main events hosted by the country’s two major political parties at the weekend in a bid to sway members of the electorate.



Thousands thronged to the Michael’s Mount in the capital on Saturday night for a “Unity Concert” hosted by the main opposition Antigua Labour Party (ALP). The event featured performances from top local and international artistes, including Grammy Award winning R&B singer Joe, Shaggy, Buju Banton, Etana and Petah Morgan.



The incumbent United Progressive Party (UPP) also went to the concert root but chose to utilise top gospel artistes, including Grammy award winning singer Shirley Caesar, the Grace Thrillers and the Blind Boys of Alabama for its “Adoration Concert” held at the Antigua Recreation Ground, in the heart of St. John’s on Sunday night.



“It was extremely successful,” UPP Public Relations Officer Winston Henry told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).



“We are a God-fearing part and we believe that rather than spending thousands upon thousands on reggae artistes, we want to give God praise for our five successful years in office,” he said in defence of the event that came on the heels of ALP’s concert which police say attracted some 20,000 patrons.



The UPP is fielding 16 candidates for Thursday’s election, while the ALP is contesting all 17 seats at stake.



ALP Chairman Gaston Browne spoke to CMC on Monday as candidates and senior members of the party were out in their constituencies as part of a zonal blitz.



He said he was pleased with the turnout for the ALP concert at the weekend and was looking forward to Wednesday night’s grand finale, dubbed “Oceans 16”, to be held in the St John’s Rural East constituency where ALP Political Leader Lester Bird is the party’s candidate.



The UPP, which is seeking a second consecutive term, is also preparing to culminate its campaign and has fully activated its election machinery.



In all, 42 candidates are contesting the poll, including four representatives of the fledgling Organisation for National Development and four independents. On the sister isle, one candidate is running on the Barbuda People’s Movement ticket.