By Dr. Isaac Newton
News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Friday. November 22, 2024: The current challenges facing the United Progressive Party, (UPP), and the dominance of the Antigua and Barbuda Labor Party, (ABLP), reveal more than mere political maneuvering; they expose the deeper dynamics of power, competition and democracy. While the turmoil within the UPP may provide short-term advantages for the ABLP, the wider implications for the country require a more thoughtful analysis.
Political instability is not unique to the UPP. The ALP itself has faced significant internal challenges, from leadership transitions to high-profile defections, but has nevertheless emerged stronger through resilience and reinvention. The UPP’s current efforts, while troubling, are a familiar part of the political cycle, reflecting the need for recalibration rather than serving as a death knell.
However, celebrating the dominance of one party at the expense of a weakened opposition carries risks for the democratic health of Antigua and Barbuda. Democracy thrives on balanced competition. Without a strong opposition, even the most capable governments can falter, becoming less innovative and less accountable. As the saying wisely reminds us, “A horse that runs alone is always the fastest on the track.” Complacency, not competition, becomes the norm and the electorate pays the price.
Defections from the UPP to the ABLP may strengthen the ruling party in the short term, but the influx of politically ambitious individuals without deep ideological reach may sow internal discord. Political dominance built on shifting allegiances is inherently unstable, as history repeatedly shows. The ABLP must navigate this carefully, ensuring that its leadership remains cohesive and focused on the country’s long-term goals rather than short-term political triumphs.
Instead of celebrating opposition unrest, this moment calls for a collective re-commitment to strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic foundation. For ABLP, this means using its current position to enact policies that address critical issues such as economic diversification, education reform and climate resilience. For the UPP, rebuilding trust and creating a compelling vision for the future are essential. Effective opposition is not just about criticism, but about offering credible, transformative alternatives that resonate with the public.
To foster a healthier political ecosystem, both parties must embrace a culture of accountability and cooperation. This requires investment in civic education, greater transparency, and a commitment to policies that prioritize the nation’s well-being over partisan politics. Strong governance arises not from dominance, but from robust systems where competition drives excellence and all voices are valued.
Antigua and Barbuda deserves more than quick political victories. It deserves a democracy where the government and opposition are strong enough to serve as effective guardians of the nation’s future. By moving beyond short-term power struggles, the country can build a resilient democracy that reflects the highest aspirations of its people and ensures a prosperous and sustainable future.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a globally respected governance strategist and leadership expert with over 30 years of experience advising governments and political organizations around the world. Dr. Newton, trained at Harvard, Princeton and Columbia, is known for his transformative insights into nation-building and his commitment to fostering resilient democracies throughout the Caribbean, Africa and beyond.
