The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has formally invited international observer missions from the Commonwealth, the Organisation of American States (OAS), and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to monitor the country's upcoming general elections.
In three separate letters dated April 5, Prime Minister Gaston Browne notified each organisation that Parliament was dissolved on April 1, 2026, and stated his intention to announce the election date on April 7.
The letters were addressed to Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, OAS Secretary-General Albert Ramdin, and CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett. Each letter requested the deployment of observer teams to oversee the electoral process.
"In these circumstances, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda would welcome the presence of a Commonwealth Observer Group," Browne wrote. Similar invitations were extended to the OAS and CARICOM.
Browne also assured the organisations that all customary courtesies and support typically extended to such missions would be provided.
The invitations signal the government's commitment to subjecting the electoral process to regional and international scrutiny as the country prepares to elect a new administration.
Under Antigua and Barbuda's Constitution, general elections must be held within 90 days of the dissolution of Parliament.
