Candidates from across Antigua and Barbuda's political spectrum are being formally nominated today as the country observes Nomination Day for the 2026 general elections. According to Antigua News Room, contenders from the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP), the Barbuda People's Movement (BPM), and a number of independent candidates are all expected to submit their papers.
The nomination process is taking place simultaneously across all 17 constituencies, with designated centres established at schools and public institutions. These include Villa Government School in St. John's City West, Clare Hall Secondary School in St. John's Rural East, and Sir McChesney George Secondary School in Barbuda.
The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission has set nomination proceedings for 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., during which candidates must submit completed nomination papers and satisfy all legal requirements to contest the election.
Those requirements include being at least 21 years of age, holding Antiguan and Barbudan citizenship, and having resided in the country for a minimum of one year prior to the election. Nomination papers must be signed by a proposer, a seconder, and eight additional registered electors from the relevant constituency.
Each candidate is also required to pay a deposit of EC$500 and provide written consent to be nominated. A returning officer in each constituency oversees the process.
Nomination Day represents a key milestone in the electoral calendar, officially confirming the slate of candidates who will contest the upcoming vote. The final list of nominees is expected to be published following the close of proceedings this evening.
Party supporters are expected to gather at nomination centres across the island as political organisations continue to mobilise ahead of the April 30 general election.
