Prime Minister Gaston Browne used Monday's swearing-in ceremony for the newest cadre of Members of Parliament to place his newly elected bench on clear notice — full attendance in the House of Representatives is mandatory, not a matter of personal discretion.
According to Antigua.news, Browne addressed the chamber directly on the matter, stating: "What we do not want [is] individuals who will come to parliament when they feel like." He reminded lawmakers that the House is "the top decision-making body in the land, and it ought to be respected."
The Prime Minister outlined the only grounds he considers acceptable for missing a sitting: illness, official travel, or genuine extenuating circumstances. He made clear that the electoral mandate secured on April 30th carries with it an expectation of consistent, professional service to constituents.
"The victory is not a mandate for slothfulness," Browne said. "If anything, it is actually a mandate for us to serve more faithfully the people of Antigua and Barbuda."
Browne also extended congratulations to re-elected Speaker Osbert Frederick and Deputy Speaker Dr. Philmore Benjamin, calling on both to govern the chamber with wisdom, fairness, and firmness.
The Prime Minister made special mention of veteran parliamentarian Sir Steadroy "Cutie" Benjamin, who took the parliamentary oath for the eighth successive time as the member for St. John's City South.
Speaker Frederick, in his own remarks, welcomed the new MPs to the Lower House. He also addressed students from Jennings Secondary School who were present in the public gallery, expressing hope that witnessing the proceedings would inspire some among them to pursue public life.
Notably absent from Monday's sitting were Leader of the Opposition Jamale Pringle and Barbuda MP Trevor Walker. Pringle travelled to the United States to accompany his minor daughter for a medical procedure, while Walker is attending to family matters. Both MPs confirmed they will take their Oath of Allegiance at the next ordinary sitting of the Lower House.
