Prime Minister Gaston Browne has alleged that United Progressive Party (UPP) parliamentarians recently sought prime land at heavily discounted rates, despite being in opposition. Speaking publicly, Browne stated that following the last parliamentary session, UPP members convened and expressed interest in acquiring land overlooking the Royalton Antigua Resort at a concessional rate of just $3 per square foot.
According to Browne, the government rejected the request, stating that the land is earmarked for development and that there was no legal obligation to sell it at such a low price. He criticized the opposition members for what he described as an attempt to secure personal benefits while still outside of government.
“They’re not government yet, and they’re fighting for land at $3 per square foot—land that could be worth $10 per square foot. If they get into government, are they going to try to get it for 10 cents?” Browne questioned.
The Prime Minister further suggested that certain UPP members, including St. George MP Algernon “Serpent” Watts, were attempting to secure property before the next general election, implying a lack of confidence in their re-election prospects.
Browne also referenced past land sales, noting that Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle previously obtained land at a concessional rate. He implied that other opposition members were now attempting to secure similar deals before any potential change in political fortunes.
“They are exhibiting greed even before they get power,” Browne remarked. “If they’re fighting so viciously now, what will they do if they actually get into office?”
The Prime Minister also accused UPP figures of internal conflict over political positioning, arguing that their competition for influence within the party could be detrimental to their prospects.
The UPP has not yet publicly responded to Browne’s claims.
