Progressive Youth calls for reforms to the Constitution with regard to fixed-date elections and recall of non-performing MPs

The Progressive Youth says Constitution reform is vital if Antigua and Barbuda is to move forward with its national development.

In this regard, the youth arm of the United Progressive Party (UPP) says it is planning to put out statements in the near future.

But in the meantime, Chairman Jonathan Wehner identifies several aspects of the Constitution in need of change, including the prime minister’s power to call general elections anytime within the cycle as he sees fit.

Like many other residents, Wehner believes in a fixed date for elections.

When the people who elect a government are not pleased with its performance, Wehner believes they should be able to take steps, through an independent body, to have their concerns addressed.  

Meanwhile, the group known as Antiguans and Barbudans for Constitutional Reform and Education (ABCRE) has proposed that a section be added to the Constitution that allows members of the Lower House to be recalled when they are not respecting the will of the people.

Asked whether this should be a topic for discussion, Robert Emanuel, secretary of Progressive Youth, says yes.