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Gaston Browne

Prime Minister

Assumed Office: 6/13/2014

Timeline

1872

The position of colonial president, the first office with fully separated executive functions from the governor, was established.

1960

The position of chief minister was established on January 1, with Vere Bird as the inaugural holder.

1967

The position of premier, a direct precursor to the prime minister, was established on February 27.

1981

Antigua and Barbuda gained independence, and Vere Bird became the first Prime Minister on November 1.

2014

Gaston Browne succeeded Baldwin Spencer as Prime Minister on June 13, following the 2014 general election.

Biography

Gaston Browne is the current Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, serving as the head of government. He assumed office on June 13, 2014, succeeding Baldwin Spencer, following the 2014 general election. As Prime Minister, he chairs the Cabinet, selects its ministers, and exercises significant executive powers as afforded by the Constitution. The Prime Minister holds office by commanding the confidence of the House of Representatives, of which they must be an elected member. Browne is considered the public face of Antiguan and Barbudan politics and the leader of the country, responsible for proposing legislation and setting the central government's agenda.

Early Life & Background

Unavailable

Education

Unavailable

Political & Professional Career

Gaston Browne became the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda on June 13, 2014. His appointment followed the 2014 general election, where he succeeded Baldwin Spencer in the role. As Prime Minister, he functions as the head of government, responsible for chairing the Cabinet and selecting its members. He exercises executive powers under the Constitution and advises the Governor-General on Cabinet appointments. To hold the office, he must be an elected member of the House of Representatives and maintain the confidence of the majority of its members. All prime ministers, including Browne, have been the leader of their political party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda?
Gaston Browne is the current Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda.
When did Gaston Browne become Prime Minister?
Gaston Browne became Prime Minister on June 13, 2014.
How is the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda selected?
The Prime Minister must be an elected member of the House of Representatives who is the leader of the political party commanding the support of the majority of members. If there is no undisputed leader or majority, the Governor-General may appoint a member most likely to maintain majority support.
What are the primary responsibilities of the Prime Minister?
The Prime Minister is the head of government, chairs the Cabinet, selects its ministers, exercises executive powers, advises the Governor-General on Cabinet appointments, and is responsible for proposing new legislation and setting the government's agenda.
What are the eligibility requirements to be Prime Minister?
To be Prime Minister, one must be a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda at least 21 years of age, reside in Antigua and Barbuda for at least twelve months prior to election, and be able to speak and read English with sufficient proficiency.
What happens if the Prime Minister is absent or unable to perform duties?
The Governor-General may authorize another member of the Cabinet to perform the Prime Minister's functions when the Prime Minister is not present in Antigua and Barbuda or is unable to do so due to illness or constitutional restrictions.