Antigua and Barbuda has announced plans to remove King Charles III as its head of state and become a republic within the next three years. Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed the intention during a constitutional reform event, stating that a referendum would be held to decide the matter. The move follows a similar decision by Barbados, which became a republic in November 2021, severing ties with the British monarchy.
Referendum Plans
Prime Minister Browne said that the government aims to hold a referendum within the next three years to determine whether the country should become a republic. He emphasized that this is not an act of hostility towards the monarchy but a step towards completing the decolonization process. 'This is not a reflection of any animosity towards the monarchy,' Browne stated. 'It is about asserting our sovereignty and becoming a fully independent nation.'
Constitutional Reform
Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from Britain in 1981 but retained the British monarch as its head of state. The proposed constitutional reform would replace the monarch with a president, similar to the system adopted by other Caribbean nations. Browne noted that the government would engage in public consultations to ensure that the transition reflects the will of the people.
The announcement has sparked debate in the country, with some supporting the move as a natural progression of independence, while others express concerns about the costs and implications of changing the political system. However, Browne assured that the transition would be smooth and that Antigua and Barbuda would maintain strong ties with the Commonwealth and the United Kingdom.
Regional Trend
Antigua and Barbuda's decision aligns with a growing trend in the Caribbean to remove the British monarch as head of state. Barbados led the way in 2021, and other nations such as Jamaica and Belize have also signaled intentions to become republics. This shift reflects a broader reevaluation of colonial-era ties and a desire for greater self-determination.
King Charles III, who ascended the throne in September 2022, has expressed support for the decisions of Caribbean nations to determine their own constitutional futures. Buckingham Palace has not officially commented on Antigua and Barbuda's announcement, but it is understood that the monarchy respects the democratic choices of Commonwealth realms.
The move to become a republic would require a two-thirds majority in a referendum, as per the country's constitution. Prime Minister Browne expressed confidence that the public would support the change, citing a growing sense of national identity and pride. He also highlighted that the transition would not affect Antigua and Barbuda's membership in the Commonwealth, as republics are eligible to join the association of former British colonies.
As the country prepares for the referendum, discussions are expected to intensify regarding the role and powers of the future president, as well as the legal and administrative changes needed to implement the new system. The government has committed to a transparent and inclusive process, ensuring that all voices are heard.
