Dear Editor 

Your cartoon of February 8 says it – politicians in Antigua, once elected, behave as if they have a “title deed” to that constituency in perpetuity, thus creating a virtual “political class” excluding the population of a civic duty to seek political office.

Before general elections, Parliament is dissolved the Governor General issues writs to returning officers, one for each constituency, with instructions for the election of a member to serve respectively. Any citizen of Antigua & Barbuda, who meets the qualification under law to be a candidate can apply to be placed on a ballot in whatever constituency they choose.

Whether as an individual or a member of a political party, new or old, at which point the “title deed” loses its validity.

The lack of voter education is damaging democracy in Antigua & Barbuda.

Sincerely

James Sebastian