Barely a few days after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda has said the country will aim to become a republic in three years.
In a statement on TV, Gastone Brown said the Caribbean nation will hold a referendum to decide the future of their head of state just after signing a document that confirmed King Charles III to take on the role.
Recall that early this year, the PM suggested that the east-Caribbean country would make a move towards republicanism during a royal tour by Prince Edward and Sophie, the Countess of Wessesx.
Speaking with newsmen, he said: “This is a matter that has to be taken to a referendum for the people to decide.
“It does not represent any form of disrespect to the monarch. This is not an act of hostility, or any difference between Antigua and Barbuda and the monarchy.
“It is a final step to complete the circle of independence to become a truly sovereign nation.”
The PM pledged that he would hold a referendum if he is elected for another stint in office.
It is imperative to note that Antigua and Barbuda, who gained independence from the British in 1981, is understood to be the first Caribbean country to announce their plans of removing the British Monarch as their head of state since the Queen’s passing.
The nation’s move came after they announced a national period of mourning and the PM paid tribute to their former head of state along with leaders across Africa and the Caribbean.
Brown said: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has had an impactful reign, during which her relations with my State and its people have remained mutually respectful and unchanging. All flags throughout the State will be flown at half-mast up until the day of Her Majesty’s burial. God save the King.”
Recall that the PM previously led calls for the royal family to use their “diplomatic influence” to pay reparations over the slave trade in Antigua and Barbuda and throughout the Caribbean.
It is germane to note that in view of his ascension to the throne, King Charles currently serves as head of state across nine countries in the tropical region, including St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis and the Cayman Islands.
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