Antigua-Barbuda: MP sworn in as Agriculture Minister hours after resigning from opposition

Anthony Smith who resigned from the main opposition United Progressive Party in Antigua & Barbuda, is to serve in the Gaston Browne Cabinet.

Prime Minister Browne yesterday defended the decision to appoint Mr Smith as his new Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy, less than 24 hours after he had resigned.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, the prime minister said it is indicative of the confidence that the government has in Mr Smith.

Smith will remain an independent legislator in the House of Assembly.

In his July 15 letter of resignation, Mr Smith said he had found himself increasingly at odds with the direction and decisions of the UPP.