George Wehner. Photo: Internet Source

In a press statement yesterday, Political Leader of the UPP, Jamale Pringle said that the party has “every confidence in Brother Wehner. His loyalty is unquestionable, his work ethic is unmatched, and his commitment to the principles of the Party is undisputed. These are the qualities our supporters are looking for in all the Party’s representatives.”

Pringle said the UPP will be launching an “all-out by-election campaign” with the support of the constituency branch.

Wehner first represented the UPP in the 2018 general election where he contested the St George seat, then held by former Member of Parliament Dean Jonas.

Since then, he has been the UPP’s Mobilization Officer and has used his social media platform to promote the party’s criticisms of the Gaston Browne administration.

This development follows news by the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) that it is ramping up efforts to facilitate voter participation in the upcoming by-election in St Peter constituency.

“We are extending the hours at the St Peter’s registration unit up until 6pm to give persons additional time to ensure they get their expired cards replaced,” ABEC’s Public Relations Officer Elisa Graham announced on Observer AM yesterday.

The Electoral Commission said it will also introduce Sunday operations from 1 pm to 6 pm to maximize accessibility for constituents.

With Governor General Sir Rodney Williams issuing the Writ of Elections yesterday, political parties have stepped up efforts to prepare their election groundwork with Prime Minister Gaston Browne optimistic about the prospects of Turner winning the by-election in January.

Meanwhile, addressing current voters card replacement and registration statistics, which indicate approximately 25 percent participation in the ID renewal program, Graham provided reassurance.

 “It is not a troubling figure. The main reason being, of course, we know persons will go and facilitate the process whenever they see fit. There was no particular deadline given to say you have to have your cards replaced by this particular time,” she said.