8 new senators officially joined Antigua and Barbuda’s Upper House on Wednesday during a ceremonial sitting at the Parliament Building.

Moreover, senators took the oath of allegiance as the new parliamentary term formally began. The sitting followed the April 30 general election.

Before the swearing-in, senators unanimously re-elected Alincia Williams-Grant as Senate President. In addition, Philip Shoul returned as Vice President of the Senate.

Sixteen senators either took the oath or affirmed allegiance during the session. However, the Barbuda Council seat remained vacant pending an appointment.

Government senators sworn in included Shenella Govia, Joel Rayne, Lamin Newton, Kendra Beezer, Colin O’Neil Browne, Angelica O’Donoghue, Abena St. Luce, Shaquan O’Neail, and Tiffany Strann-Peters.

Meanwhile, opposition senators included Chester Hughes, Malaka Parker, Jonathan Wehner, and Ashworth Azille. Jamilla Kirwan also returned as the independent senator appointed by the Governor General.

During her remarks, Williams-Grant welcomed the new senators to the chamber. She also highlighted the growing involvement of young people in Parliament.

Furthermore, she praised youth parliament alumni Shaquan O’Neail and Jonathan Wehner.

“The youth are the future of tomorrow,” Williams-Grant said.

She also encouraged senators to study Parliament’s standing orders carefully. At the same time, she stressed the need for professionalism and meaningful debate inside the chamber.

Additionally, Williams-Grant called for greater female representation in politics. She noted that women still hold fewer than half the seats in the Senate. Women also occupy only two seats in the Lower House.

Opposition Leader in the Senate Chester Hughes said opposition senators would focus on national issues instead of partisan politics.

“We will criticize constructively,” Hughes stated.

Several speakers also paid tribute to former senator Mary Claire Hurst. Senators observed a moment of silence in her honour during the sitting.

Williams-Grant described Hurst as “a stalwart of Antigua and Barbuda in the civic service.” Hughes also praised her contribution to politics and public service.

The Senate later adjourned ahead of the ceremonial Throne Speech scheduled for May 26.