Malaka Parker officially joined the Senate on Monday after taking the oath during a ceremony at Government House.

Deputy Governor General Sir Clare Roberts presided over the ceremony as Parker received her instruments of appointment and formally became an opposition senator.

Her appointment now completes the opposition’s representation in the Upper House ahead of Wednesday’s Senate sitting.

Parker missed last week’s initial investiture ceremony because of what opposition officials described as extenuating circumstances. According to officials, the situation required overseas travel at the time.

However, Parker returned and completed the swearing-in process on Monday.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle and Barbuda MP Trevor Walker were unable to attend the ceremony. In a statement released over the weekend, both men explained they are currently overseas handling personal matters.

Despite their absence, they congratulated Parker on her appointment to the Senate.

They also wished her “a productive and successful tenure” on the Opposition Bench.

In addition, Parker later shared photos from the ceremony on social media following the event.

“We present to you, Senator Malaka Parker, your humble servant,” the caption stated.

The ceremony marked another important step ahead of the opening of the new parliamentary session in Antigua and Barbuda.

Meanwhile, political supporters and members of the public reacted online by offering congratulations and words of encouragement to the new senator.

The Senate plays a major role in reviewing legislation and debating national matters before bills move forward in Parliament.

As a result, Parker now joins the Upper House at an important time for the country’s political landscape.

Government House has hosted several swearing-in ceremonies in recent days following the April 30 general election.

The new parliamentary term is expected to begin with several key appointments and legislative discussions in the coming weeks.

For now, Parker’s appointment officially finalises the opposition’s Senate team before parliamentary proceedings continue this week.