Attorney General Steadroy “Cuttie” Benjamin has urged Antigua and Barbuda to transition to a republic. He spoke in Parliament, stressing that independence remains incomplete while the nation continues to swear allegiance to a foreign monarch.

“The time has come for this country to look seriously at changing over status to become a republic,” Benjamin told MPs. “We should become a republic. That has to happen.”

He traced the nation’s political history and highlighted centuries under British rule. Antigua and Barbuda were a colony for over 300 years, from the mid-17th century until 1967. Furthermore, he noted that associated statehood and independence in 1981 marked progress but did not complete full sovereignty.

Benjamin questioned whether the Caribbean region has grown complacent about independence. “Are we in this region so unconcerned about our independence?” he asked. Consequently, he urged leaders to confront the issue openly.

He also highlighted that the country has the legal expertise and institutional capacity to govern fully as a republic. He cited the qualifications and experience within the Ministry of Legal Affairs and among senior legal officials. “We are not mature enough to do that?” he asked rhetorically, proving Antigua and Barbuda has the skills for the transition.

Moreover, Benjamin appealed directly to Prime Minister Gaston Browne to start public discussions on the matter. “At least invite the talk. Have discussions on those matters,” he said, emphasizing the role of national leadership.

He explained that raising the issue publicly forms part of his duty as attorney general. “It’s my duty to let the people know it’s time for us to consider becoming a republic,” he added.

Benjamin also linked the push for republic status to broader constitutional reform. He told Parliament that leaders should address this transition alongside other long-standing constitutional questions. “The Constitution must be revised,” he concluded, underlining the need for a comprehensive approach to governance and sovereignty.

Overall, Benjamin’s statements signal a renewed push for national debate. Therefore, lawmakers, legal experts, and the public are expected to engage in discussions about Antigua and Barbuda’s future as a republic.

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