BREAKING NEWS: Sir Robin Yearwood has resigned as parliamentary representative for St. Philip’s North after 50 consecutive years in the House of Representatives.

The announcement came Wednesday during a special sitting of Parliament. The House marked his five decades of uninterrupted service. House Speaker Osbert Frederick read a letter dated Feb. 18, 2026, from the veteran lawmaker.

In the letter, Sir Robin said he began serving on Feb. 18, 1976. Since then, voters in St. Philip’s North returned him to Parliament 11 times. He described his tenure as long and successful.

Moreover, he noted that he kept his seat even when the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party lost the majority in 2004 and 2009. Despite those defeats, he continued to represent his constituency.

Over the years, Sir Robin held several senior Cabinet posts. He served as minister of finance and deputy prime minister. In addition, he led the ministries of agriculture, aviation, and public utilities. He also oversaw multiple agencies and statutory bodies.

Furthermore, he credited his party’s vision for shaping a proud and sovereign nation. He said he believes his work helped build a wealthier and more accomplished Antigua and Barbuda. He added that the country now leads the Caribbean in human development.

At the same time, he thanked his family, friends, church members, and constituents. He said their support gave him stability and confidence throughout his career.

“I believe that the time has come for me to pass the baton to a younger and more vigorous representative,” he wrote. He added that no better moment existed than reaching the 50-year milestone.

Sir Robin confirmed that his resignation takes effect immediately. He closed his letter by wishing continued blessings upon Parliament and the nation.

As a result, his departure ends one of the longest uninterrupted parliamentary tenures in the country’s history. It also begins the process of selecting a new representative for St. Philip’s North.