Ministers and senior public officers in Antigua and Barbuda will now submit written progress reports under a new Cabinet accountability system.

The government introduced the measure as part of a broader push to improve performance across ministries. Officials discussed the initiative during the first Cabinet meeting after the April 30 general election victory of the Gaston Browne administration.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant shared details during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing. He said Prime Minister Gaston Browne wants stronger accountability and measurable results during the government’s new term.

Moreover, Merchant explained that the Prime Minister expects ministers to maintain higher standards and improve delivery across government.

“One of the methods implemented is closer collaboration with the leadership within each ministry,” Merchant said. He added that the government wants leadership structures that fit each ministry’s purpose.

In addition, Browne reportedly warned ministers against becoming complacent. Merchant said the Prime Minister stressed that ministers “are not on a free ride” and must meet public expectations.

Under the new system, ministers and senior officials must now provide formal written updates. Previously, many updates were delivered verbally during Cabinet meetings.

Therefore, ministers, permanent secretaries, and senior officials will now document project progress and implementation plans in writing.

“Updates and progress reports on projects will now be required in writing,” Merchant explained. He said the reports will cover government initiatives and ministry performance.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister believes the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party’s large election victory raised public expectations. As a result, the administration now faces pressure to deliver projects faster and more effectively.

Merchant said Browne plans to closely monitor ministry performance throughout the government’s fourth consecutive term.

“He will be on the heels of all of his ministers,” Merchant stated, “to ensure they perform at the highest level of expectations.”

The government has repeatedly highlighted accountability and delivery as major priorities for this term. Consequently, officials believe the new reporting system will improve transparency, strengthen oversight, and help ministries track progress more efficiently.

Overall, the administration hopes the changes will create a more results-driven public sector while improving confidence in government performance across Antigua and Barbuda.