Antigua and Barbuda: Dr Edmond Mansoor leaves UPP to join ABLP amid dissatisfaction

Antigua and Barbuda: Dr Edmond Mansoor has left the United Progressive Party (UPP) to join the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP). The former UPP member who served the party for the last 30 years stated dissatisfaction as his reason for resignation.

Edmond Mansoor’s departure was a significant loss for UPP as he was a well-seasoned personality with extensive experience in politics. This departure was followed by the recent exit of another UPP member to ABLP, Anthony Smith.

Mansoor joined UPP in 2005 and since then he has been responsible for managing Broadcasting, information, and telecommunications. He was a dedicated personality, who aimed to enhance Antigua and Barbuda’s digital landscape.

During his tenure, he launched several initiatives, including the GATE ICT program, all of which aimed to enhance and improve students’ access to technology. He also introduced innovative internet buses that made travel easier across Antigua and Barbuda.

He made sure everyone had access to internet services across the entire region. Mansoor mentioned that he was dissatisfied with the members of UPP and stated that this was the reason for his leaving the party.

On the other hand, the leader of UPP stated in the following address that the party is still strong after their departure and will continue to follow its principles, policies, and values without changing them.

Anthony Smith, a notable figure among the residents, exited to join ABLP in July. He said that the UPP now is not the same that he joined four years ago during his exit.

Notably, Smith’s departure from the party ignited several issues as when he stood up for his inaugural speech as the new member of ABLP in parliament, her ex-colleagues of UPP moved out of the parliament house.

Smith, during the address, concluded that UPP’s plans to end his political career had failed with his departure. He highlighted that his decision to leave was a result of his dedication to serving the best of his nation.

The leader was then announced as the new Minister of Agriculture, Land, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy, which seemed to upset those supporting UPP.