Prime Minister Gaston Browne mourns passing of Asot Michael

The nation of Antigua and Barbuda is mourning the unfortunate death of Asot Michael, Member of Parliament for St Peter. Prime Minister Gaston Browne said that the incident had brought him great sadness and conveyed condolences to his family.

Michael’s passing has left a gaping hole in both his family and the political community. While he is in pain, PM Browne also extended condolences to the victim’s family, including his son Nigel and sisters Teresa-Anne and Soraya.

Asot Michael‘s public career spans nearly thirty years. He joined the public service soon after returning from abroad, completing his studies. Michael first entered the service of public office under Lester Bird, who then happened to be Prime Minister. There, he first served as Chief of Staff before advancing to become Minister of Public Works.

First elected to Parliament in 2004, Michael is a member of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP). He played a key role in the party’s return to government after ten years in opposition in 2014.

He made great contributions to the political structure of Antigua and Barbuda not only during his own term but also for a long time after he left ABLP.

Although his relationship with the ABLP became stale over the passage of time, Michael could not help but remain active in the political field and contest the 2023 general elections. His return to Parliament as an Independent Member of Parliament for St Peter is, therefore, a testament to his continued effort to give back to the community.

Prime Minister Browne paid his respects to Michael, describing him as “almost like a brother” to him and saddened by how Michael had died. Prime Minister Browne told the press that they were recently connected and spent several key moments in the final months leading up to Michael’s death, including the opening of the new Barbuda Airport.

The Prime Minister assured that the government would fully investigate the matter and give the Royal Police Force all the resources it needs to prosecute criminals.

Asot Michael is one of the most famous personalities lost in the history of Antigua and Barbuda. An icon, a symbol of the zeal and dedication to his country, and who gave his life to support the development of the country.