Barbuda Member of Parliament Trevor Walker has put Prime Minister Gaston Browne on notice that he intends for Barbuda to become a Federation.
In a letter dated 22 August, 2018, Walker states that, “I take the opportunity to warmly accept your recent public offer of discussions to redefine Barbuda’s status.”
“In the Antigua and Barbuda state; I know that you made that offer in the context of possible secession, but I believe that most Barbudans would prefer to explore the option of federalism, which would preserve the unity of our state.”
The Barbuda MP went on to provide a possible template to be used in the Antigua and Barbuda system of government going forward: “We do have a precedent right on our doorstep in the St Kitts/Nevis constitution. I believe, PM, that now is a most opportune time for us as Antiguans and Barbudans to deal with the problems in our relationship in a mature, restrained and mutually sympathetic way.”
Nevis has its own premier (Mark Brantley) and its own government, the Nevis Island Administration. It collects its own taxes and has a separate budget, with a current account surplus.
“Strengthen Barbudan local government, not make it redundant,” said Walker as he went to suggest ways by which the newly formed federation would benefit the twin-island state.
“Help us take full advantage of the uniqueness of our history of cooperation and community solidarity.”
Nevis has considerable autonomy in its legislative branch. The constitution actually empowers the Nevis Island Legislature to make laws that cannot be abrogated by the National Assembly.
“Provide training for Council members and officers on the best way to manage our affairs,” said Walker.
“Use our communal land system to build an economy for Barbuda based on our excellent natural resources and potential for a different kind of tourism; make the people happy by sharing the proceeds of our endeavours equitably between all Barbudan residents, whether they originate in Barbuda or in our sister, Antigua.”