The Antigua and Barbuda government has not yet made a final decision on who will replace MP Turner in the Senate, though discussions are ongoing, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressing a preference for a young female candidate to fill the seat.

During the Post-Cabinet press briefing, Chief of Staff Lionel Hurst acknowledged that deliberations are still taking place, and no official announcement has been made.

“There has been some discussion, but no final decision has been made. I know the Prime Minister is looking at someone who is in his or her twenties. He wants primarily a female, and he also wants someone in their twenties,” Hurst revealed.

Browne’s preference for a younger appointee aligns with his broader strategy to introduce new leadership and provide opportunities for younger individuals to gain experience in governance.

“We must begin to rebuild because as parliamentarians age, and as we know government work, it is necessary to ready a younger group of interested persons in governance,” Hurst added.

The vacancy arose after Senator Caleb Gardiner replaced Osbert Frederick as Speaker of the House of Representatives, leaving an open seat in the Upper House. The government is expected to finalize and announce the replacement in the coming weeks.