Michael Freeland has been reappointed to the Senate following his victory in the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) primary for the St George constituency.

His appointment comes a day after he was named the party’s candidate and caretaker, filling the vacancy left by Rawdon Turner, who moved to the House of Representatives in January.

Michael Freeland, who previously served in the Senate from 2014 to 2017, won the primary with 350 votes, narrowly defeating Joel Rayne by 19 votes. Bakisha Francis and Salim Browne received 142 and 42 votes, respectively.

He resigned in 2017 amid controversy over proceeds from an auction, insisting he had done nothing wrong. He later settled the full amount through an approved payment plan, citing the need to protect his family’s reputation.

Rayne has since congratulated Freeland and thanked his supporters.