Dear Editor,

The laws of land clearly stipulate that officers of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) must retire upon attaining certain ages: 55 for lieutenant colonels and higher ranks, 50 for majors, 47 for captains, and 45 for lieutenants and second lieutenants. These provisions were not enacted by accident; they were designed to maintain fairness, discipline, and operational efficiency within the Force.

One cannot ignore the growing concern that several officers within the ABDF continue to serve well past these statutory age limits. Some officers are in their early to mid-60s and approaching 70. Yet, they occupy critical roles, while other young and vibrant officers are being pushed out.

This raises questions about governance, transparency, and compliance within the institution that is supposed to uphold the rule of law. If these regulations are not being enforced uniformly, what message does that send to the younger officers patiently waiting for advancement or to the public observing the Force’s operations?

Allowing officers to remain beyond the age of retirement undermines succession planning and career progression for deserving younger ranks. It also risks creating an environment of favoritism and stagnation, conditions that erode morale and discipline.

This is not merely an administrative issue; it goes to the heart of institutional integrity. The ABDF is one of our most respected national bodies, but respect is earned through consistency, accountability, and adherence to its own regulations. The relevant authorities must explain why these officers remain in active service and whether exemptions have been lawfully granted under any statutory authority.

If the laws are outdated, then by all means let Parliament amend them. But until such time, they must be enforced as written.