Antigua and Barbuda has become the latest Caribbean nation to loosen its formal ties to the British monarchy after introducing a new oath of allegiance that no longer requires loyalty to King Charles III.
Members of the country’s newly elected Cabinet were sworn in this week using revised wording that pledges allegiance to Antigua and Barbuda, its Constitution and its people, instead of the British Crown.
The change follows a constitutional amendment passed by Parliament and marks a historic first for the twin-island nation, which remains part of the Commonwealth.
Prime Minister Gaston Brown meeting with King Charles in LONDON- 17th Sept 2022: at Buckingham Palace. Image credit: Ian Jones
Prime Minister Gaston Browne said the move reflects a growing sense of national identity and independence, describing it as an important step in strengthening the country’s sovereignty.
Under the old oath, ministers and public officials were required to swear loyalty to “His Majesty King Charles III, his heirs and successors.” The updated version instead commits officeholders to serve the state of Antigua and Barbuda and uphold its laws.
The decision has reignited wider discussions across the Caribbean about republicanism and the region’s historical relationship with Britain. Several nations, including Barbados, have already moved away from the monarchy in recent years.
Antigua and Barbuda has previously indicated it could eventually hold a referendum on becoming a republic, particularly following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.
Despite the constitutional change, King Charles III remains the country’s head of state for now, represented locally by the Governor-General.
The development is being seen by many political observers as another sign of the Caribbean’s continued push toward greater constitutional independence and self-determination.
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