Former Member of Parliament for the St. Mary’s South constituency, Hon. Hilson Baptiste, who died on Wednesday, will be accorded an official funeral. This as Prime Minister Gaston Browne has expressed condolences to the family, friends and supporters of the late parliamentarian.
The prime minister’s sentiments were conveyed via a public statement on behalf of the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda. The statement reads as follows;
On behalf of the people and Government of Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Gaston Browne M.P. expresses his sympathy to the wife of Honourable Hilson Baptiste, Ethlaine, his family, friends, and his supporters. The Honourable Hilson Baptiste died Wednesday 23 April 2025.
The Honourable Member of Parliament from 1994 until 2014 was elected by the constituents of the St. Mary’s South Constituency; his election on four occasions attest to the approval which his constituents conferred on him for 20 years. He had been an entrepreneur/businessman in his previous life, bringing that experience to governance while his political party formed the majority.
The Honourable Member acquired lands that are still very useful for tourism investment in several areas of Antigua; he ensured that jobs and investment were generated by these holdings. Mr. Baptiste was a plain-speaking representative who would sprinkle his public pronouncements with rich Antiguan language and sayings.
The Honourable Hilson Baptiste fell ill and was infrequently seen in public. Nevertheless, he remained attached to his constituency and was embraced by many. An official funeral is being offered to show respect for this former parliamentarian. May his soul rest in perpetual peace.
Honourable Gaston Browne M.P.
Prime Minister
