Antigua’s government is facing a political firestorm over its proposal to raise vehicle licensing fees by 40%—a measure designed to fund a sweeping programme of road and drain repairs nationwide. The move, which has already drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, is slated for discussion in next Thursday’s sitting of Parliament’s Lower House.

According to officials, the 40% fee increase is a critical investment in the country’s long-neglected infrastructure. Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, Ambassador Lionel Hurst, announced during Thursday’s Post Cabinet media briefing that the increase will generate a dedicated fund to repay a $100 million bank loan. “If at the moment you pay $400 for the ABTP, it will go to $560—40% across the board for everyone,” Hurst explained, noting that the collected funds will allow the government to undertake comprehensive repairs simultaneously, rather than through incremental, piecemeal measures.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne reinforced this message in a Facebook post, stating, “The increase in licensing fees is quintessential to raising the necessary financing to improve our roads.”

According to the country’s leader, for the average car, a 40% hike translates to an extra $180 per year. He argued that these costs are minor compared to Antigua’s per capita income of $60,000, and highlighted that the country’s tax burden remains the lowest in the region at 17.5%, compared to a 24% regional average. Furthermore, Browne noted that improved roads would reduce vehicle wear and tear, ease traffic congestion, boost productivity, and enhance the overall visitor experience—potentially increasing tourism and investment.

The United Progressive Party (UPP), however, has not been persuaded by these justifications. Opposition leader Jamal Pringle denounced the fee increase as “wickedness of epic proportions” during a recent address, accusing the Gaston Browne administration of betraying public trust. Pringle slammed the move for its lack of transparency, noting that not a hint of such a significant fee jump was mentioned during the December budget presentation or debate. “This isn’t just a slap in the face—it’s a kick in the gut,” he declared, highlighting concerns that citizens and residents were being left financially and mentally unprepared.

Pringle also questioned the government’s fiscal priorities, contrasting the steep 40% licensing fee increase with modest salary raises for public servants and a minimal adjustment to the minimum wage. He challenged the government’s credibility, asking whether exaggerated revenue reports or undisclosed financial difficulties might be behind the sudden policy change. Moreover, he decried the measure as a form of “taxation without representation” and urged citizens to protest through picketing, boycotts, or other means if the government fails to reverse what he described as an undue punishment on the people.

Public opinion does not seem to be divided on the matter with even public supporters of the ABLP-administration decrying the steep increase. The prime minister’s declarations have done little to appease residents who say they simply can’t afford it.  The prime minister’s post has received 274 comments with most persons expressing concern over such a hefty tax increase.