St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda — 5th December 2025……Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment through a series of strategic appointments to top diplomatic and legislative positions. The new appointments reflect a deliberate effort to strengthen representation, harness legal and foreign-service expertise, and draw on the unique talents women bring to national and international service.
Among the new appointments:
- Marie Louise Francis has been named Senior Trade, Investment and Diaspora Officer at the Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda in Miami, Florida, with government intentions to appoint her as Consul General within the New Year. Ms. Francis is an attorney-at-law who has practiced in the United States.
- Zeina Hechme has been appointed Vice Consul at the Antigua and Barbuda Consulate General in Toronto, Canada. Ms. Hechme brings over nine years of experience in the Foreign Service as a senior Foreign Service officer.
- Kiz L. K. Johnson, former Independent Senator and recently elected Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party candidate for St. Philip’s South constituency, will now be appointed to the Senate on the government’s benches, strengthening female representation in national governance.
These appointments come within a broader context of the Prime Minister Browne Administration’s dedication to advancing women into leadership roles. In recent addresses, Prime Minister Browne has called for greater female political participation and underscored the need for balanced gender representation in public office.
Globally, increased representation of women in diplomacy and foreign policy enhances decision-making, strengthens peace-building efforts, and brings diverse perspectives to international relations. By making these appointments, Antigua and Barbuda join a growing number of nations proactively promoting gender parity in diplomacy and governance.
Prime Minister Browne and his Cabinet believe these appointments mark an important step toward transforming the promise of gender equity into concrete action. The Government remains committed to empowering women, nurturing talent, and ensuring that leadership reflects the full diversity of Antiguan and Barbudan society. As noted in recent national statements, the Government sees gender equality not only as a matter of justice but as essential to sustainable development—and vital for strengthening institutions and national resilience. (Ends)
