As controversy continues to swirl over the reappointment of CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, is now calling on her to consider stepping down, warning that the dispute threatens further division within the regional body.

Speaking on ABS Television, Sir Ronald said he believes Dr. Barnett’s resignation would help prevent further fractures within the regional body and allow Caribbean integration efforts to move forward.

“I would have resigned because I would have said I must not stand in the way of Caribbean integration and the movement forward. And it is clear to me that a Senior Government and Prime Minister is not in favour of my appointment. Why am I still there? Because it is clear that I will never enjoy her support. And why, therefore, would I put myself in a situation in which I am now the cause of the rift? If I were Carla Barnett, I would resign now, on principle, because she will never have, Kamla Bissessar will not attend the meeting if Carla Barnett is at that meeting. Neither will her Foreign Minister and I suspect none of our Ministers will attend either.”

His comments come after CARICOM Chairman and St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrence Drew confirmed Dr. Barnett secured the required majority for another term during last month’s summit in Basseterre.

However, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has challenged the process, raising concerns about transparency and calling for documentation, including meeting records and a performance review.

Sir Ronald said the ongoing dispute risks deepening divisions within CARICOM, warning that Dr. Barnett’s continued tenure could further strain regional unity.