From tough negotiator to pleader, AFC seeks Norton’s blessing as it lowers coalition demands

In an apparent sign of retreat, the Alliance For Change (AFC) has submitted a fresh proposal to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), seeking renewed coalition ties under drastically scaled-back terms.

News Room understands that the AFC, which has seen a wave of top-level departures and dwindling political momentum since Nigel Hughes took over leadership, is now asking for just 35% of the political stake in any potential coalition—down from an earlier demand of 65%.

A source within the AFC confirmed to News Room that the new proposal, submitted one day ago, is being reviewed by Norton and the APNU. However, some elements of the document remain points of contention for Norton’s party.

Juretha Fernandes has already parted ways with the AFC to position herself as a potential Prime Ministerial candidate for the APNU and there is speculation that others—such as Sherod Duncan—may also follow suit.

According to the source, the revised proposal includes the AFC’s desire to name the Prime Ministerial candidate and nominate a Speaker of the National Assembly—both choices to be acceptable to the APNU. The AFC is also pushing for an independent Representative of the List, a critical function in the coalition dynamic, as well as the requirement that appointments of all Ministers and Junior Ministers receive mutual approval.

Additionally, the AFC is floating the idea of establishing a new Ministry or Commission dedicated to national planning, with a specific focus on transportation—a sector the party believes is critical to national development.

The softened approach signals a significant shift in the AFC’s bargaining posture and has prompted speculation about the party’s long-term viability. With some of its key members stepping back and support waning, there are growing doubts about whether the AFC could even secure a seat on its own in the upcoming elections.

“The party is clearly repositioning,” the source said.

“But the question is whether it has anything left to bargain with,” they added.