Browne Claims Car Dealers Behind UPP Duty-Free Vehicle Proposal

Prime Minister Gaston Browne, ABLP candidate for St. John’s City West (photo by Robert Andre Emmanuel)

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has accused motor vehicle dealers of influencing a key campaign promise by the opposition, claiming the proposal to remove taxes on vehicles is driven by business interests rather than public benefit.

Speaking to reporters, Browne alleged that well-known dealer Paul Ryan—whom he referred to as “Pablo Ryan”—and others had previously approached him with a similar request.

“In fact, Pablo Ryan and others approached me and asked me if we could eliminate all of the taxes so that they can sell more cars,” Browne said.

Paul Ryan

The Prime Minister argued that the United Progressive Party’s proposal to remove all duties and taxes on vehicles for personal use would primarily benefit car dealers, rather than ordinary citizens.

He further suggested that the policy is part of a broader effort to secure campaign financing.

“So they are just playing to these business people, trying to get money from them for the campaign,” Browne added.

Browne also warned that significantly reducing government revenue through tax cuts could have serious consequences for the country, including reduced funding for public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

The comments come amid an intensifying political battle over economic policies ahead of the April 30 general election, with vehicle import duties emerging as a key point of contention between the two major parties.