Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a firm rebuttal against allegations from opposition parties that his administration covertly agreed to accept massive numbers of criminal deportees from the United States. Characterizing the claims as a malicious falsehood, Browne condemned what he described as a politically motivated disinformation campaign designed to undermine public trust.
The controversy centers on accusations from the United Progressive Party (UPP), which alleged the government secretly consented to receive over 100,000 deportees with criminal backgrounds from the U.S. Browne categorically denied these assertions, labeling them as ‘dastardly political spin’ rooted in falsehoods intended to score cheap political points.
Clarifying the actual terms of the arrangement, Browne revealed his government had consented to review possibly up to ten non-criminal refugees who possess skills currently in short supply within Antigua and Barbuda. This limited humanitarian initiative, he emphasized, operates under a framework of complete discretion, allowing authorities to accept or reject any individuals recommended by U.S. officials.
The Prime Minister further explained that the agreement includes provisions for biometric data sharing and criminal background transparency from U.S. authorities. This arrangement forms part of a broader international effort where the United States has invited over 100 nations to assist in alleviating refugee and deportee pressures.
Browne noted that several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states have participated in similar agreements, contrasting their cooperative approach with what he characterized as the opposition’s habitual tendency toward sensationalism and misinformation for political gain.