As Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) opening ceremony, local law enforcement has rolled out clear, targeted security rules for residents living closest to the event venue. Police Superintendent Rodney Ellis, who leads the national Police Traffic Department, outlined the new measures during an appearance on Saturday’s popular Browne and Browne Show, stressing that the restrictions are designed to prioritize public safety amid the visit of dozens of high-profile Commonwealth leaders and international dignitaries.
The security perimeter will be centered on the Performing Arts Centre and adjacent High Street, the location of the opening ceremony. All residents living inside this restricted zone must either make advance arrangements to stay with family members or at another location outside the perimeter during the security operation, or remain locked indoors inside their homes for the full duration of the restrictions. “However, if you choose not to [leave], you cannot be coming outside your house. You have to stay inside,” Ellis confirmed in his remarks.
According to Ellis, the temporary closure of the area is expected to last between six and seven hours, with normal access to the neighborhood scheduled to resume between 1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. once the opening ceremony concludes. Beyond vehicle traffic restrictions, all pedestrian movement within the secured zone will also be limited, and any individual seeking entry to the area must hold official, event-specific accreditation. Emergency response vehicles will remain exempt from the access rules to ensure rapid response to any public crisis, Ellis added.
Everton Barnes, co-lead of the CHOGM Media and Public Affairs Committee, moved quickly to clarify widespread public speculation that the security measures would trigger a full shutdown of the island. “We are not locking down Antigua,” Barnes emphasized, explaining that the curbs on movement only apply to the small perimeter surrounding the ceremony venue during the specified event window. All businesses operating outside the restricted area will be free to continue normal operations with no interruptions.
To address lingering public concerns and answer unaddressed questions from residents and local business owners, event organizers have scheduled a public town hall meeting. Officials have publicly appealed to the local community for cooperation and understanding as they work to deliver a safe, successful event for the visiting international delegation.