Harold Lovell, former finance minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has launched a scathing critique of the nation’s governance, highlighting significant lapses in transparency and accountability. During an interview on Observer A.M. with Dr. Jacqui Quinn, Lovell accused current officials of disregarding the principles of laws designed to promote openness and integrity. He emphasized that the country’s leadership operates with a “small-island mentality,” which he argued perpetuates mediocrity and political favoritism, leaving the majority of citizens struggling while a privileged few thrive. Lovell, who also serves as a visiting professor at the University of Toronto, pointed to legislation introduced during his tenure with the United Progressive Party (UPP) in 2004, including the Freedom of Information Act, Integrity in Public Life Act, and Prevention of Corruption Act. He lamented that these laws, intended to foster transparency, have been undermined by poor implementation. Lovell also raised concerns about the handling of the Social Security Fund, questioning why financial and actuarial reports remain inaccessible to the public. He described the situation as a violation of the Social Security Act of 1972, which aimed to involve civil society in fund management. The interview concluded with Dr. Quinn commending Lovell’s insightful analysis, blending his political experience with academic expertise.
Lovell Criticizes Governance Failures, Calls for Transparency in Social Security Management
