Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has officially announced that the citizens of Saint Lucia will cast their votes on Monday, December 1, 2025, to elect a new government. In a nationwide broadcast on November 9, Pierre also designated Monday, November 21, 2025, as Nomination Day, marking the formal submission of candidacy papers for the upcoming election. Additionally, the Prime Minister disclosed that he has recommended the Governor General to dissolve Parliament starting Monday, November 10, 2025, initiating the official election period. The Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), led by Pierre, currently enjoys a robust 13–4 majority in Parliament, a result of its significant triumph in the July 2021 general election. This announcement sets the stage for a pivotal political event in the Caribbean nation, with the SLP aiming to maintain its stronghold in the legislative body.
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Entities Must Get Approval Before Running Raffles or Giveaways under Consumer Protection Act, 2025
In a significant move to safeguard consumer interests, the Consumer Protection Act of 2025 has introduced stringent regulations requiring entities to obtain prior approval before conducting raffles or giveaways. This legislative update aims to curb deceptive marketing practices and ensure transparency in promotional activities. Businesses, organizations, and individuals planning such events must now seek authorization from designated regulatory bodies, which will assess the fairness and legality of the proposed schemes. The Act also imposes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and potential legal action. This development underscores the government’s commitment to protecting consumers from fraudulent schemes while fostering a trustworthy marketplace. Stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the new requirements to avoid disruptions in their promotional strategies.
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Commonwealth Secretary-General experiences Antigua and Barbuda’s culture ahead of CHOGM 2026
During an official visit to Antigua and Barbuda last week, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey experienced the nation’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance as it gears up to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2026. The visit commenced with a vibrant cultural showcase at Sandals Resort, where the Antigua Dance Academy performed traditional drumming and dance. Botchwey, deeply moved by the rhythms, drew parallels to her homeland, Ghana, describing the performance as “heartfelt and unforgettable.”
Botchwey’s itinerary also included a guided tour of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, led by officials from the National Parks Authority. The tour featured visits to Clarence House, Shirley Heights Lookout, and the Dockyard Museum, offering insights into the island’s colonial past and maritime history. The day concluded with a traditional Antiguan lunch at the Copper & Lumber Store Hotel, further highlighting the country’s culinary traditions.
Though brief, Botchwey’s visit underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s unique blend of cultural pride, historical preservation, and forward-looking ambition as it prepares to welcome leaders from across the Commonwealth in 2026. The visit not only showcased the nation’s readiness to host a global event but also reinforced its commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing its role on the international stage.
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Grace plays race, gender card amidst contract scrutiny
In a heated political climate in St. Vincent, Grace Walters, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for North Windward and a hospital administrator, has defended her EC$144,000 one-year consultancy contract for the Arnos Vale hospital project. Walters, speaking at a ULP rally in Biabou, suggested that the scrutiny of her contract stems from her identity as a woman and a member of the Carib community.
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Antigua and Barbuda Dominate Caribbean Arm Wrestling Clash
Antigua and Barbuda showcased their arm wrestling prowess on Saturday night, securing a resounding victory in the Clash of the Caribbean Arm Wrestling Series held at The People’s Place in St John’s. The home team triumphed in seven out of ten matches, leaving their Trinidadian competitors in the dust. The event kicked off with a stellar performance by Omarion Boyle and Omarie Laird, who both achieved flawless 3–0 victories. Nivron Browne, Nickson Grove, Daniel Antonio, and Joshua Rabess further cemented Antigua’s dominance with commanding wins. Despite the overwhelming performance by the hosts, Trinidad managed to claim three victories, thanks to Muhammad Ibrahim, Navardo Wallace-Gill, and Jesiah Bartholomew. The event not only highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s growing strength in regional arm wrestling but also underscored the sport’s increasing popularity across the Caribbean. The enthusiastic crowd added to the electric atmosphere, making it a night to remember for arm wrestling enthusiasts.
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Senate takes first step toward ending the government shutdown
In a pivotal move to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, the U.S. Senate voted 60-40 on Sunday to advance a compromise funding bill, marking the first step toward reopening federal operations. The agreement, brokered by a group of moderate Democrats, has sparked internal discord within the party as it does not guarantee the extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, a key demand from progressive lawmakers. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and most of his colleagues opposed the procedural vote, underscoring the deep divisions over health care policy. The deal, which includes bipartisan spending bills and a temporary funding extension until late January, also reverses mass firings of federal workers and ensures back pay for those affected. Senate Majority Leader John Thune urged swift action, emphasizing the shutdown’s widespread disruptions, including flight cancellations and delayed food assistance. While President Donald Trump expressed optimism about ending the shutdown, he stopped short of endorsing the deal. The agreement, which required the support of five Democrats to pass, has drawn criticism from House Democrats, who argue it fails to address health care affordability. The Senate’s decision sets the stage for a contentious December vote on ACA subsidies, with Republicans divided over extending COVID-19-era tax credits. Meanwhile, the shutdown’s impact continues to worsen, affecting millions of Americans ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
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Arbour Day 2025 to Promote Climate-Smart Tree Planting
The Department of Environment (DOE) has announced plans to host Arbour Day 2025 on November 27, centered around the theme “Buzzing with Power – Planting Trees for a Climate-Smart Future.” This annual event, set to take place on the DOE Lawn starting at 9 a.m., aims to engage residents in environmental conservation and bolster climate resilience. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase a diverse range of fruit trees, including coconut, custard apple, raspberry, soursop, guava, and pomegranate. Plant bags will be available for $2.50 each, with the option to exchange two bags for a tree. Beyond tree planting, the event will feature an array of activities such as live music, food and drink stalls, prize giveaways, and educational workshops focused on sustainable living and reforestation. Officials emphasize that the initiative seeks to inspire communities to take actionable steps toward a greener Antigua and Barbuda by promoting the cultivation of climate-resilient fruit trees. For more information, residents can call 462-4625 or visit environment.gov.ag.
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Future Pro Congratulates Kylano and Zaieem on Antigua and Barbuda National Team Call-Up
Future Pro has extended its heartfelt congratulations to two of its standout international players, Kylano and Zaieem, for earning a coveted spot on the Antigua and Barbuda Senior Men’s National Football Team. The club proudly announced that the dynamic duo will represent their nation in the upcoming international matches against Aruba and Guyana during the FIFA international break. Expressing immense pride in their accomplishment, Future Pro emphasized its unwavering support for the players as they embark on this significant milestone. The club conveyed its best wishes for success as Kylano and Zaieem prepare to showcase their skills on the global stage, representing their country with honor and determination.
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Antigua & Barbuda Swimmers Deliver Strong Performances at OECS Championships
The 33rd OECS Swimming Championships have witnessed remarkable achievements from Team Antigua & Barbuda, as they continue to make waves in the competition. With multiple medals and record-breaking swims, the team has secured fourth place in the standings, showcasing their resilience and national pride. Despite facing challenges, including swimmers competing while unwell, Antigua & Barbuda has demonstrated exceptional determination. As of the second day, the team has amassed 732 points, trailing behind Grenada (836), St. Lucia (803), and St. Vincent (747.5).
Ethan Stubbs-Greene and Jadon Wuilliez emerged as standout performers, setting new OECS records. Stubbs-Greene shattered the 200-metre freestyle record with a time of 1:51.24, while Wuilliez achieved dual records in the 50-metre breaststroke (27.89) and 50-metre freestyle. Wuilliez also clinched silver in the 200-metre freestyle (1:56.27), with teammate Stefano Mitchell securing bronze (1:56.37).
The young swimmers of Antigua & Barbuda also made their mark, with nine-year-old Isabel Nicholas claiming gold in both the 200-metre freestyle (2:29.34) and 50-metre backstroke (37.14). Charlotte Gold and Anna Sukumaran joined her on the podium, earning silver and bronze in the 200-metre freestyle, respectively. Among the boys, Akasion Shepard took bronze in the 8-and-under 25-metre backstroke (21.56), while Alessandro Bazzoni earned silver in the 11–12 100-metre backstroke (1:09.51).
In the Development Pathway Division, 13-year-old Anya DeGannes secured silver in the 13–14 100-metre backstroke (1:11.54), adding to her earlier gold medals in the 200-metre freestyle and 100-metre butterfly. Team officials lauded the swimmers’ perseverance, highlighting their ability to achieve personal bests despite illness. Coaches emphasized the performances as a testament to the nation’s growing talent pool across age groups.
The OECS Championships continue through the weekend, with Team Antigua & Barbuda aiming to build on their momentum in the final sessions.
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Rahkeem Cornwall Steps Down as Hurricanes Captain
In a significant development for Caribbean cricket, Antiguan all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall has announced his resignation as captain of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes. The decision comes just ahead of the highly anticipated CG United Super50 Cup, set to commence in Trinidad on November 19. Cornwall, who also captains the Antigua and Barbuda Master Blasters, revealed that his choice followed the conclusion of the recent LICB Mixed Tournament in St. Kitts, where his team secured a commendable second-place finish.
Cornwall, 31, emphasized that stepping down from the leadership role was a strategic move to focus on his personal performance. “I believe the team needs a fresh perspective and someone else to take up the mantle,” he stated. “I’ll continue to play, but my priority now is to enjoy my cricket without the added responsibilities of captaincy.”
The seasoned cricketer admitted that the dual pressures of leadership and performance had taken a toll on his form in recent years. “Captaining the team and ensuring the well-being of other players often overshadowed my own game,” he confessed. “It’s time for me to rediscover the joy of playing cricket.”
Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Cornwall expressed unwavering commitment to the Hurricanes and praised the young talents who showcased their potential during the recent tournament. “I’m proud of the emerging players and their contributions. The future looks bright for the team,” he added.
West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is widely expected to take over the captaincy as the Hurricanes gear up for the Super50 Cup. Cornwall’s decision marks a new chapter for both the player and the team, as they aim for success in the upcoming tournament.