KINGSTON, Jamaica — Mark Golding has secured his position as the president of the People’s National Party (PNP) after the nomination process for the role officially concluded at noon on Friday. With no challengers emerging, Golding’s leadership remains unchallenged, ensuring continuity for the party. Additionally, the PNP announced that four individuals have been nominated for vice president positions: Mikael Phillips, Member of Parliament for Manchester Northwest; Ian Hayles, Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Western; Natalie Neita Garvey, Member of Parliament for St Catherine North Central; and Mayor Norman Scott, chairman of the St Catherine Municipal Corporation. Since all positions received sufficient nominations, the party confirmed that no elections will be necessary. The PNP also extended gratitude to Senator Donna Scott Mottley, who chose not to seek re-election as vice president. The party praised her distinguished service and pivotal role in recent election campaigns. Looking ahead, the PNP will hold its two-day National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on October 4–5, followed by annual regional conferences and the election of regional officers. The party’s calendar of activities will culminate in a one-day private session of the annual conference on November 30, 2025.
分类： politics
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Dominica reiterates solidarity with Haiti
During the 80th Session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly Debate on Thursday, Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton reaffirmed her nation’s unwavering support for Haiti, Cuba, and Venezuela, emphasizing the need for sovereignty, justice, and international solidarity. Burton highlighted Haiti’s historical significance in the fight for freedom and justice, stating that the current crisis in Haiti transcends regional boundaries and demands a united global response. She called for a Haitian-led transition process, supported by the UN, to achieve lasting peace and stability. Burton also condemned the long-standing economic embargo against Cuba, describing it as unjust and outdated, and urged its immediate revocation. She reiterated Dominica’s solidarity with Cuba, emphasizing its right to self-determination. Additionally, Burton denounced external interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs and the imposition of sanctions, advocating for respect for its sovereignty. She also expressed concern over the presence of US military assets in the Caribbean, urging restraint and adherence to international law. As the UN marked its 80th anniversary, Burton called for systemic reforms to ensure small and developing nations have a meaningful voice in global decision-making. She emphasized the importance of diplomacy, shared values, and a rules-based international order to promote peace, development, and human rights.
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Caribbean is a zone of peace, says Dominica’s president
Amid escalating tensions due to the growing presence of United States naval forces near Venezuela’s coast, Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton has reaffirmed the Caribbean as a zone of peace. Speaking at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Burton emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to resolve disputes between the US and Venezuela. She warned that any military conflict in the region would have devastating consequences for the Caribbean and Latin America, urging global powers to seek alternative paths to peace. The US has justified its naval buildup as part of efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Caribbean. However, recent US strikes on alleged drug boats have raised concerns about potential aggression toward Venezuelan territory. Venezuela has accused the US of conducting an undeclared war and has called for a UN investigation into the strikes, which reportedly killed over a dozen alleged drug traffickers. The situation underscores the fragile geopolitical dynamics in the region and the urgent need for dialogue to prevent further escalation.
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CABINET NOTES: WEDNESDAY 24th September 2025
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda convened on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, addressing a range of critical issues aimed at enhancing national infrastructure, public safety, and environmental sustainability. The meeting began with a prayer led by a pastor from the Zion Church of God, who drew inspiration from Psalm 31, emphasizing trust and resilience in challenging times. The pastor urged Cabinet members to remain patient and committed to their roles, likening their efforts to planting seeds that will yield future benefits. A significant highlight of the meeting was the Attorney General’s briefing on the arrival of a state-of-the-art Liebherr LHM 420 mobile harbor crane at the St. John’s Port. Costing US$6.2 million, this advanced crane is expected to revolutionize port operations, boosting efficiency and positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a leading logistics hub in the Eastern Caribbean. The crane, capable of handling up to 60 containers per hour, is currently being assembled by a team of German engineers, with local operators undergoing hands-on training to ensure seamless integration. In other developments, the Acting Prime Minister informed Cabinet about discussions with the Airport Taxi Association and other stakeholders to improve service standards at V.C. Bird International Airport. A Select Committee has been established to recommend regulatory and operational enhancements. Additionally, the Minister for Public Safety addressed rising concerns over motorized bicycles and scooters, which have been linked to increased traffic accidents. Stakeholders are drafting legislative measures to mitigate these issues. On the environmental front, Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to beautification initiatives, including tree planting along highways and the establishment of a supervised inmate work team to support community clean-up efforts. The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force will lead the October National Clean-Up Campaign under the theme ‘Love Where You Live,’ furthering the government’s vision for a cleaner, greener nation.
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Kuwait FM meets Antigua and Barbuda’s peer in New York
Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Abdullah Al-Yahya, held a significant meeting with Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, Everly Paul Chet Greene, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The high-level discussion, which took place on Wednesday, centered on enhancing bilateral relations across multiple sectors, as confirmed by a statement from Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both ministers explored avenues for deeper cooperation and exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues of mutual interest. This diplomatic engagement underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering stronger ties and addressing global challenges collaboratively. The meeting also highlighted the importance of multilateral platforms like the UN General Assembly in facilitating dialogue and partnership between geographically distant but diplomatically aligned countries.
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UPP Town-Hall to Tackle Crime and State Fund Mismanagement
The United Progressive Party (UPP) has announced a town-hall meeting scheduled for September 30 at Freedom Hall on Lower Newgate Street in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, set to commence at 7 p.m., aims to address escalating concerns over crime and government accountability. The panel will be led by Deputy Political Leader and criminal defense attorney Hon. Sherfield Bowen, alongside financial consultant Kem Warner and former Royal Police Force member Nuffield Burnett. The UPP has emphasized that the meeting will focus on the recent surge in crime, alleged mismanagement of state funds, and the government’s perceived inadequate response to these issues. In a pre-event statement, the party expressed that citizens are increasingly frustrated with violent crime, extrajudicial killings, and a lack of transparency in public spending. The town-hall will serve as a platform for citizens to voice their grievances and propose solutions to these pressing national concerns. The event will be broadcast live on Progressive 107.3 FM and streamed via the UPP’s official Facebook page, ensuring widespread accessibility for the public.
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Antigua and Barbuda and United Kingdom Deepen Collaboration Ahead of CHOGM 2026
On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister, E.P. Chet Greene, held a pivotal meeting with UK Minister Chris Elmore to discuss preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), set to be hosted in Antigua and Barbuda. The meeting underscored the robust collaboration between the two nations as they intensify planning for this landmark event. Minister Greene expressed pride in Antigua and Barbuda’s role as host and highlighted the productive partnership with the UK, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in ensuring the summit’s success. The discussions also focused on the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Centre of Excellence, a cornerstone initiative of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS). This center aims to foster innovation and sustainable development solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by SIDS. Minister Greene urged the UK to fully support this initiative, which aligns with the broader goals of advancing shared Commonwealth values and achieving sustainable development. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting island nations in overcoming their distinct challenges and advancing global development priorities. Minister Greene’s packed schedule at the UN General Assembly included additional bilateral discussions with other nations, expected to yield significant benefits for Antigua and Barbuda. The meeting marks a significant step in strengthening international cooperation and advancing the interests of small island states on the global stage.
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Gibbs pledges new focus on housing efficiency, upkeep
In one of his first public addresses as the newly appointed Housing Minister, Chris Gibbs outlined a significant reset in housing policy, emphasizing reforms for the troubled HOPE programme and a new maintenance-focused mandate for the National Housing Corporation (NHC). Speaking at the Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference (BACDC) held at Sandals Royal Barbados, Gibbs addressed critical issues plaguing the housing sector, including the inefficiencies of the HOPE initiative and the NHC’s dual role in construction and maintenance. Gibbs, who replaced Dwight Sutherland following his resignation for personal reasons, pledged to transform HOPE into a project management-focused institution, leveraging public-private partnerships to deliver affordable housing solutions. He acknowledged the programme’s challenges, including delays and financing issues, but expressed optimism about its future. Gibbs also announced a strategic shift for the NHC, prioritizing maintenance over new construction to address long-standing inefficiencies. He proposed a two-tiered building strategy: an industrial model for planning and design, supported by innovative techniques, and an artisanal model for routine maintenance, engaging small contractors and artisans. This approach aims to streamline operations and ensure sustainable housing solutions for Barbados.
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President Ali urges bold action on global crises at UN General Assembly
In a compelling address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasized the urgent need for bold and decisive action to tackle the multifaceted crises gripping the world. Against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, President Ali highlighted the Caribbean’s vulnerability to climate change, alongside the broader global challenges of armed conflicts, food insecurity, and economic instability. He called for introspection within the UN, questioning its effectiveness in addressing escalating geopolitical tensions and humanitarian disasters. ‘Where are we at 80?’ Ali asked, pointing to the intensification of conflicts, worsening food insecurity, growing displacement, and the existential threat of climate change. He expressed deep concern over the erosion of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to shrinking development aid and reduced peacekeeping budgets. Ali also condemned the ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti, labeling the situation in Gaza as ‘mass extermination’ and urging immediate action to halt the violence and advance a two-state solution. Additionally, he warned of emerging threats such as cybercrime, misinformation, and transnational organized crime. As the UN commemorates its 80th anniversary, President Ali joined a growing number of leaders voicing frustration over the organization’s inability to maintain global peace and security in an increasingly volatile world.
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Antigua and Barbuda PM Tells UN: Take Polluters to Court if Diplomacy Fails
In a bold address at the United Nations Climate Summit, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne issued a stark warning to global leaders: if diplomatic efforts fail to address climate change, small island nations will resort to legal action to hold major polluters accountable. Browne emphasized that advancements in attribution science—research linking extreme weather events to fossil fuel emissions—now provide the necessary evidence to pursue such cases in court. ‘If diplomacy fails, then we should use the courts to hold these large polluters accountable,’ he declared. Browne framed the issue as a matter of survival for small island developing states (SIDS), which face existential threats from rising sea levels, intensifying storms, and escalating climate-related damages. He stressed that the 1.5-degree Celsius target set by the Paris Agreement is non-negotiable for these vulnerable nations. Browne also criticized the global financial system as ‘unfit for purpose,’ highlighting the staggering $387 billion annual cost of climate adaptation and the inadequacy of current climate finance. He endorsed the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative, which advocates for a rules-based phase-out of coal, oil, and gas, supported by financial and technological transfers. Antigua and Barbuda has taken proactive steps with its National Adaptation Plan and plans to update its climate targets this year. However, Browne emphasized that national efforts alone are insufficient. He called for the international community to adopt the ‘polluter pays’ principle, expand concessional financing, and ensure access to affordable renewable technologies. ‘Let us treat the 1.5-degree limit as a lifeline, not as a line in the sand,’ he urged. ‘And let us act—not tomorrow, but today—so that the smallest and most vulnerable nations among us are not left to face the greatest storms alone.’