分类： politics

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne, convened on October 15, 2025, to address critical national issues, including revenue control, water infrastructure improvements, and a groundbreaking water-security partnership with Japan. The meeting began with a prayer led by a pastor from the Evangelical Association, emphasizing trust in divine guidance for decision-making.

Cabinet members discussed the need to strengthen revenue collection frameworks, particularly in response to unauthorized vehicle purchases. The Ministry of Finance was tasked with reviewing these cases and ensuring restitution for any irregularities. Additionally, all government vehicles will undergo audits and be affixed with approved license plates, except for specific high-ranking officials.

The Minister for Utilities provided updates on ongoing water infrastructure projects managed by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA). Key developments include the reactivation of the Lower Buckleys Reservoir, expansion of production capacity at Pigeon Point and Pattersons Plants, and plans for new reservoirs in Wink-Eye Hill and New Winthropes. These efforts aim to enhance water distribution and support the growing yachting sector.

In response to recent heavy rainfall, the Minister for Health reported flooding at Tranquility Park Cemetery and other burial sites. Cabinet approved the installation of a drainage system to address waterlogging issues.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the approval of a partnership with Japan’s WOTA Corporation to implement decentralized, autonomous water-recycling systems. This initiative, supported by the Government of Japan, will deploy 500 WOTA systems across Antigua and Barbuda, promoting water security and sustainability. The Cabinet also agreed to consider tax exemptions for WOTA systems to encourage widespread adoption.

Prime Minister Browne praised the partnership as a model for innovation and climate resilience, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The collaboration is expected to set a regional benchmark for sustainable water management in the Caribbean.

In a move that has sparked widespread concern, the government of Antigua and Barbuda is proposing amendments to the Tax Administration Act, which critics argue could severely erode private property rights. The bill, which lowers the threshold for the government to seize private property under the pretext of collecting outstanding taxes, has been met with fierce opposition from citizens and legal experts alike.

In a significant move to bolster its aviation sector, Antigua and Barbuda’s Parliament has ratified a groundbreaking Air Services Agreement with Saudi Arabia. The bilateral treaty, signed on September 24, 2025, during the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, establishes a modern legal framework for airline operations, route rights, and aviation cooperation between the two nations. Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Charles Max Fernandez presented the resolution, emphasizing its role in Antigua and Barbuda’s broader strategy to expand global air connectivity, particularly with emerging aviation markets in the Middle East. Fernandez highlighted that the agreement includes provisions for ‘fifth freedom’ traffic rights, codesharing, and updated aviation safety and security standards, all of which are expected to enhance the viability of long-haul routes and foster greater regional and international connectivity. The minister also revealed growing investment interest from Middle Eastern partners, including a proposal from a Dubai-based group to redevelop the old terminal building at V.C. Bird International Airport into a facility for aircraft maintenance, repair, and flight training operations. Fernandez underscored the importance of local leadership in this growing international aviation network, noting the contributions of Antiguan-born aviation executive Miguel Southwell, who currently serves as CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority. The motion was approved without objection, with Speaker Sir Gerald Watt declaring the resolution successfully passed. The government anticipates that the agreement will boost tourism, cargo, and investment opportunities, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a strategic bridge between the Caribbean and the Middle East, and advancing its long-term goal of establishing Antigua as a modern air transport hub.

In a landmark decision, the House of Representatives has unanimously approved the compulsory acquisition of land in St. Mary’s South, setting the stage for a transformative government housing project. The initiative, spearheaded by Attorney General and St. John’s City South MP Sir Steadroy Benjamin, aims to construct 50 affordable homes for young families, with an estimated investment of EC$10 million. The resolution, introduced under Section 3 of the Land Acquisition Act (Cap. 233), underscores the government’s commitment to addressing housing needs and fostering inclusive development. Sir Steadroy emphasized that the acquisition serves a public purpose, ensuring that young residents in the area have access to homeownership opportunities. He assured that the process adheres to legal protocols, including fair valuation and compensation for landowners. While opposition members supported the project’s objectives, they advocated for enhanced consultation with local representatives to align developments with community priorities. Sir Steadroy welcomed the collaborative spirit, reiterating the government’s vision of creating a fair and inclusive society. The project, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, will focus on delivering climate-resilient homes, with construction slated to commence post-acquisition and subdivision processes.

The concept of a ‘rules-based international order’ has long been a cornerstone of global diplomacy, yet the reality has always been that power dictates the rules. Sir Ronald Sanders, Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda, argues that the current global landscape reveals a stark truth: power is no longer concealed behind diplomatic niceties but is exercised openly and unapologetically. This shift has profound implications for small states, whose sovereignty is increasingly fragile in the face of dominant powers. From trade negotiations to climate change agreements, small nations have often found their voices ignored, their pleas for fairness dismissed. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), once declared a Zone of Peace, now faces external military intrusions justified under the guise of security, eroding the region’s sovereignty. The paradox for small states lies in their dependence on international law, which is often disregarded by powerful nations. Sanctions, trade restrictions, and underfunded human rights mechanisms further marginalize these countries. Ambassador Sanders warns that the so-called ‘new world order’ is merely the unmasking of an old hierarchy where might makes right. For small nations, sovereignty may soon be reduced to managing domestic affairs without offending powerful interests. However, the response must not be despair but a steadfast commitment to the principles of law and justice. The Caribbean’s security and prosperity have historically benefited from partnerships with larger democracies, and these alliances must remain grounded in respect for international law. The challenge is not to submit to a power-dominated order but to prevent the old hierarchy from becoming permanent. When law is silenced, equity collapses, leaving the powerless at the mercy of the powerful. Caution and courage are now essential for small states to navigate this precarious landscape.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has assured the public that the Freedom of Information (FOI) Secretariat will be operational within 60 days, addressing concerns raised in Parliament about the lack of a physical office for the Information Commissioner. During a recent parliamentary session, Browne revealed that the Attorney General has informed him that the physical premises for the Secretariat are still under preparation but are expected to be ready soon. Despite the absence of a dedicated office, Browne emphasized that the FOI system remains functional, with the Information Commissioner actively handling public requests. ‘You and others have written to the Information Commissioner and would have gotten information,’ Browne stated, underscoring that the Secretariat’s operations have not been halted by the ongoing repairs. The Prime Minister’s announcement follows criticism from an opposition MP, who highlighted that the government had previously promised the office would open within a month in May, a deadline that has now been extended. Browne defended the delay, stating that he was merely relaying the Attorney General’s timeline and is not directly involved in the construction process. The discussion also touched on the Integrity in Public Life Act and the Prevention of Corruption Act, with Browne asserting that all three laws are in force and being implemented. He noted that a secretary has been appointed to the Integrity Commission to ensure public officials comply with declaration requirements, dismissing claims of any deliberate policy to hinder the functioning of these governance laws. ‘The laws are functional—it’s just that they have not been utilized,’ Browne concluded.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has revealed that the government of Antigua and Barbuda is still in the process of identifying a suitable candidate for the crucial role of Ombudsman, a position that has remained vacant for an extended period. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Browne responded to inquiries from St. Mary’s South MP Kelvin Simon, who raised concerns about the prolonged vacancy and questioned the government’s timeline for filling the post. Browne emphasized that the administration has been diligently reviewing potential candidates but has yet to find an individual with the requisite qualifications, experience, and impartiality to effectively fulfill the role. ‘We have been looking for someone suitable for the role,’ Browne stated. ‘It’s a sensitive position that demands legal and administrative expertise, as well as a high degree of independence.’ The Prime Minister also disclosed that the government is now considering publicly advertising the position to attract a wider pool of qualified applicants. ‘We may have to go that route to ensure we find the right person,’ he added, reaffirming the government’s commitment to filling the post. The Office of the Ombudsman, established under the Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda, plays a pivotal role in investigating public complaints regarding maladministration or unfair treatment by government entities. Its prolonged vacancy has sparked concerns about the lack of an independent mechanism for addressing citizens’ grievances. MP Simon underscored the importance of restoring the office to full functionality, highlighting its role in holding public agencies accountable. Browne acknowledged the significance of the Ombudsman in promoting good governance and public trust but stressed the need for a careful and non-partisan appointment process. ‘It’s not a position we can fill hastily,’ he remarked. ‘We want to ensure the appointee possesses the competence and integrity to command public confidence.’

Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has categorically dismissed rumors suggesting that the United States sought to establish a military base or deploy military assets in the Caribbean nation. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Browne emphasized that no such request had been made by Washington and reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to peace and neutrality. ‘There has been no request from the United States to establish a military base in Antigua and Barbuda,’ Browne stated firmly. ‘And even if such a request were made, our answer would be no.’ The Prime Minister underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to maintaining regional stability and independence in its foreign policy, rejecting any alignment with global military powers. ‘We have absolutely no interest in hosting any form of military assets in our country,’ he declared. ‘We are happy to remain a peaceful nation without military bases.’ Browne’s remarks come amid heightened regional discussions about defense cooperation with the United States, particularly following reports that Grenada is reviewing a U.S. proposal to install a radar system at the Maurice Bishop International Airport. The recent visit of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) commander Admiral Alvin Holsey to the Eastern Caribbean has further fueled speculation about American security initiatives in the region. Admiral Holsey met with Prime Ministers Browne and Dickon Mitchell of Grenada to discuss disaster preparedness, regional security partnerships, and maritime domain awareness. While Browne welcomed civil and humanitarian cooperation with the United States—especially in areas like disaster relief, maritime safety, and law enforcement—he made it clear that Antigua and Barbuda would not entertain military basing or armament agreements. ‘Our engagement must always be about peace, development, and the safety of our people,’ Browne affirmed. ‘We are not in the business of hosting military operations for any country.’