Justice Tunde Ademola Bakre, a Nigerian-born jurist, has concluded his tenure as a High Court Judge of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) in Antigua and Barbuda, leaving behind a profound impact on the nation’s legal landscape. Appointed on September 29, 2023, Bakre presided over several landmark cases that tested the boundaries of the law and reshaped judicial processes in the region. His departure to serve in the Turks and Caicos Islands marks the end of a transformative chapter in Antigua and Barbuda’s judiciary.
分类： society
-
Haitian national dies following accident in Jimmit
Authorities have disclosed the identity of a man who tragically lost his life in an accident that took place in the Jimmit area on Thursday afternoon. The deceased has been identified as Sonel Louis Jeune, a Haitian national who was residing in Massacre. The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 1:30 PM, according to official police statements. Dominica News Online (DNO) has expressed its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.
-
Authorities order Buccaneer Cove vendor to relocate to Fort James as development plans for the area move forward
The Ministry of Tourism and Investment has mandated the relocation of a licensed beach vendor operating at Buccaneer Cove, Dickenson Bay, to Fort James Beach by Friday, September 26. This decision aligns with the government’s development plans for the area, as the landowner is prepared to commence construction. Vendor Brian Coates was notified via a letter on Monday, stating that further delays could not be accommodated. Tourism officials will assign Coates a new spot at Fort James, ensuring a smooth transition. The relocation comes with specific restrictions, including a limit of 25 beach chairs and a requirement to downsize his current structure. These measures aim to preserve a “welcoming and peaceful atmosphere for tourists,” according to the ministry. Opposition activist George Wehner criticized the move, accusing the Gaston Browne administration of undermining local beach vendors. He expressed concern over the downsizing of Coates’ operation and the relocation to Fort James Beach. The ministry has assured that the Beach Safety and Security Unit will assist Coates throughout the process. This development highlights the ongoing tension between local businesses and government-led initiatives aimed at tourism and economic growth.
-
Autopsy Performed on Tourist Found Dead in Marmora Area
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Authorities announced on Tuesday that an autopsy has been conducted on the body of a tourist discovered deceased in the Marmora area earlier this month. The post-mortem examination was carried out at the Holberton Hospital Morgue following authorization from the Coroner. A pathologist assigned to the case commenced the procedure late Monday morning. Officials proceeded with the autopsy in the absence of the deceased’s family, citing procedural protocols. While the autopsy has been completed, the cause of death remains undisclosed, pending further investigation. The case has drawn significant attention, raising questions about safety and procedural transparency in the region. Authorities have assured the public that updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures for tourists visiting the area.
-
LETTER: National Service as a Lifeline for Our Youth
The escalating crime wave among Antigua and Barbuda’s youth has reached a critical juncture, prompting urgent calls for a national service program. Recent reports reveal a disturbing trend: young individuals, fresh out of school, are increasingly drawn into a cycle of violence, crime, and despair. This crisis not only jeopardizes their futures but also undermines the nation’s social fabric and security. In response, stakeholders are advocating for a comprehensive, structured initiative to provide purpose and direction to the country’s youth. The proposed program would offer diverse service opportunities, including military training, community development, healthcare support, environmental conservation, and educational outreach. These pathways aim to instill discipline, foster unity, and equip young people with practical skills essential for personal and professional growth. Beyond crime prevention, the initiative seeks to strengthen national identity by encouraging youth to actively contribute to societal well-being. The government is urged to take the lead in implementing this program, supported by private sector collaboration, NGOs, and community leaders. The time for action is now, as the rising tide of youth crime underscores the failure of existing systems. By investing in national service, Antigua and Barbuda can reclaim its youth, restore hope, and secure a brighter future for all.
-
Antigua and Barbuda Celebrating HR Professionals Day 2025
In a vibrant celebration of Human Resource Professionals Day 2025, Antigua and Barbuda joined nations worldwide in acknowledging the pivotal role of HR practitioners in shaping workplace culture, fostering employee growth, and driving organizational success. The local HR association, Human Resource Professionals of Antigua and Barbuda (HR-PAB), spearheaded the commemorations under the theme ‘HR: Empowering People, Advancing Organizations & Nations.’ This theme underscores the transformative impact of HR professionals in aligning employee development with broader socio-economic progress. As the global workforce evolves amidst technological advancements and shifting employee expectations, HR professionals continue to serve as the architects of organizational culture and strategic enablers of business goals. Public and private sector entities were encouraged to express tangible appreciation for their HR teams, recognizing their indispensable contributions to workplace wellbeing and national development.
-
Antigua and Barbuda’s Kiara Kwenga to Represent at Regional Tourism Youth Congress
Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Minister of Tourism, Kiara Kwenga, is set to represent her nation at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Regional Tourism Youth Congress. The event, scheduled for October 2 at the Hilton Barbados Resort, will gather young delegates aged 14 to 17 from 16 CTO member states and territories. Each participant, serving as a ‘Junior Minister or Commissioner of Tourism,’ will present innovative ideas and research on the future of Caribbean tourism. Organized in collaboration with the Barbados Ministry of Tourism and International Transport and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., the Congress is a cornerstone of CTO’s youth development initiatives. It aims to foster critical thinking, enhance communication skills, and provide a platform for young visionaries to shape the region’s tourism sector. Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s Director of Resource Mobilization and Development, emphasized that the event is more than a competition; it’s a pathway to nurturing future leaders and innovators in tourism. Beyond the Congress, participants will engage in the broader State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), including a master class by Ed Limon of Winged Whale Media and a career-focused workshop led by Davina Layne. Last year’s top honors went to Nevis representative Keyana Warner, and this year, Kwenga and her peers will aim to impress judges with fresh perspectives on strengthening the Caribbean’s tourism industry. The 2025 Youth Congress is supported by Breeze Travel Solutions, Carnival Corporation & plc, Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx), Marketplace Excellence (MPE), and Winged Whale Media. The SOTIC conference runs from September 30 to October 3 at the Hilton Barbados Resort.
-
Police Crackdown on Unauthorized Engagement with External Agencies
The Belize Police Department has introduced a stringent new policy emphasizing the importance of adhering to the chain of command when collaborating with external agencies during investigations. Issued on September 25, 2025, and signed by the Commissioner of Police, the directive mandates that no officer may engage with outside entities—such as Customs, Immigration, or the Income Tax Department—without prior approval from the Commissioner’s Office or an authorized representative. This rule is effective immediately and applies to all scenarios involving the transfer of items, individuals, or sensitive information to external bodies. The directive leaves no ambiguity: any violation must be reported in writing, detailing the officer’s authorization source and the disciplinary measures taken. The Commissioner underscored the policy’s importance, stating, ‘The Chain of Command must be strictly respected and upheld. Non-compliance will not be tolerated.’ The policy aims to prevent unauthorized actions that could disrupt investigations, create confusion, or undermine the Police Department’s authority. By requiring approval, the Department ensures accountability and careful handling of sensitive matters. Additionally, the directive safeguards the Department against allegations of corruption, favoritism, or procedural irregularities, establishing a uniform standard for all officers. While the policy may introduce delays in operations due to the need for clearance, it is designed to foster discipline and mitigate risks. For officers, it serves as a clear reminder that adherence to the chain of command is not optional but mandatory.
-
17-Year-Old Questioned in Connection with High Street Robbery
In a recent development in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, a 17-year-old male has been taken into police custody for questioning regarding his alleged involvement in a robbery incident. The event unfolded on the evening of Monday, September 22, 2025, when two individuals were reportedly confronted at gunpoint by two assailants on High Street. The victims were robbed of their vehicle, mobile phone, and other valuable possessions. The suspects fled the scene in the stolen vehicle, heading westward along High Street.
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was promptly notified, and an investigation was launched. On Thursday, September 25, 2025, law enforcement officers apprehended the teenager in the Clare Hall area. He is currently assisting the police with their inquiries.
The Police Administration is appealing to the public for any information that could aid in the ongoing investigation. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the CID at 462-3913 or provide anonymous tips through the Crimestoppers Hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to address and mitigate criminal activities within the community. The authorities remain committed to ensuring public safety and bringing those responsible for such acts to justice.
-
Nurse association calls for meeting with Ministry of Health over safety concerns
The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) has issued an urgent call for a meeting with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to tackle what it describes as a deepening crisis in the safety and protection of frontline nurses. This appeal follows an emergency meeting held on Wednesday at the Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, prompted by recent violent incidents at the Randal Phillips and Frederick Miller Polyclinics. These events have left nurses traumatized and forced one facility to temporarily close. In a post-meeting statement, BNA President Dr. Fay Parris highlighted the fear and frustration among nurses, attributing these emotions to inadequate security measures and frequent exposure to abuse. Dr. Parris emphasized the critical need for immediate reforms to safeguard healthcare workers. The BNA is advocating for standardized safety protocols across all healthcare facilities, including the installation of CCTV cameras, entry scanners, panic buttons linked to emergency response systems, and the deployment of trained security personnel. Additionally, the association has raised concerns about the safety of nurses during community visits and the persistent shortage of Health Sisters, who play a vital role in public health outreach and assessment. Dr. Parris noted that despite repeated warnings over the past two years, upgrades to security systems have been inconsistent and often reactive. ‘The nursing community is united, focused, and prepared to ensure that these issues receive the attention they warrant,’ she asserted. The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) also attended the meeting, pledging full support for the BNA’s advocacy efforts.