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The Ministry of Works has celebrated the completion of the Barbuda Council Administrative Building renovation, a significant achievement in the island’s infrastructure and governance. This project, finalized earlier this year, aims to enhance local administration and improve service delivery for Barbuda’s residents. Funded through a USD 31 million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and additional government investments, the refurbished building now boasts structural repairs, modern furnishings, and expanded spaces tailored to meet the needs of the island’s growing population. The renovation is part of a broader civil works program, which includes the rehabilitation of the Community Centre, now retrofitted for emergency shelter use, the construction of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) Operations Centre, and the development of a Community Multipurpose Centre/Emergency Shelter. Additionally, resilient concrete roads are being constructed across Barbuda to enhance transport safety and boost economic prospects. These initiatives are integral to a wider strategy aimed at providing modern infrastructure and supporting sustainable development on the sister isle.

In a remarkable display of dedication to both duty and education, five officers from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda have been celebrated for their outstanding academic achievements. Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Everton Jeffers, publicly commended Inspector Evette Henry, Senior Sergeant Kerry Zachariah, Sergeant Nekeisha Josiah, Sergeant Renee Roberts, and Corporal Lenia Livingstone for successfully completing their studies at the University of the West Indies, Five Islands Campus (UWIFIC). These officers graduated with honors in various disciplines, showcasing their commitment to professional and personal growth. Sergeant Nekeisha Josiah led the group with First Class Honours in International Management, while Sergeant Renee Roberts and Corporal Lenia Livingstone earned Upper Second Class Honours in Business Management, specializing in Human Resource Management. Senior Sergeant Kerry Zachariah achieved Upper Second Class Honours in Management with Psychology, and Inspector Evette Henry graduated with Upper Second Class Honours in Management, focusing on Human Resource Management. Commissioner Jeffers expressed immense pride in their accomplishments, stating that their success reflects the Force’s dedication to continuous learning and development. He encouraged other officers to follow their example, emphasizing the importance of education in enhancing service delivery and leadership capabilities. The Commissioner also reaffirmed the Administration’s support for officers pursuing higher education, highlighting how such achievements strengthen the organization’s ability to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda effectively.

The community of Ottos Newtown gathered today to bid a final farewell to George ‘Charlie’ Barnes, a 74-year-old gas station owner whose tragic death last month has left the nation in shock. Barnes was fatally shot outside his home on Nugent Street on September 12, an incident that has since sparked widespread calls for justice and an end to violence. The funeral service, held at a local church, was attended by family, friends, and members of the business community, all of whom came together to honor the life and legacy of a man described as hardworking, generous, and humble. Tributes during the service highlighted Barnes’ decades of dedication to his family, business, and community, as well as the kindness he extended to all who knew him. Police investigations into the killing are ongoing, and while a post-mortem examination was conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Petra Miller-Nanton on September 29, the official findings have yet to be released. As the community lays Barnes to rest, many continue to call for justice and an end to the violence that claimed the life of a man who was a pillar of integrity and goodwill.

A community protest demanding justice for the police shooting of 18-year-old Khaleel Simon is set to take place on Friday, 17 October, outside the Bolans Police Station. The demonstration, initially postponed due to Tropical Storm Jerry, will proceed regardless of weather conditions, according to organizers. The protest aims to seek accountability and transparency in the incident that occurred on Simon’s 18th birthday, which has left the community in shock and mourning. Opposition MP Kelvin “Shugy” Simon, who represents the area, has called on residents to join the rally, emphasizing that the event is not politically motivated but a unified call for justice. He stated, “The family is still grieving, and the community remains traumatized. We must demand answers as to why Khaleel was shot in such a manner.” Police authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive account of the incident, fueling public outrage and calls for clarity. The protest underscores broader concerns about police accountability and the protection of young lives in the community.