The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) is facing mounting scrutiny over its adherence to statutory retirement age regulations. According to the law, officers must retire at specific ages: 55 for lieutenant colonels and higher ranks, 50 for majors, 47 for captains, and 45 for lieutenants and second lieutenants. These rules were established to ensure fairness, discipline, and operational efficiency within the Force. However, reports indicate that several officers continue to serve well beyond these age limits, with some in their early to mid-60s and even approaching 70. This has raised significant concerns about governance, transparency, and compliance within the ABDF. The presence of these senior officers in critical roles has led to frustration among younger, capable officers who are being sidelined, undermining succession planning and career progression. Critics argue that this situation fosters favoritism and stagnation, eroding morale and discipline within the Force. The ABDF, a respected national institution, risks losing public trust if it fails to enforce its own regulations consistently. Authorities must clarify whether exemptions have been lawfully granted or if the laws themselves require revision. Until then, the enforcement of existing regulations is crucial to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the ABDF.
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Gevaarlijk spel met schuldenplafond
In a recent session of De Nationale Assemblée (DNA), a new legislative amendment was passed to raise the government’s debt ceiling. Proponents of the amendment, primarily from the ruling coalition, argue that the measure is essential to balance the budget and meet ongoing governmental obligations. However, this move has sparked significant concern among economists and policymakers, who warn of the potential misuse of debt to fund consumptive expenditures such as salaries, allowances, and other compensations, as well as the purchase of vehicles, foreign travel, and various goods. Such practices do not contribute to economic growth but instead increase the future burden on society.
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Senator Joseph Praises Teachers for Their Dedication During Teacher Appreciation Week
In a heartfelt celebration of Teachers’ Appreciation Week, Senator Michael Joseph recently gathered with educators in St. John’s Rural West to express gratitude for their unwavering dedication to shaping the nation’s future. The event, held this week, featured a special luncheon organized by the senator, who described the initiative as “a small token of gratitude for the big impact our teachers make every single day.”
Senator Joseph emphasized the critical role teachers play in nurturing young minds and guiding future generations. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, he praised their “patience, passion, and commitment” to education, highlighting the profound influence they have on community development.
The gathering brought together educators from various local schools, fostering a sense of camaraderie and appreciation. The event was made possible through the generous support of local businesses, including Dadli Dose Local Juice, Donut Ace, and Green Apple Café, which provided refreshments for the occasion.
Senator Joseph expressed his hope that the gesture would serve as a reminder of the community’s deep respect and gratitude for the tireless efforts of its teachers. He reiterated the importance of education as a cornerstone of the country’s long-term success and development.
This initiative underscores the ongoing commitment to recognizing and supporting the vital contributions of educators, ensuring they feel valued and appreciated for their hard work and dedication.
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EU Tightens Visa Rules That Could Affect Antigua and Barbuda
The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step toward tightening its visa-free travel policies, potentially impacting countries like Antigua and Barbuda. The European Parliament recently approved new legislation that allows the EU to suspend or revoke visa-free privileges for any of the 61 nations currently benefiting from such arrangements. This move comes in response to concerns over security risks, human rights violations, and criminal activities linked to certain countries. Antigua and Barbuda, which operates a citizenship-by-investment program often referred to as a ‘golden passport’ scheme, may face heightened scrutiny under these new rules. The EU has warned that such programs could be exploited by sanctioned individuals or criminals, prompting stricter oversight. The legislation introduces specific thresholds for action, such as a sharp rise in overstays or asylum rejections, and allows the EU to sanction individual officials rather than entire populations. While the measure still requires final approval from the EU Council, it is expected to come into force 20 days after publication in the EU’s Official Journal. Officials in St. John’s, the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, are closely monitoring these developments as the EU strengthens its oversight of visa-free travel agreements.
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Mount Gay marks historic full-circle moment with Single Estate Series launch
Mount Gay, the world’s oldest rum producer, has unveiled the third and fourth editions of its Single Estate Series, marking a historic return to its Barbadian roots. The dual launch event, held at the historic St Lucy estate, brought together company executives, mixologists, industry leaders, and guests to celebrate the full-circle journey of rum-making—from sugarcane fields to the tasting glass.
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Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association Announces Economic Impact Study
The Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association (ABYMA) has launched its fourth annual Discover Antigua Barbuda Yachting & Marine Expo, spotlighting the yachting industry’s pivotal role in the local economy. The event, which commenced today, features the unveiling of a groundbreaking Economic Impact Study, the first of its kind in over two decades. This study, commissioned by ABYMA and led by consultancy Eco-Sustainability, aims to evaluate the industry’s contributions, identify challenges, and uncover growth opportunities. President Franklyn Braithwaite emphasized the study’s importance, stating, ‘Understanding how we can develop and support this sector will benefit the entire economy.’ The research, set to begin in December 2025 and conclude by June 2026, will analyze both consumer behavior and the business landscape. Vice President Bobby Reis highlighted the sector’s dual role in boosting tourism and creating year-round employment. The Expo also showcased the International Yacht Restoration School of Technology & Trades Scholarship Fund, a partnership between ABYMA and local organizations, designed to nurture Antiguan talent in marine trades. Liz Isdale, representing the scholarship program, noted, ‘Investing in local potential is key to sustaining industry growth.’ Governor General Deputy Sir Clare Roberts officially opened the event, declaring, ‘Opportunity takes to the seas.’ Running through October 9th, the Expo offers career advice and networking opportunities, supported by sponsors including Antigua Yacht Club Marina and Falmouth Harbour Marina. For more details, visit www.abyma.ag.
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Cabinet approves zero-rated import duties on basic food items to reduce food prices
In a significant move to alleviate the burden of rising food costs, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on a range of essential food items. This decision, effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, will apply a zero percent import duty on key staples, ensuring more affordable access to basic necessities for consumers. The initiative, endorsed by CARICOM Member States, aims to provide immediate relief to low-income households and stabilize the domestic economy. Among the items benefiting from this policy are butter, potatoes, fresh fruits, cereals, cooking oils, canned meats, and baby foods. Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, emphasized the government’s commitment to easing the cost of living and enhancing food security. ‘This decisive step ensures that price relief reaches households directly while strengthening our food and nutrition resilience,’ he stated. The government also pledged to collaborate with regional and international partners to monitor market trends and implement further measures to support economic stability.
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Ghanaian Nurses to Bolster St. Kitts and Nevis’ Healthcare Workforce
In a significant move to strengthen its healthcare system, St. Kitts and Nevis has announced the recruitment of a new group of professional nurses from Ghana. Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew revealed this development during a media roundtable on October 7, 2025, highlighting it as a key outcome of the Federation’s growing ties with Africa. This initiative reflects a strategic shift toward fostering South-South cooperation and sustainable partnerships with African nations. Dr. Drew emphasized that the recruitment is part of a broader effort to enhance human resource capacity in critical sectors such as health, education, and technology, while advancing the Africa-Caribbean cooperation agenda. The Prime Minister, who recently co-chaired a historic meeting between CARICOM and the African Union in Ethiopia, stressed the importance of transforming historical and diplomatic connections into tangible benefits. This partnership has already led to collaborations with African institutions like the Open University of Tanzania, Cape Coast University in Ghana, and Afreximbank. The Ghanaian nurses, set to arrive in the coming months, will integrate into the national healthcare system, supporting the Ministry of Health’s goals of improving service delivery, expanding capacity, and enhancing patient care. This initiative aligns with the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA), particularly its focus on Healthcare Advancement and International Cooperation.
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Liquidators Announce Final Deadline for Antigua Overseas Bank Depositors
In a critical development for depositors, Antigua Overseas Bank Ltd. (AOB), currently in liquidation, has issued a final notice urging all remaining depositors to file their claims by October 31, 2025. This announcement, made under the International Banking Act, 2016, and the International Business Corporation Act of Antigua and Barbuda, marks a pivotal stage in the bank’s winding-down process. The Joint Liquidators, Cleveland Seaforth and Raquel Glynn, have emphasized the urgency for depositors to submit their claims with the necessary documentation to facilitate potential settlements from the bank’s estate. Claim forms and additional details can be accessed by contacting the Joint Liquidators at their St. John’s office or via the provided email address. This notice underscores the final opportunity for depositors to recover their funds as the liquidation process nears its conclusion.
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Honourabe Spencer Brand Minister of Posts in the Nevis Island Administration World Post Day 2025 Message
On October 9, 2025, Honourable Spencer Brand, Minister of Posts in the Nevis Island Administration, delivered a heartfelt message on World Post Day, emphasizing the vital role of the postal system in connecting communities and fostering global reach. Under the theme ‘Post for People – Local Service. Global Reach,’ Minister Brand highlighted the postal service as a cornerstone of daily life, a facilitator of commerce, and a democratic thread that binds communities together. Locally, the Nevis post office serves as the island’s heartbeat, delivering mail, providing financial services, and ensuring secure international mail handling. The administration is committed to enhancing service reliability, expanding operational hours, and investing in staff training and digital transformation to improve accessibility and efficiency. Globally, the postal system remains a resilient and secure channel for international trade and communication, with Nevis actively participating in regional and global postal networks. Minister Brand outlined three guiding pillars for the future: placing people at the center of postal services, ensuring local service with global reach, and embracing innovation responsibly. The message also celebrated the contributions of two centenarians, Mrs. Evelyn Albertha Brown and Ms. Gereldine Berry, who will be honored with commemorative stamps. Minister Brand concluded by urging all stakeholders to support a postal system that operates with integrity and purpose, serving both local and global communities. The message ended with warm wishes for a Happy World Post Day 2025 and a call for continued blessings.