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  • LISTEN: ABLP Leader says national swing puts all UPP seats within Labour’s reach

    LISTEN: ABLP Leader says national swing puts all UPP seats within Labour’s reach

    Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape is undergoing a significant transformation according to Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who asserts his ruling Labour Party stands poised to capture nearly all parliamentary seats currently held by the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP).

    During his weekly Browne and Browne radio broadcast, the Prime Minister revealed compelling polling data indicating a substantial electoral advantage for his party. The figures presented show the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party commanding 49 percent of voter support, dramatically outpacing the UPP’s 26 percent standing.

    ‘Our internal surveys and independent polling both confirm identical trends—a remarkable erosion of support for the opposition party,’ Browne stated with confidence. The Prime Minister further emphasized his personal popularity, citing leadership ratings that show him dominating Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle by 59 percent to 15 percent in public approval.

    Browne attributed the opposition’s declining fortunes to their recent parliamentary conduct, suggesting these actions have compounded their political challenges. He explicitly indicated that the combination of dismal polling numbers and contentious parliamentary behavior might jeopardize Pringle’s continued leadership of the UPP.

    These declarations emerge as political campaigning intensifies across the twin-island nation, with both major parties strategically positioning themselves for what observers anticipate will be a fiercely contested general election. The Prime Minister’s statements reflect the heightened political tensions and set the stage for a potentially transformative electoral outcome that could reshape the nation’s governance structure.

  • Barbadian talent shines at BMS sea drone competition

    Barbadian talent shines at BMS sea drone competition

    Barbados has marked a significant milestone in technological advancement with the successful conclusion of its inaugural sea drone design competition. Hosted by the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS), the event spotlighted remarkable local engineering talent and innovative marine technology solutions developed entirely by Barbadian creators.

    The competition finals, held on Saturday, represented the culmination of months of development effort dating back to initial conceptualization in October. BMS Director Sabu Best characterized the initiative as a strategic investment in national technological capability building, emphasizing its role in establishing foundational expertise for future innovation in emerging technologies.

    ‘Our primary objective was harnessing indigenous talent to create practical tools for marine and aerial applications,’ Best explained, noting the competition’s design as a springboard for sustained technological development. The long-term vision involves refining these prototypes for official deployment across government and private sector organizations, operating within appropriate regulatory frameworks.

    The project required coordinated support from multiple national institutions including the Barbados Civil Aviation Authority, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Ministry of Industry, Science and Technology. This collaborative approach ensured both technical oversight and regulatory compliance throughout the development process.

    Best expressed considerable surprise at the sophistication demonstrated by participants, noting several designs exceeded expectations in both scale and innovation. The competition prioritized functional problem-solving over aesthetic considerations, with the director emphasizing participation and conceptual validity as primary success metrics.

    Antonio Franklyn emerged victorious with his catamaran-inspired sea drone design. The winner described his approach as building upon ‘a tried and tested concept,’ revealing that while design conception required merely three to four days, physical construction spanned approximately two months. Franklyn admitted to still processing his achievement, acknowledging the satisfaction of his victory while reflecting on the development journey.

  • St. Joseph’s Academy student wins national oratorical contest, to represent Antigua and Barbuda in Jamaica

    St. Joseph’s Academy student wins national oratorical contest, to represent Antigua and Barbuda in Jamaica

    Xion Joseph of St. Joseph’s Academy has been crowned champion of the Optimist Club of St. John’s Oratorical Contest, earning the right to represent Antigua and Barbuda at the upcoming district-level competition in Jamaica. The Saturday event at the John E. St. Luce Conference Center showcased ten exceptional young orators from multiple island schools exploring themes of identity and communal connection.\n\nJoseph secured victory with a compelling address titled \”The Moment I Realised I Belonged – My Definition of Community,\\” outperforming fellow finalists in a contest that emphasized reflective personal narrative. William Christian, also from St. Joseph’s Academy, claimed second position, while Kiara Kwenga of Christ the King High School completed the top three placements.\n\nThe competition highlighted the powerful voices of secondary students from diverse educational institutions including Pares Secondary School, Island Academy, and Clarehall Secondary School. All participants delivered thoughtful perspectives on shared human experiences and the fundamental need for belonging.\n\nAs the regional champion, Joseph will advance to the next competitive stage in Kingston, Jamaica on April 11, where he will compete against winners from other Caribbean nations. The top three finishers received monetary awards in recognition of their oratory achievements.

  • Fourth bulk waste cleanup completed in St. Mary’s South

    Fourth bulk waste cleanup completed in St. Mary’s South

    In a significant environmental initiative, St. Mary’s South constituency has successfully concluded its fourth large-scale waste removal operation. ABLP Caretaker Dwayne George, who spearheaded the project in collaboration with the Solid Waste Management team, announced the completion of this latest community sanitation effort.

    The cleanup campaign, operating under the motto “Clean Where You Live,” specifically targeted the removal of oversized debris and discarded items that typically accumulate in residential areas. Senator George emphasized that this initiative represents more than just a temporary beautification project—it forms part of a sustained commitment to community development and public health enhancement.

    “Our ongoing efforts demonstrate a dedicated approach to environmental stewardship,” George stated. “By systematically addressing waste management challenges, we’re creating healthier living conditions for all residents.”

    The program highlights the essential partnership between local authorities and community members. George specifically acknowledged the crucial role residents play in maintaining cleanliness, noting that lasting improvement requires continuous cooperation between officials and the public.

    Organizers indicate that these waste management activities will persist as part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance environmental conditions throughout St. Mary’s South. The repeated success of these initiatives suggests a growing culture of environmental responsibility within the constituency, setting a precedent for other regions to emulate similar community-led sanitation programs.

  • Pierre’s biggest budget under the microscope

    Pierre’s biggest budget under the microscope

    Saint Lucia’s Parliament witnessed a historic moment on March 27th as Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre presented the nation’s largest-ever budget for the 2026/27 fiscal year, totaling $2.18 billion in estimated expenditures. This unprecedented financial plan represents a significant milestone in the island nation’s economic development, yet citizens and experts alike are questioning how this substantial investment will translate into tangible improvements in their daily lives.

    Rhodes Scholar and public policy expert Rahym Augustin-Joseph acknowledges that the budget’s scale indicates economic expansion but emphasizes that actual impact hinges on implementation strategies. “While the growing economy suggests potential benefits for ordinary citizens,” he notes, “the true measure of success lies in effective execution and distribution of resources.”

    The budgetary approach appears focused on continuity rather than transformation, maintaining existing government initiatives while advancing previously announced infrastructure projects. Key developments include the Julian R. Hunte Highway, Choc Bridge construction, Hewanorra International Airport redevelopment, and a new medical wing at Owen King EU Hospital. Augustin-Joseph characterizes this as a consolidation budget rather than a revolutionary policy shift, particularly noting the delayed St. Jude’s project that has persisted through multiple political cycles.

    Social programs remain a priority with continued support for pension systems and educational enhancements, including expanded coverage for additional CXC subjects. Early childhood programs and social safety nets also receive sustained funding, reflecting the government’s commitment to social welfare.

    Financial projections reveal anticipated revenue of $1.83 billion, marking a 6.7% increase from previous figures, yet leaving a $200 million deficit to be addressed through loans and bond issuances. Augustin-Joseph recognizes borrowing as commonplace for developing nations but stresses the importance of transparent allocation and purposeful debt management. “Citizens will support borrowing that directly improves their livelihoods,” he asserts, “but require clear communication regarding fund distribution between debt servicing and developmental projects.”

    The policy expert identifies several persistent challenges requiring urgent attention, including agricultural development amid global cost pressures, consumer protection against fluctuating oil prices, and ongoing infrastructure issues concerning water access, public transportation, and traffic management. He warns that while megaprojects capture attention, neglecting everyday quality-of-life issues could ultimately undermine economic progress.

    As April’s policy debate approaches, contrasting perspectives emerge from political representatives. Former Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee highlights concerns regarding the nation’s substantial debt burden and excessive taxation, advocating for strategic tourism sector reforms to drive economic growth and debt reduction. Meanwhile, Government Senator Allison Jean emphasizes cultural infrastructure development, proposing replacement of the outdated National Cultural Centre with modern theatrical facilities, while reaffirming the critical importance of airport redevelopment for enhanced tourism capacity.

  • LISTEN: PM Browne says legal challenges against Baltimore will fail

    LISTEN: PM Browne says legal challenges against Baltimore will fail

    Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly declared all legal challenges initiated by the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) against St. Philip’s North MP Randy Baltimore as fundamentally flawed and destined for failure. Speaking authoritatively on his weekly Browne and Browne radio program, the PM systematically dismantled the opposition’s case, characterizing their efforts as a misguided political maneuver rather than a substantive legal pursuit.

    Browne dismissed the core of the UPP’s injunction as reflecting a state of ‘delusion,’ asserting that MP Baltimore had scrupulously adhered to all legal requirements. A central point of contention was the timing of Baltimore’s resignation from his former public office. The Prime Minister clarified unequivocally that the resignation was formally tendered and processed before the official writ of election was issued, rendering the opposition’s arguments on this matter null and void.

    Furthermore, Browne contended that the opposition was fully cognizant of the futility of its legal strategy, particularly concerning attempts to obstruct Baltimore’s swearing-in ceremony. He suggested the litigation was a tactical ploy within the broader context of escalating political tensions between the nation’s two major parties. The Prime Minister also refuted ancillary claims that Baltimore was obligated to serve a three-month notice period prior to resigning, labeling such assertions as entirely unfounded.

    These legal proceedings emerge in the wake of a decisive by-election victory secured by Baltimore on March 16th and are widely perceived as a precursor to the mounting political rivalry expected in the upcoming general election.

  • Project STAR launches pogramme to support storm-hit schools in western parishes

    Project STAR launches pogramme to support storm-hit schools in western parishes

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant educational recovery program has been initiated by Project STAR in collaboration with the High Commission of Canada in Jamaica to address the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa on local schools. The initiative, formally titled the Project STAR Hurricane Melissa Educational Re-Start Initiative, is financed through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) with a substantial contribution of CA$50,000.

    The program specifically targets the restoration of safe learning environments and enhancement of psychosocial support systems across three educational institutions in Westmoreland and St James parishes. Beneficiary schools include Sir Clifford Campbell Primary in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, along with Salt Spring Primary and Hartfield Basic School, both located in Salt Spring, St James.

    According to program organizers, this comprehensive intervention will directly benefit 630 students and approximately 42 educators and administrative staff members. Project STAR Director Saffrey Brown emphasized that the organization’s pre-existing community relationships enabled a rapid and effective response following the hurricane’s destruction.

    The recovery program operates through two fundamental pillars: physical infrastructure support and psychological assistance. The first component involves providing essential classroom furniture, partitions, chalkboards, educational materials, water access solutions, and critical structural repairs to damaged school facilities. These resources have already facilitated the safe resumption of educational activities while reconstruction continues.

    The second pillar implements a structured one-month psychosocial support program for primary school-aged children, delivered by trained community volunteers under professional guidance. These therapeutic sessions are specifically designed to help young students process storm-related trauma, develop emotional resilience, and reestablish routines and stability in their lives.

    Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica Mark Berman recently conducted site visits to Hartfield Basic School and Salt Spring Primary School to observe recovery progress firsthand. During his tour, Commissioner Berman interacted with school administrators, teachers, parents, and students, witnessing the tangible outcomes of the Canadian-funded initiative.

    Principal Natalie Hamilton of Sir Clifford Campbell Primary School reported transformative results from the psychosocial interventions, noting significant improvements in students’ emotional well-being and social interactions since the program’s implementation.

  • NASA begins countdown to April 1 Moon launch

    NASA begins countdown to April 1 Moon launch

    CAPE CANAVERAL, United States — NASA has initiated the final countdown sequence for its groundbreaking Artemis II mission, marking the United States’ first attempt to send astronauts to lunar vicinity since the Apollo program concluded over five decades ago. The two-day preparatory window began Monday at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, setting the stage for a potential Wednesday evening launch that would send a diverse four-person crew on an unprecedented journey around the Moon.

    The mission’s primary launch window opens at 6:24 PM local time (2224 GMT) on Wednesday, April 1, with contingency opportunities available through April 6 should technical or weather conditions necessitate delay. NASA officials expressed strong confidence in both the spacecraft systems and crew readiness during pre-launch briefings.

    ‘We have reached a pivotal moment where vehicle, system, and crew are fully prepared,’ stated Amit Kshatriya, NASA’s associate administrator. ‘This flight represents the foundation of our broader lunar campaign, which includes establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon.’

    The Artemis II crew—comprising NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen—has entered pre-flight quarantine protocols. The astronauts were scheduled for a final family dinner at a Florida beach residence Monday evening before embarking on their historic journey.

    This mission achieves multiple historic milestones: featuring the first woman, first person of color, and first non-American to participate in a lunar mission. The flight also serves as the inaugural crewed demonstration of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), the most powerful rocket ever developed, which stands ready at Launch Complex 39B.

    Despite previous technical challenges that delayed the original February launch target, engineering teams reported all systems functioning optimally. Launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson emphasized: ‘We maintain a philosophy of launching only when hardware readiness meets our strict standards. Current indicators suggest we are in excellent condition for Wednesday’s attempt.’

    Meteorological factors remain the primary variable, with NASA’s latest forecast indicating an 80% probability of favorable weather conditions. Mission controllers are monitoring cloud coverage patterns and surface wind speeds, while space weather teams track solar activity that could affect launch operations.

    The successful completion of Artemis II will validate critical systems for NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to establish sustainable lunar exploration capabilities and ultimately facilitate human missions to Mars.

  • Holland High School’s athletic programme receives financial boost from Glastonbury

    Holland High School’s athletic programme receives financial boost from Glastonbury

    TRALAWNY, Jamaica — In a significant boost for youth sports development, local meat distribution company Glastonbury has announced substantial financial backing for the athletic program at Holland High School. The commitment was formally declared by Hugh Gentles, who serves simultaneously as Trelawny’s custos and the Chief Executive Officer of Glastonbury, during a special ceremony held on Monday.

    The sponsorship announcement coincided with a celebratory event honoring Shanoya Douglas, the school’s track sensation who recently achieved national acclaim by securing dual gold medals in the Class One Girls’ 100 and 200 meter events at the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championship held at the National Stadium.

    Glastonbury, which operates as a major supplier of meats, seafood, agricultural products, and frozen goods to commercial enterprises across Jamaica, has chosen to channel corporate support toward educational athletics. While the exact financial amount remains confidential, the investment signifies a robust commitment to nurturing athletic talent at the community level.

    Gentles articulated an ambitious vision for the program’s future, projecting that subsequent championships would feature multiple medalists from Holland High. “Next year when I return after Champs, it won’t be just one athlete that will be up here, it will be at least five,” he confidently stated during his address.

    The executive extended heartfelt commendations to the coaching staff and academic faculty for their instrumental role in developing student athletes. He specifically highlighted their “dedication and training” as critical factors in cultivating the talent evident within the student body, noting that Douglas’s accomplishments directly reflected their “care and commitment.”

    Beyond celebrating competitive achievements, Gentles emphasized the profound symbolic value of athletic pursuit. He praised the courage and drive demonstrated by students who push beyond conventional boundaries, noting their capacity to inspire peers toward greater aspirations. The ceremony concluded with an exhortation to maintain the palpable spirit of unity and mutual support observed within the school community, encouraging students to continually celebrate collective achievements.

  • Sweden charges man for selling wife to 120 men

    Sweden charges man for selling wife to 120 men

    A landmark criminal case has sent shockwaves through Sweden as prosecutors bring unprecedented charges against a 62-year-old man for the systematic sexual exploitation of his vulnerable wife. The suspect, identified in local media as a former high-ranking member of the Hells Angels motorcycle group, faces multiple counts of aggravated pimping, rape, assault, and related offenses spanning more than three years of alleged abuse.

    According to the detailed indictment, the accused masterminded a sophisticated operation that commodified his spouse’s body for financial gain. The prosecution outlines how he created online advertisements, arranged client meetings, and maintained surveillance during sexual encounters while leveraging his wife’s drug addiction to maintain control. The suspect allegedly supplied her with narcotics while using violence and threats to enforce compliance.

    The case bears striking parallels to France’s notorious Pelicot affair, where Dominique Pelicot received a 20-year sentence in 2024 for similar crimes against his wife. Swedish authorities have identified approximately 120 individuals suspected of purchasing sexual services in connection with the case, with twenty-six already facing charges for buying sex—a criminal offense under Sweden’s unique prostitution laws that criminalizes the purchase but not the sale of sexual services.

    Prosecutor Ida Annerstedt clarified the complex dynamics of consent in the case, noting that while the victim had partially agreed to commercial sex work, her husband repeatedly violated established boundaries. “When he hasn’t respected them, when he has steamrolled her after she has said ‘no’, those are the situations when he is charged with attempted rape, or rape,” Annerstedt explained to AFP.

    The accused, who maintains his innocence, has been in custody since his arrest in October following his wife’s report to police in northern Sweden. The trial is scheduled to commence on April 13, with the victim’s lawyer Silvia Ingolfsdottir stating her client “now hopes to obtain justice” for the “serious and aggravated crimes” she endured.

    The case has provoked national outrage and prompted Sweden’s Minister for Gender Equality Nina Larsson to condemn the trafficking of women’s bodies, calling recent media reports “shocking and disgusting” in a public statement.