标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the deployment of a comprehensive national surveillance system in Antigua and Barbuda, featuring approximately 200 strategically placed cameras. This initiative aims to address a range of issues, including crime, littering, and traffic violations, marking one of the most significant upgrades in the nation’s monitoring and enforcement capabilities. During an appearance on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne emphasized that the system will enable law enforcement to monitor illegal activities in real time, contributing to both national security and environmental cleanliness. The government has already invested over a million dollars in the project, underscoring its commitment to the initiative. Browne highlighted the challenges of policing illegal dumping, noting that many violations go unreported, leaving enforcement officers without evidence. The new cameras are designed to address this issue by capturing violations directly. Additionally, the system will be linked to enforcement personnel, allowing for immediate identification and action against offenders. The Prime Minister stressed the government’s determination to maintain clean public spaces, stating, ‘Antigua and Barbuda must be a clean and beautiful country.’ The camera network is part of a broader effort that includes clearing derelict buildings, removing abandoned vehicles, enforcing beach vending rules, and increasing penalties for environmental violations. The first phase of the system is expected to become operational following an on-site assessment by the technical team.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a significant step in the government’s national clean-up campaign, issuing 28-day notices for the demolition of unsafe and derelict homes across the country. The initiative aims to address public health concerns and enhance community aesthetics by targeting structures deemed structurally unsound, long-abandoned, or misused for illegal activities such as dumping and squatting. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, the Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of the effort, stating, ‘We have given notice for a number of homes… I think it’s 28 days. You’re going to see us breaking down a ton of these… homes.’ This demolition program is part of broader beautification and environmental enforcement measures, which also include removing derelict vehicles and clearing abandoned structures. While specific locations were not disclosed, Browne confirmed that the initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to restoring neighborhoods and mitigating health hazards. The first demolitions will commence once the 28-day notices expire, marking a pivotal phase in the ongoing urban renewal project.

In a momentous ceremony on November 22, 2025, the University of Guyana bestowed the Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) upon Sir Ronald Michael Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS). The prestigious accolade was presented during the university’s 59th Convocation Ceremony by Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin. The honor recognized Sir Ronald’s exceptional contributions to diplomacy, journalism, and international cooperation, cementing his legacy as one of the Caribbean’s most distinguished figures. The citation, delivered by senior lecturer Mr. R. Creighton (Mr. Arkwrighton), lauded Sanders’ decades-long career, emphasizing his “principled advocacy, intellectual rigor, and steadfast belief in the power of international collaboration.” The university highlighted his groundbreaking achievements, including his rise to General Manager of the Guyana Broadcasting Service at just 25 years old and his influential syndicated commentaries on justice, governance, and small-state diplomacy. His diplomatic milestones, such as chairing the OAS Permanent Council for three terms and leading the 2016 Good Offices Mission to Haiti, were also celebrated. The citation further underscored his unwavering commitment to Guyana’s constitutional order, electoral integrity, and territorial sovereignty, particularly in the context of the Guyana–Venezuela border dispute. Sanders’ global impact has earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Merit of Ukraine in 2025. In his address, Sir Ronald reflected on Guyana’s transformative potential, urging the graduating class to shape a future defined by character, courage, and national purpose. The ceremony concluded with warm applause as Sir Ronald departed, with the university acknowledging the privilege of hosting such an accomplished diplomat amidst his demanding international commitments.

A serious traffic incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon along the Pares Main Road, leaving a man hospitalized after his pickup truck overturned. According to police reports, the driver, who was the sole occupant of a Mazda pickup, was traveling eastbound when he reportedly lost control of the vehicle. The truck subsequently struck a culvert and flipped onto its roof. Emergency personnel from the Parham Police Station and Emergency Medical Services swiftly arrived at the scene. They provided immediate medical attention to stabilize the injured driver before transporting him to a nearby hospital. As of now, the driver’s condition remains undisclosed. The accident occurred shortly after 1 p.m., and authorities have launched an ongoing investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.

Anthony Astaphan SC has established himself as one of the Caribbean’s most formidable legal minds, renowned for his fearless advocacy, profound understanding of constitutional law, and steadfast dedication to democratic governance. Admitted to the Bar in 1983 and appointed Senior Counsel in 1999 by the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, Astaphan has become a pivotal figure in the region’s legal landscape. His practice spans Dominica, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Lucia, with a focus on constitutional law, public law, and defamation. He is frequently sought after to represent governments and political leaders in high-profile cases.

Astaphan’s legal prowess is matched by his strategic insight into political and constitutional dynamics. He has played a crucial role in safeguarding the legitimacy of elected governments, particularly in Dominica, where he has led landmark cases on electoral reform, judicial independence, and the separation of powers. His courtroom demeanor—bold, unyielding, and meticulously analytical—has earned him both acclaim and criticism, solidifying his reputation as a legal force in the Caribbean.

Among his most significant achievements are cases that have reshaped the constitutional framework of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Astaphan has successfully argued before the Caribbean Court of Justice and the Privy Council, defending the rule of law and the authority of elected officials. His work has clarified critical legal principles, including the limits of judicial review, the scope of parliamentary privilege, and the boundaries of executive discretion.

Beyond his litigation success, Astaphan is a prolific commentator and public intellectual. His writings and media engagements reflect a deep commitment to democratic integrity and legal accountability. He has also served as President of the Bar Association of Dominica, where he advocated for legal education and professional standards.

Anthony Astaphan SC’s career is more than a series of legal victories; it is a testament to the transformative power of principled advocacy. His enduring influence continues to shape Caribbean constitutional law, inspiring a new generation of lawyers to view the law not merely as a profession but as a vocation. His courtroom contributions, often cited as masterpieces, stand as a testament to his unparalleled impact on the legal profession.