Prime Minister Gaston Browne has revealed that the government is in advanced discussions with a prominent foreign banking group to sell its majority stake in Caribbean Union Bank (CUB). The announcement was made during his weekly radio program, *The Browne and Browne Show*, where he highlighted the nation’s economic progress and ongoing investment strategies. The government currently holds approximately 80% of CUB’s shares, acquired six years ago to rescue the bank from consistent losses under private ownership. Since then, CUB has turned profitable, though it remains a relatively small institution. Browne emphasized the need for a strategic partner capable of recapitalizing and expanding the bank’s operations. The potential buyer, a foreign banking group managing billions in assets, is expected to inject at least $100 million into CUB, significantly scaling its capabilities. The Prime Minister underscored that this move aligns with the government’s broader vision to modernize the financial sector and enhance banking services through technological innovation. He stressed the importance of adopting cutting-edge technology to meet evolving consumer demands, such as seamless mobile transactions. The ultimate goal is to transform CUB into a robust, well-capitalized institution that drives national development and improves access to financial services.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
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PM Says $5 Million Allocated to National Housing for Jolly Beach Upgrades
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a significant investment of US $5 million into the National Housing Corporation to initiate upgrades at Jolly Beach Resort. This move underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure, supported by the nation’s robust fiscal performance. The funds, already deposited into National Housing’s account, will be allocated to renovate 33 additional rooms, construct a state-of-the-art conference facility, and improve critical infrastructure such as electrical and sewer systems. Browne emphasized that the project is part of a broader strategy to revitalize key tourism assets while ensuring local agencies and contractors directly benefit from government initiatives. He highlighted that National Housing will oversee the execution of these upgrades. The Prime Minister also linked this investment to other recent capital expenditures, including the purchase of fire trucks, garbage trucks, heavy equipment, and even a plane and a crane, made possible by the country’s improved financial health. Browne attributed these developments to steady economic growth and disciplined fiscal management, stressing the importance of safeguarding public funds for their intended purposes.
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PM Says LIAT to Add Another Aircraft as Government Increases Investment
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a significant step in the revival of regional carrier LIAT, with plans to add another aircraft to its fleet in the coming weeks. This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to rebuild the airline and ensure its long-term sustainability. To support this expansion, the administration has allocated an additional US $4 million to cover the costs of parts and other operational requirements for the new aircraft. This latest investment adds to the approximately US $50 million already committed by the government to LIAT’s revival. Browne emphasized that the airline’s progress is a testament to the strength of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, which has facilitated substantial capital investments across various sectors. He highlighted recent acquisitions, including seven fire trucks, ten garbage trucks, and US $21 million worth of heavy equipment for Public Works, as evidence of the government’s robust financial position. The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of LIAT’s expansion as a symbol of renewed confidence in regional connectivity and Antigua and Barbuda’s pivotal role as a hub for inter-Caribbean travel.
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OPINION: The Reality of sin in the Church—A Pastor’s Response
In a recent letter published on Antigua News Room, a concerned believer expressed deep concerns about the church ‘losing its way,’ the lack of accountability within its ranks, and the growing hesitation to trust the institution due to emerging accounts of misconduct. Responding to these issues, a young pastor has offered a balanced perspective, addressing the complexities of sin, justice, and restoration within the church. The pastor emphasized that regardless of an individual’s station or occupation, any crime committed must be met with justice. Citing Romans 13, he highlighted that God has entrusted civil punishment to the state, and church leaders are not exempt from accountability. While acknowledging the grace, forgiveness, and restoration offered by God, the pastor stressed that these divine principles do not bypass the need for due process under the law. He clarified that if a criminal offense has occurred, the law must take its course, irrespective of the individual involved. Addressing the broader issue of sin within the church, the pastor noted that misconduct has been a challenge since biblical times, as seen in the Corinthian church. He underscored that Scripture mandates proper church discipline, which may include removing leaders from their positions or excommunicating unrepentant believers. However, the ultimate goal of such discipline is restoration, though it does not always mean returning to the same ecclesiastical office. The pastor also urged believers not to lose hope in the church, encouraging them to seek out healthy congregations led by honest, biblical, and Godly leaders. He acknowledged that while some leaders have fallen short, many others have stood the test of time. For victims of abuse in church settings, the pastor expressed heartfelt sympathy and prayed for healing, emphasizing the importance of finding a supportive community of believers. In conclusion, he affirmed that while all sin is detrimental, not all churches are bad, and many leaders remain steadfast in their faith and integrity.
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Pringle Declines COP29 Invitation from Prime Minister Browne
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has turned down an invitation from Prime Minister Gaston Browne to be part of Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Brazil. The invitation was extended as a symbolic gesture to foster national unity on climate advocacy, a critical issue for small island states. However, government officials revealed during a recent discussion that Pringle declined the offer, prompting criticism from the Prime Minister. Browne emphasized that true leadership prioritizes national interests over partisan politics, citing his own participation in national events during his time in opposition as an example of such commitment. He described Pringle’s decision as a missed opportunity to present a united front on climate change, a matter of existential importance for vulnerable nations like Antigua and Barbuda. The country will join other Caribbean nations at COP29, where discussions will center on climate finance, loss and damage, and support for developing countries disproportionately affected by climate change.
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Former Prince Andrew to lose his last military rank
The United Kingdom government announced on Sunday its intention to revoke Prince Andrew’s honorary title of vice-admiral, marking the final step in stripping him of all military ranks. This decision follows King Charles III’s recent removal of Andrew’s remaining royal titles and honors, a move that underscores the monarchy’s response to public outrage over Andrew’s association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Defence Minister John Healey confirmed the government’s actions during an interview with the BBC, stating that the process is being guided by the king. Healey also indicated that discussions are ongoing regarding whether Andrew should forfeit his military medals. Once celebrated for his service as a Royal Navy helicopter pilot during the 1982 Falklands War, Andrew retired in 2001 after 22 years of military service. The latest developments come in the wake of Andrew’s 2022 loss of honorary military titles, which were rescinded by his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, after he faced a lawsuit from Virginia Giuffre, Epstein’s primary accuser. The ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal continues to cast a shadow over Andrew’s legacy and the British monarchy.
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The U.S. military has now carried out at least 15 strikes across the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, killing 64 people
The U.S. military has intensified its campaign against drug smuggling in the Caribbean Sea, executing yet another lethal strike on Saturday, as confirmed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This marks at least the 15th such operation since early September, targeting vessels allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking. Hegseth emphasized that the targeted vessel was identified through intelligence as part of illicit drug smuggling activities, navigating a known trafficking route while carrying narcotics. To date, these strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 64 individuals. President Trump has defended these actions as a necessary escalation to curb the flow of drugs into the United States, framing the operations as part of an ‘armed conflict’ with drug cartels. This justification draws parallels to the legal authority invoked by the Bush administration during the post-9/11 war on terrorism. However, the administration faces mounting scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers, who have repeatedly demanded greater transparency regarding the legal basis for the strikes, the specific cartels targeted, and the identities of those killed. Senate Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sens. Jack Reed, Jeanne Shaheen, Mark Warner, Chris Coons, Patty Murray, and Brian Schatz, have renewed their call for detailed information in a letter to key officials. They criticized the administration for selectively sharing inconsistent information with some lawmakers while excluding others. Earlier on Friday, bipartisan leaders of the Senate Armed Services Committee also sought clarity on the legal rationale and the list of cartels designated as terrorist organizations. Hegseth, in his announcement, likened the threat posed by ‘narco-terrorists’ to that of Al-Qaeda, vowing to treat them with equal severity.
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The Marketing Machine Partners with Blue Dragonfly for Charity Raffle at Soca Sangria
Blue Dragonfly, a local charity committed to empowering autistic and differently abled young individuals, is hosting a charity raffle to support its mission of fostering skill development and community integration. The raffle, open to attendees of Soca Sangria and the general public, offers a chance to win an array of enticing prizes while contributing to a noble cause. Highlights of the raffle include a round-trip airfare ticket from Sunrise Airways to destinations like St. Lucia, Antigua, and Dominica; a luxurious spa experience for two at Curtain Bluff featuring a 60-minute couples massage and lunch; a two-night all-inclusive stay at Blue Waters Resort & Spa; dining experiences at renowned establishments such as Rocks Group, Bar None, and NOBU Barbuda, valued up to XCD $500 / USD $300; and exclusive Cricket West Indies memorabilia, including a signed ODI replica shirt by National Hero Sir Vivian Richards. Additional prizes will be unveiled as the raffle draw approaches on November 30th, 2025. All proceeds will directly support Blue Dragonfly’s initiatives to inspire differently abled youth to lead independent and fulfilling lives. Join the cause, purchase a ticket, and make a meaningful impact.
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Police Probe Violent Neighbour Dispute in Jennings Extension
A violent altercation between neighbours in Jennings Extension has prompted a police investigation after one man sustained head injuries. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, with officers from the Bolans Police Station responding to reports of a physical confrontation that originated from a verbal argument. According to authorities, the victim was struck in the head with a cutlass and another unidentified object. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported the injured man to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he received treatment for two head lacerations. Fortunately, his injuries were deemed non-life-threatening. Police have since recovered two cutlasses believed to be linked to the altercation. The investigation remains active as law enforcement works to determine the full circumstances surrounding the dispute.
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Magnitude 3.7 Earthquake Recorded Near Antigua and Barbuda
A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 3.7 shook the eastern Caribbean on Saturday morning, causing slight tremors in Antigua and Barbuda and nearby islands. The seismic event occurred at 7:24 a.m. local time (11:24 UTC) at a depth of 25 kilometres, as reported by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC). The epicenter was pinpointed at 16.40°N latitude and 59.89°W longitude, approximately 231 kilometres north-west of Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. The tremors were also felt in neighbouring regions, including Point-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, located 184 kilometres to the east, and Roseau, Dominica, 206 kilometres to the north-east. Despite the quake, officials in Antigua and Barbuda confirmed no damage or injuries, categorizing the event as minor. The UWI SRC remains vigilant in monitoring seismic activity in the region, which is part of the seismically active eastern Caribbean fault zone. Authorities have urged residents to stay informed about earthquake preparedness measures and to report any unusual activity to local officials.