In a significant move to address customs violations, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to establish the ‘People’s Restitution Fund.’ This initiative aims to collect penalties, interest, and other charges from importers found guilty of breaching customs regulations. The fund is designed to formalize the management of recovered monies and fines, ensuring they are directed toward public welfare projects. The announcement comes on the heels of Browne’s recent remarks regarding restitution efforts in the ongoing government vehicle probe, where a dealer agreed to repay $10 million. Additionally, the Prime Minister has confirmed that excess or improperly assigned government vehicles will be sold at public auction following a comprehensive fleet audit. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing public resources.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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UPP told to make it clear whether they want car dealers to go to jail
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that his administration is seeking restitution from vehicle dealers involved in the ongoing government fleet controversy. This development follows revelations that millions of dollars were spent on government vehicles outside standard procurement procedures. Browne disclosed that one dealer has already agreed to repay $10 million, while another is currently under audit. The prime minister emphasized that the audit and reassignment process for the vehicles are still underway. Additionally, Browne stated that any unassigned vehicles will be sold at public auction in the near future. The controversy has sparked significant public scrutiny, with the prime minister urging the opposition to clarify its stance on the matter. This situation highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement practices.
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Antiguans and Barbudans in the tristate celebrate 44th Independence anniversary this Sunday
This Sunday, the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora residing in the tri-state area of New York will gather to commemorate their nation’s 44th anniversary of political independence. The annual Independence Thanksgiving Service, a cherished tradition, will be held at the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx at 4 pm. The event promises to be a heartfelt afternoon of reflection, featuring songs and prayers to honor the blessings bestowed upon the nation since its independence on November 1, 1981.
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Three Female Finalists Announced in CHOGM 2026 Logo Design Contest
In a remarkable display of talent and innovation, three female designers have emerged as finalists in the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 logo design competition. Selected from an impressive pool of 141 submissions, these finalists embody the creative spirit and national pride of Antigua and Barbuda. The rigorous selection process was overseen by a distinguished panel of judges, including representatives from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and branding experts. The winning logo, set to be unveiled on November 4 at Sandals Grande Antigua, will be revealed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. This event underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to fostering youth innovation and artistic expression as the nation prepares to host CHOGM 2026, a pivotal diplomatic gathering of 56 Commonwealth nations. The logo will symbolize unity, sustainability, and resilience, key themes of the summit, which aims to address global cooperation, climate action, and development. This marks the first time Antigua and Barbuda will host CHOGM, highlighting the country’s growing influence in international diplomacy and its commitment to advancing Commonwealth values.
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Budget Day in Antigua and Barbuda is December 4, 2025
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated preparations for the 2026 National Budget, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne slated to present it to Parliament on December 4, 2025. A strategic planning meeting was convened this week, attended by key financial officials from the Ministry of Finance and the Treasury Department, to review fiscal priorities and finalize the budget’s structure. According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, the meeting aimed to establish the government’s financial and economic direction for the upcoming year, ensuring alignment with national development initiatives and fiscal reforms. The 2026 Budget is anticipated to emphasize economic resilience, infrastructure investment, job creation, and social protection, while advancing policies in digital transformation, education, and climate adaptation. Additionally, the Throne Speech, which traditionally outlines the government’s legislative agenda, will be delivered on November 25, 2025. Both events mark the commencement of the government’s annual parliamentary cycle, highlighting achievements from 2025 and unveiling new plans to enhance public services, modernize state operations, and expand housing and energy programs.
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24-Hour Shelter Approved for Gender-Based Violence Survivors
In a significant move to combat gender-based violence, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit the creation of a 24-hour shelter for survivors. This initiative, developed through a collaborative public-NGO partnership with Integrated Health Outreach (IHO), underscores the government’s dedication to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and safeguarding vulnerable populations. The shelter will provide a secure environment for survivors, coupled with essential services such as counseling, vocational training, and empowerment programs aimed at fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that this partnership leverages IHO’s professional expertise alongside government resources, ensuring a sustainable and effective support system. The shelter is part of a broader strategy to enhance social protection measures, including mental health services, family counseling, and community outreach. It will operate in tandem with social services, health agencies, and law enforcement to deliver a cohesive national response to gender-based violence.
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Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Approves Surveillance Cameras for All Public Schools
In a decisive move to address rising security concerns, the government has sanctioned the immediate deployment and enhancement of surveillance camera systems in all national public schools. This initiative comes in the wake of a surge in break-ins and security breaches at educational institutions, which have raised alarms among educators and parents alike. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, confirmed that the Cabinet has earmarked funds for the procurement and installation of these systems, underscoring the administration’s dedication to bolstering safety and safeguarding school assets. Merchant emphasized that this project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to fortify security within the education sector, ensuring the protection of both students and school property. The Ministry of Education will spearhead the initiative, with installations slated to commence without delay. Recent incidents of vandalism and theft have intensified demands for robust security measures, prompting this swift action. The advanced surveillance system will feature real-time monitoring and recording functionalities, enabling authorities to deter unauthorized access and respond promptly to potential threats. Officials highlighted that this security upgrade complements other significant investments in the education sector, including infrastructure improvements and the integration of technology-driven learning environments, all aimed at enhancing safety and academic outcomes.
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15 Homes to Be Built Under ‘Build on Your Own Land’ Programme
The National Housing and Urban Development Company Limited (NHUDC) has unveiled plans to construct 15 new homes across Antigua and Barbuda as part of its innovative ‘Build on Your Own Land Programme.’ This initiative is designed to assist individuals who already own land but require government-supported construction to develop their properties. The project will span multiple communities, including Painters, Radio Range, Villa, Low Pasture, Clarks Hill, All Saints, Jennings, Quesada Gardens, New Winthrops, McKinnons, Glanvilles, and Herberts. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that the programme is a cornerstone of the government’s broader affordable housing strategy, which seeks to enhance homeownership accessibility while boosting employment in the construction industry. NHUDC is currently inviting qualified contractors to bid for the construction projects, which will be executed on privately owned lands. Unlike conventional government housing schemes, the ‘Build on Your Own Land’ initiative empowers individuals to build homes on their existing properties, with design and financing assistance provided by NHUDC. The company has indicated that the programme will be expanded in phases, aligning with national efforts to increase housing availability and foster community development.
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Antigua Cabinet Orders End to All Tax Concessions Effective November 30
In a significant move to overhaul its fiscal policies, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has declared that all existing tax concessions for businesses and entities will be terminated effective November 30. This decision is part of a broader reform aimed at enhancing transparency, aligning policies with national priorities, and fostering fair competition. Starting December 1, 2025, businesses and ongoing projects will need to reapply for concessions under a new framework designed to ensure that incentives align with the country’s sustainable development and investment goals. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, emphasized during a post-Cabinet briefing that this measure will enable the government to reassess which sectors genuinely require support. He highlighted that the initiative aims to “promote fair competition” and strengthen accountability in the allocation of tax benefits. Merchant also pointed out that past broad-based concessions were often misused by businesses for projects beyond their original approval scope. The reform is expected to realign incentives with long-term objectives, including investments in green energy, tourism diversification, and the development of health and education sectors. While the decision will impact industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy, officials clarified that qualified projects will still receive support. However, the reapplication process will ensure that incentives are appropriately scaled and compliant with updated national policies.
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Antigua Government to Host National Workshop for Building Contractors
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to host a national workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of building contractors across the nation. Scheduled to take place shortly after the Independence celebrations, the event is being spearheaded by the Minister for Works. Contractors from all regions of Antigua and Barbuda are expected to participate in this comprehensive initiative. The workshop will delve into essential topics such as contract preparation, construction standards, project management, quality control, collaboration with government agencies, and workforce development. Senior Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister for Health, Wellness, and the Environment, will deliver presentations during the sessions. According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, the workshop aims to foster stronger partnerships between the government and the private construction sector. It will also identify training and certification needs and explore financing initiatives to support small and medium-sized contractors in expanding their businesses and competing more effectively for both government and private sector projects. This initiative is part of the Cabinet’s ongoing efforts to modernize the construction industry, ensuring greater efficiency, safety, and quality in national development projects.