标签： Antigua and Barbuda

A letter addressed to the editor has highlighted growing concerns over the scheduling of Antigua and Barbuda’s Independence Ceremonial Parade and National Food Fair. The events, set to take place on a Saturday, have inadvertently excluded members of the Seventh-day Adventist community, who observe the Sabbath on this day. This decision has been criticized as unfair and dismissive of the nation’s religious diversity. The letter, penned by an SDA member, emphasizes that the choice of a weekend day prevents approximately 15,000 individuals from participating fully in the celebrations. The author suggests that holding the event on the following Monday would have ensured inclusivity, allowing all citizens to partake in the festivities. The letter underscores the importance of national events being accessible to everyone, fostering unity and respect for all communities. It calls on organizers to consider these concerns for future celebrations, ensuring that such significant occasions are representative of the entire population. The issue has sparked a broader conversation about the need for sensitivity and inclusivity in planning national events, particularly in a country as culturally and religiously diverse as Antigua and Barbuda.

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has warmly congratulated Michael Joseph, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture Forum for Youth (ABAFY), for being named the CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025. The prestigious award was presented during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture, held in St. Kitts, where Joseph was celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainability. The OECS lauded Joseph as a trailblazer, particularly for his use of advanced technologies such as spray drones, water-saving systems, and natural farming methods, which have significantly modernized food production across the Eastern Caribbean. Joseph’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and creativity. He shared how he began his agricultural career by walking four miles daily to his farm and using recycled plastic bottles for irrigation. His innovative practices, including no-till methods and sustainable farming techniques, have enabled him to produce twice the average yield per acre compared to traditional farms. His two spray drones have reduced labor, water, and chemical use by over 50%, while enhancing efficiency and crop coverage. The OECS emphasized that Joseph’s success highlights the critical role of young people in developing climate-smart and resilient food systems in the Caribbean. His achievements demonstrate how innovation and sustainability can work together to secure the region’s agricultural future. The Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2025, which concluded on October 4, featured technical sessions, policy dialogues, and exhibitions focused on food security, climate-smart agriculture, and regional cooperation.

In a high-profile case at the High Court, a man accused of rape has been acquitted following a four-hour deliberation by a mixed jury. The case, which originated from an alleged incident on 30 March 2020, centered on conflicting testimonies. The complainant alleged that she was assaulted after becoming intoxicated during a night out, while resting in a vehicle. However, the accused’s girlfriend, who was present at the time, testified that no such assault occurred. Prosecutors argued that a subsequent sexual encounter was non-consensual, but the defense countered that it was consensual. During the trial, inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements, including the timing of a text message she claimed to have sent that night, were highlighted. After hearing closing arguments, the jury unanimously found the defendant not guilty of both rape and serious indecency. The verdict has sparked discussions about the complexities of such cases and the challenges in establishing consent and credibility.

Two individuals implicated in a violent altercation at Sanderson Estate earlier this month have been granted bail as they await further court proceedings. Brian Benjamin, 59, from All Saints, and Bryan Benjamin, 32, from Swetes, appeared before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, who scheduled the next hearing for December 4, 2025. The charges against them stem from an incident on October 1, where a farm dispute escalated into a shooting, leaving two men with gunshot wounds. Both Benjamins face charges of assault, wounding, and battery against Jace Farrell. Additionally, Brian Benjamin is charged with shooting with intent to murder Simon Farrell, while Bryan Benjamin is accused of using threatening language. The injured men are currently hospitalized in stable condition. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and have urged the public to resolve disputes through legal and non-violent means.

Residents of Hatton in St. John’s Rural West are breathing a sigh of relief following the completion of critical road repairs in the area. Richard S. Lewis, Member of Parliament for the constituency, has publicly expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Works and its dedicated road crew for their efforts in addressing the long-standing issue. The repairs, which targeted a section of road west of Martin’s Shop leading to the Spanish Church of God of Prophecy, have been a focal point of community concern for months. Lewis revealed that he had previously utilized his own resources to provide temporary solutions for the deteriorating road conditions. However, after persistent advocacy earlier this year, the Ministry of Works fulfilled its commitment to undertake the necessary repairs. In a heartfelt statement, Lewis commended the Ministry and its crew, stating, ‘The Ministry has delivered relief. We are indeed grateful for the roadworks done to date and look forward to continued relief throughout the constituency.’ The MP also pledged to continue pushing for further infrastructure improvements across St. John’s Rural West, emphasizing the importance of sustained development for the well-being of the community.