ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The United Progressive Party (UPP) is set to commence its island-wide motorcade today, Sunday, November 16, at 10 a.m. from Rising Sun Field. The event, described by the party as a peaceful protest, aims to galvanize public support for an independent investigation into what the UPP has termed the ‘Vehicle-Gate’ scandal. The opposition party alleges significant misconduct within the Ministry of Public Works, insisting that only an external probe can uncover what they claim to be a multi-million-dollar conspiracy. This demonstration follows a week of setbacks, as police initially denied approval for a whistle-stop and motorcade planned for November 9. However, the UPP later received permission for today’s event. Party officials are urging supporters and the general public to join the motorcade as it sets off this morning, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in government operations.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Health Authorities Mark World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week
The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is actively participating in World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW), underscoring its dedication to combating the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Often termed the ‘silent pandemic,’ AMR occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to medications, rendering infections increasingly difficult or impossible to treat. Aligning with the WAAW 2025 theme, ‘Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,’ CARPHA is advocating for the responsible use of antimicrobials and showcasing the progress made through its Integrated AMR Programme. This initiative, supported by key partners such as the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the Fleming Fund, and the Pandemic Fund Project, exemplifies regional collaboration. The programme enhances surveillance, laboratory capacity, and coordinated actions across sectors to detect, understand, and respond to AMR in the Caribbean. A significant milestone is the establishment of the Caribbean Antimicrobial Resistance Alliance (CARA), a joint effort between CARPHA and UKHSA, which serves as the technical backbone of CARPHA’s AMR agenda. CARA is advancing AMR Reference laboratory capacity across Trinidad, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia, developing a regional AMR surveillance system, and harmonizing standards and expertise. CARPHA has also expanded its Jamaica and Saint Lucia laboratories as regional reference hubs for AMR testing, reducing delays and improving pathogen detection. Through partnerships with UKHSA, CARPHA has bolstered workforce capacity, receiving technical experts to enhance surveillance, laboratory systems, and emergency response. Additionally, CARPHA, PAHO, and UKHSA have organized regional training workshops on phenotypic testing, molecular testing, and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). Dr. Lisa Indar, CARPHA Executive Director, emphasized the urgency of collective action, stating, ‘Antimicrobial resistance threatens the health and development of every Caribbean nation. Success requires responsibility from governments, healthcare providers, veterinarians, farmers, laboratories, and the public.’ CARPHA continues to support Member States in preserving the effectiveness of life-saving medicines through strengthened surveillance, testing capacity, and One Health partnerships. During WAAW, CARPHA urges all stakeholders to champion responsible antimicrobial use and support AMR prevention initiatives.
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Antigua Cruise Port Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal
Antigua Cruise Port has achieved a significant milestone by being nominated for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. This recognition underscores the port’s exceptional operational standards and commitment to delivering top-tier service. Port authorities have attributed this achievement to the unwavering dedication of their staff, the collaboration of industry partners, and the support of the local community. The nomination highlights the port’s growing influence in regional cruise tourism, as it continues to expand its infrastructure and services. The award, determined by public voting, is open for submissions until November 16, 2025. This nomination aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic goals to enhance homeporting activities and solidify St. John’s as a premier hub for Caribbean cruise itineraries. The public is encouraged to participate in the voting process to support this remarkable achievement.
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Arvia Begins Homeporting Operations at Antigua Cruise Port
On Friday, the Antigua Cruise Port achieved a pivotal moment in its cruise tourism evolution with the arrival of the Arvia, which officially berthed at the newly constructed cruise terminal to commence homeporting operations. Homeporting, recognized as one of the most lucrative segments of the cruise industry, is known to drive increased passenger expenditure and stimulate demand for ancillary services such as provisioning, transportation, and accommodations. The Antigua Cruise Port heralded this development as the dawn of ‘a vibrant cruise season ahead,’ underscoring the nation’s strategic efforts to bolster its presence in the regional cruise market. This milestone not only signifies a leap forward for Antigua’s tourism sector but also positions the island as a key player in the Caribbean cruise industry.
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US to hold new military drills in Trinidad and Tobago amid tensions with Venezuela
The United States is set to conduct a five-day military exercise in Trinidad and Tobago, beginning this Sunday, as confirmed by the Caribbean nation. This announcement follows last month’s deployment of a guided-missile destroyer to the region for training purposes, a move that Venezuela labeled as a ‘military provocation.’ According to the Financial Times, Trinidad and Tobago’s Attorney General indicated that the US plans to ‘intensify’ its military activities in the twin-island nation, located just miles off Venezuela’s coast. Foreign Minister Sean Sobers has denied that these exercises are a prelude to potential US military action in Venezuela, despite growing global concerns over US activities in the region. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has supported the US presence, contrasting sharply with Venezuela’s socialist leader Nicolas Maduro, with whom she has had public disputes. The drills will involve the US Marine Corps’ 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is already in the region to aid in disrupting illicit drug trafficking. Trinidad and Tobago’s government stated that the exercises aim to enhance tactical familiarity between US and local troops and to train local forces in handling domestic issues like drug-related crime and gang violence. The US has recently bolstered its naval presence in the Caribbean, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, prompting Venezuela to announce a ‘massive mobilization’ of its military in response. This escalation has led to fears of a potential larger conflict between the two nations. While the US claims its military buildup is aimed at combating drug trafficking, experts question the necessity of such significant firepower, noting that the USS Gerald R. Ford represents the largest US military presence in the region since the 1989 invasion of Panama. President Donald Trump has expressed that he believes Maduro’s days are numbered and has not ruled out the possibility of US land strikes on Venezuela. Earlier this week, Trump was reportedly presented with options for military operations within Venezuela, though he has yet to make a decision and has previously expressed reservations about military action aimed at ousting Maduro. Maduro has urged the US against conflict, emphasizing a message of peace to Trump.
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Antigua and Barbuda Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at 2025 World Cruise Awards
Antigua and Barbuda has been shortlisted for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. The announcement, made by Antigua Cruise Port, highlights the nation’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences for cruise passengers. The nomination is a testament to the efforts of destination ambassadors who have played a pivotal role in enhancing the visitor experience. The public is now being urged to cast their votes before the November 16, 2025 deadline. A statement from the organization emphasized, ‘Let’s unite and show the world why Antigua & Barbuda continues to shine as a premier Caribbean cruise destination,’ while expressing gratitude to supporters for their unwavering trust in the country’s tourism industry. This recognition underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to maintaining its status as a top-tier destination in the global cruise market.
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PM Says New Crane Marks Major Step Toward Transshipment Hub
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has heralded the commissioning of a state-of-the-art cargo-handling crane at the Deepwater Harbour as a pivotal milestone in Antigua and Barbuda’s ambitious plan to establish itself as a regional transshipment hub. The new crane, Browne emphasized, is not merely an operational enhancement but a strategic investment in the nation’s future, symbolizing the government’s dedication to modernization, competitiveness, and global connectivity. This development follows an estimated EC$500 million investment in modernizing both cargo and cruise ports over recent years. The prime minister highlighted that the crane will significantly boost cargo-handling capacity, streamline turnaround times, and enhance the reliability of port operations. These improvements are expected to facilitate business operations, benefiting importers, exporters, and local entrepreneurs through faster and more efficient services. Browne articulated a broader vision of transforming Antigua and Barbuda into a premier regional transshipment port, leveraging expanded capabilities, cutting-edge technology, and robust logistics infrastructure to attract major shipping lines. Increased cargo volumes are anticipated to reduce freight and handling costs, thereby lowering the overall cost of doing business. The government also foresees heightened revenues from taxes, fees, and port-related services as transshipment activities grow. Additionally, the initiative is projected to generate employment opportunities for technicians, engineers, logistics specialists, and young professionals entering the maritime sector. Beyond the port, Browne envisions the burgeoning maritime economy spurring new industries such as bunkering, ship repair, marine supplies, and warehousing. He concluded that the transformation of the port into a transshipment hub will serve as a major driver of national economic growth and a significant contributor to the country’s GDP. The crane, Browne declared, stands as a “symbol of progress,” signaling Antigua and Barbuda’s readiness to thrive in a competitive global environment.
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Branch Office Burglarized; Police Launch Investigation
Authorities are currently probing a break-in at a political branch office located on Federation Road, where intruders forcibly entered the premises and absconded with several items. The incident is estimated to have occurred between 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, and 8 a.m. on Wednesday, 12 November 2025. The office secretary confirmed that the building was securely locked the previous afternoon but was discovered breached upon the staff’s return the following morning. Preliminary reports indicate that the perpetrator(s) utilized a heavy tool to pry open an eastern door to gain access. Among the stolen items were a laptop, a composition book, and two AAA batteries, though the total value of the missing goods remains undetermined. Despite a thorough search of the vicinity, no suspects have been apprehended. Forensic experts have been summoned to examine the scene meticulously as the investigation continues.
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Tourism Awards Nominees Announced for Chef of the Year and Young Chef of the Year
The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious 2025 Tourism Awards, spotlighting exceptional culinary talent in the Chef of the Year and Young Chef of the Year categories. This annual event honors professionals whose expertise, creativity, and commitment elevate the nation’s tourism industry. The nominees represent a roster of Antigua’s premier hospitality establishments, including Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocobay Resort, Hermitage Bay, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Royalton Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, The Verandah Antigua, and Trade Winds Hotel. The winners will be revealed on November 29 at the Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua. This year’s gala, themed ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ is a collaborative effort between the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and Antigua and Barbuda Tourism. The event underscores the vital role of culinary professionals in enhancing the country’s tourism appeal.
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Jamal Joseph of Green Bay Charged with Unlawful Possession of Firearm and Ammunition
In a decisive move to combat illegal firearms, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged 37-year-old Jamala Joseph of Green Bay for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The incident occurred during a routine stop-and-search operation in the early hours of Friday, November 14, 2025. Officers from the Grays Farm Police Station intercepted a vehicle on George Street, Green Bay, following a community report. During the search, they uncovered a .25 Beretta pistol and two rounds of .25 ammunition. Joseph was promptly taken into custody and formally charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition. This arrest underscores the police force’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal weapons from the streets, ensuring the safety and security of all residents. The Royal Police Force continues to enforce strict measures against such violations, reinforcing their dedication to maintaining public order.