In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on Jamaica, a UK support team stationed in Antigua and Barbuda has taken swift action to coordinate the delivery of emergency supplies to the devastated island nation. Spearheaded by Resident British Commissioner John Hamilton, the team has collaborated with the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority to transport essential relief goods from Deep Water Harbour to V.C. Bird International Airport, where they will be airlifted to Kingston. This initiative is part of the UK’s broader regional response to aid both British nationals and Jamaica’s recovery efforts. Hamilton emphasized the UK’s unwavering commitment to the Caribbean during crises, stating, ‘The scale of damage in Jamaica is heartbreaking. We’re ensuring vital supplies — water, food, medical kits, and temporary shelters — reach those most in need.’ Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, unleashed winds exceeding 190 miles per hour when it struck Jamaica on Tuesday, resulting in widespread flooding, destruction, and significant loss of life. The parishes of St. Elizabeth, Manchester, and Clarendon bore the brunt of the devastation, with at least three fatalities reported and numerous injuries and displacements. Jamaican authorities have designated several areas as disaster zones as recovery operations persist. The Jamaica Defence Force, alongside volunteers and international partners such as CARICOM, the UK, and USAID, are actively supporting relief efforts. Hamilton reaffirmed the UK’s dedication, pledging continued assistance ‘for as long as necessary’ to facilitate regional recovery.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
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UK Coordinates Hurricane Relief Shipment for Jamaica from Antigua
In a swift response to the devastating impact of a recent hurricane, the United Kingdom has organized a critical relief shipment from Antigua to support Jamaica. The initiative underscores the UK’s commitment to assisting Commonwealth nations during natural disasters. The relief package includes essential supplies such as food, water, medical equipment, and temporary shelter materials, aimed at addressing the immediate needs of affected communities. The operation was coordinated through the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), in collaboration with regional partners. This effort highlights the importance of international cooperation in disaster response and the UK’s role as a key player in humanitarian aid. The shipment is expected to arrive in Jamaica within days, providing much-needed assistance to those impacted by the hurricane.
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Antigua and Barbuda Ranked No. 1 in Caribbean on UN Human Development Index
Antigua and Barbuda has achieved a historic milestone by securing the top position in the Caribbean on the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI). Prime Minister Gaston Browne, during his Independence Day address, lauded this accomplishment as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to economic growth, educational advancement, and healthcare investments. Browne emphasized that this achievement underscores the potential of small island states to serve as global exemplars of progress. “Size does not define significance,” he remarked. “We may be modest in geography, but our influence is profound.” The Prime Minister attributed this success to years of consistent development and strategic social investments. Employment rates have surged to a record 47,000, while per-capita income has surpassed EC $60,000, marking the highest in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and among the leaders in CARICOM. Significant strides in healthcare include the near-completion of a state-of-the-art Renal Centre for dialysis and kidney transplants, alongside the transformation of the former Jehovah’s Witness headquarters into a $12 million mental health facility. Education has also seen transformative investments, with a $200 million expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and the establishment of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS), unifying post-secondary institutions. Browne affirmed that these initiatives are not only saving lives but also shaping futures, ensuring every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. He concluded by stating that Antigua and Barbuda’s HDI ranking and sectoral achievements reflect the nation’s dedication to good governance, equality, and people-centered development, earning global respect and recognition.
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PM Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy on Corruption
In a resolute Independence Day address, Prime Minister Gaston Browne reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach. Browne declared that neither he nor any member of his household is permitted to engage in government contracts, ensuring the Office of the Prime Minister remains beyond reproach. He highlighted that all irregular transactions will be met with restitution or criminal prosecution, underscoring the administration’s dedication to integrity and transparency. Browne cited a recent case of unauthorized government vehicle transactions, where immediate corrective actions were taken, including a Ministry of Finance review and restitution to the Treasury. He stressed that no favoritism or cover-ups were tolerated. To further prevent abuse, oversight mechanisms across customs and procurement systems are being strengthened, with repeat offenses to be pursued criminally. Browne asserted that his government will never defend wrongdoing but will correct it, imposing heavy penalties and directing proceeds as monetary restitution to the Treasury. He concluded by stating that good governance is not merely a slogan but the standard by which a nation protects its integrity and earns public confidence.
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Former FSRC Chief Leroy King Dies While Serving U.S. Prison Sentence
Leroy King, the former head of Antigua and Barbuda’s Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC), has passed away at the age of 80 while serving a U.S. prison sentence. The exact circumstances of his death—whether it occurred in prison or at a hospital—remain unclear, but authorities have confirmed that it took place during his incarceration. King, who held dual citizenship in Antigua and the United States, was extradited to the U.S. in 2019 after nearly a decade of legal battles to avoid extradition. He later pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of justice for his role in concealing information from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) during its investigation into financier Allen Stanford’s $7 billion investment fraud. As the FSRC chief from 2002, King oversaw the operations of Stanford International Bank in Antigua. Prosecutors revealed that he accepted over $520,000 in bribes, gifts, and trips in exchange for shielding Stanford’s fraudulent activities. Stanford himself was convicted in 2012 and sentenced to 110 years in prison for orchestrating a massive Ponzi scheme, while several of his associates received prison terms ranging from three to 20 years.
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Guyana’s President Extends Independence Congratulations to Antigua and Barbuda
In a heartfelt message, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali extended warm congratulations to Antigua and Barbuda on the occasion of their 44th Independence Anniversary. President Ali emphasized the deep-rooted friendship and shared values between the two nations, highlighting their mutual dedication to regional unity and prosperity. He underscored Guyana’s unwavering commitment to fostering a stronger and more integrated Caribbean community, describing the partnership as a cornerstone of their collective vision. President Ali expressed his wishes for Antigua and Barbuda’s continued progress and success, stating, “May Antigua and Barbuda continue to prosper, and may the aspirations of your people continue to be fulfilled.” This message not only celebrated a significant milestone for Antigua and Barbuda but also reinforced the enduring bond between the two nations, reflecting their collaborative efforts toward regional resilience and development.
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VIDEO:PM Issues Message to ABLP Chairman About “Political Prostitutes” on WTP FM and those tearing down the government and country
In a recent broadcast on WTP FM, the Prime Minister delivered a scathing message directed at the Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), as well as other individuals accused of undermining the government and the nation. The Prime Minister labeled these figures as ‘political prostitutes,’ accusing them of prioritizing personal gain over the welfare of the country. The address highlighted the government’s growing frustration with what it perceives as deliberate attempts to destabilize its efforts to govern effectively. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for unity and called on citizens to reject divisive tactics, urging them to support the administration’s vision for national progress. The speech has sparked widespread debate, with supporters applauding the Prime Minister’s forthrightness, while critics argue that such language exacerbates political polarization.
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Donna Chia Criticizes Darren Matthew Ward Over ‘Misleading’ Interview Claims
In a recent turn of events, Donna Chia has publicly criticized Darren Matthew Ward for what she describes as ‘misleading’ claims made during an interview. Chia, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, expressed her dissatisfaction with Ward’s statements, which she believes have misrepresented her views and intentions. The controversy stems from an interview where Ward allegedly misquoted Chia, leading to widespread misinterpretation among fans and media outlets. Chia emphasized the importance of accurate reporting and urged media professionals to uphold ethical standards. This incident has sparked a heated debate within the entertainment community, with many calling for greater accountability in media practices. Both Chia and Ward have yet to release further statements, leaving the public eagerly awaiting their next moves.
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Antigua to Add Two Million More Gallons of Water Daily
In a landmark announcement during Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence Day celebrations, Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed plans to significantly enhance the nation’s water supply and infrastructure. By the end of next month, an additional two million gallons of water per day will be integrated into the national system, addressing a persistent water scarcity issue that has plagued the country for decades. Browne emphasized that this development marks a pivotal step toward ensuring reliable access to clean, potable water for all households and businesses, describing it as a symbol of “independence in motion.”
Beyond water supply improvements, Browne highlighted a series of ambitious infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing the nation. These include a $150 million upgrade of VC Bird International Airport and the planned expansion of Barbuda’s airport, slated to commence next year. Additionally, the government’s extensive road-rebuilding program has already restored major routes and resurfaced community roads in areas such as Potters, Parham, Bolans, and Bethesda. The reconstruction of All Saints Road is set to follow once re-piping by the Antigua Public Utilities Authority is completed.
Browne underscored these initiatives as evidence of the government’s dedication to fostering a resilient, interconnected, and forward-looking nation. “Every road we pave, every pipe we lay, every watt of electricity we deliver strengthens the modern nation we are building,” he declared. “This is what independence looks like in motion — progress that reaches every home, every parish, every life.”
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Richard Lewis: Happy Independence Antigua and Barbuda
As Antigua and Barbuda commemorates its 44th Anniversary of Political Independence under the theme “Solid – Stable – Soaring,” the nation reflects on its historical resilience, economic challenges, and aspirations for a brighter future. While the theme symbolizes a robust historical foundation and economic stability, the reality paints a contrasting picture. A significant portion of the population struggles with poverty, living paycheck to paycheck, and enduring widening income inequality. These issues raise critical questions about the nation’s claim to economic stability. To truly soar, the country must address these pressing economic and social challenges collectively. Integrity, accountability, and transparency in governance are essential to combat corruption, which undermines national development and exacerbates poverty. Strengthening legislative frameworks and fostering a culture of good governance are imperative. As citizens celebrate the vibrant colors of their flag, there is a collective prayer for enduring peace and genuine economic and social stability. Richard S. Lewis, MP for Rural West, extends heartfelt Independence Day greetings to all, emphasizing the need for patriotism over partisanship and a united effort to prioritize the nation’s well-being.