Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has raised significant concerns in Parliament regarding procedural gaps affecting the operations of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). During the House of Representatives session on October 16, 2025, Pringle emphasized the urgent need for clarity on the committee’s legal standing and the rules governing its oversight functions. He pointed out that the rules of procedure for the PAC, which he presented to Parliament in July, remain unratified. Additionally, the Standing Orders—the official guide to parliamentary operations—do not mention the PAC, creating uncertainty about its proper functioning. Pringle stressed the importance of establishing clear guidelines to ensure the committee’s effectiveness. In response, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin acknowledged the oversight and committed to initiating a formal review. He assured that the government is dedicated to strengthening the PAC’s framework to enhance transparency and accountability. The PAC, chaired by Pringle, is Parliament’s primary financial oversight body, tasked with scrutinizing government spending to ensure the appropriate use of taxpayers’ money. Pringle has been advocating for public meetings of the PAC to further promote transparency. Benjamin stated that the review process would involve consultations with parliamentary staff and an examination of Hansard records to ensure adherence to proper parliamentary procedures.
标签: Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Flash Flood Watch in Until Friday
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has activated a Flash Flood Watch for several islands in the region, including Antigua, Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands. The alert, announced at 4 p.m. on Thursday, is set to remain in effect until 6 a.m. on Friday, with the possibility of an extension if adverse weather conditions continue. A frontal trough has been identified as the primary cause, bringing intense rainfall and thunderstorms to the Leeward Islands. Over the past 24 hours, more than three inches of rain have been recorded, with an additional two to four inches expected by Friday morning. Meteorologists Letitia Humphreys and Charissa Humphreys have warned of moderate to major flooding risks, emphasizing that flash floods can escalate rapidly, posing life-threatening dangers. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are advised to prepare for potential evacuation to higher ground, avoid driving through flooded zones, and stay updated via local media. The Met Service has also issued a critical reminder: ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown.’ Additionally, the public is encouraged to submit photos or videos of flooding to [email protected] for monitoring purposes. Meanwhile, the news platform has extended an invitation for businesses to advertise through its customizable digital marketing packages, reachable at [email protected].
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WATCH: Government Launches Systemwide Probe into Customs and Revenue Departments
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a sweeping investigation into the Customs and Revenue Departments in Antigua, following mounting concerns over irregularities and potential corruption. Addressing Parliament, Browne emphasized that the probe will encompass all revenue-collecting entities, aiming to identify systemic weaknesses, eliminate misconduct, and restore public trust in government operations. The investigation will employ both internal audits and external oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability. Browne stated, ‘We are going system-wide, especially within Customs and other revenue areas. There will be further redeployments, rotations, and additional systems, including routine spot checks.’ The Prime Minister also revealed that private citizens will be enlisted to assist in random container inspections alongside customs officials, targeting merchants suspected of underreporting or evading duties. Additionally, the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) will face scrutiny, as the government suspects large entities, including supermarkets, may be bypassing electricity meters, resulting in revenue loss. To oversee these reforms, a ‘revenue czar’ will be appointed to work with the Inland Revenue Department, conducting forensic accounting and strengthening compliance. Browne highlighted the correlation between the cost of goods and duties paid, vowing to use financial statements and import data to verify tax liabilities. This initiative follows recent procedural breaches within government departments, including the Customs Division, which led to redeployments and the resignation of Comptroller of Customs Raju Boddu earlier this week.
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Flash Flood Watch in effect until 4pm.
A severe weather system has prompted the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Office to issue a flash flood watch for low-lying and flood-prone areas, effective until 4 PM today. The persistent trough responsible for the heavy rainfall has already deposited over 2 inches of rain in some regions within the past six hours, with an additional 2–4 inches expected in the next 12 hours. Residents in vulnerable areas, particularly near All Saints School, are urged to prepare for potential flooding and be ready to relocate to higher ground if conditions deteriorate or a Flash Flood Warning is issued. The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has advised against driving or walking through floodwaters, emphasizing the life-threatening risks involved. NODS has also mobilized its district disaster coordinators and volunteers, placing them on standby to open shelters if necessary. Authorities are encouraging individuals who may need shelter to move early to ensure their safety. Local media outlets will continue to provide updates, and residents are advised to stay informed. For those interested in advertising opportunities, the most visited news site in Antigua offers customizable digital marketing packages. Contact details are available for further inquiries.
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Senator Dwayne George Represents Antigua and Barbuda at IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings
Senator Dwayne George, leading a delegation from the Ministry of Finance, represented Antigua and Barbuda at the 2025 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington, D.C. The high-profile event brought together finance ministers, central bank governors, and policymakers from around the world to deliberate on pressing economic issues, policy frameworks, and strategies for sustainable development. Antigua and Barbuda’s active participation highlighted the nation’s dedication to responsible economic governance and its engagement with the global financial community. During the meetings, Senator George and his team championed the cause of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), shedding light on critical challenges such as climate resilience, debt sustainability, and access to concessional financing. The forum also provided a platform to explore technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives aimed at bolstering national development and economic stability. By engaging in these global discussions, Antigua and Barbuda reinforced its presence on the international stage and strengthened ties with key global partners and institutions. The delegation’s efforts underscored the country’s commitment to addressing the unique vulnerabilities of SIDS while fostering collaborative solutions for shared economic challenges.
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Flooding Reported Across Antigua as Heavy Rain Triggers Alerts
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a flood alert for the John Hughes area following reports of severe flooding caused by relentless heavy rainfall. Residents are being urged to exercise extreme caution, particularly by avoiding flooded roads and low-lying areas that are prone to water accumulation. Motorists are also advised to drive with heightened care, as roads stretching from Old Parham Road north to Utility Drive have become wet and slippery due to the ongoing downpour. In addition to the John Hughes area, heavy rain has also been reported over Vernon, with locals sharing images of the deluge as showers continue to drench various parts of the island. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have emphasized the importance of staying informed through official weather alerts. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate risks associated with the adverse weather conditions.
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Officials Urge Caution as Thunderstorms and Lightning Sweep Across Antigua and Barbuda
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — As severe thunderstorms, relentless lightning, and torrential rainfall continue to batter Antigua and Barbuda, local authorities are issuing urgent safety advisories to residents, particularly students and parents. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services emphasize the critical importance of adhering to lightning safety protocols during this hazardous weather event.
Meteorological experts have warned the public to remain indoors or avoid open areas when thunderstorms are active. The mantra, ‘When thunder roars, go indoors,’ underscores the dangers posed by lightning, even from distant storms. Residents are urged to seek immediate shelter upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning.
For those caught outdoors, officials advise avoiding open spaces, tall structures, and bodies of water. Students are encouraged to stay indoors until the weather improves. The ’30-30 Rule’ is being reiterated: if the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, individuals should seek shelter immediately and remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
Authorities have also highlighted that lightning can strike several miles from the storm’s center, making it essential to avoid electrical appliances, wired devices, and outdoor areas like balconies or porches during active lightning. A flash flood watch remains in effect until later this afternoon, and residents are urged to stay updated through official advisories from the Meteorological Services and local emergency channels.
This severe weather event underscores the need for heightened vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent injuries or fatalities. Residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
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Bailey Reaffirms Antigua and Barbuda’s Commitment to Sweet Potato Innovation and Food Security
The Fisheries Division Conference Room at Point Wharf was a hub of activity and optimism on October 15, 2025, as stakeholders from across the Caribbean convened for the Inaugural Annual Project Virtual Symposium on Next Generation Sweet Potato Production. The event, both in-person and virtual, marked a significant step toward enhancing regional collaboration in agriculture. Mr. Gregory Bailey, Director of Agriculture and Chair of the Project Steering Committee, delivered opening remarks on behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Barbuda Affairs (MALFBE). He emphasized the importance of innovation, shared purpose, and regional unity in advancing agricultural development. Mr. Bailey highlighted the sweet potato as more than a staple crop—it is a symbol of resilience, heritage, and food security for the Caribbean. He underscored its role in value chain development, agricultural diversification, and the transformation of food systems. The symposium served as a platform to reflect on progress, consolidate lessons learned, and strengthen partnerships. Mr. Bailey also proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Sweet Potato Community of Practice to foster knowledge sharing and innovation. He concluded by reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to sustainable agricultural systems and thanked participants for their contributions to this transformative initiative.
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Flash Flood Advisory Issued for Antigua and Barbuda
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a flash flood advisory for the twin-island nation, alerting residents to potential minor flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas. The advisory, which remains in effect until noon on Thursday, comes as a persistent weather trough continues to bring heavy showers and thunderstorms across the islands. Radar estimates indicate that over an inch of rain has already fallen, with additional rainfall expected throughout the morning. Residents are urged to exercise caution, avoid flooded roads, and move to higher ground if necessary. Officials anticipate minor disruptions but do not expect major damage. Forecaster Patrice Edwards advised the public to stay updated through local media or contact the Met Office at 463-4638 for further information. The situation underscores the importance of preparedness during severe weather events in the region.
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Customs Comptroller Raju Boddu Resigns, Citing Health Reasons
In a surprising turn of events, Raju Boddu, the Comptroller of Customs in Antigua and Barbuda, has resigned from his position, marking the end of his extensive tenure as head of the Customs and Excise Division. Sources reveal that Boddu submitted his resignation earlier this week, attributing his decision to health concerns. However, the abrupt nature of his departure has sparked widespread speculation within the department and beyond, with rumors swirling about an ongoing internal investigation. Boddu, a veteran customs administrator, is known for his stringent enforcement strategies and significant contributions to modernizing customs operations during his years in Antigua and Barbuda. Authorities have yet to announce an interim replacement, leaving the department in a state of uncertainty. Opposition Members of Parliament are reportedly preparing to raise pointed questions in the upcoming parliamentary session, seeking clarity on the circumstances surrounding Boddu’s resignation. Whispers of ‘irregularities’ and potential misconduct have further fueled the intrigue, though no official statements have been made to confirm these allegations. As the silence from official channels continues, the void left by Boddu’s departure raises more questions than answers, leaving the public and political observers eager for transparency and resolution.
