标签： Antigua and Barbuda

As Antigua and Barbuda commemorates 44 years of political independence under the theme “Solid – Stable – Soaring,” the nation reflects on the resilience and sacrifices that shaped its history. Central to this narrative is the story of King Court, a symbol of courage and resistance against colonial oppression. Known as Prince Klaas by his enslavers, King Court led a bold uprising in 1735 to overthrow colonial rule and abolish slavery in Antigua. His execution in 1736 marked a tragic chapter in the island’s history, but his legacy endures as a beacon of freedom and justice.

The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has issued a public advisory regarding ongoing infrastructure repairs that necessitate single-lane traffic on major roads. On Sir Sydney Walling Highway (SSWH), activities such as asphalt repairs, junction repairs, concrete works, and guardrail installation will proceed daily, commencing at approximately 8:00 a.m. Similarly, on Old Parham Road (OPR), drainage works near Beautyrama will continue starting Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. Flag persons will be stationed to guide motorists, who are urged to adhere to all instructions to ensure safe passage, especially given the operation of heavy-duty equipment in the vicinity. Despite the disruptions, all businesses remain operational. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused. These roadworks are part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project initiated by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. Stakeholders are advised to adjust their travel plans to accommodate potential delays. For further inquiries, the public can contact the C.O. Williams Project office at 562-9573.

During Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence Thanksgiving Service, Pastor Fitzgerald Semper delivered a powerful sermon urging national unity, highlighting the pervasive impact of political and social divisions on the country. Speaking to a packed congregation at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Creekside, Semper emphasized that the nation’s Independence theme, “Solid, Stable, Soaring,” could only be realized by addressing the deep-seated fractures caused by partisan politics and mistrust. He lamented that even the church has not been immune to these divisions, stating, “The political divide has even reached inside of the church. We must break down those walls if we are to be solid as a people.” Semper warned that progress is impossible when citizens “pull in different directions,” questioning, “Half the people doing one thing and half pulling the other way — how can we be solid?” His message resonated deeply with the audience, which included the governor general, acting prime minister, opposition leader, and members of Parliament. Many attendees applauded his call to transcend political allegiances, with one church elder describing it as “refreshing” and another noting that the sermon “hit home.” Semper urged leaders to model transparency, humility, and dialogue, emphasizing that governance requires accountability and openness to counsel. Grounded in scripture and civic reflection, his sermon framed unity as a moral imperative for the nation’s advancement. As the congregation prayed for national harmony, Semper’s words served as both a caution and a vision for Antigua and Barbuda to overcome division and rediscover its shared purpose.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Creekside resonated with voices of gratitude and introspection on Sunday as Antigua and Barbuda marked the commencement of its 44th Independence celebrations with a Thanksgiving Service. Under the theme “Solid, Stable, Soaring,” the event brought together government officials, religious leaders, and citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey and aspirations. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, in his address, emphasized the theme as a call for collective reflection and renewal. He highlighted the importance of standing firm on principles such as love for God, mutual respect, and national pride, while remaining focused on the nation’s mission and building on its achievements. The service, attended by Acting Prime Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin, Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, and members of Parliament, featured scripture readings from Isaiah 26 and Matthew 7, which underscored themes of peace, trust in God, and the necessity of a strong spiritual foundation. Pastor Fitzgerald Semper, delivering the sermon, urged citizens to anchor national progress in faith and moral integrity. Using metaphors of ice, cheese, and rock, he illustrated the varying degrees of solidity, asserting that true strength stems from being rooted in God’s unchanging nature. He called on the church to lead by example, the government to foster transparency and unity, and citizens to uphold righteousness in their daily lives. Semper also addressed the political divisions within the church, urging the community to dismantle such barriers to achieve solidarity. He praised initiatives like national prayer days and school devotion services as “solid” efforts, while condemning gambling, drug use, and social division as detrimental to the nation’s stability. The service concluded with prayers for the nation, its leaders, and uniformed officers, as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to celebrate its 44th Independence anniversary on November 1.

On October 27, 2025, Daven Joseph publicly apologized for a controversial publication that sparked widespread debate and criticism. The apology, released through official channels, addressed the concerns raised by various stakeholders, including the public, media, and advocacy groups. Joseph acknowledged the oversight and expressed regret for any harm caused by the content. He emphasized his commitment to rectifying the situation and ensuring that such incidents do not recur in the future. The statement also outlined steps being taken to review and improve internal processes to uphold ethical standards in publishing. This incident has prompted a broader discussion on accountability and responsibility in media and public communications.