The Census Office of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a nationwide appeal for residents to actively participate and cooperate as the 2025 National Population and Housing Census enters a critical phase. Over recent weeks, trained enumerators have been conducting door-to-door visits across the islands to gather essential data. This information will play a pivotal role in shaping national policies, guiding development strategies, and informing decisions in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. To ensure transparency and security, all census workers are equipped with official identification, including a Census ID badge, a branded vest, a government-issued authorization letter, and a digital tablet for data collection. Residents are assured that all collected data will remain strictly confidential and will be used solely for statistical purposes, in compliance with the Statistics Act of Antigua and Barbuda. The Census Office has also provided contact numbers for residents to verify the identity of enumerators if needed. The census process will continue over the coming months, with preliminary results expected to be released in early 2026. The Census Office expressed gratitude for the public’s ongoing support in this vital national initiative.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Lovell Calls PM’s Reforms hasty and diversionary
Harold Lovell, the United Progressive Party (UPP) caretaker for All Saints West, has launched a scathing critique against Prime Minister Gaston Browne, accusing him of orchestrating a cover-up in the ongoing ‘chain gang’ vehicle scandal. Lovell’s statement, issued on Thursday, contends that Browne’s recent announcements—ranging from new vehicle policies to public auctions, a $10 million repayment agreement, and the establishment of a ‘People’s Restitution Fund’—are not genuine reforms but rather ‘acts of desperation.’
Lovell argued that these measures fail to address the core issues or hold accountable those implicated in the scandal. ‘Every new announcement underscores the severity of the problem, yet none tackle the individuals at the heart of it,’ he stated. He emphasized that the citizens of Antigua and Barbuda deserve transparency and accountability, not what he described as ‘theatrics.’
‘The Prime Minister’s decision to negotiate repayments before a comprehensive investigation is not justice; it’s a smokescreen,’ Lovell added. The UPP is demanding a full forensic investigation, spearheaded by independent bodies such as the Integrity Commission, the Auditor General’s Office, and civil society observers. Lovell believes that only such an inquiry can restore public trust in the government.
‘With every policy announcement, Gaston Browne shuts another door to the truth,’ Lovell remarked. ‘He’s using window dressing to obscure the facts, but the people of Antigua and Barbuda will not remain in the dark.’
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Officials closely monitoring APUA as it investigates reports of electricity theft
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has heightened its vigilance as it probes into escalating reports of electricity theft across the region. This illicit activity, which involves unauthorized connections and meter tampering, has been identified as a significant contributor to financial losses and operational inefficiencies within the utility sector. APUA officials have underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that such practices not only undermine the integrity of the power grid but also pose severe safety risks to the public. In response, the authority has deployed advanced monitoring technologies and initiated a series of public awareness campaigns to deter potential offenders. Legal repercussions for those found guilty of electricity theft are expected to be stringent, with fines and potential imprisonment on the table. The crackdown comes amid growing concerns over the economic and infrastructural impact of these illegal activities, which have been exacerbated by rising energy costs and strained resources. APUA has urged citizens to report any suspicious activities, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring a fair and sustainable energy distribution system.
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Routine spot checks of containers begin at customs
In a decisive move to tackle customs fraud and safeguard national revenue, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the initiation of routine spot checks on imported containers. This measure is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance transparency and ensure equitable revenue collection from importers. Browne emphasized that the initiative aligns with his recent commitment to bolster customs oversight and establish a People’s Restitution Fund. This fund will serve as a repository for penalties, interest, and other charges levied against customs violators, with the proceeds earmarked to finance vital social programs. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of these efforts in curbing under-invoicing and other fraudulent practices, which have long undermined the country’s fiscal integrity. By implementing these rigorous inspection protocols, the government aims to foster a fairer and more accountable import-export ecosystem, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economic stability and social welfare initiatives.
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PM: Fines from Customs Violations to Fund Social Programs
In a significant move to address customs violations, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to establish the ‘People’s Restitution Fund.’ This initiative aims to collect penalties, interest, and other charges from importers found guilty of breaching customs regulations. The fund is designed to formalize the management of recovered monies and fines, ensuring they are directed toward public welfare projects. The announcement comes on the heels of Browne’s recent remarks regarding restitution efforts in the ongoing government vehicle probe, where a dealer agreed to repay $10 million. Additionally, the Prime Minister has confirmed that excess or improperly assigned government vehicles will be sold at public auction following a comprehensive fleet audit. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing public resources.
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UPP told to make it clear whether they want car dealers to go to jail
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that his administration is seeking restitution from vehicle dealers involved in the ongoing government fleet controversy. This development follows revelations that millions of dollars were spent on government vehicles outside standard procurement procedures. Browne disclosed that one dealer has already agreed to repay $10 million, while another is currently under audit. The prime minister emphasized that the audit and reassignment process for the vehicles are still underway. Additionally, Browne stated that any unassigned vehicles will be sold at public auction in the near future. The controversy has sparked significant public scrutiny, with the prime minister urging the opposition to clarify its stance on the matter. This situation highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement practices.
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Antiguans and Barbudans in the tristate celebrate 44th Independence anniversary this Sunday
This Sunday, the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora residing in the tri-state area of New York will gather to commemorate their nation’s 44th anniversary of political independence. The annual Independence Thanksgiving Service, a cherished tradition, will be held at the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx at 4 pm. The event promises to be a heartfelt afternoon of reflection, featuring songs and prayers to honor the blessings bestowed upon the nation since its independence on November 1, 1981.
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Three Female Finalists Announced in CHOGM 2026 Logo Design Contest
In a remarkable display of talent and innovation, three female designers have emerged as finalists in the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 logo design competition. Selected from an impressive pool of 141 submissions, these finalists embody the creative spirit and national pride of Antigua and Barbuda. The rigorous selection process was overseen by a distinguished panel of judges, including representatives from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and branding experts. The winning logo, set to be unveiled on November 4 at Sandals Grande Antigua, will be revealed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. This event underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to fostering youth innovation and artistic expression as the nation prepares to host CHOGM 2026, a pivotal diplomatic gathering of 56 Commonwealth nations. The logo will symbolize unity, sustainability, and resilience, key themes of the summit, which aims to address global cooperation, climate action, and development. This marks the first time Antigua and Barbuda will host CHOGM, highlighting the country’s growing influence in international diplomacy and its commitment to advancing Commonwealth values.
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Budget Day in Antigua and Barbuda is December 4, 2025
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated preparations for the 2026 National Budget, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne slated to present it to Parliament on December 4, 2025. A strategic planning meeting was convened this week, attended by key financial officials from the Ministry of Finance and the Treasury Department, to review fiscal priorities and finalize the budget’s structure. According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, the meeting aimed to establish the government’s financial and economic direction for the upcoming year, ensuring alignment with national development initiatives and fiscal reforms. The 2026 Budget is anticipated to emphasize economic resilience, infrastructure investment, job creation, and social protection, while advancing policies in digital transformation, education, and climate adaptation. Additionally, the Throne Speech, which traditionally outlines the government’s legislative agenda, will be delivered on November 25, 2025. Both events mark the commencement of the government’s annual parliamentary cycle, highlighting achievements from 2025 and unveiling new plans to enhance public services, modernize state operations, and expand housing and energy programs.
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24-Hour Shelter Approved for Gender-Based Violence Survivors
In a significant move to combat gender-based violence, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit the creation of a 24-hour shelter for survivors. This initiative, developed through a collaborative public-NGO partnership with Integrated Health Outreach (IHO), underscores the government’s dedication to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and safeguarding vulnerable populations. The shelter will provide a secure environment for survivors, coupled with essential services such as counseling, vocational training, and empowerment programs aimed at fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that this partnership leverages IHO’s professional expertise alongside government resources, ensuring a sustainable and effective support system. The shelter is part of a broader strategy to enhance social protection measures, including mental health services, family counseling, and community outreach. It will operate in tandem with social services, health agencies, and law enforcement to deliver a cohesive national response to gender-based violence.