In a significant move to bolster transparency and oversight within the public service, the government has unveiled plans to advertise two new deputy positions. These roles will be established at the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority and the National Parks Authority. The announcement was made during Friday’s post-Cabinet press briefing by Government Spokesperson Maurice Merchant, who emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to rotate officials and revamp key administrative frameworks. ‘The Cabinet has identified two departments where deputy positions will be opened for applications,’ Merchant stated. ‘One is at the Antigua Port Authority, and the other is at the National Parks Authority.’ This decision aligns with the Cabinet’s ongoing efforts to enhance accountability and foster professional growth within the civil service by rotating long-serving officers across various ministries and statutory bodies. The positions are set to be advertised in the coming weeks, with detailed notices outlining the requirements, application procedures, and deadlines to be released by the respective authorities. This step underscores the government’s commitment to improving governance and ensuring that public institutions operate with greater efficiency and integrity.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Acting Comptroller to Remain in Post Following Boddu’s Resignation amid Procurement Probe
The government has announced that the acting Comptroller of Customs will retain the position following the resignation of Raju Boddu, who stepped down amid an ongoing investigation into procurement irregularities. During a post-Cabinet press briefing on Friday, Cabinet spokesperson Maurice Merchant confirmed the decision but did not disclose the acting officer’s name. Merchant indicated that Boddu’s resignation is likely linked to issues surrounding the collection of duties and taxes by the government of Antigua and Barbuda. The acting officer will remain in place until a permanent Comptroller is appointed. The resignation comes in the wake of revelations about unauthorized purchases of high-end vehicles, which the Prime Minister described as a case of ‘willful neglect.’ A comprehensive audit of all government-owned vehicles has been ordered to verify whether proper duties and taxes were collected. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance, through the Financial Secretary, has been tasked with meeting vehicle dealers to identify irregularities and recover potential revenue losses. While no evidence has yet emerged implicating public officials in personal gain, investigations are ongoing. The probe has spurred plans for broader staff rotations and enhanced oversight within the public service to bolster transparency and accountability.
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VIDEO: PM Agrees to Provide Securities Information Following Parliamentary Question
In a significant parliamentary session, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has vowed to enhance the transparency of the government’s securities holdings. This commitment comes in response to persistent inquiries from the Opposition regarding compliance with the Finance Administration Act. During Thursday’s House of Representatives meeting, the Member for All Saints East and St. Luke questioned the Prime Minister’s adherence to Section 46(3)(a) of the Act, which mandates the Finance Minister to disclose full details of securities purchased. Browne acknowledged that while the government has historically omitted such filings, the information is publicly accessible through the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE) and is included in the annual budget statement. He explained that the dynamic nature of securities trading—where bonds may be issued and repaid within short periods—makes frequent reporting cumbersome. However, Browne proposed a biannual update on the government’s outstanding securities to improve transparency. The Opposition also cited Section 46(3)(b), which requires the submission of all security purchase agreements. Browne clarified that such filings would establish a new precedent, as no previous government has submitted these documents to Parliament. He emphasized that the securities in question are publicly traded, not private transactions, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency. When pressed about the government’s shareholdings in entities like Blue Ocean, West Indies Oil Company, and State Insurance, Browne expressed no objection to disclosing these details. He noted that such information is already publicly available through the company registry but affirmed his willingness to present it to Parliament if requested. The Prime Minister further distinguished between frequently traded securities, such as treasury bills, and permanent shareholdings in companies, confirming that the latter could be tabled in Parliament. This exchange marked a rare and substantive discussion on the transparency of government investments and securities reporting, underscoring the Browne administration’s pledge to uphold accountability.
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17-year-old Charge for Multiple Traffic Offences
In a recent development, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged a 17-year-old male from Fort Road for multiple traffic-related offences. The incidents, which occurred on October 13, 2025, involved the teenager driving a white 2011 Honda Fit motor car without a valid driver’s licence, operating the vehicle without insurance, and fraudulently using a registration number assigned to another individual. The vehicle was intercepted during routine police operations in the city. The accused has been taken into custody and is expected to appear in court to face the charges. The Police Administration has reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic laws, emphasizing that driving without a valid licence or insurance is a serious offence. They have urged all motorists to comply with road safety regulations to ensure public safety. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to curb traffic violations and promote responsible driving practices in the region.
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Rising Star Au/Ra Opens for Katy Perry at London’s O2 Arena — From Antiguan Roots to the Global Stage
This week, Au/Ra, the international recording artist born Jamie Lou Stenzel, achieved a significant milestone in her career by opening for pop sensation Katy Perry at London’s iconic O2 Arena. This performance marks a pivotal moment in her journey from the small island of Antigua to one of the world’s most prestigious stages. Growing up in English Harbour, Au/Ra was immersed in music from an early age, thanks to her father, renowned music producer Torsten Stenzel. Her first taste of fame came at just 12 years old with a viral YouTube cover of Lorde’s “Royals,” featuring local talent Drastic. By 14, she had signed with Sony Music, and today, she is under the wing of Island Records, the legendary label behind artists like Bob Marley and U2. Au/Ra’s music is a unique blend of her Caribbean roots and global influences, creating an ethereal pop sound that is introspective, cinematic, and emotionally resonant. Her breakout single, “Panic Room,” garnered international acclaim for its raw portrayal of anxiety and self-discovery, amassing over 1.5 billion streams and earning her a devoted global fanbase. Opening for Katy Perry is a full-circle moment for Au/Ra, symbolizing the power of determination, authenticity, and creativity. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, ‘Performing at the O2 is a dream come true. It reminds me that even from the smallest places, you can reach the biggest stages.’ With her captivating voice, deeply personal songwriting, and magnetic stage presence, Au/Ra continues to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide, solidifying her place as a rising star in the music industry.
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Buckley’s Tank Recommissioned as APUA Expands Water Storage Capacity
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has successfully recommissioned the Buckley’s Tank, a critical 600,000-imperial-gallon water storage facility, following extensive refurbishment efforts. This milestone marks the restoration of its full operational capacity, ensuring a more reliable water supply to communities in the southeastern region, including Liberta and Horsford Hill, which have historically faced periodic water shortages. The project was celebrated during a site visit on Friday, attended by Hon. Melford Nicholas, Minister of Public Utilities, and Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs and parliamentary representative for St. Paul’s. APUA Chief Executive Officer John Bradshaw highlighted the broader upgrades underway across the island’s water infrastructure, such as the refurbishment of the two-million-gallon Crabbs storage tank, the commissioning of the 450,000-imperial-gallon Pattersons tank, and the planned construction of new storage facilities in the New Winthropes Wink Eye area. These investments aim to enhance both production and storage capacities, ensuring a sustainable and dependable water supply for all consumers.
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Melly Rose Speaks out on US Military Presence in Caribbean Waters: “There has to be a better way.”
Trinidadian artist Melly Rose has expressed deep concern over recent reports of U.S. military operations in Caribbean waters, which have allegedly led to the bombing or destruction of boats. The singer, known for her advocacy for community and humanity, shared her heartfelt thoughts on the situation, emphasizing the potential impact on innocent lives.
“I’ve been seeing what’s happening, and honestly, it’s been sitting heavy on my heart,” Melly Rose stated. “While I understand the need to protect our region, innocent people could be getting hurt in the process. These are real families, real lives. Everyone deserves their day in court. There has to be a better way.”
Melly highlighted the plight of everyday people who rely on the sea for their livelihoods, including fishermen, ferry workers, travelers, and families moving between islands. “For many of us, the ocean is not just water; it’s how we connect, how we feed our families, how we survive. I just want safety for our people,” she added.
The artist also called on regional and international powers to prioritize peace over force, reminding them that Caribbean lives matter. “The Caribbean has always been a place of love, rhythm, and resilience,” Melly said. “I just hope leaders choose compassion and care when making decisions that affect our people. We deserve to feel safe in our own waters.”
Melly Rose’s message resonates with many in the Caribbean, where the ocean is not only a source of livelihood but also a cultural and emotional lifeline. Her plea for compassion and justice underscores the broader need for peaceful resolutions in conflicts that impact vulnerable communities.
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LETTER: Eustace “Gatoux” Harris, a local pan builder deserves a national award this coming Independence
In a heartfelt letter to the editor, a passionate advocate for recognizing unsung heroes has highlighted the remarkable contributions of Eustace ‘Gatoux’ Harris, a master steelpan builder and tuner whose work has shaped the cultural landscape of Antigua. The writer, Alex, emphasizes the importance of honoring individuals like Harris during their lifetime, ensuring they can fully appreciate the accolades they deserve. Harris, a veteran in the craft since the early 1970s, has built and tuned pans for renowned steelbands such as Halcyon Steel Orchestra, Superstars, Geomonites, and Harmonites, while also mentoring students in various communities. Steelpan building, though often overlooked, is a demanding profession requiring exceptional skill, dedication, and precision, particularly when preparing for competitions. Despite their behind-the-scenes role, pan builders are indispensable to the music industry, much like songwriters. As Antigua approaches its 44th Independence anniversary, Alex calls for Harris to receive a national award and formal recognition from the Cultural Department for his invaluable contributions to the nation’s cultural heritage. This acknowledgment, Alex argues, is long overdue and would serve as a fitting tribute to Harris’s lifelong dedication and artistry.
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EC$46 million worth of cocaine seized in Dominica
In a landmark operation, the Dominica Police Force has made the largest drug seizure in the nation’s history, confiscating over 1,700 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value exceeding EC$46 million (approximately US$17 million). The seizure, part of the ongoing ‘Operation Clean Street,’ marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against drug trafficking. Acting Police Commissioner Lincoln Corbette announced the breakthrough during a press conference, emphasizing the magnitude of the bust. ‘This is the largest haul ever recorded in Dominica, surpassing the 3,000 pounds seized in the early 1980s,’ Corbette stated. He praised the dedicated efforts of the officers involved, highlighting the critical impact of removing such a substantial quantity of cocaine from circulation. ‘This is EC$46 million that will not be used to harm our citizens. Cocaine is an extremely dangerous substance,’ he added. While Corbette did not confirm any arrests directly linked to the cocaine seizure, he revealed that 24 individuals—19 men and 5 women—had been detained as part of the broader operation. Authorities also confiscated significant amounts of cash, including over US$10,000, 800 Barbados dollars, 400 Euros, and EC$30,507, alongside an arsenal of firearms, including shotguns, pistols, and ammunition. The operation underscores Dominica’s commitment to combating organized crime and safeguarding public safety.
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Potworks Reservoir Holds 4–5 Months’ Supply, Says APUA
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has announced that the Potworks Reservoir currently holds enough water to meet the island’s needs for the next four to five months. As of October 17, the reservoir’s staff gauge recorded a water level of 12 feet, with the Water Business Unit distributing approximately one million imperial gallons daily to customers across the network. APUA remains hopeful that ongoing rainfall and runoff from the Liberta and All Saints areas will further enhance the reservoir’s capacity in the coming days. This optimistic outlook comes as a relief to residents, ensuring a stable water supply during the critical months ahead. APUA continues to monitor the situation closely, leveraging natural resources to maintain water security for the island.