A recent letter to the editor from Julia Moltovia, a tourist from the United States, has shed light on the dire state of road infrastructure in Buckleys Village, Antigua. Moltovia, who was visiting the Caribbean island with her family, described her experience as one of the worst of her life, prompting her to consider cutting her two-week vacation short to just three days. The family’s ordeal began while driving from Buckleys to All Saints, where they encountered a road that appeared to have been intentionally dug up. Their front-wheel-drive rental car began sliding in the dirt, nearly colliding with a lamppost. The incident left her children screaming and crying, and the family traumatized. A passerby in a pickup truck eventually helped them onto a paved road, but their troubles were far from over. Shortly after, their car got stuck in a deep trench near a white apartment on an incline. They had to wait an hour for a tow truck to arrive due to heavy rain. The family faced further challenges when they encountered flooded roads on Buckleys Main Road, making it impossible to continue safely. Moltovia criticized the authorities responsible for the road network, stating that the poor conditions are a terrible look for tourism. Despite the ordeal, she expressed gratitude to the rental car company for their professionalism and to the locals who assisted them. Her letter serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in Buckleys Village.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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America’s top military man in the region announces retirement
In a surprising turn of events, Vice Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), has announced his retirement, effective December 12, 2025. This decision comes just one year into his tenure as commander, raising questions about the timing and underlying reasons for his departure. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the news in a social media post on X, praising Holsey for his 37 years of dedicated service to the US Navy. Holsey, who assumed command in November 2024, previously served as the deputy commander of SOUTHCOM. His retirement follows a series of high-profile military actions in the Caribbean, including multiple strikes against alleged drug cartels and recent operations off the coast of Venezuela. These actions, authorized by President Donald Trump, have drawn scrutiny for their legal ambiguity and strategic implications. Holsey’s departure also coincides with broader leadership changes within the US military, as Hegseth has replaced several senior officers since taking office. In a statement on X, Holsey expressed gratitude for his role, emphasizing the SOUTHCOM team’s contributions to national defense. The US Navy and SOUTHCOM have yet to comment on the circumstances surrounding his retirement.
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MP’s From Both Sides Back New Regional Authority to Police Citizenship by Investment Program
In a historic display of bipartisan cooperation, opposition and government Members of Parliament in Antigua and Barbuda came together on Thursday to ratify the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) Agreement and pass the ECCIRA Bill 2025. This landmark legislation formalizes a regional framework designed to harmonize and strengthen oversight of citizenship by investment (CBI) programs across the Eastern Caribbean. The agreement, initially signed in September by Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia, establishes ECCIRA as a centralized authority to regulate and monitor CBI initiatives. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who introduced the measures, hailed the move as a “historic turning point” for the region’s investment migration sector. He emphasized that the framework would set a “global gold standard” for transparency, accountability, and security. The new authority will monitor promoters, agents, and due-diligence providers, maintain a regional register of licensed service providers, enforce sanctions of up to US$250,000 for regulatory breaches, and coordinate with CARICOM IMPACS and other international bodies. Additionally, ECCIRA will promote risk-based auditing, publish annual transparency reports, and spearhead regional training to enhance compliance and investigative capabilities. The governance structure includes a Council of Ministers from each member state and a nine-member board with representatives from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, OECS Commission, and CARICOM IMPACS. Opposition MPs supported the initiative, praising it as essential for protecting the region’s reputation and investor confidence. The unanimous approval of both the treaty and the bill underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to regional cooperation and self-regulation. Prime Minister Browne concluded, “This is about sustainability and protecting our people’s interests. It shows that, as a region, we are capable of integrity, accountability, and collective leadership.”
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Pringle Calls for Clarity on Public Accounts Committee Rules; AG Promises Review
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.
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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.