Local News
2711 articles
Court of Appeal Dismisses Everton Welch's Challenge in 1993 Customs Chief Murder Case
The Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal has dismissed a challenge by Everton Welch, who was convicted of the 1993 murder of Customs Comptroller Rolston Samuel. The ruling, reported by Antigua News Room, brings a close to a legal saga spanning more than 30 years.
Ghana Cabinet Approves Visa Waiver Agreement with Antigua and Barbuda
Ghana's Cabinet has approved a visa waiver agreement with Antigua and Barbuda, paving the way for visa-free travel of up to 30 days between the two countries once parliament ratifies the deal. The agreement is expected to boost tourism, business, and cultural ties between the Caribbean and West Africa.
Appeal Dismissed in 1993 Murder Case of Antigua's Customs Comptroller
The Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal of Everton Welch, convicted in 1994 for the murder of Customs Comptroller Rolston Samuel, bringing a final close to one of Antigua's longest-running criminal cases. The court found that despite a procedural failing at sentencing, Welch had received a fair process overall.
Electoral Commission Orders Parties to Clear Campaign Material Before April 30 Vote
Electoral Commission Chairman Arthur Thomas has ordered political parties to remove all campaign materials from polling divisions before the April 30 general elections, while also warning voters that a valid identification card is required to cast a ballot.
Grays Farm Dental Clinic Remains Closed Pending Upgrades; Patients Directed to Villa Polyclinic
The Ministry of Health has clarified that the Grays Farm Dental Clinic remains temporarily closed due to more extensive renovation needs than initially anticipated. Patients have been redirected to the Villa Polyclinic while the Ministry of Works awaits scheduling of the required upgrades.
ABEC Processes 31,000+ Voter ID Cards as Election Replacement Drive Nears End
The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission has recorded over 31,600 voter ID transactions as its nationwide replacement programme approaches the April 30 general election deadline. Completion rates vary widely across constituencies, with some areas still hovering around 60 percent.
ABEC Chairman Warns Voters: No Valid ID, No Vote on April 30
The chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission is urging voters to replace their ID cards immediately, warning that no one will be permitted to vote in the April 30 general elections without a valid voter identification card. He also called for orderly, respectful conduct on Election Day and reminded parties to remove campaign materials from polling areas before voting begins.
Land Scarcity Forces Creative Housing Solutions in St John's Rural South
Education Minister Daryll Matthew says the lack of available government land is the central barrier to housing expansion in St John's Rural South, with the government exploring condominium-style development and property rehabilitation as alternatives. Matthew outlined the challenges and potential solutions during an appearance on ABS Television's "Know Your Candidates" programme.
MBS Launches 'Sneakers on the Move 2026' Campaign to Promote Physical and Mental Wellness
The Medical Benefits Scheme has launched its 'Sneakers on the Move 2026' wellness campaign, featuring a school tour, a sneakers week, and a street jam throughout April and May. The initiative aims to promote physical activity and mental wellness among students and the wider public.
Toyota Recalls 73,528 Corolla Cross Hybrids Over Pedestrian Warning Sound Defect
Toyota has recalled 73,528 Corolla Cross Hybrid vehicles from the 2023–2025 model years over a defect that may cause the backup pedestrian warning sound to be too quiet, violating federal safety standards. Affected owners will receive a free software fix from Toyota dealerships, with notification letters expected by late May 2026.
Ford Recalls Over 83,000 Vehicles for Headlight and Engine Defects
Ford Motor Company is recalling more than 83,000 vehicles due to a headlight software defect and a faulty exhaust-gas recirculation valve, with the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division reminding consumers that recall-related repairs are free of charge.
Treasury Department Calls on Former Government Employees to Resolve Outstanding Matters
The Treasury Department has issued a public notice urging former government employees with outstanding matters on file to make contact with its helpdesk promptly. Those named or anyone with knowledge of their whereabouts are asked to reach out via email.
Kia Recalls 141,000 Carnival SUVs Over Fire Risk Fuel Pipe Defect
The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division is warning local owners that Kia America has recalled approximately 141,000 Kia Carnival SUVs built between 2022 and 2026 due to a fuel pipe defect that could cause a fire. Affected owners are urged to act proactively and are reminded that recall-related repairs are free of charge.
UPP Denies Link to Washington Letter, Demands Answers on US Visa Restrictions
The UPP has denied any connection to an anonymous website or circulating letter tied to US visa restrictions, firing back at ABLP Chairman Chet Greene's claims and demanding the government answer serious questions about the impact of those restrictions on Antiguan nationals.
UPP Denies Any Link to Controversial 'Washington Letter,' Blasts ABLP Response
The United Progressive Party has denied any involvement in a controversial letter circulating publicly, rejecting ABLP claims of a link as politically motivated and calling on the government to address the letter's substance transparently.
Toyota Recalls 73,528 Hybrid Vehicles Over Faulty Reverse Warning Sound
Toyota is recalling 73,528 Corolla Cross Hybrid vehicles from model years 2023–2025 due to a backup pedestrian warning sound that may be too quiet. The recall extends to Antigua and Barbuda, with dealers set to provide a free software fix and owner notifications expected by late May 2026.
Overnight Detour in Effect as All Saints Road Roadworks Resume
Major infrastructure rehabilitation works resume on All Saints Road between FADI Building Supplies and Fresh and Eazy Supermarket, with an overnight detour in effect from 7:00 pm on April 23rd to 7:00 am the following morning.
Lexus Recalls Over 9,000 Vehicles Over Fuel Pump Failure Risk
The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division is alerting the public to a Toyota recall of 9,139 Lexus vehicles due to a fuel pump defect that can cause stalling and increase crash risk. Affected owners are entitled to a free replacement at an authorised dealership under the Consumer Protection Act 2025.
Kia Recalls 141,000 Carnival Vehicles Over Fire Risk; Local Consumers Urged to Act
The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division is urging local Kia Carnival owners to act promptly following a Kia America recall of approximately 141,000 vehicles due to a fuel-pipe defect that increases the risk of fire. Owners are reminded that recall-related repairs are free of charge.
Ford Recalls 83,000 Vehicles Over Headlight and Engine Safety Defects
Ford Motor Company has recalled more than 83,000 vehicles due to a headlight software defect and a faulty exhaust-gas recirculation valve, with the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division urging affected owners to seek free repairs. The recall covers several 2025 and 2026 Ford and Lincoln models.