Politics
1478 articles
PM Challenges Opposition to 'Get Their Act Together' Ahead of Election
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly challenged the opposition to 'get their act together' as Antigua and Barbuda edges closer to an election date, signalling a heightening of political tensions in the country.
DNA Opts Out of Snap General Election, Calls for Free and Fair Poll
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has announced it will not participate in the upcoming snap general election, with its management committee unanimously agreeing to sit out the poll. The party, led by former MP and senator Joanne Massiah, called for elections to be free, fair, and free from fear.
DNA Party to Sit Out Upcoming Snap General Elections
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has confirmed it will not contest the upcoming snap general elections, following a unanimous decision by its Management Committee. The party, which has struggled since its founding in 2017, called for elections that are free, fair, and free from fear.
MPs Pay Tribute to Retiring Veteran Parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph
Members of Parliament Richard Lewis, Sherfield Bowen, and Trevor Walker paid tribute in the Lower House to retiring St. Mary's North MP Sir Molwyn Joseph, honouring his more than three decades of parliamentary service. The tributes highlighted his ministerial roles, his skill as a debater, and the unwavering support of his constituents.
LETTER: Making the Case for Freeland in St. George
With the next general election on the horizon, letter writer Timmy Macholet makes the case for ABLP candidate Senator Michael Freeland as the most qualified and community-connected candidate to represent the pivotal St. George constituency.
Sir Molwyn Joseph Endorses Dr. Philmore Benjamin as His Successor in St. Mary's North
Veteran MP Sir Molwyn Joseph has publicly endorsed Dr. Philmore Benjamin as his successor in St. Mary's North during his final address to Parliament, pledging to work alongside him to maintain continuity of service to the constituency.
House Passes Special Economic Zone Amendment Bill Targeting Money Laundering Compliance
The House of Representatives has passed the Special Economic Zone (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stricter anti-money laundering compliance requirements, mandatory identity verification, and enhanced regulatory oversight for businesses operating within Antigua and Barbuda's Special Economic Zones. The bill now proceeds to the Senate, with the government citing an upcoming national evaluation in November as a key driver of the legislation's timeline.
MP Randy Baltimore Outlines Priorities for St. Philip's North in Maiden Parliamentary Address
Newly elected St. Philip's North MP Randy Baltimore delivered his maiden parliamentary address on Friday, outlining priorities including road infrastructure, community safety and economic opportunities following his March 16 by-election win. Baltimore pledged visible, year-round representation for his constituents.
MP Richard Lewis Vows Return to Parliament on Strength of His Record
United Progressive Party MP Richard Lewis has told Parliament he is confident his constituency record will secure his return to the Lower House at the next general election. The St. John's Rural West representative dismissed political challenges, declaring that the outcome in his constituency is already decided.
All Saints West MP Launches Road Upgrade Programme, Starting with Lightfoot Community
Member of Parliament Anthony Smith has launched a road upgrade programme in All Saints West, beginning with concrete road construction in the Lightfoot community. Smith says similar works are planned for other areas, including Oliver's and Buckleys, to be carried out in phases.
Parliament Passes Special Economic Zone Amendment Bill to Boost Investment and Compliance
Parliament has passed the Special Economic Zone Amendment Bill 2026, updating the regulatory framework governing investment zones to strengthen compliance with international financial standards. Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin urged that Antigua and Barbuda must act decisively to compete for global investment opportunities.
Antigua Parliament Passes Festivals Commission Bill to Boost Economic Impact of Carnival
Antigua and Barbuda's Parliament has passed the Festivals Commission Bill 2026, creating a single 13-member body to manage Carnival and the One Nation Festival. Minister of Creative Industries Daryll Matthew says the move aims to transform the country's major festivals into economic engines while improving financial oversight and professional management.
China's Ambassador Outlines New Five-Year Blueprint and Opportunities for Antigua
Chinese Ambassador H.E. Jiang Wei has outlined the key outcomes of China's 2026 Two Sessions, highlighting strong economic growth, a new Five-Year Plan, and deepened cooperation prospects with Antigua and Barbuda and the broader Latin American and Caribbean region.
Masicka's Cultural Ambassadorship Built on Youth Development Framework, Not Just Star Power
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda's appointment of dancehall artist Masicka as Cultural Ambassador is underpinned by a formal five-pillar youth development framework spanning talent training, mentorship, and crime prevention. An initial Jamaica Artist Exchange Programme will see three young local artists selected for international industry exposure.
Antigua and Barbuda Helps Shape Global High Seas Treaty at UN Talks
Antigua and Barbuda is actively participating in UN preparatory talks for the High Seas Treaty, with delegation lead Asha Challenger serving as a Vice President of the Preparatory Commission. The sessions, running March 23 to April 2, mark the final stage before the treaty's first Conference of the Parties, expected in January next year.
Ministry Urges Applicants to Meet April 2 Deadline for OAS Scholarships
The Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries is urging eligible candidates to submit their applications for the 2026 OAS Academic Scholarship Programme before the April 2, 2026 deadline. Both undergraduate and graduate study opportunities are available under the regional initiative.
Youth Ambassador Calls for Unity and Action Following Deaths of Two Young Antiguans
National Youth Ambassador Kristine Louisa has issued a public call for unity and action following the deaths of two young people in Antigua and Barbuda. She is urging community leaders, mentors, and advocates to strengthen youth intervention programmes and safe spaces across the nation.
PM Browne Lashes Out at Opposition Leader Pringle Over Parliamentary Conduct
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly condemned Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle as an "incompetent, ignorant, hot mess" following Pringle's ejection from Parliament and his controversial remarks during tributes to retiring MP Sir Molwyn Joseph. The incident has intensified tensions between the government and opposition.
Sir Molwyn Joseph Insists Retirement From Parliament Was His Own Choice
Veteran MP Sir Molwyn Joseph used his final parliamentary address to dismiss rumours that he was pushed out by Prime Minister Gaston Browne or the Labour Party leadership, saying his retirement after 42 years was driven by family priorities and personal reflection.
Letter: Masicka Appointment Slammed as 'Cultural Surrender' and Betrayal of National Identity
A letter published by Antigua News Room has sharply condemned the appointment of Jamaican dancehall artiste Masicka as Cultural Ambassador, accusing Prime Minister Gaston Browne and two senior officials of betraying national identity and outsourcing cultural representation.