Local News
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IMF Urges Stronger Credit Union Oversight in Antigua and Barbuda
The International Monetary Fund is urging Antigua and Barbuda to adopt stronger, risk-based supervision of credit unions as part of wider financial sector reforms. The call comes as the IMF estimates the country's economy grew by 3 percent in 2025, with inflation cooling to 1.4 percent.
High Commissioner Urges National Unity to Make CHOGM 2026 a Success
High Commissioner Karen-Mae Hill is calling on all Antiguans and Barbudans to support preparations for CHOGM 2026, describing the November summit as a national effort requiring volunteers, citizens, and workers across every sector. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively recruiting up to 400 volunteers and 200 Delegation Liaison Officers ahead of the landmark event.
Letter: Antigua and Barbuda Must Rethink Land Use Before It's Too Late
A letter published by Antigua News Room calls on Antigua and Barbuda to urgently rethink its land use policies, warning that the continued reliance on single-family subdivisions is unsustainable and could leave future generations unable to afford or access land. The writer argues that higher-density housing solutions, including apartments and condominiums, are necessary to preserve the island's finite land supply.
WHO Confirms Hantavirus Outbreak Linked to Cruise Ship MV Hondius; Three Dead
Health authorities across multiple countries are working to trace and contain a hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, with five confirmed infections and three deaths reported since April 11. The WHO says the risk to the general public remains low, while Spanish authorities prepare to investigate and disinfect the vessel upon its arrival in Tenerife.
Sir David Attenborough Marks 100th Birthday with National Celebrations
Sir David Attenborough turns 100 on 8 May 2026, with the United Kingdom marking the milestone through celebrations including a live concert at the Royal Albert Hall and a gathering of fans in Trafalgar Square. The legendary broadcaster and naturalist is also being honoured with a newly named genus — a tiny parasitic wasp called Attenboroughnculus tau.
Young Senators to Be Sworn In as ABLP Builds Fourth-Term Government
Young professionals including Angelica O'Donoghue, Shaquan O'Niel, and Abena St Luce are set to be sworn in as senators this morning as the ABLP continues forming its fourth-term government. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has indicated the appointments reflect a push for younger voices and greater female representation in the Senate.
New Health Minister Tours Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, Flags Key Priorities
Newly appointed Health Minister Michael Joseph visited the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre on Thursday, receiving briefings on key healthcare priorities and touring the facility alongside hospital leadership. Discussions focused on staffing, infrastructure and strategies to improve patient care.
Governor General to Present Government Senators at Friday Ceremony
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams and Lady Williams will host a ceremony Friday at 10 a.m. for the formal presentation of Government Senators, continuing the post-election constitutional process following last week's general election.
ABLP to Hold Thanksgiving Service on May 17 to Mark Election Victory
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced a Service of Thanksgiving on May 17 at the St. John's Pentecostal Church House of Restoration to mark the ABLP's election victory. Ministers, parliamentarians, party supporters, and the public are all encouraged to attend.
Parliament Sets May Schedule for MP Swearing-In, Senate Sittings and Throne Speech
Antigua and Barbuda's Parliament will hold three sittings this month, beginning May 18th, for the swearing-in of MPs and senators, the election of presiding officers, and the Governor General's Speech from the Throne on May 26th.
Treasury Completes Back Pay Disbursements Across Dozens of Government Departments
The Treasury Department has issued retroactive pay to eligible public sector workers across all government ministries and departments as of April 29, with a further update scheduled for May 15.
Cabinet Honours Mary-Clare Hurst, Announces Official Funeral
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has honoured the late Mary-Clare Hurst, a pioneering public servant and the first woman to serve as General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party. An Official Funeral has been announced in recognition of her outstanding contributions to national development and public service.
PM Browne Demands Results and Unity at First Cabinet Meeting of New Term
Prime Minister Gaston Browne opened the Government's new term with a firm call for results, unity, and community engagement at the first Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday. Browne outlined key priority areas including road rehabilitation, housing, healthcare, and infrastructure, while warning that underperformance within ministries would not be accepted.
Browne Cabinet Holds First Post-Election Meeting, Sets Accountability Agenda
The newly re-elected Gaston Browne administration held its first post-election Cabinet meeting on 6th May 2026, with the Prime Minister setting a firm agenda centred on accountability, infrastructure and service delivery. Cabinet also paid tribute to the late Mary-Clare Hurst, announced her Official Funeral, and outlined key parliamentary dates for the new term.
PM Browne Sets Tone for New Term, Warns Cabinet Against Underperformance
Prime Minister Gaston Browne used the first Cabinet meeting of the new term to deliver a strong message of accountability, warning ministers that underperformance will not be tolerated and urging the team to deliver concrete results for citizens.
Commentary: Antigua's Future Hinges on Values, Accountability, and Efficiency
Senior public sector official Garfield Joseph argues in a new commentary that Antigua and Barbuda's future prosperity depends on the daily practice of efficiency, personal accountability, and strong positive values — principles he illustrates through contrasting local banking experiences and global examples. The piece, published by Antigua News Room, calls on all citizens to reflect honestly on their individual role in national development.
Gray's Farm Man Remanded on Attempted Murder and Firearm Charges
A 23-year-old Gray's Farm man has been remanded to prison after appearing in court on charges of shooting with intent to murder and unlawful firearm possession, linked to an April 26 incident on Queen Elizabeth Highway.
Two Men Charged With Illegal Firearm Possession After Police Operations in Freetown and Collins
Two men have been charged with illegal firearm and ammunition possession following separate police operations in Freetown and Collins on Wednesday morning. Both are due to appear in court next week.
Gray's Farm Man Remanded on Shooting and Firearm Charges After Highway Incident
Nathaniel Santana, 23, of Gray's Farm has been remanded to His Majesty's Prison after appearing in court on charges including Shooting with Intent to Murder, connected to an April 26 incident along Queen Elizabeth Highway. The case has been adjourned until June 18, 2026.
New Health Minister Visits Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre in First Official Engagement
Newly appointed Health Minister Michael Joseph visited the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre on his first day of official duties, meeting with hospital leadership to discuss operational challenges, staffing needs, and strategies to improve healthcare delivery.