Politics
1678 articles
Jamale Pringle Sworn In as Leader of the Opposition at Government House
Jamale Pringle of the United Progressive Party has been officially sworn in as Leader of the Opposition following Antigua and Barbuda's April 30 general election. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams cited constitutional provisions and Pringle's national electoral support in making the appointment.
Pringle Hails UPP Senate Picks as 'Well Received,' Vows Senators Will Serve with Distinction
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle used Monday's Senate swearing-in ceremony at Government House to declare that the UPP's new appointments have already earned widespread public support, offering glowing assessments of each incoming senator's experience and character.
Three UPP Senators Sworn In; Governor General Calls for Integrity in Democracy
Three UPP senators — Ashworth Azille, Jonathan Wehner, and Chester Hughes — were sworn into office Monday at Government House, as Governor General Sir Rodney Williams called on the Upper House to uphold integrity and respect for democratic institutions. The ceremony also marked the formal appointment of Jamale Pringle as Leader of the Opposition.
DCP Benjamin-Quashie Represents RPFAB at 40th ACCP Conference in Suriname
Deputy Commissioner of Police Louisa Benjamin-Quashie is representing the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda at the 40th ACCP Annual Conference in Paramaribo, Suriname, where Caribbean law enforcement leaders are addressing organized crime and regional security challenges. It is the first time Benjamin-Quashie attends the conference in her role as Deputy Commissioner.
Barbuda Worker Transfer Sparks Political Victimisation Claims Against Council
A Barbuda ABLP supporter has publicly alleged political victimisation by the Barbuda Council, claiming a worker was transferred due to her political affiliations following the April 30 general election. The Barbuda Council has not responded to the allegations, and no direct evidence linking the transfer to political affiliation has been provided.
Malaka Parker Absent from Senate Swearing-In, Cites Travel Obligations
Senator Malaka Parker missed Monday's Senate swearing-in ceremony, citing unavoidable travel obligations. As reported by Antigua News Room, Parker confirmed via social media that she will announce a new date for her swearing-in once arrangements are in place.
Foreign Affairs Minister Greene Pushes for Unified CARICOM Stand on Regional Pressures
Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene is urging CARICOM leaders to present a united front on pressing regional challenges, including rising energy costs and U.S. immigration policies affecting Caribbean nations. Greene made the call during a Saturday radio appearance, warning that the region stands at a critical crossroads.
Letter: UPP Must Step Aside for Walker-Led Movement, Writer Argues
A letter published by Antigua News Room calls on Jamale Pringle to step aside as leader of the United Progressive Party following a decisive electoral defeat, urging Trevor Walker to lead a bold new political movement in Antigua and Barbuda.
Chinese Premier Congratulates PM Browne on Re-Election, Pledges Stronger Bilateral Ties
Chinese Premier Li Qiang has congratulated Prime Minister Gaston Browne on his re-election, reaffirming China's commitment to strengthening ties with Antigua and Barbuda after 43 years of diplomatic relations.
Worker Calls for Fairness in Backpay Eligibility After Years on Government Programme
A government employee who spent three years on the Labour Department's Work Experience Programme before being permanently hired in 2022 says they have been deemed ineligible for backpay, despite the Government indicating that workers hired between 2018 and 2023 qualify for compensation. The worker is calling on authorities to review the criteria and recognise the contributions of those in similar situations.
Novo Banco Bondholders Dealt Major Blow as Portugal's Top Court Rejects Pilot Appeal
Portugal's Supreme Administrative Court has rejected a pilot appeal by Novo Banco bondholders challenging the 2015 transfer of nearly EUR2 billion in senior bonds back to the failed Banco Espirito Santo, and declined to refer the case to the EU's top court, according to Antigua.news. The ruling sets a difficult precedent for other pending investor claims in one of Europe's most contested post-crisis bank resolution disputes.
US to Revoke Passports of Americans with Unpaid Child Support Debt
The US State Department has announced it will revoke the passports of Americans owing more than $2,500 in unpaid child support, expanding enforcement of a rarely applied 1996 federal law. Those affected will be ineligible for a new passport until their debt is fully paid.
US State Department: Child Support Debt Over $2,500 Can Block or Revoke Passport
The US State Department is warning Americans that unpaid child support debt exceeding $2,500 can result in denial or revocation of a US passport. As reported by Antigua.news, individuals must fully clear outstanding obligations before becoming eligible for passport services.
Hantavirus Risk Remains Low in Antigua and Barbuda, Ministry Says
The Ministry of Health says the risk of hantavirus in Antigua and Barbuda remains low following a cruise ship outbreak in the Central Atlantic that has killed three people and produced eight cases. Surveillance has been heightened at ports of entry and within the cruise sector.
New Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Dismisses PM's Retirement Talk
Antigua and Barbuda's newly formed Cabinet has rallied against Prime Minister Gaston Browne's reported musings about leaving office, urging him to remain in his leadership role. The pushback signals a united front within the governing administration.
Greene: UPP Cannot Win Another Election While Isaac Remains Chairman
Political figure Greene has declared that the UPP can never win another election with Isaac serving as chairman, raising fresh questions about the opposition party's leadership. The remarks signal deepening tensions surrounding the party's direction and electoral viability.
Greene Claims UPP Senate Selections Reveal Opposition's Lack of Fresh Talent
A government official identified as Greene has criticized the UPP's Senate appointments, claiming the opposition has run out of new faces and is failing to develop fresh political talent. The remarks highlight continued friction between Antigua and Barbuda's ruling party and the opposition.
Greene Credits ABLP's Record of Delivery for Landslide Election Victory
ABLP chairman E. P. Chet Greene says the party's 15-of-17 seat election victory on April 30 reflected voter confidence in Prime Minister Gaston Browne's leadership and the party's record of fulfilling its manifesto promises. Greene argued the UPP failed to offer a convincing alternative, with voters choosing proven governance over what he described as political gimmicks.
Parliament Opening and Swearing-In Dates Set for May
Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin has announced that Parliament's Lower House will convene on May 18 for swearing-in ceremonies, with the Senate following on May 20 and the Governor General's Throne Speech set for May 26.
Treasury Processing Back Pay for Public Servants Across Key Ministries
The Treasury Department is processing retroactive salary payments for public sector workers across multiple government ministries and departments, with a further update expected on May 15.