Prime Minister Gaston Browne has warned he is prepared to retain "the most expensive lawyers in the world" to pursue further legal action against his accusers, following a U.S. court ruling in his favour in the Alfa Nero discovery appeal case. According to Antigua News Room, Browne declared that any future costs imposed on his opponents "must hurt them."
Speaking toward the end of a recent broadcast, Browne made clear he would escalate the matter aggressively if his accusers pressed on. "If they go any further… I'm going to get perhaps the most expensive lawyers I can get in the world to go after them, because I want to make sure… that when they pay the cost, it must hurt them," he said.
The prime minister's remarks followed a U.S. court decision that effectively ended the discovery proceedings against him. Browne asserted the matter is now closed and that a further appeal is unlikely.
Browne said the case centred on allegations that he and the government engaged in corrupt activities linked to the sale of the Alfa Nero yacht, including claims involving Venezuelan oil and gold transactions. He maintained those accusations were unfounded and characterised the legal effort as a "fishing expedition" by his accusers.
According to Browne, the court found no evidence of wrongdoing after examining financial records, resulting in the quashing of a subpoena and dismissal of the appeal. He argued the outcome constitutes full vindication, stating that investigators failed to uncover any improper transactions despite having access to banking information.
Browne also indicated that steps are underway to recover legal costs incurred by the government in defending the matter. Because he was acting in his official capacity, public funds were used, and he said efforts are now being made to reclaim "a few hundred thousand dollars" spent on legal fees.
In addition, the prime minister disclosed that he has filed independent legal action seeking US$1 million in damages against U.S. attorney Martin DeLuca and his law firm, alleging reputational harm arising from the case.
Browne described the ruling as confirmation that allegations of corruption and financial misconduct were baseless. He said the court's findings reinforce his longstanding position that no laws were violated and no public funds were misappropriated.
