Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a formal statement condemning the shooting incident that occurred in the early hours near a public concert organised by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, stressing that the violence was criminal in nature and not politically motivated. According to Antigua News Room, the Prime Minister moved swiftly to address public concern and reaffirm his government's commitment to combating gun violence.
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda had already confirmed that the incident bears no political connection and is unrelated to the concert itself. Prime Minister Browne urged the public to take careful note of that clarification.
"What occurred was an act of criminal violence, rooted in illegal guns and ongoing disputes, which intruded upon a public gathering," Browne stated. "It has no place in our society."
The Prime Minister condemned, in the strongest terms, the use of illegal firearms, gang activity, and any form of violence that endangers innocent lives. He called for those responsible to be identified, apprehended, and brought before the courts.
Browne pointed to legislative action already undertaken by his administration, including strengthened laws, increased penalties for illegal possession and use of firearms, and intensified efforts to disrupt the importation and circulation of illegal weapons. He described gun violence as a grave threat to public safety and national stability.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister referenced the ruling party's 2026 Manifesto, titled The Renaissance: A New Era for Antigua and Barbuda. He cited pages 74 and 75 specifically, stating that the document sets out an uncompromising commitment to zero tolerance for murder, gang violence, and the spread of illegal firearms, with pledges to further strengthen legislation, ensure full enforcement, and impose severe penalties on those who traffic in illegal weapons or engage in violent crime.
"This is not rhetoric. It is a firm commitment to action," Browne said.
The Prime Minister concluded by affirming that his government would intensify its efforts in full cooperation with law enforcement and the broader community to eradicate the threat and preserve the safety and security of all residents of Antigua and Barbuda.
