Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin is facing calls for a public apology following remarks made in the House of Representatives that mocked two absent opposition members — one of whom had travelled overseas to be with his young daughter during a medical procedure.
According to Antigua Observer, United Progressive Party Senator Jonathan Wehner raised the matter during an appearance on Observer Radio, condemning the Attorney General's comments as inappropriate and unbecoming of his office.
Wehner's call for an apology centres on the circumstances surrounding the absence of at least one opposition member, who was not present in the House due to a family medical emergency involving his child. The senator argued that mocking a colleague under such circumstances was both insensitive and unacceptable.
The incident has drawn attention to standards of conduct within Antigua and Barbuda's parliament, with the opposition pushing back firmly against what it characterises as disrespectful behaviour from a senior government official.
As reported by Antigua Observer, Senator Wehner's public intervention signals that the UPP intends to hold Sir Steadroy Benjamin accountable for his remarks, and is demanding that the Attorney General address the matter with a formal and public apology.
