The High Court of Justice will close its doors to the public on Friday, July 10, 2026, as part of Exercise STRONGHOLD, a national security drill being conducted in preparation for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. According to Antigua.news, the closure will affect the Court's Civil, Criminal, and Family Divisions.
Authorities warn that security operations, road closures, and traffic diversions in the vicinity of the High Court building are expected to significantly disrupt access to the facility throughout the day.
In a notice issued on Thursday, the Court confirmed that all matters scheduled for Friday have been postponed and will be assigned new hearing dates. The Court Registry will contact all affected parties with revised scheduling information.
Parties represented by attorneys have been advised to reach out to their legal counsel for updates. Self-represented individuals may contact the High Court Registry directly for further guidance.
The Court is expected to resume normal operations on Monday, July 13.
Exercise STRONGHOLD is one of several security preparations underway ahead of CHOGM 2026, which will bring together heads of government and delegates from across the Commonwealth to Antigua and Barbuda.