Local News
1242 articles
Government Sets March 2026 Deadline to Complete Millions in Public Servant Back Pay
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has disbursed over EC$28.7 million in retroactive salary payments to public servants and is targeting March 2026 to complete all outstanding back pay owed for the period 2018 to 2023. Cabinet has approved a structured framework to guide the final disbursements while authorities work to resolve data and banking challenges slowing the process.
Two Teenagers Shot Dead in Villa in Suspected Drive-By Attack
Two teenagers, identified as Omari Lewis and Brianna Clark, were killed in a suspected drive-by shooting in Villa on Thursday. The incident has left the community in shock as police continue their investigation.
Two Teenagers Killed in Suspected Drive-By Shooting in Villa
Two teenagers, Omari Lewis and Brianna Clark, have been killed in a suspected drive-by shooting in the Villa community. Police and Emergency Medical Services were on the scene as investigations continue.
Two Dead in Villa Shooting; Police on Scene
Two people, believed to be a couple, have been shot and killed in the Villa area. Police are on the scene, though authorities have not yet issued an official statement.
Cabinet Pledges Airfare Subsidy to Ease Antigua–Barbuda Travel Costs
Cabinet has pledged to approve a subsidy to lower airfare costs between Antigua and Barbuda, following a presentation by ABLP Barbuda caretaker Kendra Beazer on the financial impact of rising ticket prices. A formal proposal is expected to be reviewed at the next Cabinet sitting.
Double Homicide in Villa Raises Antigua's Murder Toll to Seven
A man and a woman have been shot and killed in Villa, bringing the country's murder toll to seven so far this year. Police are on the scene and investigations are underway.
Letter: Masicka's Cultural Ambassador Appointment Draws Sharp Public Criticism
A member of the public has written to question the government's appointment of Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka as a Cultural Ambassador, citing unresolved controversies and calling on authorities to justify the decision. The letter, published by Antigua News Room, raises concerns about due diligence and the integrity of national appointments.
Letter: Antiguans Deserve a Better, More Reliable Bus System
A frustrated Antiguan commuter has written an open letter calling for sweeping reforms to the island's public bus system, citing unpredictable schedules, uneven route coverage, and the practice of delaying departures until buses are full. The writer urges the government to take control of public transport and restructure how conductors are compensated.
Cabinet Terminates Sutherlands Lease to Make Way for Low-Income Housing Project
Cabinet has approved the termination of a lease on approximately 13.647 acres of land at Sutherlands to make way for a low-income housing development, including the regularization of informal settlements and the relocation of the Clarevue Mental Hospital.
Government Eyes End-of-March Deadline for Retroactive Public Servant Payments
The government is aiming to finalise retroactive payments to public servants by the end of March, having disbursed $28.6 million so far under a settlement programme covering the period 2018 to 2023. Officials acknowledged delays caused by incomplete records and have established a dedicated Treasury help desk to resolve outstanding queries.
Three Men in Custody Following Fatal Stabbing of All Saints Man
Three men from the All Saints community are in police custody following the fatal stabbing of 29-year-old Jahmarley Pierre near the All Saints traffic lights on Wednesday evening. Authorities are appealing to the public for information as the investigation continues.
Three Suspects Questioned in All Saints Stabbing Death
Three men from All Saints, aged 23, 24, and 29, are in police custody following the fatal stabbing of 29-year-old Jahmarley Pierre near the All Saints traffic lights on Wednesday afternoon. Pierre was transported to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he was pronounced dead.
U.S. Military Strike in Caribbean Kills Four, Raising Regional Fears
U.S. Joint Task Force Southern Spear has conducted another lethal strike in Caribbean waters, killing four men designated as narco-terrorists and bringing the total death toll from such strikes to at least 163 since September. The operations have sparked international concern over transparency and legality, and are fuelling fear among fishing communities across the region, including in Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua Government Moves to Relax Dress Code Rules at Public Offices
The Antigua and Barbuda government is moving to relax dress code enforcement at public offices after reports of citizens being turned away while seeking essential services. Cabinet has signalled a shift toward a "common sense" approach, prioritising access over rigid attire rules.
Antigua and Barbuda Names Jamaican Dancehall Star Masicka as Cultural Ambassador
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the appointment of Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka as cultural ambassador for youth talent development and creative industries collaboration. The initiative includes a Jamaica-based exchange programme for three local artists, alongside mentorship schemes and youth empowerment forums.
Cabinet Approves Antigua's First National Cardiology Centre at SLBMC
Cabinet has approved the establishment of Antigua and Barbuda's first national cardiology centre at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, with the aim of providing advanced cardiac care locally and eliminating the need for overseas treatment. The centre will be developed in partnership with internationally recognised cardiologist Professor Jingwei Zhang.
Antigua Cabinet Approves 5% Payment Increase for Pensioners Amid Cost-of-Living Relief Push
Antigua and Barbuda's Cabinet has approved a 5% increase in payments to pensioners, expanding a wave of wage relief measures that already covered public servants and contract workers. The government says the move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen social protection amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
UWI Five Islands Campus to Present 2024/2025 Annual Report at Public Council Meeting
The UWI Five Islands Campus will hold its annual council meeting on Thursday at 10 a.m. ECT, where Campus Principal Professor C. Justin Robinson is expected to present the institution's 2024/2025 annual report. The event will be streamed live on UWItv's online platform.
Dominica Halts Citizenship Applications from Iranian Nationals Under Investment Programme
Dominica has suspended the processing of citizenship-by-investment applications from Iranian nationals, effective March 24, 2026, according to an official memorandum. Limited exceptions apply for applicants who meet specific residency, financial, and business criteria.
Antiguan DJ Quest Nominated for Caribbean Music Awards' Top DJ Honour
Antiguan DJ, producer and event promoter DJ Quest has been nominated for Male – International DJ of the Year at the 2026 Caribbean Music Awards, competing against some of the region's most recognised DJ talent. Antiguans and Barbudans are encouraged to cast their votes in the ongoing preliminary round.