Local News
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Census Field Operations Suspended Ahead of Antigua and Barbuda General Elections
The Census Office has temporarily suspended all field operations for the 2025 Population and Housing Census ahead of the upcoming general elections in Antigua and Barbuda. Officials say the pause is intended to safeguard the integrity of both the census process and the electoral process.
Police Warn of Strict Good Friday Liquor Restrictions on April 3
The Police Administration has issued a reminder that alcohol sales are banned across Antigua and Barbuda on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, with violations risking licence cancellation under the country's liquor licensing laws.
Police Remind Public: No Alcohol Sales Permitted on Good Friday
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has reminded business owners and the public that the sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, under national licensing law. Establishments found in violation risk licence revocation and further legal action.
ECCB to Introduce Deposit Insurance Across ECCU Under New 2026-2031 Strategic Plan
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank has announced it will introduce deposit insurance across the ECCU as part of its 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, with Governor Timothy Antoine citing stronger depositor protection as a core priority. The plan is organised around six themes and also includes the establishment of a new Office of Financial Conduct to oversee bank accountability and customer treatment.
Nearly Half of Antigua's Voters Yet to Renew ID Cards, ABEC Data Shows
Nearly half of Antigua and Barbuda's eligible voters have yet to renew their voter ID cards, with ABEC data showing just over 23,000 of an estimated 40,000 required transactions completed. The shortfall raises concerns about voter eligibility ahead of a general election expected in the coming months.
ECCB Governor Warns Falling Populations Pose Serious Risk to Regional Economies
ECCB Governor Dr. Timothy Antoine has warned that six of eight Eastern Caribbean Currency Union member states face stagnant or declining populations, cautioning that the trend poses a serious long-term threat to regional economic growth. He called for diaspora engagement and carefully managed skilled immigration as part of the bank's broader development strategy.
Red Cross Launches Caribbean Risk Portal to Boost Regional Disaster Preparedness
The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society has launched the Caribbean Risk Portal, a new digital platform at Caribbean-Risks.org offering island-specific guidance on preparing for hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. The launch comes ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Letter: Antiguan Calls for Two-Year Election Cycle to End Pre-Poll Service Spree
A letter published by Antigua News Room calls on the next Parliament to implement constitutional reform establishing two-year election cycles, arguing that basic public services are only delivered in the lead-up to by-elections and general elections.
ABLP's Dwayne George Defends Bolans Playing Field Amid Unfit-for-Play Claims
ABLP candidate for St. Mary's South Dwayne George has rejected claims that the Bolans playing field is unfit for use, citing a recent football match held under newly installed lighting as proof of the facility's operational condition.
How Antigua and Barbuda Built One of the Caribbean's Thriving Online Casino Markets
Antigua and Barbuda's online casino market is thriving, fuelled by decades of regulatory stability, mobile accessibility, advancing technology and sophisticated player retention strategies. According to Antigua News Room, the country's early entry into online gaming regulation has given it a lasting competitive edge in the regional digital entertainment landscape.
Senator Freeland Builds Momentum in St. George Through Community Engagement
Senator the Hon. Michael Freeland is making his mark in the St. George constituency through a series of community contributions, infrastructure initiatives, and daily canvassing, as the constituency prepares for an electoral contest. According to Antigua News Room, his hands-on approach is generating growing confidence among residents on the ground.
ECCB Reaffirms EC Dollar Peg to US Dollar Ahead of 50th Anniversary
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank has reaffirmed there are no plans to change the EC dollar's fixed peg to the US dollar, with Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine citing a near-99 percent backing ratio as the bank prepares to mark the arrangement's 50th anniversary in July.
Police Warn of Rising Road Collisions Ahead of Busy Easter Weekend
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda is urging drivers to take extra care on the roads this Easter weekend, as collision numbers have risen to 637 so far in 2026, up from 621 during the same period last year. Two road fatalities have already been recorded this year, with authorities citing speeding and inattentive driving as key factors.
Tourism Authority Backs 12th AUA Rohrman Trail & Swim Fest as International Athletes Flock to Antigua
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has returned as Gold Sponsor for the 12th AUA Rohrman Trail & Swim Fest, set for April 11–12, 2026, with over 100 international athletes already registered from more than a dozen countries. The partnership aims to boost sports tourism and generate global exposure for the twin-island destination.
Attorney General: Smoking Laws Under Review After Next General Election
Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has announced that laws governing public smoking will be reviewed after the next general election, with authorities considering alternatives to arrest as the primary enforcement tool. Existing restrictions under the Tobacco Control Act 2018 and the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Act 2024 remain in force in the interim.
ABFC Partners With Caribbean Music Producer Kitwana Israel to Elevate Antiguan Sound
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has partnered with internationally recognised Caribbean music producer Kitwana Israel to develop a Carnival rhythm and provide local artistes with professional industry exposure. The initiative is part of the Commission's broader strategy to grow and elevate the nation's creative industries.
Construction Begins at Pares Community Center
Construction is underway at the Pares Community Center, according to ABLP St. Peter candidate Rawdon Turner, with the project aimed at fostering community growth and opportunity.
Solar Street Lights Being Installed Across St. Peter Constituency
ABLP St. Peter candidate Rawdon Turner says upgraded solar street lights are being installed across the constituency, with new fixtures already lighting sections of the community.
Festivals Commission Postpones Antigua Carnival 2026 Launch from April Date
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has postponed the official Carnival 2026 launch, originally scheduled for April 11 at the Rising Sun Grounds, due to scheduling conflicts. A new date is expected to be announced soon.
Young Farmers Shine as Inter-school Garden Competition Reaches New Heights
Antigua and Barbuda's 2026 Inter-school Garden Competition has concluded with judges praising record levels of student knowledge and participation across preschool, primary, and secondary categories. Ottos Comprehensive School claimed the top prize as overall champion.