CABINET RESPONDS TO ACTIONS BY THE OPPOSITION OVER WHIT MONDAY WEEKEND

Cabinet has issued the following statement, following its meeting on Wednesday:

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has been informed of documented incidents of vandalism, intimidation, and trespassing on private property by leaders of the Opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) during the recent Whit holiday weekend.

These actions occurred during visits to several hotels and private properties, under the pretence of advocating for public access to beaches.

It is important to reiterate that, both as a matter of law and consistent with the policy of the Gaston Browne Administration, all beaches in Antigua and Barbuda are public and are free for access by citizens and residents.

The Cabinet views the Opposition’s conduct as a deliberate act of deception—an attempt to shift focus to a new issue following their unsuccessful efforts to gain public support through the dissemination of false and defamatory claims. These include baseless allegations against Prime Minister Browne, his family, public officials, and the nation, particularly relating to the already-resolved matter of the sale of the Alfa Nero yacht.

The Cabinet strongly condemns these acts of trespassing, property damage, and intimidation of workers. Such behavior not only threatens the country’s investment climate but also jeopardizes the fragile tourism sector, which is vital to the livelihoods of thousands of Antiguans and Barbudans and essential to the nation’s economic stability. One major investor has already indicated his intention to pursue legal action against individuals caught on video committing unlawful acts on his property.

While the Cabinet recognizes the Opposition’s continued display of disregard for national interests, it urges them to begin acting responsibly in an effort to restore some measure of credibility as a viable political alternative.