Government Welcomes Constructive Response from Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda welcomes the constructive response of the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA) to the letter sent by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration, the Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, on 17 August 2026.

In its reply, dated 18 August, the CMJA said that it had noted the points raised by the Foreign Minister and agreed to publish his letter on its website alongside the Association’s statement concerning the Judiciary of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Government welcomes this decision. Publication of both documents will allow the Association’s members and the wider Commonwealth public to consider the complete official record, including the Prime Minister’s clarification that no executive action will be taken against any judicial officer and that all matters concerning judicial tenure, assignment or conduct will be addressed only through the Constitution and the law.

The CMJA also stated that it stands ready to assist judicial officers in the Eastern Caribbean, if requested by the Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court or by any review committee established to address the concerns raised by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Foreign Minister Greene welcomed that offer as a positive basis for further engagement.

“The Government appreciates the Association’s constructive response and its willingness to assist through the proper judicial and institutional channels,” Minister Greene said. “We share a commitment to judicial independence, the rule of law, public safety and the effective administration of justice.”

The Government remains ready to support appropriate cooperation among the CMJA, the Chief Justice, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and any independent review committee that may be established.

The exchange demonstrates that difficult questions concerning public safety, sentencing and judicial independence can be addressed through dialogue, established constitutional processes and a shared commitment to strengthening the administration of justice.

ENDS