PETER VIRDEE CHARGED FOR ALLEGEDLY BRIBING ASOT MICHAEL

The United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency has charged British businessman Peter Virdee for allegedly bribing Antiguan and Barbudan Member of Parliament, Asot Michael. The 50-year-old Virdee, also known as Hardip Singh, was hauled before Westminster Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, accused of “bribing a foreign public official.” The allegations are that he bribed Asot Michael, who was then Minister of Tourism, Economic Development, Investment and Energy, to benefit PV Energy Ltd. Virdee is a director of PV Energy, which has also been charged for “failing to prevent bribery” in relation to the same alleged offences.

Virdee was bailed to appear at Southwark Crown Court on June 20, 2024.

Prime Minister and Antigua Barbuda Labour Party Leader, Gaston Browne tells ABS News this development vindicates his decision not to allow Mr Michael to run on an ABLP ticket in the last general election. Prime Minister Browne says he faced virulent opposition from inside and outside the party for this decision, particularly from “paid mercenaries.” The Prime Minister however says he wishes no ill for Mr Michael.