分类： Society

Political activist George Wehner has been summoned to appear before the St. John’s Magistrate’s Court on charges of trespassing.

The court document alleges that on June 9, 2025, Wehner unlawfully entered the premises of Cinnamint Hill Estate in Willikies, located in St. Phillip Parish.

The matter falls under Section 51(a) of the Small Charges Act, Chapter 405 of the Revised Laws of Antigua and Barbuda.

Wehner is expected to appear in District ‘A’ Court on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 9 a.m. to answer the charge.

The summons was issued and dated June 19, 2025, by a District Magistrate.

**ABS-** A 13-year-old from Barbuda has been sworn in as the youngest ever member of the National Youth Parliament Association of Antigua and Barbuda. Khadalia Joseph, representing Barbuda as an Independent member, was selected by her peers during the Barbuda Youth Council sitting in May. She took her oath on Thursday, alongside five other new youth parliamentarians.

Youth Parliament Speaker Jessica Zouetr noted Joseph’s performance during today’s session, which focused on substance abuse among minors.

“We want to especially recognize Khadalia Joseph, who is a 13-year-old who joined us from Barbuda… she was selected among her members to represent Barbuda, and I think that she did an amazing job here this morning.”

Technicians from the Ministry of Works’ Traffic Light Department carry out upgrades to improve traffic signal systems, enhancing road safety and efficiency.

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) is proud to announce that new life has been invigorated into the Junior Party Monarch Competition with the recent Title Sponsorship by Oasis Water. This partnership has played a pivotal role in elevating the competition to the official schedule of Antigua Carnival 2025.

The 2025 edition promises to be a high-energy, highly contested showdown as young soca artistes battle to dethrone reigning champions **Ruez (Groovy Monarch)** and **Jai’lilah (Jumpy Monarch)****.** With a record number of registrations in both categories, the stage is set for an unforgettable youth showcase.

As the ABFC finalizes plans for this year’s event, the Commission acknowledges the tremendous growth the Junior Party Monarch has experienced over the years. The impressive registration numbers for both the Groovy and Jumpy categories in 2025 reflect the competition’s growing popularity and cultural significance.

To accommodate this growth and ensure optimal preparation for the young performers, the event has been **rescheduled to Monday, 28th July 2025, starting at 5:00 PM at Carnival City**. This new date and earlier start time were carefully chosen to give junior artists the time and the platform they deserve.

“ _Having both Junior Competitions back-to-back presents challenges for those competing in both Junior Calypso and Party Monarch_ ,” said **Sen. Michael Freeland****, Deputy Chair of the ABFC**. “ _We want to showcase our youth at their best, energized and ready to deliver first-class performances. The earlier start time is a decision made solely in the interest of our children and their well-being_.”

Newly appointed Sub-Committee Chair **Mr. Trevaughn Weston** , a long-serving member of the Junior Party Monarch team, added: “ _From all indications, the Junior Party Monarch promises to be a dynamic highlight on the Carnival calendar. With performers aged 8 to 17 showcasing original compositions, choreography, and stage presence in both Groovy and Jumpy categories, this event is a true celebration of youth talent and creativity_.”

In tandem with this exciting development, the ABFC proudly welcomes Oasis Water as a Bronze Sponsor and the Official Water of Antigua Carnival 2025. Their multi-tiered sponsorship includes:

• Title Sponsorship of the Oasis Junior Party Monarch Competition
• Presenting Sponsorship of the Children’s Carnival, a vibrant celebration of youth culture and creativity
• Exclusive Water Provider for all official Carnival events, ensuring hydration stations and branded water distribution across venues

“ _We are excited to welcome Oasis Water as a key Carnival partner_ ,” said **Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul**. “ _Their support at multiple levels highlights the importance of this sponsorship, marking a noteworthy collaboration in making our Carnival a memorable and inclusive experience for all ages. It is corporate citizens like Oasis Water that make Antigua Carnival the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival._ ”

The **Hon. Daryll S. Matthew** , Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, added: “ _Elevating the Junior Party Monarch to our official schedule not only recognizes the outstanding talent of our youth, but it also affirms our commitment to investing in the cultural and artistic future of Antigua and Barbuda. We are especially pleased to welcome Oasis Water on board as a multi-tier sponsor helping to bring this vision to life_.”

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission invites everyone to mark their calendars for Monday, 28th July 2025, and come out to support the rising stars of soca at the Oasis Water Junior Party Monarch Competition.

Mehul Choksi has challenged the Indian government’s bid to declare him a fugitive economic offender, arguing he is already in custody abroad and not evading justice.

His lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, told a Special Court in Mumbai that Choksi was detained in Belgium on the basis of an Indian non-bailable warrant, and is therefore under India’s “constructive custody”.

Aggarwal said the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act applies only to those who flee to avoid prosecution or refuse to return. He argued that Choksi left India in 2018 for medical treatment with police approval, and at a time when no charges were pending.

Choksi’s arrest in Belgium followed an extradition request by India. He had previously been barred from leaving Antigua by a Dominican court after he claimed he was abducted in 2021 — a case that is now the subject of a civil suit in the UK, in which he accuses Indian intelligence agents of involvement.

Meanwhile, India’s market regulator SEBI has frozen Choksi’s accounts over unpaid insider trading penalties. His next court appearance in Belgium is yet to be set.

Refurbishment works at the historic St John’s Police Station are nearing completion, according to the Ministry of Works.

The long-anticipated upgrade includes major internal and external improvements, with the installation of new plumbing and electrical systems among the key enhancements. Structural upgrades have also been carried out to modernise the facility.

Officials say the project is expected to improve working conditions for officers and enhance the station’s ability to serve the public.

The government views the renovation as part of a wider effort to strengthen national infrastructure across Antigua and Barbuda.

CABINET NOTES: In a continued effort to promote healthy lifestyles, positive youth development, and community engagement, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has announced its support for a series of community sports programmes and summer camps to be held across the country during the current school holidays.

Recognizing the long summer break as a critical time to engage the nation’s youth, the Government is committed to supporting structured, enriching, and enjoyable activities that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. These programmes are designed to:

• Foster teamwork and sportsmanship
• Develop athletic skills and discipline
• Encourage healthy competition
• Provide a safe and supportive environment for fun and learning
• Steer young people away from negative influences and risky behaviours

The initiative reflects the Government’s broader strategy to invest in youth empowerment and national wellness through community-based action and inclusive programming.

Cabinet encourages all parents and guardians to take advantage of these opportunities by registering their children for participation once official announcements and community-level call-ups are made. The programmes will cater to a wide range of interests and age groups, offering activities in areas such as football, cricket, basketball, netball, athletics, arts and crafts, music, and more.

By supporting these summer initiatives, the Government reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the physical, mental, and social well-being of Antigua and Barbuda’s young people, and to building safer, healthier communities for all.

CABINET NOTES: The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received an update from the Honourable Daryll Matthew, Minister responsible for Carnival, who confirmed that preparations are well advanced for what is anticipated to be one of the most vibrant and memorable Carnival celebrations in recent history.

Scheduled to take place from July 25 to August 5, this year’s festival—under the electrifying theme “Itz A Vibe”—is already generating heightened excitement and engagement both locally and internationally.

With just under three weeks to go before the official start, the Minister reported that participation levels are on the rise, as evidenced by the ongoing Soca and Calypso Quarterfinals. Final refurbishments and upgrades to Carnival City at the Antigua Recreation Grounds are nearing completion, ensuring the venue will be ready to host thousands of revellers and spectators.

Tickets are now on sale for most major events, and hotels across the island are reporting occupancy rates above 90% for the carnival period—a clear indication of strong regional and international interest.

To meet the growing demand, Caribbean Airlines has added two special flights from Trinidad and Tobago, while American Airlines is operating three daily flights from Miami, USA. LIAT is also reporting increased bookings from neighbouring islands, highlighting Antigua’s position as a key cultural destination in the region.

Minister Matthew also noted that the Festivals Commission continues to play a vital role in supporting the Watch Night Celebrations, commemorating the Emancipation from Slavery—the historical foundation upon which Carnival is built.

The Minister concluded by assuring the Cabinet and the public that all signs point to an exciting, safe, and culturally rich Carnival 2025, promising unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Public Works Department crews carried out extensive night-time repairs on Corn Alley, just off Newgate Street, as part of ongoing efforts to modernise the road network in the capital.

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Photo Credit- Ministry of Work

Danley Philip has taken up the role of Director of Administration at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, effective 1 July.

His appointment comes as the hospital undergoes a period of expansion and modernisation in healthcare delivery.

A seasoned financial and healthcare management professional, Philip holds a master’s degree in Accounting and Finance Management and a hospital management certificate from Johns Hopkins University. He is also a certified board director.

Philip previously served as Accounting Manager at the American University of Antigua (AUA) and worked as a business consultant, advising organisations on strategic and operational reforms.

He advocates for care-driven leadership in health services, stating that “the purpose of serving others should come from care, not necessity or profit.”

His key areas of expertise include healthcare administration, financial analysis, strategic oversight, risk compliance, and team leadership. His appointment is expected to strengthen the hospital’s focus on patient-centred care.