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ANTIGUA & BARBUDA POLITICS

(SEPTEMBER 2003 TO NOVEMBER 2003)

Sunday November 30, 2003: Five of the ten men charged with murder have been and found guilty. This was told to a judge by a jury made up of 6 women and 3 men at about 8pm last night, at an extra ordinary sitting of . The five, Henry "Stager" Weekes, Everette "Papso"  Crump, Paul "Umps" Ephraim, Dale "Little Dale" Christian and Kester "Zeuce" Bailey, were found guilty for the murder of a Jamaican Owen "Andrew" Douglas. Jointly charged were Kenaz "Kemwah"  Whyte, who was found guilty of manslaughter, and Kareem "Curly Sue" Frederick, Cleofoster "Sexy" Hunte, Larry Kester and Randy Simon, all of whom were freed of the charges. At about 3:25 pm at the St.John's High Court, Judge Rita Olivetti allowed the jury to deliberate, but recalled them after 4 hours, to inquire if they had reached a verdict. As the foreman answered in the negative, the judge asked them if they believe that a verdict was imminent. They answered in the affirmative and was given additional time. Approximately 25 minutes later, they were able to return with the verdict, which after being read, caused spectators to change their mood. Although sentencing was set for tomorrow, the 4 freed men were remanded into custody to be charged with additional undisclosed charges. The trial lasted for 6 weeks (more stories to follow today) ><> PM Bird says that the comments made to parliamentarian Gaston Browne by opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, that he has plenty gangs, was to encourage their existence. He also said in his weekly radio broadcast, that the comments by Spencer were regrettable and irresponsible, and against that backdrop, was cause for alarm. Bird was also critical of what he described as Spencer's outburst and ambush against 'Speaker of the House of Representative' Dame Bridgette Harris. He said that while the United Nations (UN) was calling for an end to all forms of violence, Spencer's action in Parliament clearly showed that he does not have the grounds for leadership, and that he did not exercise any tolerance level against one of Antigua and Barbuda's greatest daughters in the form of the Mrs. Harris. ><> Leader of the opposition Baldwin Spencer, has said that Alan Stanford's insular remarks, have open the eyes of Antiguans and Barbudans. Spencer remarked that Stanford said that he had not done anything wrong nor unethical, and stood by the fact that he had never given a bribe. Spencer also said that the government had brought shame on the country where two government ministers have had Stanford thrown two fistful of dollars against them like if it was 'Christmas in December', and that the dismissal of his motion in Parliament, was a travesty. ><> "No 'Big Issues' programme today" , and nobody is to blame? (more to follow) ><> (more stories to follow later) ><> 

Saturday November 29, 2003: ABS TV News said that the ALP was getting advise from the UPP. The report, which was broadcasted on air, and read by Samoya Kirby,  said that the UPP had advised the ALP that whenever it is ready to crank up its 'Big Red Machine', it should do so in the constituency of St. John City East. UPP has denied the claim. ><> The Womens Action Group (WAG) of the ALP has passed a resolution to file a petition with the Governor-General Sir James Carlisle.  The petition has outlined their displeasure with the conduct of opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, against 'Speaker' of the House of Representative, Dame Bridgette Harris (more to follow) ><>  The 10 men accused of murdering a Jamaican man, will know their fate today. At the conclusion of the judges remarks and instructions, the jury will resort to deliberate and report their findings. Today's unusual court day will bring to an end, several weeks of hearings at the High Court. Presiding judge is Justice Olivetti. ><> The president of the A&BUT Maurice Christian, has resorted to a 'no comment ' position in respect of the dismissal of former accountant of of the A&BDB Anthony Stuart. Christian, who is also a Board member of the bank, apparently participated in deliberations leading up to the dismissal of Stuart. It was reported that Christian also participated in the final meeting to decide on the fate of Stuart, where the decision made was one of a  unanimous nature. Christian has directed all inquiries to the attention of Board chairman Carlton Lake. ><> The former accountant of the A&BDB Anthony Stuart, took a considerable amount of time to vacate the premises. According to an eyewitness to his unfortunate and untimely dismissal, Stuart took two hours to pack his personal belongings. The lengthy preparation for departure, has caused the General Manager of the bank to become impatient, and pressed for the exercise to be speeded up, since he himself had an appointment. Stuart apparently wanted to tell staffers goodbye, but he was denied the opportunity. He wanted to leave via the front door, but was told to do so from the back. In the end, he asked the accompanying police officer to hold his hand on his way out. Stuart was the campaign manager for the opposition leader Baldwin Spencer. ><> A Cashew Hill resident is now the latest victim of two police gunshot wounds (more to follow) ><> (more stories to follow later today) ><> UPP Rural East youth arm holds a fund raiser. (more to follow) ><> UPP showcase candidates Cort and Lovell on the 'rescue train' (more to follow)><> 

Friday November 28, 2003: Stanford has declared war on the UPP. One of the candidates, due to contest a seat on behalf of the UPP, and also an employee of R. Alan Stanford, has been sent home. Stanford reportedly called John Maginley to express his disappointment in his political leader Baldwin Spencer, over allegations of bribery involving two government ministers. But at the end of the conversation, the angry Stanford informed Maginley that he could stay home, and take leave with pay. He did not say for how long. Maginley served as manager of the 'Sticky Wicket' restaurant. ><> UPP candidate for St. John Rural North John Maginley, has refuted allegations that he was fired by R. Alan Stanford. Maginley confirmed that he had a conversation with Stanford, and it was decided that, in support of his political campaign, that he would take a leave of absence. In another reaction, Maginley said that he had disagreed privately with Stanford in the past, but his stance has never affected his status of employment. Maginley has quoted Stanford as telling him to, "Go win your seat". ><>   A supporter of an opposition political party, said that he was unceremoniously fired from his job of 12 years. Anthony Stuart, campaign manager of opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, and host of a radio programme on Crusader Radio, got the scare of his life, when he was approached by management in the company of police officers. Stuart was served with an instant letter of dismissal today. Unable to make a phone call, he burrowed a cell phone to call Crusader Radio, where he was on live, to explain his ordeal to announcers on air. While doing so, listeners to the station could hear voices  in the background. The voices were heard saying things like 'pack up your things', 'hurry up, you wasting my time', 'no talking on the phone', 'you have ten minutes to leave'. (more to follow) ><> Chairman of the A&BDB Carlton Lake, said that the former employee Anthony Stuart, was not dismissed because of political persuasion. Lake said that neither he, management, nor any of his fellow Board members, ever tried to find out which political party Stuart was attached to. In fact, he said that the political disclosure came as a surprise to most persons. ><> The Social Security Scheme has threatened to fire one of its employees over a possible court action that he could take against his home developer. Billion Benjamin, who is also a member of the ALP, could face the axe if he takes National Mortgage & Trust Company (NMTC) to court. NMTC was in the news recently for constructing houses for homeowners, but the said home owners have been dissatisfied with the poorly constructed houses, and have suffered multiple losses. Benjamin's employer are the real financiers of the project. ><> Attorney Leon 'Chaku' Symester has refuted the allegations made by the Antigua Sun newspaper regarding his behaviour in Parliament on Tuesday. Symester was heard chanting 'call the election now' in the parliament chambers. He said that he was in parliament for seven minutes before exercising his constitutional rights, contrary to the Sun's version which claimed that he chanted his slogan while entering parliament. He said that he had studied parliament allover the world and no one was ever arrested for speaking out in the chambers. He said that even though the 'Speaker' could order a person to be removed, she could not get them arrested. " the only how a person could be arrested is if they refuse to take instruction from police officers. He said that when the officer approached him to leave, he was very co-operative. Symester ended by saying that Senator Joanne Massiah was not present in parliament on that day, contrary to the Sun' statement, and therefore, could not be asked to leave parliament.  ><>  Two political parties which had meetings scheduled for last night at different venues, cancelled them. The cancellations affected the ALP, who was to kick off the first of a list of major political meetings. Also affected was the OND, who had scheduled a meeting for the Clare Hall Triangle. At that meeting, the OND was to announce two other candidates. Persistent heavy showers during the day, were responsible for the cancellations.><> There has been a call for three opposition parliamentarians to offer apologies. According to ABS TV NEWS this evening, opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, deputy leader in the lower house Charlesworth Samuel and Hilson "Brother B" Baptiste, has been singled out to apologise to 'Speaker of the House" Dame Bridgette Harris, for their tardy conduct in parliament on Tuesday. The call was made by the Womens Action Group, an arm of the ALP. The group said that the conduct of the parliamentarians were unbecoming when all parliamentarians were scolded by the Speaker for continuous bickering. It also said that the parliamentarians should have known better, in light of the prevalent observance of  'violence against women'. The women's group said the it would sought other remedies if the apologies were not forthcoming. ><>  A distraught mother of five is still awaiting for her salary from government (more to follow) ><> The search is on for two white rabbits to find a home in Freemans Village. Villagers are confirming the a certain female was diligently searching for the four legged animals, for the sole purpose of performing some sort of ritual for one of the ministerial beneficiaries of  Mr. Stanford's money.( ><> Organisers of the A&BJM in NEW York City, made a live audio appearance on WLIB Radio in NEW York today. The broadcast, which start at 10 am Local and at 9am Eastern times respectively, touched on a wide range of issues related to Antigua and Barbuda. Opposition leader Baldwin Spencer  made a guest appearance by telephone from Antigua (more to follow) ><> Investor R. Alan Stanford may be the subject of an investigation by US authorities. PM Bird was allegedly heard saying that Stanford was putting pressure on him. The apparent pressure was for him to have his way in helping himself to one of the government's prime treasures.  ><> The Antigua Sun newspaper has published a list of all of the charitable entities that R. Alan Stanford has donated to. On page 5 of today's edition, there appears a list of 109 beneficiaries, said to have received a combined sum of $40million,however,the list does not include the individual sums that each entity had received. After being accused of giving bribes to ministers Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne, Stanford announced yesterday that has he also given to charities. ><> ALP holds a Block-O-rama in Rural East (more to follow) ><> A meeting which was held to determine the level of support , if any, to be given to the former accountant of the A&BDB Anthony Stuart, has fallen flat on its face. Personal well wishers as well as some current staffers, gathered at an undisclosed location to discuss possible options, but the primary one, which was to picket the bank this Monday, could not muster the courage and support of all present. Stuart is expected to take legal action against his former employers. ><> 

Thursday  November 27, 2003: R. Alan Stanford could be the major contributor to the ALP's campaign. This was revealed by deputy political leader of the UPP, Wilmouth Daniel. Daniel appeared as a guest on Observer Radio's "Voice Of The People" today. He said that stories received from New York, alleged that Stanford could help contribute a subsidy to the national debt, help ease the government payroll, and contribute substantially to the upcoming ALP campaign. It was also alleged that the breakdown of  monetary contributions show the ALP party was set to get US$3 million, while ministers Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne, are likely to US$300,000 each. ><> R. Alan Stanford is angry. That was the tone that he had expressed while giving a press conference today. Stanford, in the company of government ministers Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne, said that he was disturbed about rumours that he had bribed the ministerial duo in the midst of negotiations involving the Post Office property downturn. Stanford said that to date he had spent nearly $250million on Antigua, but did not confirm if the said expenditure was philantropic in nature or if it included his business operations on island. In fact he limited reporters to a total of two(2) questions, stating that he was too angry to proceed. He said that apart from Team City West and the St. Mary's North Constituency, he had made donations in the past to sporting and religious organisations, have supported events like Police Week and  Sailing Week, and have pumped funds in unrelated activities for the WICB, schools, community organisations, the Taxi Association and the Ministry of Planning ><> The Antiguan community is up in arms against R. Alan Stanford. This latest development came after an Observer Radio reporter broke the news that not only was Stanford angry at today's press conference, but that there seems to be confirmation of earlier reports that he was bankrolling the ALP's election campaign. One caller reminded listeners that Stanford had always described himself as an investor and not a developer as some would think. He also said that the investor was not doing anyone any favour, and that he was in possession of a suction pump to suck out all of the bone, meat and money from Antigua. Thereafter, the comments remained unfavourable to the investor. ><> Stanford says that opposition leader has accused him falsely (more to follow) ><> A changed weather pattern caused a disruption in education today. Earlier this morning, residents woke up to the annoyance of persistence heavy rains, which poured for several hours. As a result, flooding was evident, and those who would have made it to school, did not last the day in classes. As a precaution, education authorities gave the order for schools to close early. It was the second time in two weeks that schools had to be closed because of persistent bad weather conditions. ><> The Salvation Army is on a recruitment drive for volunteers to 'ring the bell' and 'fill the kettle' (more to follow)><> 'Lifeline' formed a blood line at the Woods Mall today (more to follow) ><>  'Friends & Citizens of Montserrat' office relocated (more to follow) ><>  (more stories to follow before day's end) ><> 

Wednesday November 26, 2003: A reliable source has confirmed that the re-doing of fingerprints has cost the Government a whopping US$160,000. As a result, electoral officials are afraid to commit the government any further to the incompleted exercise. As a result, employees were in the process of being retrained, and stringent financial measures were to be implemented. ><> Humphreys scores success in the courts (more to follow) ><> Although his MBS matter is due to be heard, lawyers for Humphreys have applied for a constitutional motion to dismiss the potential jury pool (more to follow) ><> MP Browne says that Spencer is crumbling under pressure (more to follow) ><> Free & Fair Elections League is pleased with the  Attorney General's interpretation and sees the importance of everyone following the law as  prescribed (more to follow) ><> Bird said that he was persuaded by a film of Stanford's properties (more to follow) ><> Labour minister Stedroy "Cutie" Benjamin has made a confession to parliament. Benjamin said that he was not privy to nor party to monies allegedly given to ministers Joseph and Brown. He said that although he was supposed to be a member of the select cabinet sub-committee to laise with investor R. Alan Stanford, he was just in the dark as some members of the general public were. ><> Parliament rescinded a former law it had passed for commercial banks to impound cheques (more to follow) ><> Mortgae & Trust Company admitted to claims of defective houses at Paynters Paradise (more to follow) ><> 'House' passes two aviation legislations (more to follow) ><> Antiguan New York based group explains reason for formation (more to follow) ><> 16 year old attempted robber allegedly stabbed to death (more to follow) ><> (more stories to follow later) ><> 

Tuesday November 25, 2003: Supporters of the two major political parties, clash outside of parliament today. As one set of supporters announced their intention to picket, and picketed outside Parliament in their blue outfits, another set showed up unannounced and clad in red, and demonstrated opposite the other group. The UPP supporters, which numbered about 60, braved the hot sunshine to marching and chanting "Batty and Poe must go". But there were other sounds. The ALP supporters, which had approximately half that of the UPP, shouted, "Throw Spencer overboard...somebody help...ee cyarn swim". Meanwhile, the police, which observed both groups, did so under 20 watchful pairs of eyes. ><> A motion, which was tabled by opposition leader Baldwin Spencer in Parliament, was denied it's objectives by "Speaker of the House of Representatives" Dame Bridgette Harris. The motion, dated November 25th, delivered by hand, and noted 'urgent' to the 'Speaker', was captioned "No Confidence in the Government of Antigua and Barbuda pursuant to Rule 12 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives". The motion listed 14 areas of concern and wanted it to be resolved that the Prime Minister dismiss forthwith, ministers Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Brown as Ministers of the Crown, for misbehaviour  in public office, and also for the 'House of  Representatives' to declare that it has no confidence in the government and the Prime Minister for refusing to take decisive and remedial action in the circumstances that unfolded. ><> Speaker of the House of Representatives Dame Bridgette Harris, came in for severe verbal criticisms by Opposition leader Baldwin Spencer. Spencer has put forward a motion of no-confidence under section 12 of the rules of the 'House', labeling it as one which was urgent and also one which was of utmost public importance. He therefore sought leave to adjourn the sitting, for the express purpose of ventilating the matter at a later date. But Dame Bridgette in response, said that she was not satisfied of the  representations made by Spencer, and therefore  ruled against. Then Spencer, not satisfied with her ruling, begged her to justify the said reasons under the circumstances. But the 'Speaker', with no holds barred, said to the Parliamentarians, "I've said before in here, I accept no responsibility for the upbringing of the members of this 'House' ". In a sharp and disturbing response, Spencer said, "That is rudeness...You rude...We are elected, and you beg to come in here". That response attracted an applause from persons seated in the public gallery. There were interruptions from the other members present, but Spencer continued, "You have been casting aspersions on the on the members here for a long time, and wanted to get away with it. You must retract that statement". And that also met with an applause of  public approval. ><>  Spectators thrown out of 'House" meeting today (more to follow) ><> Evicted UPP members accused 'House Speaker' of bias (more to follow) ><> Parliamentarians Bowen and Humphreys had to choose between a court date and a parliamentary date today (more to follow) ><> Spencer says that whole page newspaper advertisement was misleading. Intends to publish entire document (more to follow) ><> (more update from Parliament to follow) ><> New York group plan to march against injustices in Antigua and Barbuda (more to follow) ><> AG officially writes to George Rick James giving him the thumbs up, and advising the "Supervisor Of Elections" to comply with the law and proceed with continuous registration (more to follow) ><> (more stories to follow today) ><> 

Monday November 24, 2003: Molwyn exposes Baldwin (more to follow) ><> NMC calls for a complete investigation into Stanford's contribution (more to follow) ><> Antiguan passport holder sentenced to death (more to follow) ><> Newly ordained Dean of Anglican Church says that the election of a gay bishop in the United States, would not have much of an effect on members of the faith in the Caribbean (more to follow) ><>  Minister's daughter on foreign office payroll (more to follow) ><> Home owners at Paynters taking the developer to court (more to follow) ><> Almost 300 cases of domestic violence have been reported (more to follow) ><> Radio producer and sometimes talk show host Colin Sampson, is moving his dial. As of today, Sampson would be hosting his own show on Crusader Radio. The format would be one of talk. He replaces Donna Chaia, who formerly hosted the show "Let's Talk" at the slot between 1pm and 3pm. Sampson formerly worked at Observer Radio from its inception. ><> Barbuda's Holy Trinity School crelebrates 80 years (more to follow) ><> "Virgin Holidays" recognises St. James's Club (more to follow) ><> Continuous registration may start as early as today (more to follow) ><> 

Sunday November 23, 2003: Continuous registration could start as early as Monday November 24th (more to follow) ><> Bird and Spencer under the weather this weekend (more to follow) ><> Spencer said that protest actions against ministers Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne will continue and escalate (more to follow) ><> PM Bird criticises the opposition leader and expressed support for two of his ministers (more to follow) ><> Bird says that CASURO poll is unreliable and flawed (more to follow) ><> CASURO spokesperson regard Bird's comments as unfortunate (more to follow) ><> Pollster says that all of the political parties have a lot of work to do (more to follow) ><> Pensioners vowed to increase pressure on government (more to follow) ><> Police shootout leaves escaped prisoner dead (more to follow)><> New Dean of Anglican communion to be officially installed this evening (more to follow) ><> Potential ALP spokespersons afraid to appear on Observer Radio (more to follow) ><> ALP to hold first major mass rally in Sea View Farm (more to follow) ><> (more  stories to follow later) ><> 

Saturday November 22, 2003: There has been a call for the leader of the opposition to resign. This call was echoed by two ministers of government Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne. Both Joseph and Browne are at the center of allegations where they have been recipients   of $100,000 each from investor R. Alan Stanford, while they were on a cabinet appointed sub-committee, overseeing and fast tracking projects by the investor. At a press conference called by both ministers yesterday, Joseph said that he has never received a personal donation from Stanford, but admitted that he personally acted as a courier with the funds by passing it on to the Secretary/Treasurer of the St. Mary's Constituency, who deposited into an account in respect of funds raised for constituency development. As he contended that the government have not made any budgetary provisions for corresponding development projects in the constituency, Joseph said that calls for his resignation has been unjustified, unwarranted and hypocritical. Browne said that the UPP has been playing cheap politics, and pointed to the fact that the leader, Mr Spencer, have been compromised in the past. Both ministers are adamant that they have documentary evidence, which would confirm that Spencer was party to an  agreement with another investor Bruce Rappaport, and have allegedly been the recipient of large sums of monies of projects that he has collaborated with at those times. Meanwhile the official opposition UPP have reserved comments of the allegations expressed by Joseph and Browne. ><> MP Gaston Browne has said that opposition leader Baldwin Spencer cannot lead the country effectively. Browne was at the time defending allegations by Spencer that himself and colleague Molwyn Joseph, have compromised their positions as ministers of the crown. Browne also said that the UPP would stand a better chance of winning the next general elections, if Spencer  was not at the helm. He said that he would have been ashamed to know that his Prime Minister would have committed questionable acts while in office. UPP has not responded to Browne's comments. ><> Secretary of the F&FEL George Rick James, said that he would be giving Attorney General Gerthel Thom more time to come up with a response to his recent letter to her, complaining that the Electoral Commission of Antigua & Barbuda (ECAB) have been violating the law. James had contended that the ECAB have been flouting the law by not putting into effect, the process of continuous registration , after the new voters list have been published. A section of the Representation of the Peoples Act calls for the immediate continuous registration after upon publication of the voters list. It was not disclosed as to how much more time that AG has received. ><> (more stories to follow later ) ><> 

Friday November 21, 2003: Trade & Planning minister Gaston Browne, was blocked from entering his office today. Browne drove into a pool of protesters, but a burley Phillip Abbott, the size of a  wrestler, with a similar height to him, led the renewed charge for protestors to step up their action by blocking the entrance to the small office door. In a brief struggle, five policemen were unable to contain Abbott, attorney Chaku Symester, opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, lone placard bearing protester Jim and serial marcher Lolita Peters. As Browne watched, a human barracade was formed, and then joined by Senators Colin Derrrick and Bertram Joseph, and UPP City West supporter Crawford. The barracade then swelled to 10, to 20 and then to 30 in number after 20 minutes, under the lone direction of Symester, and was witnessed by a little over 50 spectators. Browne retreated to his vehicle and left the area at about 9:35 am. During that period, protesters chanted "an' people say so...Gaston mus' go" ><> A number of constituents from the constituency of St. John City West, were on hand to either witness or join in the actions against their MPGaston Browne today. Browne was prevented from entering his Market and Church Street office today. On hand were Colin Derrick, the man who once more would be challenging Browne in the upcoming general elections. Yvonne from Point/Villa said, "dey sen' fu police but arwe no fraid", while Veronica said "mek dem bring the teargas, 'cause arwe would throw um back pan dem".  And Tiger was there. With placard in hand he said to Browne, "a  tired warn you". "I have a dream last night". Then hew concluded, "de   day dem lak yu up, is de day I tek way de likkle gal fram yu". Then monarch Sir MacLean came. He said, "It's long overdue...it's about time". Crawford was there, and Jim? He was his usual self with his placard. ><> Phillip Abbott and Chaku Symester could be considered the heroes of today's downtown protest.  It was Abbott who confronted minister Browne head on, the first scare. Then Chaku was the mobiliser to cut fear from the composure of the protesters. Chaku advised the police officers when they arrived, that a protest was talking place. In addressing the protesters he said, "we believe that the police understand what was going on. The police understand our rights and was here to protect it. One police, one civilian". ><> Two of the major political parties held political rallies last night. But the attendance to both were very contrasting. The ALP had a turn out of 100 spectators at Potters Primary School spectators,to a 1500 turn out to the UPP at Browne's Avenue. ><> Former ALP minister Ambassador Adolphus Freeland was the victim of a robbery last night. Freeland's Tomlinsons home was burglarised to the disappearance of money and a firearm. ><> Almost 90 persons, all drivers, have  been victims of   violating the law. Police today conducted road blocks  and discovered that the respective persons were found wanting for a range of   violations. ><> (more stories to follow) ><> 

Thursday November 20, 2003: The CASURO poll is out and PM Bird doesn't seem to be a happy man. The front page headline of today's Antigua Sun newspaper reads, "Lester In Trouble". The poll, which was conducted on October 23rd, put the UPP further ahead 13 to 4. In this latest poll, PM Lester Bird lost his seat to newcomer Dr. Errol Cort. A further inspection shows that the A:LP retained seats in St. Phillip South, St John Rural South, St. John City South, and miraculously captured the Barbuda seat. ><> About 50 members and supporters of the UPP , picketed the office of ministers Gaston Browne and Molwyn  Joseph today. As they chanted, "Gaston must go ...we say so", a delegation was received by  Browne after a formal request. In the delegation were opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, Senator Colin Derrick, campaign manager James Sebastian and Dr. Edmund Mansoor. A  report from the  delegation described Browne as rude, causing one of them to leave early. They said that Browne said that he did not do anything wrong and further confessed that it was not the first time that he was  the recipient of funds from R. Alan Stanford. Brown has refused to entertain the request of the delegation to tender his resignation. Although there was a small presence at Joseph's office, the protesters are expected to make a strong  showing at his office tomorrow.><> MP Sherfield Bowen has written to the clerk of Parliament to have two matters put on the order paper for Tuesday's  meeting. Bowen was asking for two parliamentarians Gaston Browne and Molwyn Joseph to be suspended from Parliament for misbehavior in public office, and for the entire government to be censured  for not submitting to Parliament, accounts for three corporations in which the said government had majority shares. Bowen only needed seven votes in Parliament in favour of the measure to be successful. Parliamentarians Browne and Joseph are not eligible to vote on the matters.><> One of the political parties, a major player, is expected to hold its pre-election convention next month. Sources close to the party confirmed that it will hold a convention on December 6th ><> The OND is expected to announce two new candidates today (more to follow) ><>  Members of the ALP traveled to Grenada over the weekend. The move was not one of tourism, nor to visit the gravesite of former PM Eric Gairy, nor to gather as much spice as possible. It was one about election. Grenada at this time has an abundance of tee shirts on island, since it is gearing up for an election. Now the ALP personnel was on hand to select the colour, sizes and quantities for the upcoming elections in Antigua and Barbuda  ><>  Bird has ordered a new Ron Lester poll (more to follow) ><> UPP to re-think its position on debates (more to follow) ><> (more stories to follow today) ><> According to Forbes magazine, Antigua's Curtain Bluff is one of the most complete vacation spots in the world. (more to follow) ><> Man said that he was arrested for seven months, and blames PM Bird and attorney John Fuller (more to follow) ><> Senator Osmond Lake was sworn in today (more to follow) ><> PASSAB held  its first celebrity telethon today (more to follow) ><> 

Wednesday November 19, 2003: Spencer writes to the Governor General (more to follow) ><> Opposition leader Baldwin Spencer, has met with bankers on the island. Spencer opens his address to the bankers with a verbatim statement made to members of the Rotary Club by PM Lester Bird. In essence Bird said, "Power might give a license but only for a time. Ultimately, the license expires and the power  perishes. And then all become accountable". Spencer said that the statements by Bird then, came from his mouth, but not from his mind and his heart. His meeting with the bankers was one of mutual exchange on the current health of the economy of Antigua and Barbuda. He said that post independence governments in the country of three generations, have systematically rejected the idea that people have the right to know how public finances are being used, or whether public funds are being wasted, embezzled, misappropriated or improperly managed. He was therefore seeking their guidance, insight and thoughts on the imperatives that should guide the country's fiscal policies, and would be of value to a new government taking office on the threshold of a new world order. He said that there was widespread fear in the state of the country's economy and that the said bankers were in the best position to provide rational thinking on the matter. Recognising the fact that they are the keepers of hard earned funds of residents and businesses on the island, Spencer, without any direct reference to the present arrangements to public servants, said that they (the bankers), have the power of the life and death of the incumbent government in their hands. ><> All eyes are on Baldwin Spencer's next move as Bird refuses to act. Spencer should give live press conference  today (more to follow) ><> Attorney General Gerthel Thom, has agreed with George Rick James. This was confirmed in a meeting with James yesterday afternoon. But on state media ABS TV last night, Thom brushed aside questions and suggested that the commission has a lawyer. ><> ALP has scheduled an extra-ordinary general meeting of its executive for this Friday. Inside sources say that the meeting  was called for two purposes. To alert its troops of a pending election and also to mislead opposition parties who are anxiously preparing for an early poll. The source scoffed at the suggestion of an early poll, but confirmed that the party is expected to launch its campaign programme early next ye ><> Senator Guy Yearwood has announced his campaign team. Managing the team is his daughter Leslieann Yearwood, who will be assisted by Senator Kenrick "Hutton" Isaac. Other members of the team are Joel Rayne, Celia Thwaites, Kelton Dalso and Gregson Gardner. Yearwood will be contesting the St. George seat on behalf of the ALP, and is likely to come up against Jacqui Quinn-Leandro of the UPP, Independent candidate Cardinal King and incumbent Kenneth "Nat Moses" Francis, who is yet to declare his affiliation with any party. ><> "Nutton tarl go so". That was how  health minister John St. Luce responded to what he described as a rumour, that he will be recruited back to the ministry of Finance. St.Luce also dismissed the idea that there were plans to increase employer/employee contributions to the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS). As to what really go so? St. Luce re-confirmed that he was not seeking re-election. "In fact"' he said, I I am on my way out. I have hypertension" ><> Spencer schedule to meet  with the Governor General (more to follow) ><> Molwyn Joseph refused to confirm or deny if he has  received $100,000 from Stanford (more to follow) ><>  Two committees in place to prepare Antigua and Barbuda for 2007 World Cup (more to follow) ><> Observer media says that the Finance Minister Robin Yearwood's job was spared. Thanks to the bank managers in the country (more to follow) ><>< 

Tuesday November 18, 2003: Continuous re-registration could get a shot in the arm. Thanks to secretary of the Free & Fair Elections League (F&FEL) George Rick James. James has  written to Attorney General Gerthel Thom asking her to intervene in a serious matter involving the breach of the law as it pertains to the Representation of the Peoples Act. In his letter, James said that he was advised that the Electoral Commission had announced that continuous re- registration was delayed, but it was important that he brought to her attention, the fact that the Act said that "immediately upon the publication of the voters list, continuous re- registration shall  start for the persons who would have qualified". James said that the delay has disenfranchised him as an elector who was not registered, and was willing to do so. In fact, he journeyed to the office of the Electoral Commission to secure documentation for re-registration, but was denied same. James said that he was sounding a warning to the AG to advise the Commission to comply with the law, or else the F&FEL would  have to go to court to compel the Commission to do so. Although no deadline was given, James said the League had credible information that hinted to the fact that, the deliberate delay could have triggered off the plan by the administration, to possibly pad the voters list in 5 constituencies. James concluded by suggesting that the Commission had threatened people recently, stating that their non-observance of the law, could have led to them being fined and confined, but now the same Commission was guilty of breaking the law. ><> "We build Antigua...we deserve better". So says almost 100 pensioners in Antigua and Barbuda as they march to PM Bird's office with concerns (more to follow) ><> The World Cup 2007 Committee, headed by tourism minister Molwyn Joseph, is expected to hold its first meeting today, but Bird  said that unless the government is not guaranteed millions by the Chinese, the country may lose out on its World Cup intentions (more to follow) ><> The Electoral Commission is stumped. No comment on the latest action taken by George Rick James (more to follow) ><> Minister asked sacked co-host to "come over and join us" (more to follow) ><> "To Shoot Hard Labour" co-author said that after many years of his book's circulation, not a single educational institution in Antigua & Barbuda has ever invited him to address them (more to follow) ><> Construction worker knocked unconscious on the job (more to follow) ><> Today observed as a day of prayer over the ills that are gripping the nation (more to follow) ><> Coral calcium spokesperson on island (more to follow) ><> UPP continue to receive  flack on the debate issue (more to follow) ><> 

Monday November 17, 2003: Look out New York. You may have the pleasure of having a member of the Observer Radio staff working for you. Minutes after host of yesterday's "Big Issues" programme Chelston Lee got off the air, he got a phone call aided with an offer. Lee was offered a job in Antigua & Barbuda's New York office to assist the resident ambassador there. Lee was also told that because he was able to do good research and reporting, the assignment was his. It was not the first time that Lee was canvassed by government authorities. He was previously offered a job to run the affairs at ABS Radio. ><> The man who evaded Antiguan authorities and acquired Antiguan passports through fraudulent means, has been found guilty of all four counts, at a trial in the USA. John Allen Mohammed was found guilty of Terrorism, capital punishment, conspiracy and using a firearm without a license. ><> Another big gun is after Chelston Lee. This time it was R. Alan Stanford. Stanford has asked Lee to join his team as his public relations man, but the period of consideration could face jeopardy as of yesterday. It was customary for any of Stanford's employees who wanted to refer to his name, even for information purposes, would have to seek clearance from Stanford's headquarters in Texas. But even though Lee was not in his employ, he ran the risk of  making reference to Stanford on the "Big Issues" yesterday, in a telling way. Lee is yet to report back to Stanford as to whether he accepted or rejected the offer of employment  ><> Chelston Lee could have reasons to migrate to New York. It could be romance, it could be education or it could be plain simply money (more to follow) ><> The People's debate has triggered many views at prime time (more to follow) ><> Winston Williams remembered as a teacher (more to follow) ><> Vere Bird Jr. said that it was a shame (more to follow) ><> 

Sunday November 16, 2003: Leader of the opposition Baldwin Spencer, has given PM Lester Bird until Tuesday, November 18th, to dismiss ministers Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne, as well as to hand in his own resignation  to Governor General Sir James Carlisle, or face a  series of measures that would speed up the date for general elections. Spencer was following up a similar call he had made early last week. Should the PM not comply, Spencer said that his first move was to petition the Governor General, to exercise the discretion that he enjoys under section 81 of the constitution, to request a report from the PM on the matter. Next, Spencer said that he would lodge a motion of "No Confidence" with the Prime Minister in Parliament. And parallel to the said measures, Spencer also said that he would mobilise the leaders of civil society to take some drastic actions against the shortsightedness against the PM ><> The Electoral Commission says that Parliament could  benefit from the data it has collected in the re-registration exercise. This was disclosed by deputy commissioner Bruce Goodwin, who also said that it could be a basis for economic and social analysis and forecasting. Goodwin said that the average age of the electorate does not exceed age 36 and that the 18 to 35 group are the largest segment. He said that women make up the largest gender and that the largest immigrant registrants are from Guyana, followed by Jamaica and Dominica. He also describe the overall makeup of the electorate as one which was cosmopolitan in nature. ><> It was "Revelation Sunday" on the "Big Issues"  today. The programme went a marathon distance of 3 1/2 hours of airtime and was oneof the most listened to (more to follow) ><> Weston says that the organisers of the Mount St. John Hospital need a bullbud whipping after they are admitted to crazy house (more to follow) ><> MBS refused to advance Mount St. John Board $2million requested (more to follow) MBS could be insolvent if some people have their way (more to follow) ><>  MBS contributions could rise in order for it  to sustain itself (more to follow) ><> Pensioners plan to march on PM's office for breach of trust (more to follow) ><> UPP said that it would not debate (more to follow) ><> Status of special envoy to Columbia questionable (more to follow) ><> Teachers Union head said that it was not normal for unions to speak to politicians (more to follow) ><> Antigua's World Cup hosting under threat (more to follow) ><> Dr. Mansoor says that Gaston is soaked in the blood of corruption (more to follow) ><> A former Calypso Monarch is working on a collaborated effort in calypso for Christmas. He is expected to state in song, all that he would have wanted for Christmas. The composition is also expected to name names, especially of Government ministers, and what he would have wished for them. A new CD  would be produced from the work. ><> A female Antiguan entrepreneur is making waves internationally. The mother of two, who operated a small store in St. John's, could see her dreams and hard work realised. She has conceptualized a line of skin care as well as one of  makeup, specifically for "Women Of Color". The lines are being manufactured in Paris and pre-orders are being received as far away as Africa. The Lilia brand, created by the Antiguan woman of the same name, will be deep rooted in cultural inheritance, compared to other brands on the market attempted by Caucasians. ><> UPP makes "Rescue Stops" by its "Rescue Train" (more to follow) ><> 

Saturday November 15, 2003: The third member of the cabinet sub-committee, selected to entertain discussions with affairs dealing with investor R. Alan Stanford, has denied getting any money. In fact he said that he was bad played. Minister of Labour, Steadroy "Cutie" Benjamin, one of men that was to fast track Stanford with his Antigua investments, said that he was thrown off  the track. Benjamin also confirmed that he attended the unveiling ceremony of the Athletics Club at the Airport, but was yet to be informed of any other meetings. Benjamin said that he was surprised that his colleagues Browne and Joseph were recipients of  large sums of  money from Stanford, and would not want to comment any further. He believed however, that he was left out of the loop, since he was not invited to any meeting for several months. He did not disclose whether he is still a serving member of that committee.  ><> Three prominent citizens agree with call to sack ministers (more to follow) ><> Masked gunmen help themselves with a construction payroll worth over $100,000. The incident took place yesterday afternoon at Cades Bay development, the site responsible for the construction of Carlisle Bay Resort. The police, who are conducting their investigations, have been unable to make any arrests to date. ><> Met  Office workers say that progress has been made. They are to receive a 7% pay raise. These latest developments have occured after meetings preceding industrial actions against the Airport Authority. The officers have vowed to monitor the developments every step of  the way.  ><> Lone survivor of  fatal car accident is in stable condition at Holberton (more to come) ><> Antiguan resort has won "Best Resort for Value in the World" award (more to follow) ><> The North Sound area could be the site of a future showdown. Sports versus the dead. Residents of Potters and surrounding villages, who are protesting the establishment of a national cemetery at Tomlinsons, have asked the government to relocate the proposed project to North Sound. But now, the government through its "World Cup 2007" committee, have given preference for the erection of a stadium at the same North Sound. The confusion has attracted persons in Politics, Business, Sports, Tourism, Public Works, Agriculture and Health ><> New Junior Minister hopes to meet with his top brass (more to follow) ><> New York Antiguan group plans strategy against the government (more to follow) ><> 

Friday November 14, 2003: The government's payroll will be  increased. PM Bird has said that deputy PM Robin Yearwood has been burdened with active ministries., and as a result, he has appointed Senator Osmond Lake as the new junior minister in the Ministry of Aviation. Bird made the announcement from St. Lucia where he was attending a heads of government conference. He said that Lake, a pilot by profession, and who would have special responsibility for Aviation matters, was expected to work closely with tourism minister Molwyn Joseph. Lake, a pilot by profession, who left the airline business some months ago, is expected to be sworn in at Government House on Monday. Bird said that Lake's services would be crucial to tourism, and that he is expected to reform airport and aviation matters, especially where minister Joseph  would  have to answer to the airlines and tour operators. ><>  The man who was the chief lender and spender of  the Mount St. John Hospital, could be "economical with the truth". So says the commissioners who were charged with the responsibility of investigating the operations of the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS). R. Alan Stanford, in a recent interview, said that he had furnished answers to questions that provided to him by the commissioners. He also said that he had provided written answers to the commissioners and was surprised that they never made the answers public as responsible  commissioners to a public inquiry. But in the same interview, Stanford said that the commissioner's schedule could not fit into his schedule. Now the commissioners are hitting back. In a release Friday, sanctioned by the entire panel, the commissioners said that Stanford was issued with a witness summons but he never appeared to give evidence. The commissioners also noted that Stanford did provide them with excuses for not showing, but they never approved those excuses. They continued in their release that Stanford said that he would not have had time for them. In response to the alleged written answers, the release   concluded, "we challenge him (Mr. Stanford) to come up and say that he gave us answers".  ><> Coalition of NGO's said that PM Bird should sack Browne and Joseph (more to follow) ><>  An early morning accident on All Saints Road has left one dead. Kendricks Phillip, the victim and driver of the lone vehicle  in the accident, overturned his vehicle in the vicinity of LICS. Phillip, who hails from Liberta Village, and residing in Miami, USA, was an Antiguan currently visiting his homeland. His vehicle apparently got out of  control and overturned. His lone passenger Joseph Phillip, is  listed in critical condition at the Holberton Hospital. ><> Bruce Goodwin says that although George Rick James has done some good work, the Free & Fair Elections League has been obstructionist  this time around (more to follow) ><> Registration clerks have not been paid  their overtime. This was revealed in a letter to Observer Radio's "Voice Of The People", where it was alleged that accrued overtime had not been paid, is spite of the completion of  the voters  list.. ><> A member of parliament has advised the electoral commission to start continuous registration. Charlesworth Samuel, MP for All Saints East & St. Luke, advised deputy chairman Goodwin that the exercise should have started by Monday. But Goodwin responded that the commission was not ready, but would need more time. ><> King Zachary has declared war on Gaston Browne (more to follow)    Queens Counsel Bernice Lake said that the right to challenge for the  acquisition of property is full of horrors (more to follow) ><> "Stanford did not tell the truth". So says host Winston Derrick of Observer Radio. Derrick was referring to the answers to questions which were allegedly posed to lender and spender of the Mount St. John Hospital, R. Alan Stanford, by the commissioners who investigated the Medical Benefits Scheme. Derrick promised that all will be revealed on the "Big Issues" programme this Sunday. ><> "Stedroy "Cutie" Benjamin was the former chairman of the cabinet select committee to negotiate with Stanford, but he resigned the chairmanship". So says one of the persons in the know (more to follow) ><> PM Bird Bird without 6 other Prime Ministers (more to follow) ><> Anglican bishops of  the West Indies concluded their  conference, but not before condemning consecration of a US  Bishop (more to follow) ><> College Fair  launched (more to follow) ><> One of the persons who were identified to receive honours in marking the 22nd Anniversary of Antigua & Barbuda's Independence, arrived at VC Bird International Airport to a heroes welcome. The nation's Deputy Governor General, Yvonne Maginley, who was  off island during the independence celebrations, arrived this evening from London. Maginley was greeted upon arrival by the Community Players, a cultural group in which she  was associated with for decades. A procession then left the Airport for a reception at the nearby Sticky Wicket  Restaurant. Maginley received one of the nation's highest award, and will now be titled "Dame". ><>    

Thursday November 13, 2003: Gaston Browne respond to questions in the "snake pit", about the $100,000 and more (more to follow) ><> The Electoral Commission of Antigua & Barbuda has announced the publication of a new voters list for the nation (more to follow) ><> Over 100 potential voters may face prosecution for violation of  the Representation of The Peoples Act 2003. So says deputy commissioner of the Electoral Commission  of Antigua & Barbuda Bruce Goodwin. Goodwin was quick to point out that the offences were committed during the claims and objections exercise, and as a result, section 31(c) of the Act was breached. He did not shed any light on the nature of the crime or crimes committed, but further hinted that the names of the allegedly guilty persons would be handed over to the DPP for prosecution. Meanwhile Goodwin pointed to a further  revelation where seven persons have double-registered, and suggested that their names would be added to the list compiled for the DPP. ><> The Antigua & Barbuda government has remained tightlipped about the recent promotion and demotion of two of its ministers. But although callers to at least three local radio stations have been calling for the head of minister Robin Yearwood over a matter of days, two of three local newspapers published today, could have been making similar suggestions. The front page story of the November 14th issue of the Outlet Newspaper captioned "As the Crisis Deepens.....Calls Increase for Yearwood's Removal". In that article, Outlet suggested that "Yearwood's head is being demanded  on a silver platter by all and sundry", while in the same breadth was saying that minister Molwyn Joseph was quite upset over the calamitous state of affairs at the airport. Then page 4 of the November 13th issue of the Antigua Sun, with story captioned "Air traffic controllers serve on working group", clearly showed a photograph, taken by press attache' to the Prime Minister Norman "Gus" Thomas, highlighting a recent and ongoing meeting between minister Joseph and Air Traffic Controllers, comfortably seated in the same minister's office. ><> PM Bird has left the country to attend a heads of government conference in St. Lucia. The two-day summit will serve as a precursor to a follow-up meeting in Florida, USA. ><> Workers at PWD has received part pay today, despite receiving it late. It was reported that the money was received and bagged yesterday by staffers, but distributed today to the workers. ><> Another group of workers at VC Bird International airport are accusing authorities of neglect (more to follow) ><> A farmer is contemplating suing the government for invasion, deprivation and loss of earnings (more to follow) ><> "The Caribbean has to come up with creative ways if it was to survive in globalisation". So says Dr. Paget Henry (more  to follow)  ><> The health department is stepping up ways to increase its effort in controlling mosquitoes, especially after the heavy rains. So says chief health inspector Lionel Michael. Michael further said that residents could expect a spread of bacterial  insecticide diseases, at least one week after the rains, hence the need for his department to bring about public awareness through public  education. The health chief also confirmed that his department would also be treating breeding places to rid residents of mosquitoes and lava through fogging. ><> "Lawyers  prefer to look at the value of their work instead of the price". So says new president of the local Bar Association, E. Ann Henry. Henry added that the lawyers here were restrained on set minimum fees, but further confirmed that the Bar Association does not share in their takings. Membership of the association number in excess of 100. ><> Donna Chaia explains to listeners of Crusader Radio (more to follow) ><> "Antiguan boxers have received a shot in the arm". So says former  WBC middleweight boxing champion Maurice Hope. Hope made these comments after an Antiguan won a gold medal for boxing in St. Maarten (more to follow) ><> 

Wednesday November 12, 2003: There is a new Minister Of Aviation. Robin Yearwood  has lost his job as custodian of VC Bird International Airport. Influential leaders in the government met last night and decided to sack Robin, replacing him with Molwyn Joseph. The new appointment came into effect today. ><> Senator Colin Derrick is taking the Electoral Commission to court (more to follow) ><> The Electoral Commission said that appeal cases in the High Court does not affect the publication of the new voters list (more to follow) ><> Members of the Electoral Commission have voted along party lines ><> (more to follow) ><>   All schools islandwide closed early today. This was not due to salary late payments, but because of flooding and the potential of flooding. The Met office  announced a flash flood warning due to the persistence of heavy rains, and said that it would continue throughout the day ><> Potworks Dam is full from heavy showers that came (more to follow) ><> Public Relations Officer of the Guild of Air Traffic Controllers Joseph Samuel Jr., said that Aerodrome Superintendent Errol George was fully aware of the plight of air traffic staffers at the airport. He said that a non-functional elevator could not have gone unnoticed, and that late payment of salaries was very common among staffers. Samuel also said that contrary to what has been promoted, the Controllers did not take any action, but that some members were sick. On another note, Samuel said that there were staffers who were trained in the operation and upkeep of radar, but that project was at a standstill. ><> Today mark the first anniversary of the death of Leonard "Tim" Hector, political activist and newspaper editor, and ACLM is organising a series of events to mark the occasion. The event kicks off with a lecture this evening, where featured speaker Dr. Paget Henry, will speak on "The Life Of Tim Hector In Perspective". The commemorative activities which will run until November 24th, the date of Hector's birthday, will include a conference and an exhibition. It was also reported that an award will be bestowed posthumously by the government of Cuba. Hector's widow Jennifer Hector, is expected to travel to Cuba to receive the award. ><> While listeners to Observer Radio listened, an excited PWD worker called the station today just to say, "The Eagle Just Land". However, the caller elaborated by stating that at 11:08 am, one week's salary have arrived for payment to staffers. ><> "Love, Fun & Sun", that is the bash that Sandals Antigua is expected to put on to showcase 12 years of service to its guests. In celebration of seven years being voted the "Best Honeymoon Resort In The World", repeat guests and long serving staff at the resort will be in for a special treat. ><> Another Colin is moving to Crusader Radio. But not from Sun FM nor ZDK. This time it is from Observer Radio. State ABS Radio and TV last night announced that Colin Sampson would be taking up an afternoon assignment of talk at Crusader Radio. It was not revealed when the exercise would have started, or whether the assignment would have been full time or part time. The other Colin's at Crusader Radio are Colin O'neil and Colin Juno-Finn. ><> Tertiary institutions from the USA, UK, Canada and the Caribbean are set to be part of a College Fair organised by the Ministry of Education in conjunction with Antigua Commercial Bank (more to follow) ><> The host of Crusader Radio's "Lets Talk" programme Donna Chaia has broken her silence (more to follow) ><> 

Tuesday November 11, 2003: PM Lester Bird has been given 48 hours to make a definitive statement. The call was made by Mac Emanuel of Antigua & Barbuda Justice Movement (A&BJM) in New York, USA, who said that an absence of the call could force his organisation to mobilise the international community against the country. Emanuel was also critical of PM Bird's tenure as head of government,  and was emphatic in another call for Bird to resign, along with two of his  ministers, Gaston Browne and Molwyn Joseph. The constituency operations of  Browne and Joseph, who incidentally were members of a cabinet sub-committee negotiating with the country's largest investor R. Alan Stanford, on behalf of the government, were exposed over the weekend as being the recipients of large sums of money from Stanford himself. Not being amused, Emanuel also issued a call for Stanford to be investigated. Following all of this, and without delay, Emanuel said that the stage should now be set for General Elections in Antigua and Barbuda to be held. In closing, Emanuel said that people should take to the streets and call on the PM and the government to resign. Emanuel's comments were made as a caller to Observer Radio's programme "Voice Of The People". ><> At 10:50 am today, the government has issued a press release stating that all public servants have been paid. The release, issued under the pen of PM Lester Bird, has confirmed that all outstanding salaries and wages have been brought up-to-date. But there has not been any confirmation from the public servants themselves. To date, only a handful of teachers and police officers have been paid. ><> For the third consecutive school day, Government schools in Antigua closed early. Students were again dismissed today as teachers struggle to come to grips with non-payment of their salaries. Only some teachers have been paid today. ><> The Police Welfare Association (PWA)  has given the government an ultimatum. Pay police officers by the 3rd of each month or else. Officers met today to continue a meeting that has been adjourned  from yesterday. This latest meeting was organised to update its members of the latest developments concerning payment of late salaries. President of the Association Corporal Olson Hector, said that discussions held with Minister of Finance Robin Yearwood yesterday, ended with a promise that officers would be paid by today. The suggestion has apparently received mixed feelings. ><> Nurses at the Mental Hospital went on a go-slow today. The action was apparently triggered off by the late payment of salaries. Staffers at the institution are contemplating strike action by tomorrow if the situation have not improved. But the action could be averted by a call received from authorities making a promise with the intention to fulfill it. There are over 100 inmates presently housed at the institution. ><> Nurses at Holberton Hospital were the recipient of a phone call today from the Ministry of finance. The Financial Secretary in that ministry called to advise that salaries were late, and that all pending salaries would be paid by this Friday. ><> There was a tense mood in government offices today. Some workers have downed tools while others went on a go-slow. Affected areas to date were PWD, Emergency Medical Services, teachers, school bus drivers, Post Office workers, employees at Diamonds Estate, prison officers, police officers and nurses ><> An opposition candidate is contemplating his future association with R. Alan Stanford. UPP candidate for St. John Rural East, Dr. Errol Cort, lawyer for Stanford, is preparing himself to abide with whatever decision his party would make regarding his association with Stanford. This came on the heels of revelations that Stanford has made monetary contributions to entities linked to two ALP candidates. It was not known if Cort was involved in the transactions, or if the subject matter was on any future agenda for the UPP. ><>  Head of administration at the VC Bird International Airport Errol George, has said that he does not understand what motivated workers at the airport to take industrial action. George was at the time responding to questions posed to him in an interview, that looked at all  areas that could have identified the possible causes that led to a sick out crippling the aviation industry for a day and a half. He said that he would get a first hand account of what happened, when he will join PM Bird in meeting with the Air Traffic Controllers. ><> PM Bird met with Air Traffic Controllers today. The meeting examined a wide range of issues in relation to work and general working conditions at VC Bird International Airport. President of the Controllers Eustace Peters Jr. described the meeting as fruitful, and said that Bird has assured them that he would do all that he could to address their concerns. Peters said that at no time were they prepared to be sick on the job, and has assured the general public that their safety would have always been foremost while  exercising their duties. ><>  A new voters list may be published before weekend (more to follow) ><> George Rick James said that there is an urgent need to strengthen electoral laws in the country (more to follow) ><> There has been a call for parents and students to march with teachers, demanding of the Prime Minister for them to be paid (more to follow) ><> Met Office workers have returned to their jobs. This was achieved after mapping out crucial details yesterday of a pending agreement. A hands on monitor situation would be undertaken by selected staff to oversee and assess the progress along the way. Met office workers were engaged in industrial action since last Friday. ><> 

Monday November 10, 2003: Copies of three negotiable bank drafts, purportedly linked to political figures and a party in Antigua and Barbuda, surfaced in a local newspaper today. In its November 10, 2003 issue, one of  the lead stories in the Daily Observer newspaper,  captioned, "The ALP, It's Ministers And Their Consciences For Rent?", highlighted three drafts drawn on a local bank, thanks to its owner R. Alan Stanford. Local bank draft number 25609, dated July 22, 2003, drawn on the Coolidge Branch of Bank Of Antigua, was in the sum of EC$500,000, payable to Antigua Labour Party. Another draft number 25686, dated October 7, 2003, drawn on the same bank, whose address is 1000 Airport Boulevard, was in the sum of EC$100,000, payable to Team City West, while draft number 25687, dated October 7, 2003, and also drawn on the same bank, was also in the sum of EC$100,000, but payable to St. Mary's North Constituency. There wasn't any information on the draft for the ALP to confirm the identity of the remitter, but R. Alan Stanford stands out as the remitter in the case of the other two. The revelations has cast much doubt on the identity and credibility of the other two payees. Both St. Mary's North and Team City West are directly linked to two government ministers namely Molwyn Joseph and Gaston Browne. The said ministers are incidentally linked to Stanford, by virtue of their appointment to the ministerial sub committee that oversees the affairs of the same Mr. Stanford. There are no confirmed reports as to the reasons for Stanford to be paying out these large sums of money, but speculations are very rife. One week (October 14, 2003) after Team City West draft was cut, minister Browne, in a radio interview, was asked to confirm if he had received a donation of corresponding amount from Mr. Stanford. Brown denied the allegation, but hinted that if an offer was made, he would not have refused. ><> Opposition leader Baldwin Spencer has called for the resignation of PM Lester Bird. But before Bird was to hand in his resignation to Governor-General Sir James Carlisle, he must also ensure that other cabinet ministers hand in theirs for unforgiven deeds. Spencer has accused Bird and other unnamed political appointees, whom he said that Bird has blamed for the current crises of being unable to meet public sector payrolls, of plummeting the country into a state of economic, social and political chaos. He has also highlighted the shocking and current revelations of cabinet ministers being the recipients of large sums of money, under highly questionable circumstances. By describing Bird as a failed Prime Minister, Spencer said that the country should not allow him the constitutional option of attempting to hold on to power by mid next year. The timeframe given by Spencer for Bird to remit office, was forthwith ><> After what looked like a brand new day for implementing the school curriculum, the education fraternity, especially government teachers, has been hit with with industrial action. Some teachers showed up for work today, while others have reported late for work. As a result, early closures were evident on school compounds and students who were scheduled to do their SBA in Home Economics today, could not perform their tasks due to unavailability of teachers to supervise the subject. Meanwhile, General Secretary of the A&BUT Foster Roberts, have confirmed that at the time of closure, teachers have not been paid. Roberts also said that teachers will remain resolute and would meet later today to discuss further course of action. ><> Members of the Royal Antigua & Barbuda Police Force will not be taking any industrial action at this time. This was disclosed by the president of the Police Welfare Association, who said that the police officers that were denied permission to hold a meeting among themselves, and defying the order from the top brass to desist from doing so, congregated to dialogue on a variety of issues. The president did not disclose what and if any resolutions  were passed at the meeting, but confirmed receiving a message from Finance Minister Robin Yearwood, indicating that the police officers would have been paid today. Concerning the mood of the meeting, the president also confirmed that some members have threatened to sick-out, but the safety of the public must be assured. The latter concern was prevailed. ><>  Finance and Aviation Minister Robin Yearwood, has said that he was thankful that workers at the ATC and the Met Office have returned to work. Yearwood also confirmed that the said Airport workers would be paid today.  ><> A meeting between PM Bird and workers of the Air Traffic Control Tower was called off. The 2pm meeting arranged by PM Bird for today, was rescheduled after the PM called sometime after the scheduled start, to indicate that something had came up. Meanwhile, Aerodrome Superintendent Errol George, has confirmed that staffers at the ATC has been paid. ><>  Met Office workers will be back on the job as of tomorrow (Tuesday) morning, but not before concluding current and pressing matters of concern (more to follow) ><> Montserrat's oldest resident was buried today. But not before last respects being paid by persons who journeyed to there from Antigua (more to follow) Little Nelly is off to Baltimore, USA to receive her "Gift Of Life" (more to follow) ><> Many students who are affected by teachers' latest actions, have been bombarding radio stations with calls to PM Bird to pay their teachers their salaries ><>      

Sunday November 9. 2003: ...BREAKING STORY....BREAKING STORY....BREAKING  STORY....BREAKING STORY.......Two cabinet ministers and the Antigua Labour Party as an entity, are allegedly  recipients of large sums of money, thanks to Texan investor R. Alan Stanford. Named are ministers Gaston Browne and Molwyn Joseph, members of the Government's negotiating team overseeing Stanford's projects. The revelations were aired today by host Chelston Lee, on Observer Radio's the "Big Issues" programme. Lee also disclosed that the ministers had allegedly compromised their role as servants of the crown by accepting gifts of such magnitude from the main developer of a proposed parcel of government property, which for decades, has housed the General Post Office. ><> The cost of the sickout by Air Traffic Controllers could run into millions. But it would be a while before the accounting exercise would begin. Although tight-lipped on the matter, an aviation and tourism official in the government said, that they would not be surprised if the government is held responsible for all debts incurred during the period of inactivity at the Airport. (more to follow) ><> A woman who had made several trips to Holberton Hospital, but was told each time that she was ok and sent home, died while on her way during her last trip (more to follow) ><> A former Financial Secretary Lennox Weston tells PM Bird that the game was up. He said that the economy is in shambles and people's future are on the line. He also said that the country was facing a meltdown, and warns that if the PM Bird does not engage the right minds for the job, there could be economic ruin. Weston made those comments while appearing as a panelist on Observer Radio's "Big Issues" today. ><> President of the A&BPSA James Spencer, said that if salaries are not paid by Monday the 10th, the PM could be setting himself up for a great fall. Spencer's comments came after he heard that the PM was making statements easing to the end of the week. He was also appearing as a panelist on "The Big Issues" ><> PM Bird said that the closure of the VC Bird International Airport has done great damage to Antigua & Barbuda (more to follow) ><> Opposition leader Baldwin Spencer has said that a definite regime change is just a matter of time (more to follow) ><> Stanford eyeing Dominica next (more to follow) ><>

Saturday November 8, 2003: V.C Bird International Airport is back to normal. Flights in and out of the Airport resumed to normalcy mid afternoon, as Air Traffic Controllers once again took up their positions. Sources close to the Air Traffic and meteorology staff at the airport have confirmed  that the back to work accord is only temporary. The workers were promised their salaries by Monday. ><> The strike by public servants which started yesterday, has entered  its second day today. But today, it would have little or no effect at all. The reason? Most of those public servants does not work on a Saturday. Meanwhile, union members affiliated with the the TUC, who met with the Antigua cabinet yesterday, have now become spokespersons for the government. They have agreed to tell the workers with whom they represent, that the government has asked for more time until Monday, to find monies to pay salaries. VC Bird International Airport, which was closed yesterday when Air Traffic Controllers went on a sickout spree, re-opened after lunchtime today. ><> There is likely to be a delay in the  publication of the voters list. No longer thanks to George Rick James, according to the electoral commission, but thanks to government workers. (more stories to come) ><> Antigua Power Company (APC) has announced an expansion and further investment of power supply to the nation (more to follow) ><> (more stories to come) ><> 

Friday November 7, 2003: Public sector workers are on strike. To date all government schools are closed. Air traffic controllers have reported sick, therefore V.C Bird International Airport is closed to incoming and outgoing traffic, at least for today. Treasury staff is back out but PWD workers have gone home. Reports state that the Army has been paid some 2 weeks ago, but police officers are yet to be paid. Nurses are also getting impatient from non-payment of salary (more to follow) ><> As callers got a chance to question the Barbuda candidates last evening, one in fact gave one of the candidates an ultimatum. You have 3 days to resign or else (more to follow) ><> Only 10 government  teachers in the nation have been paid for the month of October. This was disclosed by General Secretary of the A&BUT Foster Roberts. Roberts also confirmed that the 10 teachers work on Barbuda. Today, government teachers reported to work late after not receiving their salaries by yesterday, the latest that they were prepared to wait. At the time some of them arrived to work today, schools were already dismissed. ><> The streets of St. John's city were filled with students today. At about 9am this morning, the Princess Margaret Secondary School was dismissed, after only two teachers had thus far shown up for work. This was followed by the Ottos Comprehensive. Then Clare Hall Secondary was next visible, followed by Antigua Grammar School and the Antigua Girls High School. Within that hour, primary schools, who would have started the day's session at the said 9am, would have also dismissed their students for the day. ><> Cabinet meets with the TUC today (more to follow) ><> A government worker have found an innovative way to raise funds to supplement his slow incoming salary. Attached to the Customs division, a Customs Officer has decided to invest in his lunch break. From midday until the bus pick up its workers, that particular officer was seen clutching a copy of the "Informer" newspaper. The hope? That he could be the recipient of a $200 award for being seen with the paper. Publishers of the tabloid, mostly distributed in government offices, have advertised that anyone seen with a copy in their hand, could instantly win $200. ><>  One of the candidates due to contest a seat in the upcoming general elections, has a very serious concern for the school children of the nation, especially the females who were left without teaching supervision today. The candidate, a male, is of the view that a number of female students could get pregnant today, from extra curricular activities not associated with school work. "The teacher's strike, the early dismissals, and the non-availability of parents before a certain time, could have devastating effects on the children", said the candidate. The current member of the House Of Representatives, also believe that many parents could have been worried, not knowing prior, how the day would have worked out. ><>  Bank of Antigua's senior staff  under scrutiny (more to follow) ><> 

Thursday November 6, 2003: Chairman of the NLP Bertram Samuel, said that the Chairman of Sandals Gordon "Butch" Stewart, never repaid the company's outstanding debt with the government. Samuel was responding to an on-air statement made by the host of Observer Radio's "Voice Of The People" Winston Derrick, who today said that a government minister told him that Sandals had already paid off the monies that it had owed to the government. Derrick was also attempting to set the record straight after a previous caller, Ralph Francis, a former UPP dissident, was critical of the UPP's participation in a wine and food luncheon at Sandals, in the company of hotel and government officials. Samuel said that tourism minister Molwyn Joseph, negotiated a deal on behalf of the government back then with Sandals, to forgive the debt, after their failure to remit to the government, their unpaid taxes. He also said that he disagreed with Joseph's position then, while he was with the government, and still continued to disagree up to this day. Panelists on today's programme were MP Hilson "Brother B" Baptiste and Senator Bertram Joseph, both of the UPP. ><> Teachers threaten strike action (more to follow) ><> Air Traffic Controllers bawling (more to follow) ><> Antigua could lose more of its airspace (more to follow) ><> Treasury workers have downed their tools today (more to follow) ><> The Senate meets today (more to follow) ><> PM plans to re-distribute Ron Lester Poll, but in a more comprehensive way (more to follow) ><> Embarrassed by the revelations of Air Traffic Controllers to the media earlier today, the government has flown in an expert elevator repairman from Trinidad & Tobago this evening. The mission? To fix the elevator that has been out of use for over 18 months and to further prevent the said Air Traffic Controllers from climbing 56 steps to and from their workplace on a daily basis. ><> The two Barbudans tipped to contest that seat in the upcoming general elections were  prominently featured in a debate on radio tonight (more to follow) ><> 

Wednesday November 5, 2003: Cabinet snubs the TUC (more to follow) ><> Rick James writes to the AG, chief law officer, advising her to advise the Electoral Commission, not to disobey the law as it relates to the new voters list (more to follow) ><> Electoral Commission says that it will publish the list anyway (more to follow) ><> Antiguan Beauty for Ms World Pageant in China (more to follow) ><> PM releases Ron Lester poll, showing ALP winning 12 seats (more to follow) ><> Spencer says that Ron Lester poll is not worth the paper it was written on (more to follow) ><> OND's Melford Nicholas says that Ron Lester poll has not been helpful ><> The government has lost its status with commercial banks in St. John's. In its latest attempts to access funds to pay workers at concessionary terms, the government's application has been turned down. Sources believe that the tongue lashing meted out to the private sector by PM Bird last Sunday, in an address to his party's youth conference, has left an uneasy feeling for private sector bosses. Sources also confirmed that the private sector has notified commercial banks in St. John's, that if it was their intention to lend their deposits to a  government which continue to chastise them at will, that they should think again. The non access of funds from the banks have caused government workers to wait a little while longer to collect their salaries. ><> 

Tuesday November 4, 2003: Today was Alan Stanford's Day in Antigua & Barbuda. The investor took jabs, shared some and "tell" all in a long awaited radio interview with Observer Radio's "Wake Up Caribbean" morning programme with host and interviewer, Julian Rogers. In response to a question, Stanford had favourable comments for PM Bird and opposition leader Baldwin Spencer. He described Bird as smart and shrewd and Spencer as gifted and intelligent respectively. He also vowed to continue good relations whichever of them wins the upcoming poll ><> Stanford has denied disrespecting the MBS commissioners, who were charged with the responsibility of investigating the affairs and operations of the Scheme. He admitted that the several attempts to get him to appear as a witness in the inquiry did not materialise, since  their schedule could not fit into his schedule, but further confirmed  that several written exchanges could attest to it that fact.  ><> Stanford warns government from meddling in other people's business (more to follow) ><> 

Monday November 3, 2003: The nation celebrated its 22nd birthday today in the midst of a colourful parade of pomp and ceremony (more to follow) ><> Antigua/Barbuda strikes a forgiveness deal with the US (more to follow) ><> Culture Director optimistic (more to follow) ><> Dominicans residing in Antigua has another reason to celebrate (more to follow) ><> 

Sunday November 2, 2003:  Barbudans describe PM Bird's pronouncement of healthy bank savings as economic leakage (more to follow) ><>

Saturday November 1, 2003: While admitting to failure of the "Land For Youth Programme", PM announces new land initiatives  (more to follow) ><> Spencer describe Bird as a copycat (more to follow) ><> Mothers gave birth to healthy babies on Independence Day  (more to follow) ><>

Friday October 31, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Thursday October 30, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Wednesday October 29, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Tuesday October 28, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Monday October 27, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Sunday October 26, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Thursday October 25, 2003:  stories to be inserted

Friday October 24, 2003: Members of the Electoral Commission has agreed with George Rick James of the Free and Fair Elections League,   that the registration officer in Rural East did not follow the law in respect of 20 cases that were heard during the claims and objections exercise. This makes it yet another victory for James (more to follow) ><> Callers to Observer Radio this morning gave Harold Lovell of the UPP, favourable ratings over Lionel "Max" Hurst of the ALP, in reaction to the first in a series of debates by candidates (more to follow) ><> PM Bird said that the late payment of salaries and wages could have triggered a new trend in the twin island state (more to follow) ><> PRO for the UPP Dean Jonas, said that the poll published by the Antigua Sun yesterday was accurate, but a poll conducted for the UPP, discloses that the victory was by a wider margin (more to follow) ><> PM Bird discloses that he would be publishing a poll conducted the acclaimed pollster Ron Lester, which has confirmed favourable results for the ALP (more to follow) ><> The TUC said that the non payment of salaries represented a breach of contract by the Government (more to follow) ><> The MBS has defended its purchase of a government building (more to follow) ><> A 13 year old boy has won the V.C Bird Antigua Port Authority Award (more to follow) ><> There seems to be uncertainty with the plot of lands at Tomlinsons, that was earmarked as the new national cemetery. As a result, health and planning officials will be holding a meeting this Monday evening with residents of the area. Also expected on hand will be the 3 declared candidates running for the area, plus an undecided newcomer. Incumbent "Nat Moses" Francis have not confirmed his pending presence as yet (more to follow) ><> 

Thursday October 23, 2003: The UPP could win the next general elections. So said today's front page story in the Antigua Sun newspaper. The results 10 UPP against 7 for the ALP, were extracted from a scientific poll conducted by a group of teachers and students at the Antigua State College. The poll gave victories to the UPP in the constituencies of St. John Rural West, City East, St. Mary's North, St. Mary's South, St. Phillip South, St. Peter, St. Paul, St. George, All Saints West and All Saints East & St. Luke, and the reduction of seats in St. John Rural East, Rural South, Rural North, City West, City South, St. Phillip North and Barbuda to the ALP. The third party to be featured was the OND, which had dismal support...Also extracted from the poll was that Messers Asot Michael, Molwyn Joseph, Errol Cort and Rodney Williams were lagging behind their opponents, and that incumbents had the best of chances to be re-elected. Strangely, nothing has been mentioned of incumbents Nathaniel "Nat Moses" Francis of St. George and Sherfield Bowen of St. Phillip South respectively. The organisers of the poll said that updates will be published on a monthly basis. ><> PM Bird has refuted the findings of the poll published by the Antigua Sun today. Bird said that he was confident that his party could win the next general elections. He was comfortable in highlighting that the ALP could win 11 seats including that of Barbuda, in the upcoming general elections. Bird did not disclose which two seats his party could lose after picking up Barbuda. ><> If the poll conducted by the Antigua Sun newspaper holds true, two women could be seated in the House of Representatives for the first time. Pollsters said that Dr. Jacqui Quinn-Leandro and Senator Joanne Massiah, UPP candidates for St. George and St. Peter respectively, are likely to be victorious. Both women are first timers in the political arena. ><> The OND held a press conference today (more to follow) ><> Senator Gayle Christian has been promoted to the position of Parliamentary Secretary. This was disclosed by PM Bird. Bird said that Christian was capable of operating at a ministerial level and that she would do better than the rest, including "Bacchanal" Walker. Christian is the youngest Senator in the upper House and is the lone female candidate appointed to run on the ALP ticket in the upcoming general elections. She was sworn in at Government House today. ><> PM Bird has ordered that the contract for Director-General of Tourism Shirleen  Nibbs, be renewed. but this has not gone down well with tourism minister Molwyn Joseph (more to follow) ><> West Indies skipper Brian Lara made headlines in Antigua/Barbuda today (more to follow) ><> (more news to follow also) ><> 

Wednesday October 22, 2003: The man who is at the forefront of electoral reform was ejected from a hearing conducted by the Electoral Commission of Antigua & Barbuda. Secretary of the F&FEL George Rick James, was the victim of bad bad judgement on the part of the commission. James was in the public gallery this evening, at an appeals hearing of the commission, when chairman of the commission, but not chairman of the hearing, Mc. Lin Matthias said, that the commission had reasons to believe that James was taping the said hearing. Police was given orders to evict James from the meeting (more to follow) ><> Members of the West Indies Cricket Team is presently on island (more to follow) ><> The TUC says that any industrial actions by unions in Antiugua/Barbuda should be sanctioned (more to follow) ><> (more news to follow) ><> 

Tuesday October 21, 2003: The Barbuda Council will return to normalcy as of next week Wednesday. That's the word of Fabian Jones, chairman of the Barbuda Council, as was relayed to him by the parliamentary representative Hilbourne Frank. The delay was due in part to a court matter involving the qualification of a sitting member. That member, Lynton Thomas, has since resigned. ><> Parliament met today to debate more bills (more to follow) ><> UPP candidate for St. Mary's North Bertram Joseph, has expressed his regret over 2 tragedies in the community recently, and has clearly laid blame on the lack of structured community programmes. Joseph said that the failings of the community are most instructive, and that the nation has too much interest interest in the youths , to have them cut down in the prime of their lives. He also said that both deaths have placed a shadow not only on Jennings, but also on the entire nation. Joseph have since expressed condolences to families of the late Jabari James, age 15 and Kemesha Jules, age 6. ><> Chief Immigration Officer Col. Clyde Walker, has said that the presentation of fraudulent documents and the smuggling of persons into Antigua/Barbuda, has been a regular occurence in recent times Walker made these comments after officers of the department had detected fake Turkish and Canadian passports in the custody of  persons who were trying to slip into Canada. Walker also boasted that his department has been 99% successful in apprehending persons with fake documents ><> 

Monday October 20, 2003: Two newly announced political parties have now merged. The names of one of them will be retained, while one of the personalities making the news in recent times, will assume leadership. (more to follow) ><> For the first time since its inception, the TUC might be called upon to examine the current crises of late payments for public sector workers. Interim head Maurice Christian said that the organisation would only respond if one of its affiliates would ask it to. Now, president of the A&BPSA James Spencer, said that it would be bringing the recent matter to the attention of the TUC. ><> Staffers at the post office has signed a petition to show their level of seriousness (more to follow) ><> President of the A&BPSA James Spencer, said that his organisation never supported the statement by PM Bird that "even though they get paid late ... they still get paid", and consider the statement as not only as an insult, but also as a serious indictment against the government. ><> One of the directors of Hadeed Motors, have refuted a Daily Observer article suggesting that the company has made available funds to bail out the government (more to follow) ><> The NMC has called for the establishment of a "National Relief Fund" to help parents who have suffered at the hands of late payment (more to follow) ><>  It is being said that being in the right place in the right time, could lead to remarkable and rewarding results. Enter Antiguan Karen-Mae Hill. In 2001, Hill was the first Antiguan to achieve the prestigeous Rhodes Scholarship. Now in 2003, and more precisely earlier this evening, herself and other Rhodes Scholars from around the world met Queen Elizabeth the Second and Nelson Mandella at a reception and dinner at Buckingham Palace. Hill, who has already completed her Masters, is persuing a law degree, and is also expected to complete her doctoral studies early next year. The Antigua/Barbudan community is very proud of its famous daughter. ><>  The Jennings community mourns the death of another person. This time a 6-year old, who died from drowning. Reports say that little Kemesha Jules was the victim of a pond of water located somewhere in the vicinity at the end of the village, with a new extension into the Yorks area. ><> The one man investigation into the allegations by outgoing retired assistant commissioner Cardinal King began today. Retired judge Justice Henry Moe, met with King to review the contents of his letter to the public safety minister Steadroy "Cutie" Benjamin. King said that he was satisfied with the planned procedures and timetable. Justice Moe is expected to call several witnesses, but the number was not divulged. He said that based on the scope of the work, a report should be expected by Friday next week. ><> The 10 men jointly accused of murder, had their case opened today at the assizes. First witness to take the stand was the mother of the deceased. Beverly Corbett, mother of the late Owen "Andrew" Douglas, recounted the events of the last time that she saw her son alive. DPP Cosbert Cumberbatch will be up against a battery of lawyers representing the 10 accused. They are, Dane Hamilton, Justin Simon, John Fuller, Jason Martin, Michael Archibald and Samantha Marshall. Justice Rita Olivetti presides over the hearing. ><> Three persons were victims of a car jacking today (more to follow) ><> Quick action by a service station owner, resulted in the station being saved from a major fire eruption (more to follow) ><> A new cemetery has been identified in the Bendals community (more to follow) ><>

Sunday October 19, 2003: The lad who died Wednesday evening from stab wounds, could have lived a little while longer. That was the view of Everton Barnes, evening news editor of Observer Radio, as he appeared as a panelist today on that station's "The Big Issues". Barnes said that the lone operational of four ambulances on island, was overworked. He also said that when emergency services were summoned, they could not appear in a timely manner. Instead, residents placed the then injured body of Jabari James in a vehicle and headed for the Hospital. Then midway on their journey, they met the ambulance, who collected and transported James for his onward journey. James was d.o.a on his arrival. ><> Chester Hughes of the A&BUT said that the persons who are trying to mobilise unity of all opposition forces, are a bunch of selfish individuals who fall out with political parties for some reason or another. Hughes said that they are trying to confuse the electorate with an aim of returning the ALP to power. Hughes, a panelist on today's "The Big Issues", also said that the only alternative to bad governance in Antigua and Barbuda, was the UPP. He concluded that such persons should join the organised UPP, who already has an agenda for the country. ><> General Secretary of the AT&LU David Jonas, was not certain as to what would happen tomorrow in public sector arena. Jonas, appearing on "The Big Issues" today, was confirming how the government reneged on its promise to make funds available to workers by 11am Friday. He also said that the mood of workers at this time, does not augers well for good relations with the government. He concluded that his last resort was to undertake an initiative to lobby other affected unions for a common approach. ><> The Pensioners Association is expressing dismay at the country's fallout with public sector workers. President Eddie Hunt, said that he was very much concerned that the financial meltdown could cause widespread suffering. He said that pensioners are getting restless, and their plight of years of suffering was even more severe than the PWD workers, who have only been suffering for weeks. But Hunt also warned that if pensioners were to get involved in the fray, it would have been hell work in the country. Hunt did not confirm if and when this would happen. ><> While one website announces the formation of a new political party, another decided to endorse the efforts of the UPP (more to follow) ><> There a number of US $100 counterfeit notes presently in circulation on island (more to follow) ><> 

Saturday October 18, 2003: An individual who registered in St. John City East, but did not have his day in court after he was objected to, since the registration officer for that constituency did not hear his case, because he was unruly when his case was down for hearing, had his matter heard today. Leon Matthew of Upper Fort Road, according to him, but also of Brysons Street, according to other witnesses, was accorded a hearing which resulted in his name being struck from the list. But Matthew was engaged in interference and witness tampering at the hearing which caused council for the objector Leon "Chaku" Symister to recommend that a witnesses testimony be struck from the records and that a possible strong recommendation be made in the Registration Officer's report for the electoral body recommend to the Director Of Public Prosecution, possible criminal charges (more to follow) ><> In his weekly radio address, UPP leader Baldwin Spencer, reported on his party's recent trip to New York City. Spencer said that he has received reports that the UPP's hour long call-in programme session on WLIB Radio, has attracted one of the highest listener ratings on that station.  He also said that favourable comments confirming that the UPP is the party of choice, has gone up in in New York, and as well in Toronto, Canada. (more comments on Spencer's address to follow) ><>  PM Bird has said that the UPP has shown selfishness on its path to agitate workers. Bird did not elaborate on this remark while giving his weekly radio address, but consider the moves by the UPP as unfortunate. Meanwhile, Bird has confirmed that by the end of this month, the financial situation could shown improvement, therefore allowing workers to be paid in a more timely manner. ><<> PM Bird has asked the question, "who will cast the first stone?" (more to follow) ><> FIFA has lifted its suspension on Antigua/Barbuda ><> A rescue seminar of sorts among political parties and individuals opposed to the present government, took place tonight at the City View Hotel (more to follow) ><> (more news to come)

Friday October 17, 2003: Employees at GPO and PWD are poised to take industrial action against the government. An 11am deadline to fulfill a promise to pay outstanding salaries and wages owed to them have not been met. Finance Minister Robin Yearwood, who is away on government business, have not left any satisfactory word for the workers. Union officials are reporting that a strike action could be imminent. ><> Government is to set up a one man probe into allegations of irregularities in the police service. This came as a reaction to a letter by outgoing retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Cardinal King. King last week wrote to Minister of Public Safety Steadroy "Cutie" Benjamin, bringing to his attention of  police misconduct in a number of instances, including a no evidence submission in a drug case and the issuance of  firearms license to persons convicted on drug charges. The lone jurist, retired judge Justice Henry Moe, was appointed to look into the allegations. But King, who was invited to meet with Moe, said that while he welcome the appointment, he would not meet with him in the absence of not being properly informed of his terms of reference. King's letter was also copied to the local Bar Association and the american Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). ><> A 15-year old boy has been charged with murder. Cassim Joseph Mc Laggon of Jennings, a Jamaican who immigrated to Antigua 3 weeks ago, was charged for murdering Jabari James, 16, of the same address. After an altercation, Mc Laggon allegedly left the scene of the incident, picked up an ice pick, and inflicted a stab wound to the chest of James, thereby, piercing his heart. James died on his way to the hospital. ><> Help is on the way for a 21 year-old Barbudan student. Shonda Daniel, who is attending St. Mary's University in Canada, has had some timely intervention in her favour. The Barbuda Council, who undertook the funding of her scholarship, has found itself in a cash-strapped position, since the central government is behind in its subsidies. Chairman of the Barbuda Council, Fabian Jones, has confirmed the establishment of the "Shonda Daniel Scholarship Fund", and has since liased with a New York based Antiguan organisation, The Antigua & Barbuda Justice Movement (A&BJM). The A&BJM has intervened on the student's behalf, and was successful in her being granted extension, while the organisation persue ongoing fund-raising activities. Daniel is persuing studies in Child Psychology and Human Resource Management. ><> The "Peoples Parliament" planned for the Bethesda Tamarind Tree this sunday has been postponed. Chief organiser Sherfield Bowen, a leading light in the DPP, said that the event was postponed so as to facilitate ongoing talks with other groups and individuals. A rescue seminar is schedule for tomorrow evening at the City View Hotel. ><> POWA says that it has serious concerns over the amendment of the Juvenile Act now before Parliament. POWA member Kathy-Ann Benjamin said that the Act in its present form serve as an intimidation against young people, and that the rights of the child could be violated under article 37(B) of "The Rights and Conventions of The Child". Benjamin also said that rule 17(C) and 45(113) of the United Nations rules for protection and liberty of the child, could be violated. It was not disclosed if the organisation would lobby Parliamentarians. ><>  UPP candidate Jacqui Quinn-Leandro, said that communication and information are too important to play with. Quinn-Leandro was at the time addressing an audience of supporters and well-wishers of the UPP, who gathered last night at the East Bus Station to witness firsthand, a mini launch of the party's candidates in the upcoming general elections. Quinn-Leadro said that the present administration continue to use journalists at the lone TV station as puppets, and that a past election promise to offer shares in the station, has now being characterised as a joke. The communications consultant, who just last week obtained a doctorate in the profession, concluded that her party, the UPP, would use the media to bring about tripartite realities. ><> General Secretary of the AT&LU David Jonas, said that an attempt should be made to bring together 4 unions which represent public sector workers. Jonas was at the time reacting to a a failed 11am deadline today in which the government was unable to come up with funds to pay late paid workers. Jonas did not make any reference to the newly formed TUC. ><> Chairman of the ALP Vere Bird Jr., is not a happy man, as he noted a drop in attendance at today's executive meeting of the party (more to follow) ><> Employees of the MBS are mourning the loss of one of their own. Reports say that one on their long tome employees have suffered a heart attack. (more news to follow)       

Thursday October 16, 2003: A 15 year old boy is in police custody after allegedly committing a murder. Dead is Jabari James, 16, a third form student of the Jennings Secondary School (JSS). The accused murderer is a 15 year old Jamaican youth, who had only migrated to Antigua 3 weeks ago. It was reported that after an altercation at a video arcade, the Jamaican left the scene and returned with an ice pick, inflicting a fatal wound to the chest of the victim, which apparently pierced his heart. The youth will be formally charged with murder. ><> The ALP and the UPP said that they were not worried over the announcement of two new political parties on island. Brushing things aside, ALP's General Secretary, Llewellyn Smith, said that his party is well is well prepared to launch its candidates, as soon as the voters is completed. UPP's candidate for St. Mary's South Hilson "Brother B" Baptiste, said that there are people out there who is bent on distracting the electorate from not voting for the government of their choice. He also said that the NLP is a distraction, and its membership is filled with crumbs from th ALP. ><> Invitations have gone out to attract the broadest possible cross-section of opposition entities and sympathisers to a meeting on Saturday. There, a fact finding exercise to possible solutions of matters affecting the country would be explored. The exercise is characterized as one of a "rescue" nature and follows on the heels of a suggestion by MP Sherfield Bowen,  for all opposition forces to get together with one common objective to rid the country from the grips of the present regime. Invited to this conference were representatives from the UPP, OND, NLP, DPP, NMC, AFP, BPM, FCDM, F&FEL, prospective independent candidates, other individuals and more. It is not yet clear as to who is the convenor of the conference. ><> Post Office workers were back on the job today. But not before giving the government a Friday 11am deadline to come up with outstanding salaries and wages. President of the A&BPSA James Spencer, said that some sections of the public sector are being given preferential treatment, and that late payments of salaries and wages has contributed to over $5,000 in arrears incurred by workers at the Post Office alone. Although workers were back on the job, their current actions are being described as a sit-in and not as a strike. ><>  ???????????????? COMING UP ?????????????????????????   ?A REPORT OF THE UPP'S WEEKEND VISIT TO N.Y.?????? ?UNION OFFICIAL DOES NOT AGREE WITH GOVERNMENT??????????????????????????????????????? ?PRINCE EDWARD CONTINUES VISIT TO ANTIGUA????? ?APUA SAYS THAT IT WILL PAY BARBUDANS??????????? ?ANTIGUA CELEBRATES WORLD FOOD DAY???????????? ?POWA RESPONDS TO FULLER AND ASTAPHAN????????? ?LONDON HIGH COMMISSIONER CANT GET MONEY???  ?BARBUDA STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP WOES???????????? ?VERE BIRD JR. ENCOURAGES ANTIGUANS?????                ????         STAY LOGGED  ON                                                      ?

Wednesday October 15, 2003: Sherfield Bowen has vowed for the validity of the NLP, but said that his DPP and other opposition parties should come together to defeat the ALP (more to follow)  ><> Representatives of the OND and the NMC have welcome the suggestion by Sherfield Bowen that all opposition parties should come together, but no timetable has been set. In the meantime leader of the opposition Baldwin Spencer has reserved comments on the suggestion (more to follow) ><> The ALP has called off its motorcade for this Sunday. A source close to the party said that it would have been distasteful to proceed with the exercise in the midst of many persons who have been suffering from late payment by the government. The motorcade was planned to celebrate the reported victory by supporters of PM Bird, where the case with the minor was withdrawn against him in the High Court. ><> The Electoral Commission said that the new date set by parliament to present a new voters list is adequate and achievable (more to follow) ><> General Secretary of the AT&LU David Jonas, said that PWD could be back to normal by next week (more to follow) ><> One of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth sons, HRH the Earl of Wssex, is in Antigua (more to follow) ><> Barbudans are calling for the promise and continuous upgrading of their airport to be completed ahead of the winter tourist season (more to follow) ><> A team from the MBS visited Barbuda today (more to follow) ><> A16-year old student was killed by a 15-year old earlier this evening. Dead is Jabari James of Jennings, a third form student of the Jennings Secondary School (JSS). He was allegedly killed by a Jamaican teenager, after an altercation in a video arcade. The assailant, who is assisting the police with their investigations, allegedly left the arcade after the altercation, and returned with an ice pick, inflicting damage to the heart of the victim. Immigration records are reported that the Jamaican assailant arrived in Antigua only 3 weeks ago. ><> 

Tuesday October 14, 2003: Employees of three government departments went on strike today. This was evident as the streets of St. John's City were filled with those attached to the Ministry of Public Works and the General Post Office (GPO). The bone of contention was the non-payment of wages and salaries spanning as much as 5 weeks. ( more to follow ) ><> Trade & Planning Minister Gaston Brown has denied being the recipient of gifts from investor R. Allan Stanford, the principal party set to take over the General Post Office  (GPO) and a known contributor to political parties. But Browne did not hide to state that if Mr. Stanford was to offer him money for the development of his community, he would have taken it. He at the time responding to questions from Observer Radio's Julian Rogers. ><> Gaston Browne that the ministerial committee in place to deal with the affairs of R. Allan Stanford, has no negotiating powers (more to follow) ><> Government workers picket outside of parliament today (more to follow) ><> The NLP's promise of parliamentarians riding on its bandwagon, did not materialise (more to follow) ><> MP Sherfield Bowen, has announced the formation of a new political party for Antigua/Barbuda. It is called the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) (more to follow) ><> Parliament has extended the date for the next electoral list (more to follow) ><> PM Bird has taken a swipe at employees at the Ministry of Public Works. While debating a bill in parliament today, Bird said that he has broken his back to keep them all employed, and could not believe that this, referring to street protests and strikes, was the kind of thanks that he has received from them. The workers had picketed parliament today to bring to the attention of parliamentarians that they were fed up with continuous late payments of salaries and wages at the hands of the government. ><> PWD workers received a cheque today from PM Bird. Over EC$500,000 was handed over to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Works Cordel Weston, in the presence of David Jonas, General Secretary of the AT&LU. The funds form part of a promise of the Antigua/Barbuda cabinet to make available EC$1million to late paid workers at the department. ><> Referees in Antigua were on strike today. This was disclosed by a source close to the referees association. The outcome of a "no confidence" motion against the president of the association last night apparently triggered off the move. President Vanroy Burns saw his members voting 13 - 13 plus one abstention. But some referees were not pleased with the outcome and so boycotted the game. However, Burns showed up to referee a match today. ><> 

Monday October 13, 2003: Following yesterday's defeat at the hands of Guyana, Antigua/Barbuda's coach Rolston Otto is considering calling it a day (more to follow) ><> Scores of employees from the Ministry of Public Works, were seen parading the streets of St. John's today. Some of them bore placards, and were apparently protesting non-payment of wages due to them by the government, but still outstanding. In an interesting and related development, the workers were said to have dumped their union, the AT&LU, and have decided to protest on their own, since the union has been unsuccessful in holding the government to a EC$1million pledge. ><> Two Antiguan women, employees of Antigua and Barbuda Investment Bank (ABIB), are among a select group of certified money laundering specialists. Cheryl George and Avonelle Wat