Latest news in Antigua and Barbuda? October 3rd, 2026

Major news stories and developments in Antigua and Barbuda around October 3, 2026:

• Fallout Over Jennings Secondary Lockdown Drill: The Ministry of Education publicly apologized after an unscheduled emergency lockdown exercise at Jennings Secondary School sparked widespread alarm. Video footage of a masked individual simulating an armed intruder circulated on social media, drawing criticism from parents and prompting calls for stricter safety drill protocols.

• Legislative Action on Sexual Offences and Legal Protections: Parliament moved to toughen sexual offence legislation while introducing a “close in age” legal defense. The provision protects adolescents engaged in consensual relationships from prosecution when the age gap between partners is small.

  Caribbean National Weekly

• Domestic Energy and Fuel Adjustments: Gasoline prices saw an official increase of $1.49, bringing the pump price to $17.99 per gallon effective October 1.

• Waterfront Infrastructure Upgrades: The Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority launched major structural rehabilitation works on the St. John’s waterfront boardwalk.

• Opposition to Whaling Policy: An environmental coalition delivered a 5,585-signature petition calling on Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s administration to withdraw its pro-commercial whaling resolution ahead of international marine conservation meetings.

  NewsNow

• Diplomatic Milestones: Donna Francis was officially inaugurated in St. John’s as Japan’s first Honorary Consul General to Antigua and Barbuda, formalizing expanded bilateral ties between the two nations.