Antigua Government Criticises Landlord’s Eviction Action Over Alleged $8M Rental Debt

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The Antigua and Barbuda government has criticised a private landlord’s decision to initiate eviction proceedings over an alleged $8 million in unpaid rent, calling the move “harsh” and “not the wisest choice.”

Ambassador Lionel Hurst, Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, said the administration remains committed to resolving the matter through negotiations but suggested that the landlord’s claim may be inflated.

“It is the landlord who is asserting that the amount owed is $8 million. Landlords often make outrageous claims before settlement is reached,” Hurst said during the Post-Cabinet Media Briefing.

Despite the eviction threat, the government has pushed back against the public nature of the dispute, with Hurst suggesting that taxes owed by the landlord could be a factor in the discussions.

He acknowledged that the government rents multiple properties from the same business entity and expressed surprise at the decision to escalate the matter.

“We are sorry that he took this extreme step. This is not someone in economic distress. We have a business relationship, and we do significant business with this entrepreneur,” he added.

The dispute has reignited concerns over the government’s dependence on private rentals, with critics arguing that taxpayer money should be used to maintain or construct public buildings instead of leasing office space.

Hurst confirmed that the government is working to reduce its reliance on private landlords, citing a planned government complex at Factory Road and American Road. However, construction has been delayed due to tenants yet to vacate the area.

The government has blamed financial constraints, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, for the outstanding arrears, prioritising keeping public sector employees on payroll over making rental payments.

While the administration insists it intends to settle the dispute amicably, the landlord’s decision to take legal action could test the government’s ability to manage its rental commitments without further controversy.

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