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Prime Minister Gaston Browne Condemns Political Opportunism Amid National Tragedy

16 March 2025
This content originally appeared on Antigua News Room.
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Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne

Gaston Browne Condemns Political Opportunism Amid National Tragedy

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has criticized opposition figures for allegedly using the tragic murder of a nine-year-old Chantel Crump to advance political agendas.

Speaking on his weekly Browne and Browne Show, Browne condemned what he described as political opportunism, asserting that some individuals and groups were seeking to exploit the national tragedy rather than focusing on justice and community healing.

The Prime Minister emphasized that his administration had been actively engaged in efforts to apprehend the suspects and ensure justice for the victim. He disclosed that he had been in constant contact with law enforcement authorities since Wednesday afternoon, working closely with the Police Commissioner to coordinate resources and investigative strategies.

“I understand the distress and pain that people are feeling, but there are some who are using this situation to push political narratives and create unnecessary division,” Browne stated. “Instead of using this moment to unite and support the family of the victim, there are political elements who see this as an opportunity for self-promotion.”

Browne also rebuked the notion that his government was indifferent to the crisis, revealing that he had personally reached out to the grieving family and offered government assistance for funeral expenses. He argued that while some were engaged in protest and rhetoric, his administration had been working behind the scenes to address crime and improve security measures.

“There are those who want to claim that we do not care, but the fact is that we were actively working through the night on this case while others were asleep,” he said. “The government remains committed to ensuring that justice is served, and we will not be distracted by those who seek to politicize this tragedy.”

The Prime Minister further highlighted the need for a collective approach to addressing crime, calling on the public to cooperate with law enforcement and avoid spreading misinformation. He reiterated his government’s commitment to strengthening national security and ensuring that such acts of violence do not go unpunished.

In Antigua there is heightened public emotions following the shocking crime, with calls for stronger security measures and harsher penalties for violent offenders. As investigations continue, the government maintains that it will take all necessary steps to restore public confidence and safety.

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