WATCH: PM Browne Praises Carnival Production but Says Local Music Fell Short

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has praised the production of the just-concluded Antigua Carnival while expressing disappointment with the quality and volume of local music released for the festival.

Speaking Saturday on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne said he was away on official duty and did not attend the celebrations. However, he said reports reaching him suggested the festival was exciting and generally successful.

Browne also expressed relief that Carnival ended without more serious violence. He acknowledged that there were a few incidents, including one or two reported stabbings, but said the situation could have been worse.

“We give thanks,” Browne said as he reflected on the relatively limited disruption.

The prime minister reserved strong praise for the technical production, describing the stage and sound as “first class.” He said the improvements demonstrated the value of encouraging Carnival service providers to raise their standards.

Browne was less complimentary about the music released by local artists, arguing that Antigua Carnival continues to suffer from a shortage of strong homegrown songs.

He rejected claims by some performers that the April general election reduced the time available to prepare music for the season.

“A lot of foolishness,” Browne said. “Twelve months to prepare, especially for those longstanding artists.”

The prime minister said local music plays a central role in shaping the quality and identity of Carnival and called on artists to begin preparing earlier and produce stronger material each year.

His comments come as officials and stakeholders begin considering improvements ahead of Antigua Carnival’s 70th anniversary in 2027.

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