The Antigua and Barbuda government announced plans to introduce legislation at the next Parliament sitting that will expunge criminal records for individuals convicted of possessing small amounts of cannabis and grant them official pardons.
Following the weekly Cabinet meeting, a statement revealed that Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Steadroy Cuttie Benjamin, has been tasked with drafting the bill. The legislation will offer pardons to persons convicted of possessing less than 15 grams of marijuana.
The proposed law will also apply to individuals convicted under the Public Health Amendment Act during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to clear their records as well.
Additionally, the Cabinet agreed that Prime Minister Gaston Browne will advise Governor General Sir Rodney Williams to exercise his constitutional power under Section 84(1) of the Constitution to pardon inmates currently serving sentences at His Majesty’s Prison who are actively engaged in the Home Advancement Programme for the Indigent (HAPPI) and have shown genuine rehabilitation.
“Cabinet emphasised that the criminal records of these individuals will be expunged, allowing them a fresh start and an opportunity to continue contributing positively to society. This action aligns with the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Government’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration,” the statement said.
The government also announced that upon receiving their pardons, these individuals will be offered full-time employment within the HAPPI programme. Furthermore, Cabinet approved a grant of EC$500,000 to support HAPPI’s ongoing efforts to build and reconstruct homes for the less fortunate.
This initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to social justice, rehabilitation, and community development.
