Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has strongly condemned a shooting incident that disrupted a major political rally on Saturday night, stressing that the violence was criminal in nature and not politically motivated, while pledging tougher action against illegal firearms and gang activity.
In an official statement issued hours after the incident, Prime Minister Browne said he was “deeply concerned” about the shooting, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday near a public concert organised by his Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).
“I have been deeply concerned by the shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of this morning in the vicinity of a public concert organised by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party,” Browne stated.
He referenced confirmation from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda that the incident was not politically linked and was unrelated to the event itself.
“I note the statement issued by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda confirming that this incident is not politically motivated and is not connected to the event itself. That clarification is important, and the public should take careful note of it,” he said.
The shooting occurred during a large rally in St. John’s, where Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka was performing. Fellow Jamaican artist Sizzla had performed earlier in the event. Videos shared on social media showed patrons fleeing in panic as sounds believed to be gunfire rang out.
Browne described the incident as “an act of criminal violence,” saying it stemmed from illegal firearms and unrelated disputes rather than politics.
“What occurred was an act of criminal violence, rooted in illegal guns and ongoing disputes, which intruded upon a public gathering. It has no place in our society,” he said.
He used the incident to reiterate his administration’s stance on violent crime, warning that those responsible would be pursued and prosecuted.
“I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the use of illegal firearms, gang activity, and any form of violence that endangers innocent lives and undermines the peace and stability of our nation. Those responsible must be identified, apprehended, and brought before the courts,” Prime Minister Browne said.
He pointed to existing measures by his government to address gun violence, including tougher laws and stronger enforcement efforts.
“The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Government has acted decisively to confront this threat. We have strengthened the law, increased penalties for the illegal possession and use of firearms, and intensified efforts to disrupt the importation and circulation of illegal weapons,” he said.
Browne also emphasized that criminal violence would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
“There can be no excuse for criminal violence. The use of illegal guns, the pursuit of gang conflict, and the willingness to endanger innocent lives are choices. They will be met with firm and decisive consequences,” he said.
Referencing his party’s 2026 manifesto, Browne reiterated a pledge to intensify the fight against violent crime.
“In our 2026 Manifesto, The Renaissance: A New Era for Antigua and Barbuda, we have set out a clear and uncompromising commitment. On pages 74 and 75, we pledge that there will be no tolerance for murder, gang violence, or the spread of illegal firearms,” he said.
“The safety of the people of Antigua and Barbuda is paramount. My Government will intensify its efforts, in full cooperation with law enforcement and the community, to stamp out this menace and to ensure that our country remains safe and secure for all,” he added.
Authorities say no injuries have been confirmed, and investigations are continuing
