ANTIGUA | Prominent UPP Politician Embroiled in Defamation Dispute with Prime Minister

The caretaker for the United Progressive Party (UPP) in the constituency of St. John's City West, Alister Thomas, has appealed to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the police commissioner to investigate a "damaging" Facebook post made against him by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Thomas, who is already engaged in a separate quest for justice regarding allegations leveled against him by the Prime Minister, claims that the online publication of information linking him to a recent cannabis seizure at the airport was not only "false and misleading," but also "damaging to [his] character and reputation."

In a letter of complaint dated October 7, 2024, addressed to Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Shannon Jones-Gittens, Thomas requested a formal investigation by the Police Department and any necessary action from the DPP's office. Jones-Gittens, in her response the following day, advised Thomas to take the matter directly to the Police, who would then conduct an investigation and present their findings to the DPP's office. She further noted that, particularly for offenses under the Electronic Crimes Act, a determination would be made as to whether there is sufficient evidence to substantiate any charges.

Heeding the Acting DPP's guidance, Thomas redirected his complaint to Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney in a letter dated October 17, 2024. The Commissioner's office promptly acknowledged the matter, informing Thomas that it had been referred to the Criminal Investigation Department for further action.

Critics of Prime Minister Browne have been quick to condemn his alleged actions, accusing him of "spreading information that is intended to defame, disgrace, or embarrass" individuals who do not align with his political agenda. 

They point out that reports of drug seizures are routinely published by the Police, although the alleged recipients are seldom publicly identified or charged in connection with these shipments. Consequently, they conclude that Prime Minister Browne's Facebook post about Thomas was indeed motivated by malice.

As the investigation unfolds, the political landscape in Antigua and Barbuda has been thrown into further turmoil, with the public eagerly awaiting the outcomes that will shape the future of this high-stakes dispute.

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