Antigua DPP Mystery

Antigua is not unique to political scandals, alleged government corruption, and misconduct in public office. The sad irony is it seems to happen more frequently in Antigua politics than in other countries in the Caribbean. When you think you've heard and seen it all, a new set of embarrassing revelations about government favoritism, nepotism, and shady practices comes to light.

It was published back in February 2022 that the DPP of Antigua, Anthony Armstrong, a native of Jamaica, was found guilty of professional misconduct by the country's legal disciplinary body – the General Legal Council (GLC) - for signing a document knowing that his client was not physically present.

My first reaction was What! That can't be true, but it was! There's been some unusually strange political maneuvering happening in the country that's too conspicuous to be coincidental. Usually, there's a political motive behind most government policies and decisions. However, they are not always in the best interest of the country.

Hidden ulterior political motives can be hard for the unsuspecting eyes of party loyalists to recognize. Some are so naked and transparent that even the blind can see through them. Assuming there are no political motives or hidden agender. Why would the ALP government choose a citizen of Jamaica to be the DPP of Antigua? Aren't there any Antiguans qualified enough to hold that position?

How and why that happened in Antigua remains suspicious and questionable. Peerhaps the AG can provide some clarity on that. Not being presumptuous, but I am not sure giving that position to a foreign national would be acceptable in Jamaica politics. Nevertheless, the appointment seems more like a political tactic designed to impact important national and legal decisions that may require the DPP's involvement inevitable.

Will it ever stop? The country has endured much embarrassment caused by politicians and government officials' alleged involvement with shady characters since it gained political independence, so the ALP appointment of a controversial Jamaican to be Antigua District public prosecutor should be a red flag to all opposing political parties and independent voices of decent in the country.