Prime Minister Browne vows ruthless fight against gun violence in Antigua and Barbuda

Prime Minister Browne vows ruthless fight against gun violence in Antigua and Barbuda

In a resolute address to the nation, Prime Minister Gaston Browne reaffirmed his government’s commitment to combating gun violence with unwavering determination. Highlighting the rising threat of violent crime in the Caribbean, Browne outlined a series of stringent measures aimed at curbing gun-related offences in Antigua and Barbuda.

“We will be steadfast, we will be unyielding and we will be relentless in the fight against violence, particularly gun violence,” Browne said, setting the tone for his speech. He highlighted recent legislative action by the government, including tougher sentencing guidelines and an increase in the maximum sentence for gun violence to 10 years. However, the prime minister expressed frustration with judicial decisions that he said did not reflect the seriousness of the crimes.

“When the courts impose sentences that seem disproportionate to the seriousness of the crime, we are left speechless,” Browne said, signaling that he planned to call for even tougher sentences. He announced plans to introduce new legislation in the next parliamentary session that would increase sentences and tighten bail conditions for those charged with gun crimes in a bid to keep dangerous individuals off the streets.

Browne also called on the sub-region’s judiciary to reassess sentencing guidelines and bail conditions for gun-related offences, bringing them into line with the current realities of crime and violence. He described the situation as a “public health epidemic” in the Caribbean and revealed that he has instructed Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin to engage with the Acting Chief Justice on the urgent matter.

“Our goal is to work closely with the judiciary to increase mandatory sentences for gun crimes and ensure swift and effective justice is delivered,” Browne affirmed.

The prime minister’s remarks underscored the broader regional context, with him citing the devastating impact of gun violence in other Caribbean countries, particularly Haiti, where criminal gangs have devastated the population. Browne vowed that such a situation would not be allowed to arise in Antigua and Barbuda.

“We will not allow this to happen here — not now, not ever; certainly not under my leadership,” he asserted. “Gangs and those involved in gun violence will not be allowed to hold our people hostage. We will fight them — fire with fire, steel with steel — until they are defeated.”

Prime Minister Browne’s speech reflects his government’s uncompromising stance on tackling gun violence as the country braces for tougher measures to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.