Prime Minister Gaston Browne says he remains undefeated in defamation cases and is prepared to pursue further legal action against political opponents.
Speaking on his weekly radio programme, Mr Browne discussed an ongoing lawsuit linked to claims surrounding the sale of the super-yacht Alfa Nero. Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan said the case had encountered a procedural issue, as one defendant, Martin De Luca, had not been properly served legal documents.
Mr Astaphan explained that while the law firm involved was correctly served, service on Mr De Luca must be repeated to meet legal requirements.
Mr Browne also signalled possible legal action against former opposition leader Harold Lovell, saying he intended to hold individuals accountable for defamatory statements. He added that any damages awarded would be donated.
The prime minister said his approach was aimed at deterring false claims and protecting reputations, arguing that individuals with resources should face financial consequences for defamation.
He cited a previous case involving former prime minister Baldwin Spencer, who paid $30,000 in damages, which Mr Browne said he donated. He also referred to a separate dispute with Vere Bird III, which was dismissed after the court found the statements in question to be true.
Mr Browne said truth remained the strongest defence in such matters and urged public figures to exercise caution in their statements.
“We’ve never lost a case… just by standing on the truth,” he said.
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Just standing on the truth isnt that amazing? like ok gaston
GASTON BROWNE IS THE ONLY PERSON.WHO COULD SAY WHAT THE HELL HE FEELS LIKE ABOUT ALL OTHERS.IF ANYONE DARE SAY ANYTHING ABOUT HIM.ME A GO SUE YEH.I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE PEOPLE OF ANTIGUA TO VOTE YOU AND YOUR BUNCH OF MERRY MEN OUT OF OFFICE.GASTON BROWNE,IS MARIA BROWNE STILL ON WEST INDIES OIL COMPANY BOARD? IN HER SUBSTANTIVE POLITICAL POSITION.AS MINISTER OF WORKS AND OTHER PORTFOLIOS.IN MY OPINION,THAT IS A CONFLICT.SHE COULD BE USING INFORMATION FROM WIOC BOARD MEETINGS TO ENRICH HERSELF.THAT IS HOW I SEE IT.PEOPLE VOTE HIS ARSE OUT.YOU WOULD THEN BE ABLE TO VISIT ALL PLACES YOU ARE NOW BARRED FROM TRAVELING TO.