DNA: Asot detention embarrasses Antigua

(Press Release)

Information received this afternoon from the Office of the Prime Minister states that Minister Asot Michael has been arrested by law enforcement officials in the United Kingdom. The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) considers this to be very shocking news! It is unprecedented for a serving minister in our country’s government to be arrested by a foreign government.

While details of the arrest remain sketchy, it is alleged that the London Metropolitan Police could charge Minister Michael with money laundering and other criminal activities. Allegedly, Minister Michael may be charged jointly with Mr. Peter (Virdee), a person known to Antigua and Barbuda for investments he has made in the country’s economy in recent years.

It is a well established legal principle that every accused is innocent until proven guilty. However, the DNA finds it more than curious that Prime Minister Browne acted with rapid fire in revoking Minister Michael’s appointment as a Cabinet Minister and relieving him of all portfolio responsibilities in the government of Antigua and Barbuda while admitting that he had “no firm details of the reason for Mr. Michael’s arrest…”

In commenting on Michael’s arrest, Political leader of the DNA, Hon. Joanne Massiah stated, “it is a regrettable development and a sad reality that much of the reputational damage inflicted on our country is done by some of our politicians and their associates…Antigua and Barbuda cannot endure any more of these type of scandals.” She continued, “without casting any aspersions on MP Michael, the situation emphasizes the need for our politicians and leaders to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to abiding by, and adhering to, the highest standards of integrity and ethics in public life.”

The DNA, together with all Antiguans and Barbudans, will continue to follow this unprecedented development with keen interest.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]