PM Gaston Browne Calls for Urgent Truce Amid Rising Gang Tensions
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for an immediate truce among rival gangs as tensions escalate, particularly among youths in the nation’s schools. Browne’s urgent plea comes after a series of concerning developments involving students applying for membership at the Antigua Barbuda Institute of Social Studies (ABISS).
“The critical issue right now is to have a truce,” said Browne, emphasizing the need to address the violence before it escalates further. Browne highlighted that 12 gang members had recently applied to become students at ABISS, a move that has raised alarms about potential conflicts spilling over into the academic institution. “What we don’t want is for them to take the fight from Princess Margaret School, from Ottos Comprehensive, from YMCA, to ABICE.”
In a bid to prevent further violence, the Prime Minister underscored the necessity of engaging with these youths even before their formal enrollment. Browne indicated that efforts are underway to convene a meeting with some of the most notorious gang members, including those associated with the infamous Gracefield Killers gang, which is reputedly among the most violent in the region.
“We’re meeting them on Monday at the Multi-Purpose Center,” Browne revealed, noting that around two dozen gang members have already confirmed their attendance, with the number expected to increase. This gathering aims to foster dialogue and understanding, with the hope of negotiating a lasting peace.
According to reports, during prior interactions with gang members, many expressed a desire to cease hostilities. “They say they’re tired of fighting,” Browne said, recalling his conversations with the youths. He emphasized that the gangs are seeking peace, a sentiment that has been echoed in one-on-one discussions and group meetings.
The Prime Minister also pointed out that the government is prepared to offer support to these youths, but in return, he asked them to commit to peace. “We’re giving you everything you want; what are you going to give us back?” Browne recounted asking the gang members, who responded by expressing their fatigue with the ongoing violence and their desire for peace.
The upcoming meeting at the Multi-Purpose Center is seen as a critical step toward achieving a truce. Browne remains cautiously optimistic but stresses that understanding the needs and motivations of these young individuals is key to resolving the conflict.
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“We’re giving you everything you want …” Oh really ? And what are you giving the numerous VICTIMES of the violence, assaults, robbery, murders perpetrated by these gangsters who have proliferated exponentially under your tenure as leader of this miserable nation? You have told them to dispose of the guns they’ve used in their carnival of mayhem in any way they see fit except handing them over to the security services. What? Really? Do you, sir, in your bird brain understand that you have in fact given these thugs AMNESTY for their gun crimes against innocent peaceful residents of this country? Are you mad? Where do you derive any authority to personally give amnesty to violent gunslinging criminals who have caused such distress and tragedy to the decent people of this country? Where is your sense of responsibility, empathy to the suffering communities and households of Antigua and Barbuda? You seem to feel you are ruling over cowards and fools like those misfits in your cabinet who are afraid to challenge your arbitrary irresponsible one-man exercise if power! Ok. The whirlwind has just begun to rage. Your terrible destiny is in the whirlwind.
Gaston remember what you said in your speech (I do!). If they don’t comply, I hope you back up your rhetoric with a mighty response.
Just like you SUCCESSFULLY achieved on the 8th of August 2021 when you tear-gassed innocent Antiguan women and children.
YOU DIDN’T THINK TWICE ABOUT THAT…
DID YOU?
They are wanting to get an education. That’s nice.
man listen i hope it goes well they are humans i believe there is away youths and the older gangs need to school them young nes
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