Cabinet Orders Carnival and Independence Bills Paid by Friday

The Antigua and Barbuda government has ordered that all outstanding bills related to the upcoming Carnival celebrations and Independence day be paid by this Friday. The decision comes amidst ongoing economic challenges facing the country, which have been exacerbated by declining tourism revenue and increased costs associated with hurricane damage.

The order to pay outstanding bills is seen as a significant step towards addressing some of the long-standing issues that have plagued the country's public finances. Critics are already questioning the timing of the order, given the current focus on a file involving Nadeem Brandon Doumith, who is accused of harbouring cannabis imports.

The decision may also have implications for neighboring countries in the region, particularly those with similar economic challenges. Barbados, for example, has been struggling with high levels of debt and public expenditure, and may be watching Antigua and Barbuda's efforts to address these issues closely.

Antigua and Barbuda has a complex history of economic challenges and political instability that dates back to its time as a British colony from 1632 until it gained independence in 1981. Since then, the country has faced numerous economic downturns, including the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma in 2017.

The government's decision to prioritize paying outstanding bills by Friday may be an effort to address these ongoing challenges and demonstrate its commitment to fiscal responsibility. The order is a significant development in the current political landscape of Antigua and Barbuda, and will likely have far-reaching consequences for the country's economy as it continues to navigate declining tourism revenue and increased costs associated with hurricane damage.