Come clean on private deal to take over Cancer Centre,’ UPP tells Browne Administration

Administration, particularly Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, regarding the future of the Cancer Centre in Antigua and Barbuda.

The UPP said in a press statement released today that they have received credible reports that the Executive has entered into a private deal with a local doctor and other investors, reportedly including a “silent partner” in the Cabinet, to take over the now-defunct facility.

They said since information about the Cancer Center became public property in 2023 through compulsory acquisition, any plans for its sale, its shareholding, and its operation to should be conducted openly and transparently, in accordance with the Tenders Board Act and the Procurement and Contract Administration Act.

The UPP also asserts that no legitimate entity, whether local or international, should be denied the opportunity to bid on the pretext of national interest or urgency.

The UPP believes that any attempts to sell the Cancer Centre should prioritize the needs of the people of Antigua and Barbuda, not just the interests of hand-picked owners or operators.

They said given the current state of the public-health system in the country, where hospital facilities are lacking and clinics are closed, the poor, sick, and suffering must not be further exploited for private gain.

The UPP is urging the Gaston Browne Administration to put the public interest first and ensure that any decisions regarding the Cancer Centre are made transparently and equitably.

“Sir Molwyn must come clean to the Nation on this deal”, the UPP demands