PM Browne Advocates for Cleaner Public Spaces and Property Responsibility
The government has taken a firm stance on the growing issues of indiscriminate littering, unauthorized vending, and derelict properties affecting community aesthetics and safety.
Recognizing the importance of law and order, Prime Minister Gaston Browne emphasized that residents must uphold and respect the rules that govern public conduct and property maintenance.
“We are a country of laws, and each of us is duty-bound to respect them,” he said in his New Year address to the nation.
The message is clear: no individual has the inherent right to litter or conduct vending activities in public spaces without proper authorization.
This call to action encourages stronger self-regulation among community members to maintain the integrity of public areas.
PM Browne also warned that persistent violations of these laws will not be tolerated, and strict enforcement measures will be implemented.
Starting in 2025, the government plans to take concrete legal actions against property owners of neglected and derelict buildings, including demolition and cleanup of vacant lots at the owner’s expense.
In addition to enforcement measures, new policies will be introduced, including land swaps and purchase options for lots located in densely populated residential areas.
These initiatives aim to mitigate health and security risks to residents, fostering a safer and more aesthetically pleasing environment.
He urged residents to discontinue littering and unauthorized vending practices, and they called on property owners of derelict buildings to collaborate with the government to ensure that neighborhoods are clean and visually appealing.

About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Chief Magistrate Visits Prison, Leads Workshop on Treatment of Inmates
Ngaio Emanuel meets new Prison Superintendent Albert Wade and leads a workshop on prisoner treatment, use of force, ethics and remand deductions.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Jury Acquits Man of Serious Indecency and Indecent Assault After Four-Hour Deliberation
An 8–1 majority verdict cleared the accused of both charges arising from allegations made during a hot-stone full-body massage at a spa in February 2025.
By Cory Wayland
Ministry Apologizes After Unauthorized Jennings Secondary Drill Causes Alarm
Education officials say the school staged the simulation without approval after video showed a masked figure carrying what appeared to be a rifle as students ran from the scene.
By Cory Wayland
VIDEO: Lockdown Drill at Jennings Secondary Sparks Concern and Confusion
Principal Rody Christopher says the exercise was intended to prepare students for an intruder emergency after confusion surrounding the drill triggered concern.
By Cory Wayland

Comments (4)
Themba January 2, 2025, 12:50 PM
Faithful national #1 January 2, 2025, 12:20 PM
Stone January 2, 2025, 11:51 AM
Anonymous January 2, 2025, 11:31 AM