Open Proposal to The Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda for a Transparent and Accountable Process for Road Infrastructure Financing and Implementation

Ensuring Transparency and Best Practices in the Licensing Fee Increase and Road Works Project

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced an impending increase in the licensing fees for vehicles to finance road infrastructure projects. While acknowledging the necessity of road improvements, it is imperative that this process is conducted in a transparent and accountable manner, consistent with best practices. Transparency in financial arrangements, project implementation, and monitoring will enhance public confidence and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and equitably.

To this end, we Antigua and Barbuda Patriots – a non-political group –  respectfully submit the following recommendations and inquiries to facilitate a governance process that upholds the principles of transparency, accountability, and responsible public financial management.

The Government has indicated that the Antigua Commercial Bank (ACB) and Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB) will provide a $100 million loan for roadworks. To ensure fiscal responsibility and public trust, we request the following details be disclosed:

We ask for these details since this tax measure was not included in your Budge 2025 statement that was approved by Parliament, and no figures were provided to inform the nation.

Given that the increased licensing fees will be used to service the loan and fund roadworks, it is essential to establish a clear and transparent framework for tax collection and disbursement. We propose:

To ensure fairness and quality in the execution of road projects, a structured procurement process must be implemented. We recommend:

We know that given your insistence on good governance and accountability with which we fully agree that you would concur with these measures for transparency.

Clarification on whether the licensing fee increase is a permanent measure or will be adjusted upon repayment of the loan.

Establishment of a periodic review mechanism to reassess the necessity of the increased fees.

We recommend that a comprehensive study on vehicle usage and road sustainability is essential for long-term infrastructure planning. We propose:

The past importation of duty-free vehicles contributed to increased traffic congestion and parking challenges, in addition to environmental pollution. To prevent further strain on road infrastructure, we recommend:

To allow for citizen participation in this important project, we recommend the establishment of a schedule of public fora  at which the public can respond to the published information about this project and ask question and make suggestions.  This is the essence of democracy.

Conclusion

 By implementing these measures, suggested herein, you, Prime Minister, can reinforce your declared pledge to transparency and accountability, ensuring that public resources, especially those raised by direct taxation of the people,  are utilized effectively for the benefit of all citizens.   

 We trust that you and your administration will consider these recommendations and take the necessary steps to establish a governance framework that is consistent with international best practices.  In this way, the Government will build public trust and confidence in its integrity.