LETTER: Abuse of Power? | Directors Accused of Bullying and Silencing Public Servants

Dear Editor,

A growing number of public servants in Antigua and Barbuda are raising serious concerns about systemic victimization and abuse of authority by senior government officials. Allegations of intimidation, arbitrary transfers, and retaliation against employees who speak out are surfacing across multiple ministries, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.

The Antigua and Barbuda Public Service Association (ABPSA) has reported an uptick in complaints from civil servants who claim they have been unfairly targeted by departmental directors. These workers allege they have been sidelined, demoted, or reassigned without clear justification, often after voicing concerns or refusing to align with certain internal agendas.

“This is not just about job dissatisfaction,” said a senior civil servant who requested anonymity. “It’s about systemic practices that punish honesty, transparency, and professionalism. Too many of us are working under fear and undue pressure.”

The situation has been exacerbated by recent comments from Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who has signaled a crackdown on what he describes as underperformance within the public sector. In a recent address, Browne stated, “Heads are going to roll; we have had ten years protecting incompetence in this country; it is finished.” He further warned, “If we don’t push public sector workers to perform, then you are going to get all ill-treatment.”

These remarks have drawn criticism from opposition figures and public service advocates, who argue that such rhetoric fosters a climate of fear and undermines the morale of dedicated civil servants. D. Gisele Isaac, chairperson of the United Progressive Party (UPP), condemned the Prime Minister’s attacks on public servants as “cruel” and “irresponsible.”

The Ombudsman of Antigua and Barbuda, Dr. Marion Blair, has the authority to investigate complaints against public servants or statutory bodies. However, the Ombudsman may decide not to investigate if the complaint is deemed trivial, frivolous, or not made in good faith.

As the government navigates this critical juncture, public servants and the wider community are watching closely to see if justice and transparency will prevail in the ranks of the nation’s civil service.

Public Servant