PRESS RELEASE

𝐓𝐡𝐮. 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑𝐫𝐝, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐒𝐭. 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧’𝐬, 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐚

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) wishes to address public concerns surrounding the participation of two competitors in the Party Monarch Competition quarterfinals outside the main event schedule.

Due to a miscommunication regarding the official date of the quarterfinals, there was a discrepancy between what was publicly announced and what was stated in the formal communication shared with registered participants. As a result, two competitors, who had already confirmed travel plans based on the originally communicated date, were unable to be present on the revised official date.

In the spirit of inclusiveness and fairness, and following consultation with the Judges Committee, the decision was made to facilitate performances for these two competitors prior to the official quarterfinal event.

The session was conducted under full competition conditions, with:
•The official Party Monarch judging panel present along with members of the Interim Party Monarch Committee.

•Standard judging criteria and procedures applied.

•Both competitors present and performing in-person, as captured in the official image provided.

•Full video recording and timestamping of each performance, with scores submitted securely alongside all other quarterfinal entries.

This accommodation was made to ensure that all registered artists had a fair and equal opportunity to participate, despite the scheduling confusion.

The recorded performances are available for viewing upon request by interested stakeholders through the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC). Requests can be made by contacting the ABFC Office at 462-0194, and arrangements will be made to facilitate viewing at a mutually convenient time.

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission remains committed to upholding the credibility, transparency, and integrity of the Party Monarch Competition. We thank the public, the artists, and the Soca community for their continued passion and engagement, and we will continue to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure the competition remains a proud showcase of our culture.