The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) will proceed with live coverage of the upcoming Soca Monarch events despite a formal request from the National Soca Fraternity to prohibit such coverage.

In a press release issued Wednesday, the ABFC acknowledged receipt of correspondence dated July 16, 2025, from Peetron Thomas and Tammisha Roberts, Chairman and Secretary of the National Soca Fraternity of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Fraternity’s letter requested that there be no live media coverage of the upcoming Soca Monarch Semifinals on Friday, July 18, 2025, and Finals on Saturday, August 3, 2025. According to the ABFC release, the request specifically sought to prohibit live streaming, live broadcasting, and real-time social media feeds, with the stated intention being “to preserve the live event experience, protect the creative work of the artists, and encourage in-person attendance.”

However, the ABFC announced it will maintain its current media coverage plans. “While we respect the Fraternity’s views and remain committed to engaging with all cultural stakeholders, the ABFC has reviewed the request and will proceed with its current media coverage plans, which include live broadcasting and digital streaming of the Semifinals and Finals,” the commission stated.

The ABFC justified its decision by citing its mandate: “Our mandate is to ensure that Antigua and Barbuda’s premier cultural events are widely accessible both to our local audience and to our diaspora and global Carnival community. Live coverage plays a critical role in that mission, allowing us to expand our reach, promote our talent, and uphold transparency in national competitions.”

The commission expressed openness to continued dialogue, stating: “We remain open to continued dialogue and collaboration with the Soca Fraternity as we work together to elevate the cultural landscape of Antigua and Barbuda.”

The release came after reports surfaced on another media site stating that the Chairman of the Thomas and Roberts, asked that there be no live streaming, live broadcasting, or real-time social media updates during the events scheduled for Friday 18 July and Saturday 3 August 2025.

Thomas thereafter issued a clarification regarding his position on the matter. In a formal statement, Thomas denied making personal demands and emphasized that his stance reflects the official position of the National Soca Fraternity.

“I stand as a signatory in representation of the National Soca Fraternity, in my capacity as Chairman of the Board,” Thomas stated.

He also called on media houses to refrain from mischaracterizing his position: “Please refrain from using my name—or that of my secretary, Tammisha Roberts—in any context suggesting that we are making demands. Such portrayals are inaccurate and unacceptable.”

Despite the ongoing discussions over streaming rights, Thomas emphasized that the celebration of the art form remains the priority: “Whether it’s streamed or not—the show must go on!” he wrote, urging support for the artists in person.

According to Thomas’s statement, “The National Soca Fraternity continues to advocate for fair representation, unity among stakeholders, and respect for its decision-making structures.”

The Soca Monarch Semifinals are scheduled for Friday, July 18, 2025, with the Finals set for Saturday, August 3, 2025.