Government House Wall Defaced During Carnival, Quickly Restored

Published
Government House Wall Defaced During Carnival, Quickly Restored
Government House Vandalized

Carnival celebrations took an ugly turn when vandals defaced the perimeter wall of Government House, sparking outrage from officials and residents alike.

The historic property, which is undergoing a significant restoration project, was spray-painted during one of the parades. Many expressed disappointment that such a symbolic national landmark had been disrespected at a time when unity and celebration were expected.

Despite the damage, the response was swift. Members of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, along with community volunteers and donors, stepped in to repaint the wall within days. Well-wishers provided supplies and materials, while the Governor-General, Sir Rodney Williams, made a personal donation to help cover the costs.

Government House Wall Defaced During Carnival, Quickly Restored
Government House restored

By week’s end, the wall had been restored to its dignified appearance. For many, the quick turnaround was proof of how strongly Antiguans and Barbudans value their history.

Officials have warned that anyone caught vandalizing Government House will face criminal charges. “This is not just a wall — it’s a piece of our identity,” one volunteer said as he helped apply a fresh coat of paint. “We have to protect it.”

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/08/31/government-house-wall-defaced-during-carnival-quickly-restored. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (9)

  • Apex Jones August 31, 2025, 10:11 AM

    Some people don’t care. Says a lot about how they keep where they live
    Reply
  • Antiguan Eyes August 31, 2025, 10:18 AM

    I agree the wall has historical and cultural value. But why are we still not outraged about all the missing persons in Antigua as we are about this wall? Why are we not outraged about the gun violence and robberies as we are about how government house wall looks? I think human life is most important. Let’s get more outraged about crime in Antigua please.
    Reply
  • Antiguan Pickney August 31, 2025, 10:19 AM

    I agree the wall has historical and cultural value. But why are we still not outraged about all the missing persons in Antigua as we are about this wall? Why are we not outraged about the gun violence and robberies as we are about how government house wall looks? I think human life is most important. Let’s get more outraged about crime in Antigua please.
    Reply
    • Protection August 31, 2025, 5:37 PM

      Police should be protecting that place with cameras and in person the person who did it splash paint right around tell us a person could do harm and not be seen SIR watch your own back.
      Reply
  • A wall is a wall. August 31, 2025, 10:38 AM

    Chups.. all the better it’s cultural it got some cultural decor. I guess they should’ve gotten security like Sagicor had to.
    Reply
  • Informed citizen August 31, 2025, 5:31 PM

    Why do people think defacing public property is okay?
    Reply
  • Milenda September 1, 2025, 8:24 AM

    Disgraceful! Government House is a symbol of our nation. Who thinks it’s acceptable to vandalize a landmark during Carnival?
    Reply
  • Antigua Surf September 1, 2025, 8:26 AM

    Let’s not be biased here Antigua.news. We know that the restoration of this wall has nothing to do with culture. They don’t care about our culture and this pays for the government. Remember Gaston said some carnival ago that Sagicor has money to rebuild the fence after the revelers would’ve taken it down by force, then the same came round to them. Just a pity this one didn’t come down.
    Reply
  • Pheona September 1, 2025, 8:29 PM

    Just repaint it and move on
    Reply

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