Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador Daven Joseph has issued a formal public apology to environmentalist Martha Watkins-Gilkes for defamatory comments he made in September 2024 on social media.
In the signed statement dated October 27, 2025, Ambassador Joseph acknowledged that he posted a comment on on Facebook page on September 27, 2024, under an article titled “Local groups celebrate withdrawal of Antigua’s bid to resume commercial whaling.”
His comment, he admitted, included statements about Mrs. Watkins-Gilkes which he has since retracted.
“I have had the opportunity to reflect on the impact that my statement may have had on Mrs. Watkins-Gilkes,” Joseph wrote. “Upon reflection I have thought it proper that I apologise to Mrs. Watkins-Gilkes.”
The Ambassador went on to express regret for his remarks, stating that he withdraws the statement “in its entirety” and pledges not to publish or republish any similar comments in the future.
“I take this opportunity to apologize to Mrs. Watkins-Gilkes and to express my regret for what I said,” he continued.
The apology follows public discussion surrounding Joseph’s previous comments, which were viewed as defamatory toward the well-known marine conservation advocate.
Watkins-Gilkes, a long-time environmentalist, has been a vocal opponent of commercial whaling and a supporter of marine protection initiatives across the Caribbean.
What did he say about the white lady?
Very gentlemanly. You could have been ignorant about the whole thing. Happy you wasn’t
That’s what happens when you Antiguans elevate outsiders, especially those of a certain hue and complexion. This land is my land, NOT your land and if my government adopts a policy of support for the Japanese on the question of their time honored cultural practice of whale hunting, then your alien views are quite irrelevant. You people are always dictating to others of the “proper/improper” aspects of their own culture. Woman, jùst do the Judge Judy Shuffle. You don’t like our policies, Madam tenant, then MOOOOVE! Daven, you chose to apologize. Good for you. She is not worth”damages” for no damage
Public apology, huh? Sounds like PR more than genuine regret, but at least it’s something.
Respect to the Ambassador for taking responsibility publicly. That shows strong character.