Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced his intention to file a defamation lawsuit against the United States law firm that made what he describes as baseless and malicious allegations regarding the government’s 2023 sale of the Alfa Nero superyacht.
Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM on Saturday evening, the Prime Minister confirmed that a pre-action letter will be issued to the firm “within a week or two,” signaling the start of formal legal proceedings. He said the government will seek a settlement of US$10 million, and if the firm refuses, a full lawsuit will be filed in US courts.
According to Prime Minister Browne, a team of roughly seven high-profile attorneys has been assembled to advance the case.
The law firm in question represented Russian national Yulia Guryeva Motlokhov, who had accused the government of impropriety during the high-profile sale of the Alfa Nero for US$40 million. As part of that legal challenge, Motlokhov sought extensive disclosure of the Prime Minister’s personal financial records spanning six years—claims and demands the government dismissed as unfounded and politically motivated.
Earlier this year, a US court quashed all subpoenas issued in the matter, a decision the government hailed as “complete vindication.”
The Prime Minister further revealed that he is considering additional legal steps against senior members of the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP), alleging that they worked in concert with “malign actors” to amplify defamatory claims.
Prime Minister Browne said the government remains committed to protecting its reputation, safeguarding the country’s international image, and ensuring accountability for those who “spread falsehoods to undermine the state.”
Whattttt you know how long I haven’t heard of Alfa Nero. I thought this whole thing was behind us. So what you must my PM
Why Mr doesnr behave himself? Always causing uncessary issues. Want to raise ul the Alfa Nero issue again when it seems that its coming to an end
If he believes the claims were false, then taking legal action is his right. Reputation matters, especially for a small country.
Would love to see more detailed public disclosures on the entire sale process, full clarity helps everyone.
Good luck Gaston Browne. Messing with super powers like USA. Dont you learn a thing from Trump
If I were you I would leave that one alone. Let sleeping dogs stay where they find rest.
The US can afford the lawsuit. The question is whether Antigua can? They have a printing press. If they need money they print. We? Lol we can hardly fix roads. PM leave that alone
PM Browne is within his rights to take action against them because they damaged the reputation of the country
Seems like a move to defend reputation more than to address the substance of the Alfa Nero allegations. I’ll wait to see the evidence before forming an opinion.