Parliamentary Representative for St. George, Algernon Watts, has raised concerns about a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the United States regarding the potential acceptance of refugees.
Watts made the comments during a virtual public rally on Tuesday night, where he questioned the details and implications of the agreement, which allows Antigua and Barbuda to accept up to 10 refugees from the United States if needed.
MP Algernon Watts speaks at UPP virtual Rally (screenshot of Office of the Leader of the Opposition)
Antigua and Barbuda is among several Caribbean nations that have signed similar arrangements with the United States. The agreement is contingent, meaning the country would be required to accept refugees only if specific circumstances trigger the provision.
However, Watts said there are many unanswered questions surrounding the MOU. He questioned the criteria for determining who qualifies as a refugee under the agreement, the timeline for any potential transfers, and the financial, social, and security implications for Antigua and Barbuda.
The parliamentary representative also raised concerns about transparency, suggesting that the public has not been sufficiently informed about the full terms of the agreement or the obligations it places on the country.
We want to hear from someone contesting elections
Transparency matters. Even if it’s only 10 people, the country deserves to know the full details.
Would like to hear the government explain the MOU clearly so people can decide for themselves.
Why are they so opposed to refugees when plenty of them are refugees in Trump land and other places
Watts asking questions is the least we should expect, someone has to hold them accountable.
Hello from the other side………………This is a man who entered politics, now has two successful businesses. Recieved 10 duty free to start a rental company, with a fat pocket now and decides to bow out. I have no respect for people like that