WATCH: Watts Raises Questions Over MOU With U.S. on Potential Acceptance of Refugees
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.
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.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/01/14/watch-watts-raises-questions-over-mou-with-u-s-on-potential-acceptance-of-refugees. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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Comments (6)
NotYou January 14, 2026, 2:24 PM
jani January 14, 2026, 2:47 PM
Concerned Antiguan January 14, 2026, 2:49 PM
Apex Jones January 14, 2026, 8:46 PM
Informed citizen January 14, 2026, 9:58 PM
Natty January 15, 2026, 6:14 AM