High Court to Close Friday Due to CHOGM Security Exercise

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Section 239 of the Magistrates Code of Procedure Act requires that a remanded detainee be physically produced before a Magistrate every eight days, with the Magistrate empowered to consider bail and inquire into the prisoner's welfare at each appearance. The judge noted that prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, a Magistrate would visit the prison to conduct remands in person, but that practice was never restored after the state of emergency was lifted. The court found the failure to comply with section 239 deprived Worrell of substantive constitutional safeguards, including the opportunity for a welfare inquiry and timely consideration of bail. Court rules pandemic-era remand practice unconstitutional, awards prisoner $10,000
Antigua and Barbuda High Court (photo by CROIX)

The High Court of Justice will be closed to the public on Friday, July 10, 2026, as Antigua and Barbuda continues preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 through the national security exercise, Exercise STRONGHOLD.

The closure will affect the Court’s Civil, Criminal and Family Divisions, with officials warning that security operations, road closures and traffic diversions around the High Court building are expected to significantly impact access to the facility.

In a notice issued on Thursday, the High Court said all matters scheduled for Friday have been postponed and will be assigned new dates. The Court Registry will notify all affected parties of the revised hearing schedules.

Persons who are represented by attorneys have been advised to contact their legal representatives for updates, while individuals representing themselves may contact the High Court Registry for further information.

The Court is expected to reopen and resume normal operations on Monday, July 13.

Exercise STRONGHOLD forms part of a series of security preparations ahead of CHOGM 2026, which will bring together leaders and delegates from across the Commonwealth to Antigua and Barbuda.

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Comments (2)

  • Apex Jones July 9, 2026, 7:25 PM

    Brace all u selves for the real thing come November
  • Informed citizen July 9, 2026, 1:31 PM

    Security comes first. 🇦🇬

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