PM Browne Calls on Churches and Families to Help Steer Young People Away from Violence
Prime minister’s appeal follows the Bathlodge shooting and murder charges against young men in two separate cases.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne is urging churches, parents, businesses and community groups to help reach young people at risk of becoming involved in violence, as recent shootings expose the harm being done to victims and the futures of those accused.
The urgency of that appeal was brought into focus by the September 21 shooting at a Bathlodge home. Saquania Anthony, 20, was killed, while Kelvin Samuel, 24, and Joshua Meade, 13, were injured.
Police say masked intruders forced their way into the house and opened fire. Jaquan Shaw, 20, of Cashew Hill has been charged with Anthony’s murder and two counts of attempted murder. The allegations against him have not been proven in court.
In a separate case, police have charged two 18-year-olds over the July 23 fatal shooting of Mordecai Eleazar Francis at Freeman’s Village. Natking Thomas of Cashew Hill is charged with murder, while Dejonte Joseph of Bathlodge is charged with being an accessory to murder. Those charges also remain allegations before the court.
Speaking on Saturday, Browne said the response to violence must extend beyond arrests and punishment. He called on families, faith groups, the private sector, public agencies and civil society to identify young people at risk and help them find a different path.
The prime minister revisited his government’s earlier engagement with former gang members. He acknowledged that the effort had drawn criticism, but said helping even one young person change course would have made it worthwhile.
Browne also called for rehabilitation and skills training for people serving prison sentences. That support would be especially important, he argued, if repeat offenders spend longer in custody under the tougher sentencing measures his government is pursuing. His stated aim is for them to leave prison better prepared to work and reintegrate into society.
He presented prevention, rehabilitation and stronger penalties as parts of a wider response to violence. Browne did not announce a new funded youth programme on Saturday, leaving open how the broader community effort he is seeking would be organised.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/09/28/pm-browne-calls-on-churches-and-families-to-help-steer-young-people-away-from-violence. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Parker Defends Call for Age of Consent at 18 in Response to ASPIRE
Senator calls for stronger protection against sexual exploitation alongside adolescent healthcare, education and safeguards for relationships between young people close in age.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Greene Says CHOGM Could Open Doors for UWI Five Islands
Foreign minister identifies international student recruitment and academic connections as potential longer-term opportunities. Meta description: Greene says CHOGM could help UWI Five Islands promote its programmes and build connections with Commonwealth countries.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
West Indies Oil Seeks Coordination on Fuel Deliveries During CHOGM
Police ask the company to provide delivery dates and times so movements can be coordinated with security arrangements.
By Cory Wayland
Two Women Sentenced to Prison Over $4,405 Clothing Theft in St. John’s
Cleo Lemonious and Latoya Pilliner pleaded guilty to stealing clothing from Hampton Boutique and were handed over to immigration authorities following their sentencing.
By Cory Wayland
Comments (2)
Donna September 28, 2026, 8:20 AM
Gaston did the wrong thing. He should have included both parents in that meeting, especially the fathers, for those young boys/men. A mother can do so much alone. Find out from the fathers what is really wrong with their parenting as role models for their sons. A friend of mine was having problems with her 14-year-old son. She had elders in her talk to him, but nothing changed. She came to me for advice. I told her to send him to his father, who was living with his wife. A few months later, the son returned home and apologized to his mother. The son has changed, and he is now an adult with his own child (a son). Sometimes these young boy want their fathers' love and attention.
ReplyApex Jones September 28, 2026, 4:01 PM
While I agree society can do more, I will say no mater how hard you try there are just some rotten elements that dont want to do better for themselves.
Reply