‘Why the secrecy about Air Peace trip and investment symposium,’ UPP and concerned residents ask Administration
“Why is the Gaston Browne Administration being so secretive about
the upcoming Air Peace trip?” asks Damani Tabor, public relations
officer for the United Progressive Party (UPP) – while calling for
greater transparency on the matter.
The private Nigerian airline is expected to fly into Antigua on August
5, purportedly bringing wealthy businessmen for an investment
symposium and entertainers who will take part in the Carnival
festivities. The return trip to Nigeria is scheduled for August 9, at
which time all the visitors are expected to depart.
However, many residents are concerned about these intended
flights, since hundreds of West Africans were brought here, late last
year, and then left stranded, without adequate funds or proper
accommodation.
Tabor says the UPP shares the public’s concern, given that the
Administration has failed to provide any information on the so-
called wealthy investors. In fact, he says, the whole venture appears
to be smoke and mirrors.
The Party spokesman says the initiative lacks credibility, and the
prices advertised on the promotional flyer do not reflect any high-
end vacation, as is being touted.
Meanwhile, others note that the Nation has not been informed about
any investment symposium. Moreover, the visitors are due to arrive
during the climax of the festivities, and on a weekend when
everyone will either be basking in the Carnival revelry or otherwise
relaxing from work activities.
According to Tabor, this Air Peace-Carnival jaunt might be a second
“dupe” for the Browne Administration. But there are other concerns
that the flight could be carrying items that are intended to influence
the by-election results in St. Mary’s South.
Leading up to the January 18 General Election, an Antigua Airways
flight landed in the dead of night at the V.C. Bird International
Airport, sparking rumours that the cargo comprised metal chests
filled with United States currency.
