Despite taxpayers’ pushback, plans for ‘free’ One Nation Concert appear to be going ahead
In spite of public criticism, it appears that the Gaston Browne
Administration intends to stage its annual “One Nation Concert” –
even while it hints at increasing taxes.
The prime minister is considering a 2 percent hike in the Antigua
and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) in order to meet salary increases for
public servants and other financial obligations.
In a social-media post, it was confirmed that January 13, 2024 has
been selected as the date for the “free” concert, which is expected to
feature some of the region’s top reggae and soca artistes.
The post reads, “Get ready for an unforgettable night of diverse
music at the One Nation Concert presented by the Government of
Antigua and Barbuda under the esteemed auspices of Prime
Minister Gaston Browne!”
Some of the names that have been bandied about include high-
priced Jamaican artistes Beenie Man and Beres Hammond and
Trinidadian soca diva Patrice.
The event is being promoted to celebrate what the Administration
describes as the spirit of togetherness and the rich cultural heritage
of Antigua and Barbuda.
However, as recently as last week, residents said they were not
happy with the idea of a free event at the taxpayers’ expense.
Most still believe the concert is unnecessary, given the country’s dire
financial situation, with public-sector workers owed back pay,
overtime, and overdue raises.
One person responded to the announcement by declaring, “You have
got to be kidding me. This government [has] its priorities [messed]
up.”
Others have concluded that staging the concert will be a waste of
money, with so many things already having gone wrong financially.
They are asking why taxpayers are being made to spend millions of
dollars “on a stupid concert that the politicians think [will]
ingratiate them with the people.”
Suggestions are being made for alternative uses for the money.
Among them is the renovation of the General Post Office and its sub-
stations – which are in a deplorable condition, forcing the staff to be
engaged in weeks of industrial action – or the repair of the many
run-down government offices, so that civil servants can be more
comfortable at work.
The critics say the concert funds could also be used to address
issues at the public hospital, such as mold infestation in at least two
operating theatres, or to pay government creditors, many of whom
are owed millions of dollars.
“There are so many other useful things that the Government can do
with this money,” a man says.
The prevailing opinion is that staging this free concert is basically
flushing money down a toilet.
