MUCH MORE TO COME…Other names to be revealed in UPP’s ongoing justice chase

Minister of Justice Colin Derrick said the Linquist report related to the alleged embezzlement of public funds reveals more suspects than expected and that some of them will come as a surprise.

Derrick revealed the above information during the United Progressive Party Justice Rally Wednesday evening in St. John’s. The event was held on the corner of Redcliffe and Temple Streets.

“What happened was very wicked, very wicked indeed and I can assure you that some of the names that you have associated with this matter are not the only names involved. There are others who will surprise you,” he said.

“But unfortunately, the nature of the matter is such that I cannot state it this evening and you have to be very sensitive and understanding in this matter because all along, I told you things were going to happen, they have now begun to happen.”

Three weeks ago, the government received the complete and comprehensive report on the IHI Debt Repayment Scheme performed by Robert Lindquist, a financial forensic investigator, which accuses former prime minister and leader of the Antigua Labour Party Lester Bryant Bird, MP and ALP member Asot Michael among others of defrauding the government of US$14,414,904 over 10 years.

Derrick said, “I say to you trust us on this matter. You will hear of some other individuals who will bring goose pimples to your skin and you can’t believe they too

were involved.”

He also warned that if the Antigua Labour Party is re-elected the case may be abandoned.

He said, “Certain persons have it in their minds that if they are able to win the election all the work that has been done to date will go for naught.”

The minister said they have also hired additional lawyers, to help with the matter, including Geoffrey Robertson, Q.C, who is reviewing the case.

About Robertson, Derrick said, “He is keen and he has assured us that he is doing everything to ensure that the people of Antigua and Barbuda get their just due and reward because it’s very important."

The United Progressive Party staged a courtroom drama during Wednesday night’s Justice Square rally, trying the members of the Antigua Labour Party for alleged past offences against the nation.

The participants of the march through St. John’s were referred to as ‘members of the jury’ who were gathered in ‘Justice Square’ and Chairman of UPP Chaku Symister read the names of the ‘defendants’ (the members of the ALP) while he was dressed in his attorney courtroom regalia.

MP of St. John’s City East Harold Lovell accused the ALP of having a philosophy of ‘scampishness,’ and said that reflections at Justice Square on the likes of fugitive Robert Vescoe and the failed Asian Village project were for the benefit of young people and those who came to the country in the last few years and may not be aware of what happened in the past.

With that, the PM said, “Justice Day is March 12. Are you ready to execute your sentences on Justice Day?” he asked the audience.

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