ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne has strongly condemned the shooting incident that disrupted a major political rally on Saturday night, stressing that the violence was criminal in nature and not politically motivated, while pledging decisive action against illegal firearms and gang activity.

In an official statement issued hours after the incident, Browne said he was “deeply concerned” about the shooting, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday near a public concert organised by his Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).

He pointed to confirmation from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda that the incident was unrelated to the political event itself.

“I note the statement issued by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda confirming that this incident is not politically motivated and is not connected to the event itself. That clarification is important, and the public should take careful note of it,” he said.

Browne described the incident as “an act of criminal violence”, attributing it to illegal firearms and ongoing disputes rather than political tensions.

“What occurred was an act of criminal violence, rooted in illegal guns and ongoing disputes, which intruded upon a public gathering. It has no place in our society,” Browne declared.

The rally, held in St John’s and attended by thousands according to an unofficial estimate, ended abruptly when gunshots rang out during a performance by Jamaican dancehall artiste Masicka. Fellow entertainer Sizzla had performed earlier in the programme. Videos circulating on social media showed patrons fleeing the venue in panic as the sounds believed to be gunfire echoed.

READ: Political rally in Antigua ends abruptly after gunfire during Masicka’s performance

Browne used the incident to underscore his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on violent crime, issuing a stern warning to perpetrators.

“I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the use of illegal firearms, gang activity and any form of violence that endangers innocent lives and undermines the peace and stability of our nation. Those responsible must be identified, apprehended and brought before the courts,” he said.

Browne highlighted measures already implemented by his administration to tackle gun violence, including stricter legislation and enhanced enforcement efforts.

“The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Government has acted decisively to confront this threat. We have strengthened the law, increased penalties for the illegal possession and use of firearms and intensified efforts to disrupt the importation and circulation of illegal weapons,” Browne noted.

“These measures were taken because gun violence poses a grave threat to public safety, national stability and the peace of our communities.”

He made it clear that criminal violence would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

“Let there be no misunderstanding: there can be no excuse for criminal violence. The use of illegal guns, the pursuit of gang conflict and the willingness to endanger innocent lives are choices. They will be met with firm and decisive consequences,” he asserted.

Referencing his party’s 2026 election platform, Browne reiterated a commitment to intensifying the fight against violent crime.

“In our 2026 manifesto, ‘The Renaissance: A New Era for Antigua and Barbuda’, we have set out a clear and uncompromising commitment. On pages 74 and 75, we pledge that there will be no tolerance for murder, gang violence or the spread of illegal firearms. We will further strengthen the law, ensure that it is fully enforced and impose severe penalties on those who traffic in illegal weapons or engage in violent crime,” he said.

“This is not rhetoric. It is a firm commitment to action.”

Browne concluded by assuring citizens that public safety remains the Government’s top priority.

“The safety of the people of Antigua and Barbuda is paramount. My Government will intensify its efforts, in full cooperation with law enforcement and the community, to stamp out this menace and to ensure that our country remains safe and secure for all,” he said.

The incident comes just days before Antigua and Barbuda heads to the polls for general elections on April 30, with the ruling ABLP facing a strong challenge from the opposition United Progressive Party. Authorities have not yet reported any injuries in connection with the shooting but investigations are ongoing.

Masicka