Antigua and Barbuda’s former Finance Minister Harold Lovell has called for a full, independent investigation into a $15 million vehicle procurement scandal, citing concerns over fairness, accountability, and transparency.
In a statement, Lovell said the latest revelations — which allege that hundreds of vehicles were purchased and distributed without Cabinet approval — underscore the need for an impartial inquiry. He emphasized that no individual should be tried in the court of public opinion.
“We need an investigation that allows all facts to be properly presented and ensures that each person is treated fairly,” Lovell said. “It is unacceptable for persons to be tried and convicted by one man on a radio show. We have seen selected facts used to exonerate some individuals while others are unfairly targeted.”
Lovell expressed concern about key figures allegedly involved in the scandal remaining unaccountable and stressed the importance of holding all public officials to the same standard. He described the probe as an opportunity to restore public confidence in government oversight and accountability.
The former minister linked the scandal to broader issues of governance, arguing that past controversies have revealed a pattern where public resources are vulnerable to misuse. “Until we have true transparency and justice is served, the chain that binds corruption will only tighten, link by link,” Lovell said.
No official government response has been issued regarding Lovell’s call for an independent inquiry.
