ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

Guests from Antigua and Barbuda will be joining countries from the Caribbean and around the world on Saturday May 6th in an historical event that for many will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Setting aside for the moment the debate about republicanism, Antigua and Barbuda will play a key role in London at the Coronation of King Charles III.  Events on May 6th and 7th in Antigua will share the pomp and ceremony.

 Antigua and Barbuda is well-represented in London; members of the  delegation are already there, enjoying pre-coronation activities or rehearsing for their role in the proceedings.  Prime Minister Gaston Browne and the Hon. Maria Browne  traveled to London  to join  Their Excellencies, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams and Lady Sandra Williams and other Heads of State.  

Commissioner of police Atlee Rodney will form part of the delegation,  Colonel Telbert Benjamin, head of the defence force, leading his men in Antigua marching from the Multi Purpose Centre to Government House for the lighting of the celebration bonfire. A service of thanksgiving will be held on Sunday.  

Neighbours Montserrat and Anguilla are well-represented as are all commonwealth states, many of whom, like Antigua and Barbuda, have King Charles as their head of state.  Antigua has been celebrating the Commonwealth with a number of events, which continue after the coronation. 

In London itself, Antiguans will take significant roles on Saturday; seven members of the Defence Force will march in the parade in London; Lieutenant Karl Jarvis and Sergeant Daymie Daly of the ABDF will march alongside the Diamond Jubilee State Coach that carries King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Independent Senator Kiz Johnson will be a Banner Bearer. 

The official emblem for King Charles III’s coronation has been released, representing a new start to the King’s reign. Designed by Sir Jony Ive, the design unites the flora of the United Kingdom’s four nations – the rose of England, the thistle of Scotland, the daffodil of Wales, and the shamrock of Northern Ireland.  It shows King Charles’ love of nature and the environment.  He has long been a strong advocate globally for protection of the environment and sustainability, a key issue for Antigua and Barbuda.  He will be re-using garments which have been used at coronations since 1821 "in the interests of sustainability and efficiency", Buckingham Palace said.

Screens in a number of venues in Antigua will be broadcasting the pomp and ceremony, at 11.00am UK, 6.00am Antigua time, to join in the magnificent occasion and show respect.  Many will be looking out for Prince Harry, whose role is still uncertain. Whatever the future holds for Antigua and Barbuda, this will be an occasion to remember.