The prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed “deep shock and sadness” after the suspected homicide of one of the country’s most prominent MPs.
Asot Michael, 54, was found unresponsive with what appeared to be “multiple puncture wounds about his body” at his home just after 8am, according to police on the Caribbean island. The representative for the country’s St Peter constituency was declared dead at the scene.
Describing Michael’s death as “a profound loss to his family, friends, and constituents”, the prime minister, Gaston Browne, said in a statement: “On behalf of the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, I extend my sincere condolences to his son, Nigel; his sisters, Marie-Therese and Soriah; his extended family; and the many friends who are grieving his loss.”
The country’s commissioner of police, Atlee Rodney, said his force had launched a homicide investigation.
The death sent shock waves across the Caribbean island where Michael had previously served as tourism, economic development and energy minister under Browne.
Described by local media as a controversial yet influential figure in Antiguan politics, Micheal had left the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour party to become an independent candidate.
“Although our relationship became strained for a period and his formal association with the party ended, he maintained his interest in the political life of the country, contesting the 2023 general elections as an independent candidate and was re-elected as the independent member of parliament for St. Peter. Earlier this year, we reconnected, and I welcomed him as a friend and colleague,” Browne said in his statement.
Other members of the Labour party expressed their sorrow and shock and paid tribute to Michael.
Describing his death as a “significant loss to the party”, chair Chet Greene said: “It was with profound sadness and great alarm that I received the news of the tragic death of Asot Michael, the elected representative of St Peter, possibly due to foul play.”
The Labour party’s first vice-chair, Samantha Marshall, said Michael would be remembered as someone who “championed the rights of the marginalised and advocated for policies that uplifted the underprivileged”.
Atiguan political commentator Audley Phillip praised Michael’s prolific philanthropy, adding that the minister used his wealth to help people across Antigua and Barbuda.
Others spoke about Micheal’s personal influence, with Tevaughn Harriette, former captain of Michael’s Arcade Parham football team, crediting the minister for teaching him to “dream big and embrace challenges with courage”.
The news of Michael’s death prompted an outpouring of grief from the local community, with crowds gathering outside his residence. Local authorities have appealed for calm, patience and respect for the MP’s family. The force has set up an anonymous line on which people can assist the police with their investigation.
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