The United States District Court for the Southern District of New York has quashed all subpoenas issued at the request of Yulia Guryeva-Motlokhov, the daughter of a sanctioned Russian national associated with the super-yacht Alfa Nero.
These subpoenas targeted Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, his family, senior government officials, and several private companies.
Judge Jesse M. Furman, in a detailed Memorandum Opinion and Order, asserted that Guryeva-Motlokhov “failed to meet the statutory requirements for relief” under 28 U.S.C. § 1782.
This led the Court to take decisive actions, including the complete quashing of the subpoenas, the vacation of a previous ex parte order that authorized the subpoenas, and an order for the applicant’s counsel to promptly destroy any materials that had been produced.
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda expressed its satisfaction with the ruling, emphasizing that the application lacked merit and was merely an attempt to intimidate the government and its officials through unfounded allegations.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne commented on the decision, stating, “Today’s decision is complete vindication. The Court has confirmed that these subpoenas were never justified. We will always defend the integrity of our institutions and the good name of those who serve them.”
In addition, Attorney-General Sir Steadroy Benjamin highlighted the Court’s findings, stating, “The applicant could not satisfy even the basic legal threshold. We trust this outcome will deter any future attempts to weaponise foreign court processes against Antigua and Barbuda.”
The government reaffirmed its dedication to transparency, the rule of law, and maintaining high standards of public accountability.
It remains resolute in opposing any efforts, whether domestic or foreign, aimed at damaging the reputation of its officials or pressuring the nation into abandoning decisions made in the best interest of its citizens.
There are still questions to be answered as this is just a minor setback. Gaston has to be ‘lucky’ all the time but the plaintive only once.
Concerning the Knight in.the Night radio show it is overrated. This guy appeal to the worst in people. His listeners have to be of low caliber, low IQ. He uses that platform to get even with people who do not share his mostly irate, outrageous statements and ideas.
Take away the microphone from this uncouth, rowdy fellow and he is nobody.
Every time these things occur, I can understand why the opposition in Antigua and Dominica keeps failing and seems to be stuck in a rut. I’m wondering what this is after listening to the celebration over this nonsense and Matt bringing in Rijoc. Even though I’m not a lawyer, I always thought this was a pointless waste of time. However, these well informed individuals were relieved that the Gaston Browne administration was coming to an end. Tonight, I’m really looking forward to listening to Knight in the Night on Observer Radio. He was certain that this marked Gaston Browne’s demise.