The National Soca Fraternity of Antigua and Barbuda has formally written to the Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, Elisabeth Makhoul, requesting a ban on live media coverage of the upcoming Soca Monarch Semifinals and Finals.

In a letter signed by Chairman Peetron Thomas and Secretary Tammisha Roberts, the fraternity asked that there be no live streaming, live broadcasting, or real-time social media updates during the events scheduled for Friday 18 July and Saturday 3 August 2025.

“This decision is aimed at preserving the live event experience, protecting the creative content of our artists, and encouraging full attendance and support for the show,” the letter stated.

While the fraternity is not the organiser of the events, it described its appeal as a step to safeguard the interests of soca artistes and to ensure the sustainability of the competition.

The letter emphasised that the fraternity values the role of media in promoting culture and talent but prefers that coverage be limited to post-event content, including interviews and highlight reels, shared under coordinated and controlled conditions.

“We look forward to continuing a positive working relationship as we celebrate and elevate our local talent together,” the fraternity noted, asking for confirmation of receipt and offering to provide further clarification if needed.