Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan says court proceedings surrounding the government’s acquisition and sale of a seized vessel Alfa Nero were conducted openly and lawfully, with the matter left squarely for a judge to decide.

Speaking on Pointe FM’s Browne and Browne Show , Astaphan rejected claims of secrecy or misconduct, saying the litigation involving Julia Guyeive and Flying Dutchman against the Port Authority and the Attorney General took place in open court, with both sides presenting evidence and cross-examining witnesses .

He said the judge reserved judgment after hearing submissions to determine whether the acquisition of the vessel was reasonably required to protect the integrity of the port and the economy of Antigua and Barbuda. Astaphan said that question — not political commentary — is what the court is tasked with resolving.

Addressing public speculation about international implications, Astaphan said the same United States government now referenced in criticism was involved in negotiations that led to the lifting of sanctions, allowing Antigua and Barbuda to proceed with the sale of the vessel. He said nothing arose during the trial to suggest wrongdoing by any party.

Astaphan also said there is a full accounting of all funds connected to the vessel, countering claims of financial impropriety. He added that if concerns existed about the process, they were not raised during the court proceedings.

The comments come amid ongoing public debate over the handling of the vessel and the legal basis for its sale, an issue Astaphan said is ultimately for the court to decide.