A High Court judge has refused an attempt by the Antigua and Barbuda Fishermen Co-Operative Society’s 2014 board to take control from a rival group, citing procedural unfairness.

The court said most of those targeted by the injunction had not been notified, making it unjust to issue orders forcing the handover of keys, records and bank access.

The ruling is the latest twist in a dispute dating back to 2017, when leadership changes triggered years of legal battles between competing factions.

Although a 2025 judgment recognised the 2014 board as lawful, the respondents argued a new board was elected in February 2026, potentially superseding both sides.

The judge said that issue must be resolved separately. The society was ordered to pay $3,000 in costs, while parts of the 2025 ruling remain under appeal.