Pringle

The opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) has announced plans to hold a town hall meeting Friday, October 30, to discuss environmental protection, democratic institutions and women’s rights ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The meeting, themed “The People’s Message to the CHOGM Delegates,” will begin at 7 p.m. at Freedom Hall, the headquarters of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU).

According to a promotional flyer issued by the party, the gathering will focus on three areas: protecting the environment, safeguarding democratic institutions and defending women’s rights.

The event comes just days before Antigua and Barbuda hosts Commonwealth leaders for CHOGM, scheduled for November 1-4.

The UPP has not identified the speakers expected to address the gathering or outlined specific proposals that will be presented.

The meeting is being promoted under the party’s “People First” slogan and is expected to provide a platform for discussion of issues the opposition wants brought to the attention of visiting Commonwealth delegates.

The announcement follows concerns raised by UPP Sen. Malaka Parker about environmental protection, public consultation and the impact of CHOGM preparations on residents and businesses. Parker has also defended citizens’ right to express their concerns during the summit.

CHOGM is expected to bring nearly 5,000 overseas delegates to Antigua and Barbuda.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: UPP to hold town hall ahead of CHOGM, focusing on environment, democracy and women’s rights.