Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has dismissed reports that the Browne Administration is considering granting sovereign status to the YIDA development.

Benjamin called the allegations “nonsense” and “ridiculous,” stating that YIDA remains fully subject to Antigua and Barbuda’s laws. “Every aspect of the activity is governed by the laws of the nation,” he said.

His comments follow a Real News report claiming unnamed sources alleged a plan for YIDA to operate as an exempt state with its own government, Parliament, and currency. The report also suggested the arrangement could affect OECS and CARICOM bodies, including the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.

Benjamin rejected all claims, describing them as fabricated and without factual basis.