Opposition blames miscommunication for clash between protesters and police

St John's, Antigua (CMC):

The main opposition Antigua Labour Party (ALP) is blaming "miscommunication" for the situation that led to the "unfortunate circumstances" resulting in riot police clashing with protesters during the party's march a week ago.

Senior members of the party, including ALP leader Lester Bird, Chairman Gaston Browne, and General Secretary Mary Claire Hurst, were summoned by the police on Tuesday.

But Bird was not able to attend due to a medical situation.

In a statement, the ALP said that its members "had no intention to defy any lawful directive" and that it has "always conducted peaceful and orderly public marches, and will continue to insist on adherence to all lawful directives always".

The party said that it considers the situation last Thursday to be at an end.

"Consequently, the ALP leadership has instructed its members to refrain from making any comments on this matter since it does not wish to generate any friction between the ALP and the police hierarchy, including the commissioner of police."