asot
written by
Sandie de Freitas
Images courtesy Asot cares for people

Asot Anthony Michael's death marks a tragic and complex chapter in the political and social life of Antigua and Barbuda. The former Labour Party member and independent parliamentarian was found dead on November 5th at his residence on Antigua’s west coast, his body bearing multiple stab wounds. Police have since arrested and charged 26-year-old Alexta Francis in connection with the murder, with Francis making an initial court appearance the following week.

Asot’s life was deeply intertwined with Antigua and Barbuda's political and economic history. Born into a family with a legacy of political activism and business influence, he followed in the footsteps of his father, Patrick Michael, who was a vital supporter of the Antigua & Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) during the 1970s, a period of struggle for the party. Despite the Michael family's significant impact on the nation through philanthropy and commerce, Asot’s political career faced turbulence, including controversies that led to his departure from the ABLP ticket and allegations of international bribery—charges he denied.

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Gift Distribution

The Michael family, with roots spanning Lebanon, Guadeloupe, and Antigua, has been influential in Antigua and Barbuda for over a century. The family patriarch, Asot A. Michael, established a strong commercial presence in the early 20th century through real estate, dry goods, and clothing ventures. His descendants continued to shape the country's social, economic, and political landscape, with contributions extending far beyond formal politics through philanthropy and public service.

Asot’s death resonates within Antigua and Barbuda, where his philanthropic efforts and complex legacy are remembered by many. The investigation into his murder continues, as the island reflects on the life and contributions of a prominent figure lost under tragic circumstances