The Antigua and Barbuda government said it has sought information from the country’s Ambassador to the African Union, Johann Hesse, as part of efforts to clarify reports surrounding a US$450,000 commission payment linked to the sale of the luxury yacht Alfa Nero.

Hesse was summoned Hesse by the government to attend the Cabinet meeting on February 12 to provide some clarification on the matter. 

In a statement following the meeting, the Cabinet said it took note of information circulating in the public domain, including court-related filings, which alleged that Hesse received the payment and attempted to link the transaction to Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Cabinet said it Hesse was asked attend the meeting in the interest of transparency and accountability. 

During the discussions, Hesse reportedly told Cabinet that neither government officials nor Cabinet members had prior knowledge of any commission payment involving him.

According to the statement, Hesse explained that the payment was made to a company owned by one of his business partners, Rufus Gobat. 

The company, which is registered in the United Kingdom, reportedly earned the commission after securing a buyer for the vessel during the early phase of the bidding process.

Cabinet was further advised that no government official, Cabinet member, or family member of any government official, including Browne, benefitted from the payment. Hesse also indicated that both he and Gobat have sworn affidavits supporting that position.

Gobat, who reportedly joined the Cabinet meeting virtually, told officials that the US$450,000 commission was declared and the necessary taxes were paid in the United Kingdom.

Hesse and his business partner are expected to issue public statements addressing the matter.

The government said it remains committed to transparency, accountability and maintaining public confidence in the country’s governance.