Alexta Francis, the man accused of killing prominent St. Peter Member of Parliament Asot Michael, has been remanded to His Majesty’s Prison (HMP) following his court appearance this morning. The 26-year-old, who allegedly murdered Michael inside his home on November 5, was officially charged with murder and will remain in custody until his next hearing on February 5, 2025.

Superintendent of Prisons, Colonel Trevor Pennyfeather, confirmed that Francis will be held under maximum security conditions. He will be housed in separate quarters away from other prisoners. Special arrangements are in place to address the accused’s personal hygiene and special directives are to be given to prison guards who come in direct contact with him.

According to sources close to the case, both Francis and his mother have reportedly received threats. The additional security measures aim to safeguard Francis while he remains in custody, given the heightened interest and tension surrounding this high-profile case.

In a rare early session held before the court’s usual 9 a.m. start, Francis was officially charged with murder. His upcoming court date will involve committal proceedings, which will determine whether the case proceeds to trial in the High Court.

Reports indicate that Francis has confessed to the crime, though the motive remains unclear. UK-based Scotland Yard officers are assisting local investigators in uncovering any additional evidence that could connect Francis to Michael’s murder.

The killing of MP Michael has shocked Antigua and Barbuda, as it marks the first murder of a sitting member of parliament in the country’s history.