Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Rules on Jurisdiction in Alki David Case
January 16, 2026 | Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court 9.00 AM AGT
Justice Rene Williams presiding
In a pivotal session regarding jurisdiction, Justice Rene Williams of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court addressed the controversial case involving Alki David and his assertions related to foreign entities. During the proceedings, Justice Williams confirmed her acceptance of jurisdiction and active case management while dismissing motions to stay or dismiss the case, amid existing foreign legal actions.
Concerns surrounding jurisdiction were the focal point of discussions, particularly reflected in the submissions by all involved parties, including Antigua & Barbuda's Attorney General's Office. Justice Williams expressed the need for clarity, especially after Mr. David’s recent filings had only been received shortly before the hearing.
Mr. David’s submissions did not introduce new evidence; rather, they included service receipts confirming notifications to defendants, a note discussing comity in relation to ongoing parallel proceedings in California and London, and re-filed documents annotated by the court clerk. Meanwhile, the Attorney General's counsel maintained that the court lacks jurisdiction based on several principles, notably that most defendants do not reside in Antigua & Barbuda and that insufficient factual connections exist.
In response, Mr. David challenged this notion, asserting that harm had occurred within Antigua & Barbuda itself, as well as citing the physical presence of the Alpha Nero yacht as a significant link to the case. He pointed to acts of foreign corporations causing local damage, an assertion met with variables considered by the Court.
The jurisdictional quandary was further complicated by a letter submitted from Howard Kennedy LLP, a UK law firm, denying the court's jurisdiction and indicating their limited involvement in the case. Mr. David accused Howard Kennedy of contempt for non-participation despite previous service notifications.\
Justice Williams concluded the hearing by thanking both parties for their detailed submissions and announced that a formal ruling on the matter would be prepared to determine the jurisdictional pathway forward. This written decision is anticipated in early February, with potential implications impacting ongoing proceedings across multiple jurisdictions.
