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St. Kitts & Nevis Politics

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IMF says Government of St. Kitts and Nevis continues

efforts to place public debt on a downward path

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 21^ST 2007 (CUOPM) – The Washington-based International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that the Government of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is continuing efforts to place the public debt on a downward path.

An IMF team which visited the Federation from October 29^th to November 1^st said despite two consecutive years of primary fiscal surpluses, the public debt in St. Kitts and Nevis remains high even though there were advances in other sections of the economy.

The IMF team which visited for its annual Article IV consultation with government was headed by Mr. Paul Cashin, who said that “macroeconomic outcomes” in St. Kitts and Nevis have strengthened significantly in recent years, with growth reaching 4 percent in 2006.

“While two years of consecutive primary fiscal surpluses since 2005 have helped contain indebtedness, public debt remains high at over 180 percent of GDP at end-2006,”

he noted in a statement released Tuesday.

Mr. Cashin said the authorities in Basseterre “are continuing their efforts to introduce reforms to place public debt firmly on a downward path, while maintaining macroeconomic stability and strengthening growth.'

He said that “important reforms” have been undertaken, including closing down the sugar industry and developing other sources of revenue including the sale of government lands and other assets. Cashin also noted that the country is also planning to reform its taxation system.

The team met with acting Prime Minister Hon. Sam Condor, Financial Secretary, Mrs. Janet Harris, Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Sir Dwight Veneer and representatives of the financial sector.

“We wish the government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis every success in their efforts to achieve sustained rapid growth and social progress,” said the IMF official.

PM Douglas heads St. Kitts and Nevis Delegation to CHOGM in Uganda

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 21^ST 2007 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis ’ Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas is leading the Federation’s delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kampala , Uganda .

The November 23^rd to 25^th Meeting is one of the major International Meetings bringing together 53 countries in discussions, whose deliberations are in one common language, English. CHOGM brings together the businessmen and women, the youth, civil society representatives, and other Groupings within the Commonwealth.

Other members of the St. Kitts and Nevis delegation are Ambassador Extra-Ordinary and Plenipotentiary, His Excellency Mr. Wendell Lawrence and St. Kitts and Nevis High Commissioner to London , His Excellency Mr. James Williams.

This year’s Conference will be held under the theme: “Transforming Commonwealth Societies to achieve Political, Economic and Human Development.”

“The commitment to transforming society and uplifting the standard of living of our people has been the hallmark of our political and economic programmes for a long time now since we came into government. One of the major events for CHOGM 2007 will be the Retreat for the Heads of Government,” President of the Republic of Uganda , His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

He said that the Retreat is an opportunity for the Leaders of the Commonwealth countries to build consensus on often difficult issues.

“It also gives us leaders the opportunity to engage in a more informal atmosphere, where we can focus on issues with an open mind on matters of concern to all our citizens,” said the Ugandan leader, who added that he was “confident and very optimistic that the Kampala CHOGM will produce a set of clear and measurable strategic principles on how to transform our societies to achieve political, economic and human development.”

Caribbean nations following lead of  St. Kitts

and Nevis to control rising food prices

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 20TH 2007 (CUOPM) – With the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Government of Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas setting the pace on price control in the region, other Caribbean nations are now weighing in as consumers in other nations, grow increasingly frustrated at the rising cost of food prices including basic items like milk, sugar, rice and flour.

After weeks of discussion on the growing concern in St. Kitts and Nevis with the identification of a basket of food and non-food items, the signing of a Price Control Order and an amicable arrangement between Government and owners of bakeries to freeze bread and other bakery products, CARICOM leaders have agreed in principle to discuss the issue.

Earlier this month St. Kitts and Nevis signed a Price Control Order aimed at limiting prices of a basket of goods.

Twenty-nine items comprising basic food items such as chicken, meats, fish and rice as well as non-food goods including toothpaste, disposable diapers, and some pharmaceutical products are addressed in the Price Control Order.

Minister of Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris said the price control initiative is a direct intervention by Government to protect consumers and small businesses from the spiraling costs of goods, and to achieve a level of moderation in the cost of living.

“We empathize with the public concern,” the Minister stressed. “We are aware that the inflationary trajectory of prices is partly caused by imported inflation since we import almost all that we consume.

“The Government, however, is concerned about the diminishing purchasing power of pensioners on fixed incomes, our workers on the Industrial Estate, our domestic workers and other categories of fixed income earners who continue to see their hard earn dollars stretched each week.”

The gazetted Price Control Order will set the maximum wholesale and retail markup to be applied to the listed items. Minister Harris explained that a 20 percent markup of the landing costs for frozen items and dry goods has been prescribed for wholesalers. A retail markup of 30 percent on frozen goods, 20 percent on dry goods and 35 percent on pharmaceutical products of the wholesale price is permitted.

The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs said the matter of inflation is a national concern and government was careful in considering all factors when making a decision. He cited recent discussions with bakers - who recently sought to raise the price of bread and other baked goods, due to the increase in the cost of flour overseas - in emphasizing this point.

“The bakers were saying that … flour is an important ingredient, but the price of butter has moved significantly [higher] and this is a [concern] for [them],” Minister Harris stated.

St. Kitts and Nevis Permanent Secretary for Industry, Ambassador Her Excellency Rosalyn Hazelle told BBC Caribbean the government is working closely with retailers to protect consumers from the excessive cost of living.

The government has placed several items off the Price Control List and reduced some of the taxes they have to pay when they import goods.

Ambassador Hazelle also adds, “Any business person would be concerned about their bottom line, but we talked about how to address the situation for them, for us but the focus has to be on the federation of the people of St. Kitts Nevis.”

Last week Grenada Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Keith Mitchell called for a special summit to address the problem.

But St. Lucia Prime Minister Hon. Stephenson King said his administration was not prepared to await a regional solution and announced that the government would intervene in much the same way as Barbados has done and place a cap on certain food items.

St. Lucia 's National Consumer Association President Hubert James told BBC Caribbean they would be investigating how retailers were pricing their goods.

“We do not understand if you have a shipment of a particular good and you still have it in stock why would the price change?”

Mr. James adds, “If you already paid for it why would the price change and is it old stock or new stock.”

Barbados Prime Minister the Right Hon. Owen Arthur has told Barbadians to take greater personal responsibility and do more for themselves to minimise the impact of rising food prices.

Prime Minister Arthur also urged Barbadians to return to “old time values,” like getting together with neighbours and growing more of the food that they eat.

Barbadian consumers should expect an almost immediate reduction in their shopping costs following a government announcement that it has added more items to the basket of goods which will benefit from a 20 percent reduction in retail mark-ups.

There had been some criticism that mainly starchy and fatty foods had been identified among the 10 basic food items initially earmarked for reductions.

Now, selected fruits and vegetables and basic personal care products have been added to the list, and residential electricity costs are also to be subsidized, to give an average 12 per cent reduction in householder’s electricity bills.

He left a legacy of hard work, commitment and passion that shouldtranscend everything that we do

Rain fell and a rainbow appeared as full length statue of

First National Hero Robert Bradshaw is unveiled

BASSETERRE, ST.KITTS, SEPTEMBER 27^TH 2007 (CUOPM) – The rain fell lightly and arainbow appeared as St. Kitts and Nevis ’ Prime Minister the Hon. Dr.Denzil L. Douglas and Etsu Bradshaw-Caines, slowly unveiled the full lengthstatue of First National Hero and “Father of the Nation” the Right Excellent SirRobert Llewellyn Bradshaw. Etsu is the only surviving daughter of Bradshaw.

It was a very special occasion to honour in a very tangibleway a man of the enriched soil of St. Paul’s village, who dedicated his entireadult life to the advancement of his fellow men and fellow women in the totaldevelopment of the young nation of St. Kitts and Nevis, Prime Minister Douglas toldhundreds of villagers, government officials, ambassadors and members of thediplomatic corps.

Speaking at the ceremony, at which wreaths were laidfollowing the unveiling,  Prime MinisterDouglas said the day was historic as it marked National Heroes Day and the 90^thAnniversary of the birth of the Rt. Excellent Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw,First National Hero and who is also regarded as “Father of the Nation.”

“We pay homage to him in this inauguration ceremony duringwhich the monument have been unveiled at this special site, the Bradshaw Memorial Park which also has been dedicated with honour of his outstanding life and serviceto all of his people in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis .Indeed this icon of a man can rightfully be styled as “ PAPA Bradshaw, Fatherof the Nation.”

Prime Minister said however it was “a moment of sadnessbecause Mr. Bradshaw did not do what he has achieved by himself.”

“As we reflect on the life of this great man, we would allagree that the majority of parents of this nation would wish the very best fortheir children, and would work diligently to provide for and guide theirchildren. Mary Jane Francis was one of those mothers. She saw in her son, at anearly age, the spark of greatness and spared no effort to do the best that shecould to guide the young Robert. Indeed, he did not disappoint her. Heremployment as a domestic servant in the home of one of the planters influencedhis early life, helped to shape his perception on social and economic issuesaffecting working people. For this we are thankful, because his earlyexperiences and exposure for the environment of social and economic disparitybetween workers, the masses, and the elite of this country did set in motion aseries of events that have changed the destiny of this country forever,” saidPrime Minister Douglas.

He continued: “Certainly, any young person of today, male orfemale, can hold Robert L. Bradshaw as an outstanding role model. No one coulddoubt what his commitment and his vision; no one could doubt what his belief inthe power of the people was. His quest to unify the people towards the rightand noble cause stands as a significant legacy of his life’s work, and it issuch attributes that we would want to instill in all of our young people oftoday.

His passion to change the circumstances of the masses passedhim through various trials and tribulations all of which were to temper hisform, his style and capabilities, all of course working together to mold himinto an outstanding leader of his people.”

“His leadership throughout the internationally famous13-week strike of 1948, and his insistence that his followers should alwaysconduct themselves in a lawful and peaceful manner, no matter how tough thestruggle became, did earn him the enduring respect of his people, the region,and that of His Late Majesty King George VI and the members of the Royal family,”said Dr. Douglas.

From the pursuits of fighting for better wages and workingconditions in the sugar cane industry and the fight for fairness againstcolonialism, Robert L. Bradshaw became an important personage in building astrong and effective Labour Movement consisting of a Trades and Labour Unionand a Labour Party that would sustain the fight against the socio-economic andpolitical oppressors of the masses.

“Such qualities that he possessed were to thrust him ontothe regional stage at a time when the embers of the political growth andmaturity of the masses were beginning to glow with persistence. It was at thistime when he became involved with the Regional Integration Movement through the West Indies Federation and the establishmentof the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions. He remained stronglycommitted at home while leading demonstrations against the Colonial Office ashe sought the right of the people to be involved in the process of appointmentof Governors and Administrators of this country,” said Dr. Douglas.

He also said that when Bradshaw was elected to  the Leeward Islands Legislative Council, heused the regional stage as a launch pad to greater regional service and carriedthat same zeal to the functioning of the West Indies Federation, to CARIFTA andalso of course to CARICOM.

Always a very strong advocate for regional unity, Bradshaw willinglygave up his leadership of his country’s government to join the West IndiesFederal Government as its only Minister of Finance, “so that we might make astrong contribution to the development of the Federation.”

“One of the truly sad experiences of his life was that hiseffort did not come to fruition.  But, hedid not despair, he did not relent, he did not give up,” said Prime MinisterDouglas, who further pointed out that “these experiences were to develop hisfocus on moving the country towards a state of independence as was evidencedthrough serving his country as Chief Minister and Premier of an emerging nationmoving towards political independence and taking the country to asemi-autonomous framework called “Statehood” that is in association with GreatBritain.”

He said that perhaps some of the most important challengesthat Bradshaw tackled involved the rescue of the sugar industry at a point whensugar was experiencing a very severe decline in economic fortunes. “This was amove that eventually led to the nationalization of the sugar lands, andbeginning the process of diversifying the National economy of St. Kitts andNevis,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who added that it is out of this quest tosecure the economic viability of the country that St. Kitts and Nevis saw thestart of the tourism industry.

“We saw the start up and the expansion of the National BankGroup of Companies, the expansion in physical infrastructure, our deep waterport, our International Airport . We sawinfrastructure in particular in water and electricity development, theestablishment of a light-manufacturing sector that was supported first by theNational Provident Fund, later renamed as the Social Security Scheme of St.Kitts and Nevis . His administration it wasthat laid the foundation for the social revolution in this country ineducation, in shelter and in appropriate health care,” touted Dr. Douglas.

He said that having secured the socio-economic framework tomove this country to the next political level, Sir Robert’s time on this earthwas cut short.

“But he had left a strong legacy for others to follow in theLabour Movement. He had left a legacy that pointed to the continuedenlightenm ent and empowerment of the masses, and the need for everyone tostrive untiringly for self-reliance and social responsibility in laying thefoundation for our political independence. He left a legacy of hard work,commitment and passion that should transcend everything that we do as a proudpeople of St. Kitts and Nevis . He was a giant among his peers inCaribbean leaders – and a man who gave his all towards Caribbean integration,” said Prime Minister Douglas.

He also stated that Our First National Hero did not justbelieve in things of the Caribbean , but wasone with a global perspective as well.

“He had a fundamental belief in the right of the black raceto be equal and was always delighted whenever he spoke of the contributions ofhis race to human civilization.  As wecontinue to commemorate the abolition of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, let usall as a people reject vehemently the belief that our race and class, theworking class is inferior to that of the planter class, which our National Herofought throughout his entire adult life,” said Prime Minister Douglas, whoadded: “Let us today be insightful as a people. Let us be aware that today thatsame class is being presented to us in another form and just as our FirstNational Hero, the Right Excellent Sir Robert Bradshaw rejected and defeatedthem so too, we must do today and in the future here in this country, St. Kittsand Nevis.”

“Our First National Hero, the Right Excellent Sir RobertLlewellyn Bradshaw has left a proud legacy for the St Kitts-Nevis Labour Party,which the present leadership is proud to associate with” said Prime MinisterDouglas.

Australian PM expresses thanks for hosting Cricket

Team; President Bush values ties with St. Kitts and Nevis

BASSETERRE, ST.KITTS, SEPTEMBER 26^TH 2007 (CUOPM) - Australia says the people-to-people ties with St. Kitts and Nevis were strengthened during the recent 2007 Cricket World Cup in Basseterre earlier this year.

Australian Prime Minister, the Hon. John Howard in wishing warmest wishes to St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Denzil L.Douglas on this nation’s 24^th Anniversary of Independence said both countries enjoy warm and friendly relations that are underpinned by “our shared sporting endeavors, especially cricket, membership of the Commonwealth, international for a such as the World Trade Organization and the United Nations.”

“Our people-to-people ties were strengthened further during the 2007 Cricket World Cup when the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis hosted the first of Australia matches at the Warner Park Stadium. I appreciate greatly the warmth which the Australian Team was received,” said Prime Minister Howard.

The United States ,the Republic of China on Taiwan , Guyana , India and Cuba were among several regional and international States sending messages of congratulations on St. Kitts and Nevis ’ 24^th Anniversary of Independence.

Premier of the Republic of China ( Taiwan ),His Excellency Chung-hsiung Chang is of the firm belief that under the outstanding leadership of Prime Minister Douglas, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis will continue to progress and flourish in all aspects.

“I also trust that the cordial relations and cooperation between our two countries will be strengthened in the years ahead,” said the Taiwan Premier.

American President, the Hon. George W. Bush said the United States values the friendly ties with St. Kitts and Nevis .

“We both can be justly proud of the strong democratic traditions we share. We look forward to working with the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis on enhancing prosperity, security and good governance throughout the region,”said Mr. Bush to Prime Minister Douglas.

President of Guyana ,His Excellency Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo expressed appreciation for the friendly and fruitful relations which exist between St. Kitts and Nevis and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

“It is my hope that the years ahead will witness a further strengthening of the relations both on the bilateral and regional levels, as we together we seek to improve the well being of our peoples,” said the Guyanese President.

First Vice-President of the Councils of State and of the Ministers of the Republic of Cuba, His Excellency Raul Castro Ruz said it was a pleasure to congratulate the People and Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, on behalf ofthe Cuban people and Government; “as well as in renewing our resolve to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation uniting our peoples and countries.”

The Indian Prime Minister, the Hon. Manmohan Singh wished Prime Minister Douglas best wishes for his personal well being and for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of St. Kitts & Nevis .

Chief Minister of Montserrat, the Hon. Dr. Lowell Lewis wished Prime Minister Douglas “best wishes in the year ahead, for the happiness, stability, peace and prosperity of the Government and People of the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis .”

The Secretariat of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States commended the Government of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis on the selected theme marking the celebrations of “Self Reliance, Social Responsibility: the Foundations of Independence” and its unswerving commitment to the deepening of OECS integration.

Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture, His Excellency Dr. Chelston Brathwaite in congratulating Prime Minister Douglas noted that in with its Mission, the“Medium-Term Plan for 2006-2010 is aimed at contributing to the reduction of rural poverty and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals by promoting a modern agriculture sector and prosperity in the rural communities of the Americas.”

The Head of Delegation of the European Commission in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean said it looked forward to continued fruitful cooperation with the Government and to a further strengthening of the cordial relations, which exist between St. Kitts and Nevis and the European Commission.

Government allocates land to more former sugar workers

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, SEPTEMBER 26^TH 2007 (CUOPM) – Government is allocate more land for farming to another 45 former sugar workers.

Minister of State with responsibility for Information, Sen. the  Hon. Nigel Carty also reiterated government’s commitment to provide homes to the ex-sugar workers who are in need.

“Two years after the closure of the sugar industry, government conducted another assessment of the progress of the former sugar workers, particularly looking at the employment status of each worker and the economic activities in which they have become involved. A more detailed assessment has also been made of the housing needs of the ex-sugar workers as government immediately intends to assist in the provision of homes for those former sugar workers who are in need,” said Carty in the post Cabinet briefing.

He said that the recent assessment revealed that there are about 45 additional former sugar workers who are interested in obtaining more land for farming and Government is committed to providing suitable land for these workers in the shortest possible period of time.

Minister Carty disclosed that the Ministry of Agriculture is working with the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), the International Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), CARDI (the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute), and the Taiwan agricultural support services to provide greater support to ex-sugar workers who have ventured into farming.

The study makes the second comprehensive assessment since the closure of the sugar industry which has been conducted to assess the progress of the workers and to devise strategies for improving their social conditions.

Brantley Wins Nevis By-election

The Hon. Mark Brantley, of the Concerned Citizens’ Movement (CCM) is the new Representative for Nevis on the Opposition Bench, in the Federal Parliament, after he narrowly defeated the Hon. Hensley Daniel, of the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) by 30 votes, in a by-election on Monday last, August 27^th, in District 9.

The by-election was a necessity to find a replacement for the late Hon. Malcolm Guishard, who passed away suddenly three months ago.

Mr. Brantley captured 1475 votes, compared to Mr. Daniel’s 1445. Voter turnout was recorded at 59% as 2926 of the 4758 registered voters turned out to exercise their franchise. There were 6 spoilt ballots.

Brantley emerged victorious at 5 of the 9 polling stations. At the Ivor Walters Primary School, he captured 240 of the 437 votes cast, eclipsing his opponent’s 196.

Brantley had 219 of the 525 votes cast at the St. John’s Anglican Annex, compared to Daniel’s 127 votes.

At the Bath Village Community Centre it was victory again for Brantley, as 231 voters voted in his favour, while 168 voted in favour of Daniel.

The other two polling stations that Brantley came out on top at were at the Charlestown Police Station and the Shiloh Baptist Church in Ramsbury. Brantley edged Daniel 115 to 101 at the Police Station and edging him, once again, 214 to 206 at the Shiloh Baptist Church.

The four polls that Hon. Hensley Daniel won were at Church of God of Prophecy at Cox Village, the St. John’s Primary School, the Charlestown Methodist School room in St. Paul’s and the Court House in Charlestown.

Daniel eclipsed Brantley’s 84 with 179 at Cox Village, won 168 to 152 at the St. John’s Primary School, 236 to 166 at the Charlestown Methodist School room and 60 to 54 at the Charlestown Court House.

Supervisor of Elections, Mr. Leroy Benjamin said he was pleased with the way the by-election was held and applauded the Police Force for ensuring that the process was carried out smoothly.

The results of the by election were revealed just around 4 a.m. on Tuesday, August 28^th.

Special Land Distribution Initiative calls for monthly payments over several years

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, AUGUST 23^RD 2007 (CUOPM) – Nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis signing on to the Special Land Distribution Initiative in which local financial institutions are partnering with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, will be granted a six-month grace period during which to arrange manageable, monthly payments, to be paid over several years.

The Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis, FirstCaribbean International Bank, the Royal Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (RBTT), the Royal Bank of Canada, the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank, Scotia Bank and the St. Kitts Cooperative Credit Union will join the Ministry of Sustainable Development at the launching of the initiative at The Circus in Basseterre on Friday afternoon.

“With the launching of the Special land Initiative, the St. Kitts and Nevis Labour Administration puts you one step closer to home ownership,” said a flyer inviting persons to launch, which takes place at 3:00 P.M.

CCM, NRP name candidates to contest Nevis by-election

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, AUGUST 23^RD 2007 (CUOPM) – The two political parties on the island of Nevis will contest the by-election next Monday 27^th August to fill the vacant seat in the St. Kitts and Nevis National Assembly.

Supervisor of Elections, Mr. Leroy Benjamin said when Nomination Day closed last Saturday, the Nevis Reformation Party nominated Hon. Hensley Daniel, the Deputy Premier in the Nevis Island Administration, while the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM) nominated lawyer Hon. Mark Brantley, a Nominated Member in the Nevis Island Assembly to fill the Nevis 9 seat which became vacant upon the death last June of the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Hon. Malcolm Guishard, one of two CCM representatives.

Mr. Benjamin in a radio and television broadcast disclosed that the total electors in the Register of Voters for the Nevis By-election is 4758.

“This represents the Revised Register of Voters as of June 2007. The Register of Voters comprises those eligible to vote, having been registered to do so as at 30^th June 2007,” he said.

“This is in accordance with Section 43 (J) (2) of the National Assembly Elections Act, which states that the register should consist of the last revised monthly list. The Governor General’s Writ was issued on August 10^th 2007 thus, the last revised list before that date was the list effective on 30^th June 2007. Please note that persons who registered in July and August 2007 are not, I repeat, not eligible to vote as the Revision on the July and August monthly list did not meet the prescribed legal time frame,” said Benjamin, who used the opportunity to appeal to voters “to examine the Register to make sure their names are listed before going to the Poll.”

Polling Day is Monday 27^th August 2007 and will be done at nine (9) Polling Stations to accommodate voters in Electoral District Nevis (9).

The Supervisor of Elections said that presiding officers and poll clerks have been carefully selected, based on their ability, integrity and experience as many have served in earlier elections.

“The Presiding Officers and Poll Clerks will be appointed on the condition that they should undertake their assigned duties without partiality, fear or favour. The Presiding Officers will be responsible for the maintenance of order at the Polling Stations,” said the Supervisor of Elections, who also disclosed that police have been asked to assist and that the ballots are being printed by the Government Printery under the watchful eye of the police and agents of the two political parties in Nevis were asked to send agents to observe the ballot printing process.

Ballot boxes would be displayed, inspected and locked before Ballots are cast. At the close of the poll, the Ballot Boxes would be sealed in the presence of Agents and the Police and then transported to the place of counting, again accompanied by the Police and Agents.

Supervisor of Elections Benjamin appealed to the public at large to become aware of the notices concerning directions for the guidance of voters and electoral offences, copies of which are readily available and have been disseminated via the electronic and print media.

He mentioned that special attention should be paid to the Election Offences of bribery, treating and undue influence, all of which carry a penalty of twelve (12) months imprisonment or a fine of $1000.00.

“Attention is drawn to the sale of intoxicating liquor.  No intoxicating liquor shall be sold, offered in any electoral district in which an election is being held, to which a license issued under the Liquor Licence Act applies any time between the opening and closing of Poll on Polling Day,” said Benjamin.

“Any person who directly or indirectly gives, offers or promises money, employment, loan or gifts to any voter in order to induce any voter to refrain from voting shall be deemed guilty of bribery,” he said.

Benjamin said that the Electoral Office with the support of the Registration Officers, Returning Officers, the Electoral Commission and the Police, will be monitoring the electoral proceedings to ensure that the elections are peaceful, free, fair and free from fear.

“All eligible voters, duly registered, are urged to exercise their franchise by voting on Monday 27th August 2007. Persons are warned that  impersonation of a properly registered voter would be treated according to Law. If you are not a properly registered voter, do not attempt to vote,” warned the elections supervisor, who disclosed that the penalty for impersonation is  (A) on summary conviction to imprisonment for one (1) year or to a fine of One Thousand Dollars ($1000.00) or to both such imprisonment and such fine. (B) on conviction thereof or indictment to imprisonment for five (5) years and in addition to such imprisonment to such fine as the court may impose,” said Mr. Benjamin.

He reminded employers that voters should be allowed a reasonable period of time to carry out their constitutional right to vote. “No employer shall make any deduction from the pay or other remuneration of any such voter or impose upon or, exact from him/ her, any penalty by reason of absence during such period,” said Benjamin.

Mr. Benjamin said that cameras will not be allowed in Polling Station or 100 yards there from and indicated that Presiding Officers will enforce this rule and the police have been asked to ensure that voters are not intimidated by the use of cameras, phone or otherwise.

The polls open at 7:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM on Monday 27th August 2007.The Ballots would be counted by the Returning Officer at the Magistrate Court, Charlestown Police Station. The counting of Ballots is expected to start at about 8 p.m. and will be carried live on ZIZ Radio, VON Radio, Choice FM and other local radio stations.

“The right to vote, one man one vote, is Sacred. It was hard earned so let  us seek to protect it and to use it at the appropriate time. All eligible voters, duly registered  are urged to exercise their franchise.  I take this opportunity to seek the support and co-operation of the general public and the political parties. It is my hope that the campaign will be peaceful, without slander, half truths, innuendos and misleading stories,” conclude the Supervisor of Elections.

2006 Miss Culturama Contestants

Juel Browne                          Sidama Jones                                  Isis Francis                                  Cari Nicholas                                  Cherisse Sutton

NEVIS 2006 GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS

St. Kitts & Nevis 2004 General Elections Online Results

St. Kitts & Nevis 2000 General Elections Online Results

St. Kitts & Nevis Politics April 2004 to April 2005  St. Kitts & Nevis Politics May 2005 to July 2005

St. Kitts & Nevis Politics August 2005 to October 2005    St. Kitts & Nevis Politics November 2005 to January 2006

St. Kitts & Nevis Politics February to April 2006

The Sir Vivian Richards Information and Facts  

Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) Economic Review 2005

Hurricane KATRINA News and Bulletins  In pictures: Hurricane Katrina

2006 Canadian Election Results

2007 and 2006 St. Kitts & Nevis Budget Addresses

Government moves to assist locally-owned hotels,
approves duty-free concessions for small businesses

BASSETERE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 12TH 2007 (CUOPM) Small business owners and locally-owned hotels are to get a shot in the arm.

The Denzil Douglas-led St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Administration has approved concessions for the refurbishment of small hotels and the duty free
concessions for small businesses.

Minister of State with responsibility for Information, Sen. the Hon. Nigel Carty disclosed after the weekly Cabinet Meeting Wednesday that several
applications for duty concessions made by a number of small businesses were approved.

Of particular note are concessions considered and approved in support of small, locally- owned hotels. This decision is consistent with the
government’s policy to support the further development of the indigenous hotel sector as government recognises the overall contribution of this
sector to the development of Tourism, our lead economic sector, said Sen. Carty at the Post-Cabinet briefing.

He said that concessions given will support hotel refurbishment and upgrading, thereby allowing these businesses to be more competitive and
profitable by offering high quality services.

DIRECTOR OF MARITIME AFFAIRS VISITS SHIP REGISTRY OFFICES IN LONDON

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 4TH 2007 (CUOPM) - Director of Maritime Affairs, Mr McLean Hobson, who is presently studying at Southampton University, England, recently visited the offices of the St. Kitts & Nevis International Ship Registry to meet staff and see the work of the Ship Registry at first hand.

It is always good to see our colleagues from St. Kitts & Nevis visit us. The United Kingdom High Commissioner, Dr. James Williams and his Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs. Jacinth Henry-Martin have previously visited our offices, but it was particularly good to get a visit from Mr. Hobson in view of his responsibilities for the Ship Registry, said International Registrar of Shipping & Seamen, Nigel Smith.

The International Ship Registry has now registered over 350 ships since the
start of operation in February 2005. Three of the most recent registrations
were the passenger ferries operated for Four Seasons Resort, Nevis.

Mr. Smith added: At times, I am sure we can seem to some to be very
detached from the Federation due to our respective locations, so it is good
that the officials we deal with can visit us when the opportunity arises.

During the visit, Mr. Hobson was introduced to staff and shown the daily
workings and activities of the Ship Registry. The visit also gave Mr Smith
the opportunity to personally update Mr Hobson on the most recent activities
and intended plans for the near future.

Mr. Smith said he welcomes visits from any Government colleagues or business
people from the Federation who are visiting the United Kingdom who can spare
the time to come to the offices in the London suburbs. Our door is always
open, he said.

Robert L. Bradshaw Memorial Park will include a sculpture
of the First National Hero and an Interpretation Center

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 4TH 2007 (CUOPM) The Robert Llewellyn
Bradshaw Memorial Park will not only feature a full size sculpture of the
Federations First National Hero, but also an Interpretation Centre which
will be constructed in the second phase.

This was disclosed by Director of Physical Planning Mr. Ellis Hazel, who
said that it was no accident that the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, has
selected the entrance to the village of St. Pauls for the site of the
development of the Robert L. Bradshaw Memorial Park on 3.5 acres of land.

The Park will feature a signature entrance with alternative at grade or
ramp entrance for the physically challenged. It will feature a full size
sculpture of the Right Excellent Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw….a symbol of
the struggles that we have faced as a nation and the powers we have derived
from such struggles. We would want to recognise the contribution being made
by the Government of the Republic of Cuba towards the production of the
statue, said Hazel to the large crowd gathered to witness the ground
breaking ceremony.

Mr. Hazel also disclosed that the Park will also involve the construction of
an Interpretation Center to feature a snapshot of the life of the First
National Hero and it is hoped that the interpretation center would be used
by community groups, the education fraternity as well as visitors to gain
information on Robert Bradshaw.

He said the Park will also involve the construction of walk ways, general
landscaping, lighting and the installation of seating, both for the elderly
and the young.

Phase one of the project will also include such civil works as land
clearing, cutting, grading and grassing. Horizontal construction including
entrance and walkways and the planting of trees will be implemented in this
Phase. Phase Two of the Project will involve the construction of the
Interpretation Center and the installation of lighting, said Hazel.

He added that the preliminary project cost is estimated at EC$425,000.00.

ST. KITTS & NEVIS LOOKING GOOD ‘AT THE CREASE’ FOR ICC CWC 2007

Thursday March 15, 2007: St. Kitts & Nevis’ opened its ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 account with a crowd of 4,000 plus who thoroughly enjoyed the historic occasion and who are looking forward to more revelry at the Basseterre ground.

Fans from the twin-island federation mixed with visiting spectators, primarily from Australia and Scotland – the two teams competing yesterday – and soaked up the novelty of the country’s first-ever Cricket World Cup match at Warner Park.

 “Our nation is honoured and proud to see that we have arrived,” declared an overjoyed Ann Wigley, who spent her birthday in the lively Party Stand.

“We have come from playing cricket with milk cans and anything else we could find to hosting the best cricket and the best cricketers in the world. It’s a great thing. I just hope that Warner Park gets more events because it would be a shame to waste this beautiful setting.”

Having an equally good time was Melissa McKern of Australia who had only landed in St. Kitts on Monday night to spend two weeks watching her favourite sport with her brother, Joe, and friend, Erin.

“This is great. I can’t wait to come to the other matches,” she stated, sending a big “hello” to everyone in her hometown of Bendigo in Victoria.

Kilt-clad, Mark Shand, was among a number of patriotic Scotsmen who hailed every wicket and run by his team despite their heavy defeat by the defending champions from Down Under.

“I’m out here visiting my mum who’s staying in Trinidad and I’ll be going to some of the games here and also back in Trinidad. So far it’s been fantastic and I’m looking forward to two great weeks of cricket,” he said; a drink in hand.

Kittian resident, Leon Natta, was another of the fans relaxing at the match as the day rendered a national holiday by Government. The 27-year-old was impressed with the facilities in place for CWC 2007 and said he will definitely be at all six Group Stage matches featuring Australia, Scotland, South Africa and The Netherlands.

Meanwhile, speaking in the aftermath of yesterday, Chairman of the St. Kitts & Nevis Local Organising Committee (LOC), Charles Wilkin, said management of the Australia-Scotland game was “reasonably successful”.

“There are little challenges which we need to work through and improve on. But, on the whole, we’re satisfied.

“I equated it to the first day of exams when you’ve been preparing for a long time and on the first day you’re anxious and keen, then it comes and you realise it’s not so bad after all.

He noted that the atmosphere in the scenic city venue was “built up” by visiting spectators who were enthusiastic and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. For local fans, he added, it was “something new to watch a neutral match”.

“That’s not something we’re accustomed to and this was a new experience for the people of St. Kitts & Nevis but I think they enjoyed it as well and have appreciated the world-class standard of the Cricket World Cup.”

The next four matches, including tomorrow’s clash between South Africa and The Netherlands, will allow the Match Day team to iron out any kinks by next week Saturday (March 24) when a massive crowd is expected to attend the face-off between the world’s two top One-Day sides – the Proteas and the Aussies.

“By that time we should be seasoned at this and ready to give our best showing in the final match,” said Wilkin.

Prime Minister Douglas, Premier Parry attend OECS Heads Meeting

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 10^TH 2007 (CUOPM) St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas is leading a six-person delegation to the 44^th Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in Antigua and Barbuda.

Other members of the St. Kitts and Nevis delegation are Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris; Premier of Nevis, Hon. Joseph Parry; Cabinet Secretary in the Federal Government, Mr. Joseph Edmeade; Cabinet Secretary in the Nevis Island Administration, Mr. Ashley Farrell and Foreign Affairs Officer with responsibility for CARICOM Affairs, Ms. Nerys Chiverton.

The meeting will be Premier Parrys first OECS Heads meeting since his Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) assumed office following the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) elections last July.

According to the St. Lucia-based Secretariat, the OECS Heads are expected to further advance the process towards an OECS Economic Union by reaching agreement on a public awareness and consultation campaign, with the Heads at the forefront.

The campaign will be built around a new OECS Economic Treaty, unveiled at the 43^rd  Meeting of the OECS Authority in June last year in St. Kitts and Nevis. The  Heads, at that meeting, signed a Declaration of Intent to have the Treaty passed in their respective countries following the consultation process.

The meeting will also give Heads an opportunity to discuss the proposed merger between regional airlines LIAT and Caribbean Star.  The Heads will also discuss the opportunities for tourism and investment promotions created by the recent opening of the OECS Office in Puerto Rico.  

Heads will review the wide ranging recommendations that emerged from the first OECS Conference on Youth, Crime and Violence held late last year and will also examine the possibility of applying the methods used in the highly acclaimed OECS Pharmaceutical Procurement Services (PPS), to the bulk purchasing of text books for OECS Member States.  The joint purchasing of pharmaceuticals has resulted in significant savings and lower costs to OECS public health institutions. 

The Meeting will receive recommendations from recent meetings of OECS Ministers of Tourism and Agriculture for advancing these two critical sectors of the economy. Discussions will also focus on the geo-political realities for the OECS and OECS strategic responses, the status of  Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) negotiations between the European Union and CARIFORUM, the WTO OECS Trade Policy Review, the outcome of the third meeting of the CARICOM/US Trade and Investment Council, and the implications for the OECS of CARICOM Bi-laterals with countries within the Western Hemisphere.    

The OECS Member States are Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands.

Harry Belafonte arrives in St. Kitts

for PM Douglas Sixth New Years Gala

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 3^RD 2007 (CUOPM) - African-American icon, musician and actor, Harry Belafonte, the Guest Speaker at the Sixth Annual Prime Ministers New Years Gala this coming Saturday, January 6^th arrived in St. Kitts on Wednesday afternoon.

Mr. Belafonte and members of his family were welcomed by Chairperson of the Gala Committee, the Hon. Marcella Liburd and other committee.

The prominent humanitarian of Jamaican ancestry, who turns 80 in March, has accepted the invitation of St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas to speak at the Grand Ballroom of the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort. The event begins at 7:30 P.M.

Expected on Thursday are The Drifters out of the United States of America.

Harold George Belafonte, Jr. was born in Harlem, New York, United States.

One of the most successful American musicians in history, he was dubbed the King of Calypso for popularizing the Caribbean musical style in the 1950s. Belafonte is perhaps best known for singing the Banana Boat Song, with its signature lyric Day-O."  Throughout his career, he has been an advocate for civil rights and humanitarian causes. In recent years (as of 2006), he has been a vocal critic of the policies of the Bush administration.

From 1935 to 1939, he lived with his mother in the village of Aboukir in her native country of Jamaica. When he returned to New York he attended George Washington High School after which he joined the Navy and served during World War II. At the end of the 1940s, he took classes in acting along side Marlon Brando, Tony Curtis, Walter Matthau, and Sidney Poitier. He subsequently received a Tony Award for his participation in John Murray Anderson's Almanac.

Belafonte started his career in music as a club singer in New York, to pay for his acting classes. At first he was a pop singer, but later he developed a keen interest in folk music. In 1952 he received a contract with RCA Victor. His breakthrough album Calypso (1956) was the first LP to sell over 1 million copies (Bing Crosby's White Christmas and Tennessee Ernie Fords Sixteen Tons, both singles, had previously surpassed the 1 million mark). The album is number four on Billboards Top 100 Album list for having spent 31 weeks at number 1, 58 weeks in the top ten, and 99 weeks on the US charts. The album introduced American audiences to Calypso music and Belafonte was dubbed the King of Calypso, a title he wore with some reservations. One of the songs included in the album is the now, famous Banana Boat Song, with its signature lyric "Day-O". While primarily known for his Calypso songs, Belafonte has recorded in many genres, including blues,