Photo: Patrons at the Annual Christmas Luncheon of the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce listen to St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas (at the podium). Photo by Giles Dickenson
St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has vowed to uphold the Constitution and to quickly resolve within the relevant statute any political uncertainties that could impact on the Federation’s economic climate.
He told the Christmas Luncheon of the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce on Tuesday that the maintenance of a peaceful and stable economic climate conducive to profitable investment is critical to the successful completion of several planned projects to be implemented next year and the willingness of these enterprises to embark on new ventures, and to reinvest their profits and reserves in a progressive Federation.
"This is why is it is so important that we quickly resolve any political uncertainties that could impact on our economic climate. In this regard, we must uphold the constitution in everything that we do. We therefore intend to ensure that the National Budget is placed before Parliament within the time frame permitted by our Constitution," said Prime Minister Douglas.
Referring to three draft resolutions of no confidence in the Government in circulation in the Federation, the St. Kitts and Nevis leader said "these issues will be addressed in accordance with the Constitution and with the relevant statute."
He said however he does not intend "to allow any uncertainty surrounding these issues to drag on indefinitely and to erode investor confidence in this our proud and progressive Federation."
He gave the assurance that he "will take timely and appropriate action to protect our outstanding achievement as a people and a proud nation. For me, the well-being of our people is paramount."
The Prime Minister also gave the assurance that his St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Government "stands ready to work with you, in your capacity as citizens, businessmen, investors, and collectively as an important local private sector organisation."
"My Government’s mission continues to be to advance the quality of life for all of our citizens and residents. We have consistently carried out this mission through effective public-private partnerships, and effective strategies for the continued development of our Federation – partnerships that must transcend petty political squabbles, and strategies that progress meaningful change that my Government has initiated in this our beloved country. May God continue to bless our land and our people, and our bountiful God-given and man-made assets."
(Photo and Story by Erasmus Williams)