BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, MARCH 4TH 2009 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has extended congratulations to winners of the Leeward Islands Debating Society and the Kittitian-born captain of the Leeward Islands Cricket Team.
Prime Ministr Douglas began his opening statement on Tuesday’s Ask the Prime Minister” radio programme by saying “a very good morning to Akeem Bacchus, Rolhensha Henry, Tishina Browne, Isalean Phillip, Xavienne-Roma Richards, and Carlton Williams.”
“Those 6 young men and women who went to St. Maarten, threw themselves into the rigours and challenges of the Leeward Islands Debating Competition, and captured first prize,” said Dr. Douglas, adding:
“A special word of congratulations to Mr. Akeem Bacchus, who was named the best speaker for debate #6, and Ms. Rolhensha Henry, who was named best speaker in the overall competition.”
The students, who attend the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC), successfully defended the Leeward Islands Debating Champions amassing 725 points defeating hosts St. Maarten, who got 691 points in the finals on Sunday night.
Prime Minister Douglas also extended congratulations to the students from Nevis who participated in this competition.
“It isn’t easy for young people to stand before an audience and deliver these well-thought out, cogent arguments. And in addition, this competition is not the result of a few days effort. It takes months and months of hard work and sacrifice, and these young people are to be commended and encouraged,” he said.
Dr. Douglas noted that St. Kitts has had 10 wins in the past 37 years, “and we went into this competition having won more Leeward Island Debating competitions than any other island.”
“Thanks to this team, we held on to that record. So hats off to the teachers, hats off to the coaches, hats off to the parents and other relatives who have supported and encouraged these young people,” said Prime Minister Douglas.
Dr. Douglas also congratulated the Kittitian captain, Steve Liburd, who not only scored a century, but took the Leewards Islands Cricket Team to victory over the Jamaica on their home ground.
