BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - MINUTES into Independence Day (Sept. 19) the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas announced that any debt owed on electricity prior to August 1, 2011 would be cleared.
Giving a National Address from Warner Park during a night-time Independence Parade, the announcement was made and was met with resounding cheers from sections of the large crowd that had gathered, but how do citizens really feel about the recent announcement?
SKNVibes took to the streets of Basseterre in an effort to gather the thoughts of several individuals on the matter.
A male maintenance worker stated that he was content with the idea but questioned what would happen to those persons who had their electricity disconnected for owing during that period.
A female office assistant told this publication that she was in agreement with the move and expressed her hope that those who had benefitted, would use the money wisely so that they would not fall back into that trap again.
Another female stated that she was not too keen on the idea because she did not and others who did not owe will not benefit from this venture. She said she believed that those who did not owe any debt will have to pay back the money used to clear the arrears in some form during the future.
A male security guard questioned what relief would be made available for those who were obedient in paying their bills over the years and he was concerned that the government was rewarding delinquency in bill payments.
An “election gimmick” is what a male store clerk said he saw the move as. He said the government forgave the debt just as a political ploy and believes that the people would eventually be made to pay for the debt forgiveness.
Another stated that some people should “not look a gift horse in the mouth” but rather, just appreciate the good deeds of others.
Other individuals interviewed also gave mix reactions to the announcement.
SKNVibes is interested in hearing your take on this announcement. Feel free to share your views by posting a comment below this article.
