BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – PRIME MINISTER Dr. the Hon. Denzil Douglas has given notice that he would address the nation this evening (Oct. 14) at 8:00 p.m. on matters related to democracy and the Constitution.
The Kittitian leader informed of the impending speech during his biweekly message to nationals in the diaspora. The full transcript of the message can be found online at www.cuopm.com.
“I wish to give you advance notice of the fact that I will be delivering a major address to the nation at 8:00 p.m. in the evening on Wednesday on precisely this issue – the sacred nature of democracy, the stabilising influence of the Constitution, the meaning and significance of this particular moment in our nation’s history,” said Douglas.
He added, “Thanks to the marvels of modern technology, you will be able to follow this address via the Internet as it happens... let us gather together as one people tomorrow at 8:00 p.m. to reflect, to assess and to move forward, empowered by confidence and conviction toward our bright and blessed future.”
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister, Erasmus Williams, confirmed that the speech would be broadcast live on ZIZ television and radio. He declined to give further details on the nature of Douglas’ address.
It is widely speculated that the Prime Minister will make reference to the ongoing legal drama that has captivated national politics. In July, the Constituency Boundaries Commission released its report outlining changes to several of the constituency boundaries in St. Kitts.
Claiming that the changes were unconstitutional, opposition party the People’s Action Movement (PAM) filed an injunction against the report’s consideration, which did not impede Douglas and Parliament from passing it into law several days later. PAM was successful in receiving two other injunctions, one of which prevented general elections from being called under the new boundaries.
Since then, successive judges have heard testimony on the matter. Her Ladyship Justice Rita Joseph-Olivetti upheld the first injunction, and the government has made preparations to appeal that decision, as well as the other injunctions.
His Lordship Sir Errol Thomas is expected to deliver a ruling on the substantive matters shortly.
