BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - NEWLY-elected Prime Minister and Minster of National Security, Dr. Terrance Drew is seeking to ensure that the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) remains a professional institution and without political interference.
The RSCNPF has received numerous criticisms over the last several years for suggestions of political interference from some quarters, and Dr. Drew is committing to ensure that ranks are better equipped and receive the requisite remuneration for their efforts in ensuring the maintenance of law and order.
While addressing ranks of the Force at a lecture this morning (Aug. 16), the newly-minted Prime Minister described the police profession as one that is “noble” and “indispensable”; one that requires officers to work beyond the call of duty.
“Going forward, therefore, your government understands that societal peace and stability are vital to achieving our progressive agenda. But first and foremost, there must be due care and attention to justice, natural justice, social justice, economic justice, environmental justice, and workplace justice - accordingly the strength of the Police Service is top priority,” Drew explained.
The Federation has seen a decrease in major crimes such as homicides over the last two years, according to statistics from the Police Force, but in some other categories the numbers either increased or remained on par with the previous year.
The Prime Minister charged that for justice to be felt, the people in St. Kitts and Nevis must see and feel the presence of the officers in a constructive manner that would see trust being built.
“It is your government’s position that patrolling is the essence of community policing. Yes, police stations have their role, but nothing beats dynamic engagement with the people,” remind the PM.
To this end, the rank and file of the Force were assured that the Government will make them comfortable in the conduct of their duties.
“Therefore, I pledge as your Minister of National Security to do all I can to ensure that you receive decent wages relative to your work, that you are adequately resourced to act on and respond to genuine needs at moments notice ” Dr. Drew disclosed to the applause of those in attendance at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conference room.
The Prime MInister also referenced that an observation that he made highlighted that there were less women in leadership positions within rank and file of the police force, a concern from him.
But as Dr. Drew takes over the ministerial portfolio for the Police Force, he will have to assist in cleaning up a negative image that the police force has within the public’s eye.
