BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE Dr. Terrance Drew-led Administration came in for heavy criticisms from the People’s Labour Party (PLP) and the People’s Action Movement (PAM) over its handling of the upsurge in homicides in the Federation.
To date, the Federation has recorded 28 homicides which is 15 more than that reported for last year.
In recent days, St. Kitts and Nevis recorded four homicides in one week - one on November 15th in Frigate Bay, another on the 18th in Carifesta Village outside the Prime Minister’s constituency office, and two more on the 22nd in Monkey Hill.
The Opposition parties have since come out and heavily criticised Dr. Drew, who is the Minister of National Security, for what they described as his continued silence on the issue.
While expressing sympathies to the bereaved families of the double homicide victims, the PLP said that in recent months “there has been an alarming increase in the crime rate, causing immense concern among the general public”.
“Communities across the country are grappling with rising incidents of theft, assault, and even more serious offenses like murder. Unfortunately, despite this growing crisis, it appears that the current Prime Minister and his government have shown a lack of interest and commitment to addressing this pressing issue,” PLP said.
The party noted that it is “deeply disheartening” to see a leader, who should prioritize the safety and well-being of the citizens, “seemingly indifferent to the plight of the people”.
“Instead of taking concrete steps to combat the rising crime rate, the Prime Minister has been preoccupied with personal agendas. The issue has repeatedly been brushed aside with empty assurances and vague promises of action. This lack of action only serves to exacerbate the already distressing situation, fostering a growing feeling of frustration and disillusionment among the public. It is high time that the current Prime Minister and his government start prioritizing the concerns of the people and take immediate measures to ensure their safety and security,” PLP charged.
In its statement, the PAM questioned the Government’s silence on the matter of crime and violence across the territory.
“Is it that one has to be a Minister of Government for Dr. Drew to crave the Nation's prayers, thoughts, and attention? Unfortunately, neither the two young men today nor the other three this month were a minister of government,” PAM said.
The press statement continued: “Is it that the Hon. Prime Minister has no regard or empathy for the families and lives of our young men whose lifeless bodies lay in our streets? Did he solicit the vote of any of the individuals in his bid for office, and were they important then? It is blatantly apparent that Dr. Drew is clueless and does not care. Five young men were brutally murdered in three weeks, and there is no sense of care or alarm from Dr. Drew, our Minister of National Security.”
On Tuesday, Commissioner of Police James Sutton called for a unified approach to the fight against crime and violence in the Federation.
“I stand before you as the Commissioner of Police with a heavy heart, addressing the different tragedies that have befallen our communities. Two shooting homicides that have left us all deeply saddened. Our first and foremost priority is to express heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims. These senseless acts of violence have left an indelible mark on our community and we share in the collective grief that have befallen us. Our dedicated law enforcement teams are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.”
Meanwhile, PAM has called for the resignation of Dr. Drew as the Minister of National Security over his handling of the current situation.
“The PAM calls upon Dr. Drew to immediately resign and allow someone with compassion for all of our people, not just ministers of government, to take the reins of national security. We also extend our thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of all of the victims. We urge our citizens to show compassion for each other and to put down the guns and put away violence. Every life is important.”
Investigations into those homicides are ongoing.
