BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — Attorney General Garth Wilkin has apologised after facing public backlash regarding statements he made in parliament concerning the spread of misinformation on social media.
Wilkin’s initial remarks were in response to the ongoing dissemination of false information, which he emphasized had caused a government minister to receive threats against herself and her child. At the time, Wilkin warned that individuals sharing such harmful content could face arrest and prosecution under the Electronic Crimes Legislation.
However, following his stern warning, the Attorney General came under heavy criticism from some members of the public, particularly over concerns regarding free speech. Opposition-aligned media outlets amplified these criticisms, prompting Wilkin to clarify his position and issue an apology.
In a social media post, Wilkin reflected on the dangers that government officials worldwide face due to the spread of misinformation. “Freedom of speech is alive and well in St Kitts and Nevis as a constitutional right,” the minister stated. “Today is a perfect example. I said this on Wednesday, and added that all constitutional rights are subject to public safety and individual rights. Meaning, you cannot just say any and everything about someone, especially if what you say could cause them harm or to feel threatened.”
Wilkin explained that the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) had sought advice from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Office of the Attorney General (AGO) regarding unlawful communications, "because the complaints about such threatening and harassing unlawful communications have increased exponentially in recent years in St Kitts and Nevis”.
He reminded: “I told the country that we must do better in this great nation. We have two choices - one, find the goodwill within our hearts to stop the practice of creating or forwarding any harassing, threatening or vulgar photos, videos or posts using our phones OR two, the RSCNPF has the power and authority to take action."
Wilkin acknowledged that while some supported his message, others were offended by his tone. “Everyone is entitled to their opinions. To those who felt I was rude, threatening, dictatorial or intimidating in my tone, that was not my intention whatsoever, and to those people I unreserved apologize.”
While Wilkin stood by his commitment to defending a mother and her child who had been victims of harassment, he expressed regret that some individuals had used the situation for political gain.
Wilkin reiterated his dedication to criminal justice reform and addressing the crime crisis in the country.
