BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – AFTER an approximate eight years of service and following numerous requests for his resignation, Pastor Leroy Benjamin has tendered his resignation from the position of Supervisor of Elections effective yesterday (Aug. 31).
A statement made by Prime Minister of the Federation, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil L. Douglas informs that on the previous day, Benjamin submitted his resignation which was accepted by the Governor General, His Excellency Sir Cuthbert Montville Sebastian.
With the office now vacant, Dr. Douglas indicated that work had already begun with a view to filling it. He suggested that national interests would be best served if the position were filled as quickly as possible.
“The government of St. Kitts and Nevis is committed to upholding the highest possible standard of governance and to affirming at all times the importance of an independent judiciary to the proper functioning of our judiciary.
“The requisite work has already begun to fill the now vacant post of Supervisor of Elections in order that the responsibilities associated with this post so very essential to the national interest, may be resumed without undue delay.”
Only last week, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) condemned Benjamin’s actions – and those of one of his officers – in the conduct of the July 2011 Local elections held in Nevis. The Justices of Appeal reiterated sentiments expressed by Justice Lionel Jones at the Nevis High Court and further indicated that Benjamin acted deliberately in not properly carrying out his duties according to law and acted with bias.
The Court also spoke to Registration Officer Bernadette Lawrence and ruled that she acted with the purpose of benefitting the Party which she represented. The Appellate Court also held that she acted with bias and bad faith.
Calls have also been made for her resignation and the Premier of Nevis has suggested that if he were in her position, he would have tendered his resignation.
However, whether or not she would resign, is left to be seen.
