PRIME MINISTER DREW REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO TRANSPARENCY AND OPENNESS UNDER THE SPECIAL SUSTAINABILITY ZONE AUTHORISATION ACT

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, November 26, 2025 (SKNIS) – Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, has reaffirmed his government’s strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance under the Special Sustainability Zone Authorisation Act, describing it as landmark legislation that strengthens democratic oversight and responsible national development.

The Act establishes a clear and accountable framework for attracting high-quality Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), diversifying the national economy, and generating long-term employment opportunities — all while safeguarding the Federation’s environment and sovereignty.

Speaking during the November 25 edition of The Roundtable, Prime Minister Drew emphasised that the legislation represents a significant advancement in the Federation’s governance architecture, ensuring that any major development project with national impact must be brought before Parliament for open discussion and approval.

“This legislation was set up to ensure that any major developments that can affect us here in Saint Kitts and Nevis must pass through Parliament,” said Prime Minister Drew, noting that this promotes openness, transparency, and public accountability — values that lie at the heart of our democracy.

The prime minister noted that in previous years, major development agreements were often finalised without sufficient parliamentary debate or disclosure to the public. The Special Sustainability Zone Authorisation Act corrects this by requiring that every major project be presented to Parliament, ensuring that the people and their representatives can review and discuss its implications before implementation.

Dr. Drew reaffirmed that his administration remains open to strengthening and refining the legislation where necessary to enhance its effectiveness and clarity.

“If there are opportunities to tighten the Act, we will tighten it. If I see areas to make it stronger, I will go to parliament, amend it, and make it stronger,” Prime Minister Drew said. “But to repeal [a law that guarantees transparency and public oversight] would be irresponsible.”

The prime minister also reiterated that the sovereignty and independence of Saint Kitts and Nevis are not negotiable, assuring citizens that no development agreement can compromise national security or Constitutional authority.

“Our independence can never be threatened. If there is any space in there where that is questioned, we will tighten it. There’s only one immigration here, one customs here, one police organisation, and one court system, so nothing at all that affects any of those would be tolerated in any development,” Dr. Drew affirmed.

Dr. Drew concluded that the Special Sustainability Zone Authorisation Act is a forward-looking, transparent, and participatory tool for responsible development, empowering citizens to engage meaningfully in shaping the nation’s sustainable future.

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