Government Moves to Strengthen SSZ Framework Through Ad Hoc Committee Review

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, January 22, 2026 (PMO) —  Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has confirmed that the Government will return to Parliament to make necessary adjustments to the Sustainable Development (Special Zones) framework, following the work of the SSZ Ad Hoc Committee, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and national sovereignty.

Speaking during his January 21 appearance on Freedom FM’s Issues Programme, the Prime Minister described the SSZ process as a fundamental shift in how major developments are handled in St. Kitts and Nevis, one that places the public interest and parliamentary scrutiny at the center.

“Never before has this happened in Saint Kitts and Nevis,” Prime Minister Drew stated. “We are ensuring that no major development undermines our sovereignty, violates our Constitution, or bypasses our laws.”

The Ad Hoc Committee comprises a broad cross-section of national stakeholders, including faith-based organizations, professional bodies, financial institutions, civil society groups, and legal representatives. Their role is to review the framework and recommend enhancements before further legislative action.

Prime Minister Drew emphasized that the SSZ legislation is a framework, not an automatic approval mechanism. Each major project will be assessed individually and must be brought to Parliament for debate and approval.

“I will go back to Parliament as much as I have to strengthen the law,” the Prime Minister said. “If it is transparent and the people support it, that is the best scenario for both the country and investors.”

He further noted that transparency is not a deterrent to investment but a stabilizing force.

“Serious investors understand that when the people participate and Parliament approves, the investment is more secure and sustainable.”

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that development remains essential to economic diversification, but it must occur within a framework that protects national interests, respects democratic processes, and ensures long-term benefits for citizens.