Concerns Raised Over Democratic Integrity in St Kitts-Nevis by Opposition Party
Marcella Liburd, chairman of the SKNLP, criticizes Prime Minister Timothy Harris for undermining democracy in St Kitts and Nevis. She warns of injustices in parliament and the judiciary and emphasizes the need for separation of powers. Liburd raises concerns about the DPP’s dismissal and the Prime Minister’s potential conflicts of interest. Her statements indicate a significant call for transparency in governance.
The chairman of the opposition St Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP), Marcella Liburd, has voiced significant concerns regarding the actions of Prime Minister Timothy Harris. Liburd, a sitting member of Parliament, warned of injustices occurring within both the parliament and the judiciary, asserting that there appears to be a systematic attempt to undermine fundamental rights and democratic principles in St Kitts and Nevis. She expressed her concerns during a recent radio interview, stating, “There is a calculated and systematic attempt by the Timothy Harris-led Team Unity government to trample on the fundamental rights and democratic principles of St Kitts and Nevis.”
Liburd emphasized the importance of the separation of powers, which is a core principle of democracies worldwide, necessitating the independent operation of the National Assembly, the executive, and the judiciary. She asserted that the judiciary, particularly, must remain free from governmental influence, arguing that “justice must not only be done, but it must be seen to be done.” She criticized the government’s actions, citing the dismissal of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) amidst an investigation involving a cabinet member.
Furthermore, Liburd raised concerns about the Prime Minister’s involvement in a court matter concerning the DPP’s dismissal, noting that Prime Minister Harris attended the court hearing. She questioned the relevance of his presence in this legal matter, highlighting that the case was ultimately settled out of court for an undisclosed amount of taxpayer money, which was compounded by a confidentiality clause designed to limit public scrutiny.
Additionally, she expressed apprehension regarding the potential influence of Prime Minister Harris’s family within the judiciary, specifically mentioning that two of his sisters serve as magistrates. Although no conclusive evidence has been presented to support claims of impropriety, Liburd’s comments suggest a growing unease regarding the independence of the judicial system in St Kitts and Nevis.
In conclusion, Marcella Liburd, chairman of the SKNLP, has raised alarming issues regarding perceived erosions of democratic principles in St Kitts and Nevis under Prime Minister Timothy Harris. By highlighting concerns about the separation of powers and potential conflicts of interest within the judiciary, Liburd seeks to foster public discourse about the integrity of the current administration. The implications of her assertions suggest a pressing need for transparency and accountability in governance.
Original Source: wicnews.com
