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St Kitts & Nevis: Douglas’ party ready to concede – Timothy Harris, likely to form new government
The 15-member National Assembly is made up of 11 elected members and 4 others, two of whom are government senators and one opposition senator. The attorney general is the ex-offico member of the legislative body.
The St Kitts & Nevis Labor Party (SKNLP) had entered the election in an accommodation with the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) telling the public it was the best party suited to continue the socio-economic development of the twin-island nation. But Team Unity alliance had urged supporters it was time for there to be “Prosperity for All” and accused the outgoing administration of nepotism, corruption and mismanagement of the economy.
The Team Unity alliance had campaigned on the theme “Better Days are coming” and had urged its voters to ensure that they remove the incumbent from office.
As he addressed jubilant supporters from the balcony of the party’s headquarters, Timothy said the “victory belonged to you the people”.
“I promise we will treat everybody fairly and equally, black or white, male or female,” he said, adding “my family this is your victory – this is your moment of rejoicing”.
Among the casualties of the election were deputy prime minister Assim Martin who lost to newcomer Ian Liburd and Sports Minister Glen Phillip who lost to former PAM leader Lindsay Grant.
Former deputy prime minister Sam Condor, the deputy leader of the PLP was also defeated in the election.
The elections were observed by teams from CARICOM (Caribbean Community) and the Organization of American States (OAS).
According to local political analyst Peter Wickham, the situation unfolding following the closure of the polls “has essentially damaged the reputation and legacy of the outgoing prime minister Denzil Douglas. “It is unfortunate but I think it is a lesson to all leaders in the Caribbean that they need to come do their time and move on and they need to consider their legacy,” he added. -(CMC)
