BASSETERRE – Prime Minister The Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has strongly defended the Special Sustainability Zone legislation, calling it a breakthrough for democratic accountability that will end the secrecy surrounding major development deals in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Speaking at yesterday’s Roundtable Press Conference, Dr. Drew emphasized that the SSZ law requires all significant development proposals to undergo full parliamentary scrutiny before implementation.
“This is an advancement of our democracy,” the Prime Minister stated. “Any major development must now come to Parliament. Our people will see the agreement before anything is implemented.”
The Prime Minister drew sharp contrasts with past practices, referencing historical projects where multi-million-dollar agreements were signed without parliamentary discussion or public visibility. He argued that repealing the SSZ would return the country to an era of backroom deals made in Cabinet sessions without public debate.
Dr. Drew addressed sovereignty concerns directly, assuring citizens that constitutional protections remain firmly in place. The nation will maintain exclusive control over its police force, customs authority, immigration system, and court system.
“Our sovereignty can never be threatened,” he declared, adding that no development would be permitted to affect these national institutions.
The Prime Minister dismissed opposition criticism, particularly from politicians who avoided parliamentary debate but now attack the legislation publicly. He stressed that the SSZ grants no automatic approvals—each proposal must be individually scrutinized by Parliament.
Regarding the proposed “Destiny” development, Dr. Drew confirmed he has received no formal submission but made clear that any project must respect constitutional limits on sovereignty and national authority.
Dr. Drew indicated willingness to strengthen the legislation where necessary but ruled out repeal as “irresponsible.”