Drew Thanks Team, Eyes Return as Recovery Continues

BASSETERRE — Prime Minister The Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has continued to meet with members of the Federal Cabinet over the past few days to receive updates on the work of the government as he recovers from a stroke.

Dr. Drew met with Attorney General Garth Wilkin, who has taken on responsibility for National Security, Citizenship and Immigration, and with the Hon. Marsha Henderson. He also thanked Acting Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley and his Cabinet colleagues for their continued work and leadership during this period.

Earlier, the Prime Minister received an update on government business and national matters from Deputy Prime Minister Hanley during a meeting in Miami on Monday, September 28. Drew is continuing his recovery in Florida, but no date has been given for his return.

Hanley travelled to Florida after leading the St. Kitts and Nevis delegation to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He briefed Drew on the Federation’s engagements there, and the two discussed ongoing government priorities.

Dr. Drew also acknowledged the Hon. Konris Maynard, who served as Acting Prime Minister while Hanley led the delegation in New York. The prime minister conveyed his gratitude to his family and the public for their prayers and support. He said he looks forward to returning to assume his full duties in due course.

Drew was admitted to the Joseph N. France General Hospital on the evening of August 30 after experiencing mild discomfort, nausea and headache. He was then flown abroad for specialized observation out of an abundance of caution.

In a national address days later, he said he had suffered a stroke caused by a dissection of the vertebral artery. He said the effects on his mind and body had been well controlled, and that he was able to move all his limbs and speak clearly. He has since been discharged from the hospital and is continuing occupational and physical therapy in Florida.

Throughout Drew’s absence, Hanley has served as Acting Prime Minister under the constitutional order of succession. He has assumed responsibility for the Ministries of Finance, Health, and Human Resource Management and Social Security. Wilkin took on National Security, Citizenship and Immigration. Drew has said government operations have continued without disruption during his recovery.