Dennis Phillip Narrowly Reelected SKCA President in Contested Election

The St. Kitts Cricket Association (SKCA) elections, held on May 20, 2025, at the St. Kitts Marriott Hotel, have concluded with Dennis Phillip narrowly securing a second term as President, defeating challenger Val Henry by a mere two votes, 76 to 74. However, the election process itself has been mired in controversy and accusations of significant irregularities, casting a dark shadow over the results and raising serious questions about the integrity of the SKCA’s leadership. Allegations of financial mismanagement, voter manipulation, and a lack of transparency have fueled widespread discontent and calls for a thorough investigation.

The election unfolded in a chaotic atmosphere characterized by angry outbursts, missing membership lists, and questionable last-minute additions to the voter rolls. Concerns about the validity of at least 35 votes cast for Phillip’s team have emerged, with reports suggesting that numerous ineligible individuals were added to the voter list after the May 8th deadline, some as late as the day of the election itself. The refusal of the outgoing executive to provide a complete and finalized voter list has only intensified suspicions of manipulation and a deliberate attempt to influence the outcome. This lack of transparency extended to the vote counting process, which was conducted by three non-members, further undermining the credibility of the election.

The contested election results saw Phillip’s team secure only four of the twelve available positions, while Val Henry’s team dominated with seven victories. This significant win for Henry’s slate reflects a growing wave of dissatisfaction with Phillip’s leadership and a desire for change within the SKCA. While Henry’s team did not win the presidency, their strong showing in other positions signifies a potential shift in power dynamics within the association. However, the alleged voting irregularities raise questions about whether even these victories accurately reflect the will of the legitimate SKCA membership.

Beyond the presidential race, the following positions were filled: Austin Williams defeated Delaney for Vice President (83-71), Andrea Liddie narrowly edged out Bervis Burke for Secretary (78-77), and Viandre Edwards secured the Treasurer position against Yvette Browne by a single vote (76-75). Charles Morton was elected as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer unopposed. The Management Committee saw the election of Steve Saunders, Ricky Scarborough, Loshaun Dixon, Gary Rogers, Ganesh Algu, and Lindbergh Belle. Despite these individual outcomes, the controversy surrounding the election process overshadows all results, leaving the future direction of the SKCA uncertain.

The AGM, intended to be a democratic exercise, descended into what many attendees described as a “disgraceful power grab.” Confusing financial reports, the absence of an external audit, and a general lack of procedural order contributed to the chaotic atmosphere. The late-night release of the election results, nearly 2:00 AM, after many delegates had departed in frustration, further fueled the perception of a manipulated process. This perceived disregard for democratic principles has severely damaged the SKCA’s reputation and eroded public trust in the organization’s leadership.

In the aftermath of the contentious election, calls for an independent investigation, a comprehensive audit of the voter list, and even the nullification of the results are gaining momentum. Cricket stakeholders and fans across St. Kitts and Nevis are demanding accountability and transparency from the SKCA. The controversy surrounding the election has exposed deep-seated issues within the organization and highlighted the urgent need for reforms to restore credibility and ensure fair representation. The battle for control of the SKCA, and indeed for the future of cricket in the federation, is far from over. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether the SKCA can address these concerns and regain the trust of its members and the wider cricketing community. The integrity of the sport and the faith of its supporters hang in the balance.