Dr. Harris Condemns Drew Administration at PLP Convention

Dr. Timothy Harris, leader of the People’s Labour Party (PLP) of St. Kitts and Nevis, delivered a charged address at the party’s 2025 convention, launching a scathing attack on the incumbent Drew-led administration and outlining his vision for the nation’s future under PLP leadership. Harris’s speech, delivered to a massive and enthusiastic crowd at Greenlands Park, resonated with a potent blend of criticism, promises, and calls for change, positioning the PLP as the only viable option for rescuing the country from its current economic and social woes. Citing an independent regional poll, Harris declared the PLP the most popular party in St. Kitts and Nevis, signifying a potential shift in the political landscape and setting the stage for a fierce electoral battle. His words resonated with an air of confidence and determination, signaling a reinvigorated PLP ready to reclaim power.

Harris’s address meticulously dissected what he deemed the failures of the Drew administration, labeling it a “curse” upon the nation. He accused the government of incompetence, greed, arrogance, and vindictiveness, painting a bleak picture of the current state of affairs. He highlighted the struggles faced by civil servants, farmers, youth, and creatives, promising a new era of fairness, inclusion, and economic upliftment under PLP leadership. He boldly declared that only the PLP possessed the necessary expertise and vision to revive the struggling economy and restore prosperity and jobs, casting the Drew administration as inept and out of touch with the needs of the people. His words dripped with disdain for the current government, painting them as the architects of the nation’s hardship.

The core of Harris’s address focused on a multi-pronged attack on the Drew administration’s policies, exposing what he called instances of injustice, mismanagement, and broken promises. He condemned the government’s implementation of a mandatory 3% pension contribution with a 40-year service requirement, labeling it an unfair burden on hardworking citizens. He criticized the handling of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, claiming it was in critical condition and pledging to revive it and restore investor confidence, a key revenue stream for the nation. Harris also unveiled a comprehensive economic revival plan centered on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), boosting tourism, promoting the ICT and creative industries, and creating much-needed jobs. He presented the PLP as the champions of economic growth and stability, offering a stark contrast to the perceived failures of the current government.

Harris further lambasted the Drew administration’s fiscal policies, accusing them of imposing a “tax terror” on the working class. He pointed to the increase in VAT from 13% to 17%, the reintroduction of excise taxes, and the slashing of electricity subsidies as evidence of a government disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens. He also criticized the deteriorating state of essential services, promising to address issues with water and electricity supply and revive abandoned alternative energy programs. The housing crisis also came under fire, with Harris highlighting the government’s failure to deliver on its promise of 2,400 homes, having only completed two. He framed these failures as a betrayal of the public trust, strengthening the PLP’s position as the alternative.

Beyond economic concerns, Harris also emphasized the importance of good governance. He recommitted the PLP to transparency, freedom of information, the establishment of an Ombudsman, and constitutional reform. He presented a vision of unity and hope, calling on all patriots to join forces and rebuild the nation together under the PLP banner. This appeal to national unity aimed to transcend political divisions and portray the PLP as a unifying force capable of bringing all citizens together for the common good. He positioned the PLP not just as a political party, but as a movement for national restoration and progress.

The convention, charged with energy and resounding with chants of “We Want Back Timothy!”, signaled a revitalized PLP, eager to return to power. Harris’s fiery address effectively galvanized the crowd, painting a stark contrast between the perceived failures of the current administration and the promises of a PLP-led future. He delivered a message of hope and change, promising a “Better Life for All” under his leadership. The event served as a powerful platform to launch the PLP’s campaign and solidify its position as a strong contender in the upcoming elections. The rally’s resounding success underscored the party’s renewed vigor and determination to regain control of the government and chart a new course for St. Kitts and Nevis.