Dr. Harris Criticizes Prime Minister Drew’s Handling of Water and Power Crisis

Former Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris launched a blistering attack on the incumbent Drew administration, accusing them of incompetence and mismanagement in handling the nation’s persistent water and electricity crises. Dr. Harris categorically refuted the administration’s attempts to attribute these ongoing issues to the previous Team Unity government, which he led. He argued that the Drew administration has had ample time, nearing three years in office, to address these critical problems and their failure to do so demonstrates a lack of effective governance. He underscored the administration’s broken promise of improved water services, a key pledge during their campaign, highlighting the stark contrast between their rhetoric and the reality faced by citizens.

Central to Dr. Harris’s critique was the assertion that his administration left the Drew government in a robust financial position, more than capable of tackling these infrastructure challenges. He cited a substantial sum of $700 million left in government coffers, emphasizing responsible fiscal management during his tenure. This included eliminating $117 million in IMF debt and paying off $408 million related to the Douglas land swap. Furthermore, he noted that these funds were allocated while still maintaining sufficient resources for Nevis and the ongoing COVID-19 response. This financial legacy, according to Dr. Harris, should have provided the current administration with the necessary resources to effectively address the water and electricity issues plaguing the nation.

Dr. Harris then meticulously detailed his administration’s proactive efforts to improve water infrastructure, specifically focusing on investments in well drilling. He highlighted payments totaling $2.35 million USD made to the drilling company Bede by June 2022. These payments, he explained, were for wells at Shadwell One, Shadwell Two, and Kayon, all completed under his leadership. He contrasted this decisive action with what he perceived as inaction and empty rhetoric from the current administration, accusing them of failing to build upon the groundwork laid by his government. He implied that the current administration has done little more than complain and deflect blame, rather than implementing solutions to improve the water supply.

Shifting his focus to the electricity crisis, Dr. Harris accused the Drew administration of squandering valuable time on renewable energy initiatives that have yet to yield tangible results. He referred to a ready-to-implement $80 million USD solar farm project, complete with signed contracts, a groundbreaking ceremony, and assembled experts. This project, he claimed, could have already delivered a 30% reduction in electricity bills, providing much-needed relief to citizens. He argued that the administration’s decision to stall this project has deprived the population of significant cost savings and perpetuated the energy crisis. This inaction, he suggested, demonstrates a lack of foresight and commitment to alleviating the financial burden on citizens.

Dr. Harris escalated his criticism by labeling the Drew administration a “problem government,” arguing that their primary function should be problem-solving, a task at which they are demonstrably failing. He further condemned what he perceived as misplaced priorities, citing the administration’s acceptance of pay raises and increased per diems while the population struggles with essential services. This juxtaposition, he argued, highlights a disconnect between the government and the needs of its citizens, further solidifying his portrayal of the administration as out of touch and unresponsive to the hardships faced by the people.

Concluding his address, Dr. Harris pledged his party’s commitment to resolving the water and electricity crises upon their return to power. He reiterated his belief that the core function of government is to find solutions, not manufacture excuses. He positioned his party as a viable alternative, ready to take decisive action and address the pressing needs of the nation. His remarks framed the ongoing crises as a direct consequence of the Drew administration’s mismanagement and offered a promise of effective leadership and problem-solving under his party’s guidance. This concluding message aimed to resonate with the public’s frustration and offer hope for a more competent and responsive government in the future.