National Assembly Convenes April 17 and 30, 2025

Paragraph 1: Announcement of Upcoming National Assembly Sittings in St. Kitts and Nevis

The government of St. Kitts and Nevis has announced two upcoming sittings of the National Assembly, scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2025, and Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Both sessions will commence at 10:00 a.m. and will be held at the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, in Basseterre, the capital city of St. Kitts. The announcement, released on April 15, 2025, from Basseterre, serves as formal notification to the public and all relevant stakeholders about these important parliamentary proceedings. Further details regarding the agenda items, or Order Paper, and supporting documentation will be disseminated at a later date.

Paragraph 2: Accessibility and Transparency through Broadcast and Online Streaming

Recognizing the importance of public access to parliamentary proceedings, the government is committed to ensuring widespread coverage of the National Assembly sittings. Live broadcasts will be aired on ZIZ Radio (96 FM), the national broadcaster, as well as other participating radio stations. Television viewers can tune in to Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis for live coverage. Furthermore, the proceedings will be streamed live online at www.zizonline.com, allowing citizens both within the federation and abroad to follow the discussions and deliberations of their elected representatives. This multi-platform approach aims to enhance transparency and public engagement in the democratic process.

Paragraph 3: Availability of Legislative Documents Online

To further facilitate public understanding and participation, copies of the bills to be debated will be made publicly accessible online. The St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (SKNIS) website, sknis.gov.kn, has been designated as the official online repository for these documents. As soon as the bills are formally tabled and posted, they will be available for download under the "Bills" section of the website. This proactive dissemination of legislative material underscores the government’s commitment to open government principles and allows citizens to stay informed about the laws under consideration by their parliament.

Paragraph 4: Importance of Public Participation in Parliamentary Democracy

The scheduling of the National Assembly sittings and the measures taken to ensure public access highlight the essential role of parliamentary democracy in St. Kitts and Nevis. The National Assembly serves as the primary legislative body, responsible for debating and enacting laws that govern the nation. Public participation and scrutiny are crucial for a healthy democracy, ensuring that the laws reflect the will and interests of the people. The accessibility of these sessions via broadcast, online streaming, and the availability of legislative documents online allows citizens to actively engage in the lawmaking process.

Paragraph 5: Functionality and Responsibilities of the National Assembly

The National Assembly is a vital organ of the St. Kitts and Nevis government. It is responsible for representing the citizens, debating national issues, and formulating laws that shape the nation’s future. Beyond legislation, the Assembly also plays a critical role in scrutinizing government actions, holding the executive branch accountable, and approving the national budget. The upcoming sessions will likely address a range of important matters affecting the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis, underscoring the significance of these parliamentary proceedings. The government’s efforts to make these proceedings readily accessible to the public reinforce the principles of transparency and accountability that underpin a robust democratic system.

Paragraph 6: Facilitating Informed Civic Engagement and Strengthening Democratic Processes

By providing multiple avenues for public engagement, the government of St. Kitts and Nevis actively promotes informed citizenry. Access to live broadcasts, online streaming, and legislative documents empowers citizens to understand the complexities of policy-making and to form informed opinions. This accessibility encourages active participation in the democratic process, contributing to a more vibrant and participatory democracy. The government’s commitment to these principles reflects its dedication to fostering a more transparent and accountable government, wherein citizens are empowered to engage with the issues that affect their lives and contribute to shaping the future direction of the nation.