National Assembly Convenes on Thursday, 15 May 2025

Paragraph 1: The Announcement of the National Assembly Sitting

The government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has announced an upcoming sitting of the National Assembly, scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The session will take place at the National Assembly Chambers located within Government Headquarters in Basseterre, the capital city of Saint Kitts. This announcement serves as a formal notification to members of the Assembly, the general public, and other interested parties. While the specific agenda items remain undisclosed at this time, the government has indicated that the Order Paper, detailing the topics for discussion and debate, will be released in the near future. This allows members adequate time to prepare for the proceedings and ensures transparency by enabling public awareness of the matters to be addressed.

Paragraph 2: Accessibility and Transparency of the Proceedings

Recognizing the importance of public engagement in the democratic process, the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has committed to ensuring broad accessibility to the National Assembly proceedings. Live broadcasts will be available via multiple platforms. ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and other participating radio stations will carry the audio feed, while television viewers can tune in to Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis for live visual coverage. Furthermore, recognizing the increasingly digital nature of information consumption, the proceedings will be streamed live online at www.zizonline.com. This multi-platform approach aims to maximize access for citizens both within the federation and abroad, allowing them to witness the legislative process firsthand.

Paragraph 3: Availability of Bills and Supporting Documents

To further promote transparency and informed public discourse, the government will make copies of the Bills under consideration available online. These documents will be accessible through the official website of the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (SKNIS), specifically under the "Bills" section (sknis.gov.kn). The timely publication of these Bills allows citizens to review the proposed legislation, understand its implications, and form their own opinions. This open access to information empowers the public to participate more meaningfully in the democratic process by engaging in informed discussions and providing feedback to their elected representatives.

Paragraph 4: The Significance of Public Participation

The commitment to transparency showcased by the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis underscores the vital role of public participation in a healthy democracy. By providing multiple avenues for accessing the proceedings and ensuring the availability of relevant documents, the government facilitates informed public engagement. This engagement allows citizens to hold their representatives accountable, contribute to the legislative process through public discourse, and ultimately strengthen democratic governance. The open availability of information fosters trust between the government and its citizens, creating a more participatory and responsive political environment.

Paragraph 5: The Role of the National Assembly

The National Assembly serves as the legislative body of Saint Kitts and Nevis, responsible for debating and enacting laws that govern the federation. Its proceedings represent the core of the democratic process, where elected representatives deliberate on critical issues and make decisions that impact the lives of all citizens. The upcoming sitting of the National Assembly, therefore, holds significant importance for the nation’s governance and the future direction of the country. The topics to be discussed, as outlined in the forthcoming Order Paper, will shape the legislative agenda and influence various aspects of life in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Paragraph 6: Anticipation for the Upcoming Sitting

As the date of the National Assembly sitting approaches, anticipation builds amongst citizens and observers alike. The release of the Order Paper will shed light on the specific issues to be addressed, providing further context for the proceedings. The government’s commitment to transparency and accessibility ensures that the public can actively engage with the legislative process, contributing to a more informed and participatory democracy. The upcoming sitting of the National Assembly promises to be a significant event in the political calendar of Saint Kitts and Nevis, offering an opportunity for robust debate, informed decision-making, and ultimately, the advancement of the nation’s interests.