Prime Minister Advocates for Courtroom Cameras in Development Bank Proceedings

The controversy surrounding the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis and its former CEO, Mr. Len Harris, has taken center stage in the twin-island nation, prompting Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew to call for increased transparency in the legal proceedings. Dr. Drew, during a Round Table discussion on January 8, 2025, underscored the public’s right to access information about the case, emphasizing that transparency and accountability are cornerstones of his administration. He revealed that he has requested the Attorney General to seek permission for cameras in the courtroom, allowing the proceedings to be publicly broadcast. This, he believes, will enable the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis to directly observe the proceedings and form their own informed opinions based on presented evidence.

The Prime Minister clarified that the lawsuit was initiated by Mr. Harris against the Development Bank, not the other way around, dispelling rumors of a government-orchestrated witch hunt. He stated that the Development Bank’s response to the lawsuit is a natural course of action in any legal dispute. Dr. Drew stressed that the core issue revolves around accountability and upholding the highest standards of governance and integrity within public institutions. The legal proceedings, therefore, are crucial for establishing the facts and ensuring that justice is served, while demonstrating the government’s commitment to transparency and responsible management of public resources.

Dr. Drew’s push for courtroom cameras signifies a significant departure from past practices and reflects his administration’s dedication to fostering transparency in public affairs. He argued that allowing the public to witness the proceedings firsthand would significantly enhance trust in the judicial process and reinforce the principle that justice must not only be done but also be seen to be done. This transparency initiative aims to address public concerns and demonstrate the government’s commitment to open and accessible legal proceedings. It also aims to provide citizens with a clear understanding of the legal arguments and evidence presented in the case, thereby facilitating informed public discourse.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted his government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and governance within public institutions, including the Development Bank. These efforts are aimed at addressing systemic issues and preventing future controversies similar to the current one. Dr. Drew emphasized his administration’s commitment to responsible management of public institutions and the safeguarding of public resources, demonstrating a proactive approach to improving governance and preventing potential future issues. This proactive approach is intended to build public confidence in the government’s ability to manage public institutions effectively and ethically.

Dr. Drew also drew a sharp contrast between his administration’s commitment to transparency and what he characterized as a lack thereof under the previous administration. He criticized past practices, alleging a legacy of questionable actions that eroded public trust. He assured citizens that his government is actively working to restore confidence in the Development Bank and other key institutions. This involves not only addressing the current controversy but also implementing reforms to prevent similar situations from arising in the future. By acknowledging past shortcomings and outlining concrete steps towards improvement, Dr. Drew aims to rebuild public trust and demonstrate a commitment to ethical governance.

The Prime Minister’s call for transparency in the Development Bank legal proceedings, coupled with his administration’s broader efforts to strengthen governance and oversight, signals a new era of accountability in St. Kitts and Nevis. By emphasizing transparency, Dr. Drew aims to foster public trust in government institutions and ensure that justice is served in a manner that is both fair and transparent. This commitment to open governance, he argues, is essential for building a stronger and more accountable democracy, where citizens are informed and empowered to hold their leaders accountable. The ongoing legal proceedings, therefore, represent not only a specific case of alleged wrongdoing but also a broader test of the government’s commitment to transparency and good governance.