Prime Minister Commends Stakeholders’ Contributions to Carnival Safety and Security

The 2025 Sugar Mas 53 Carnival in St. Kitts and Nevis resonated with unprecedented vibrancy and cultural significance, etching its mark as the grandest celebration in the nation’s history. This remarkable feat was orchestrated by the collaborative dedication of numerous stakeholders, whose contributions were lauded by Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew during his first Roundtable discussion of the year. The Prime Minister extended special commendations to key figures such as the Honourable Samal Duggins, Minister responsible for Carnival, Director of Carnival Clement O’Garro, and Chair of Carnival Shannon Hawley, acknowledging their instrumental roles in planning and executing the festivities. Their visionary leadership and meticulous coordination were pivotal in shaping an event that embodied national pride and unity, epitomizing the spirit of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Beyond the organizers, the Prime Minister also highlighted the crucial role played by the security forces in ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. Acknowledging the demanding nature of their work, particularly during large-scale public events, Dr. Drew expressed his profound gratitude to Commissioner of Police James Sutton and the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF), as well as Acting Commander Major Kayode Sutton and the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF). Their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and order provided a secure environment for citizens, residents, and visitors alike to revel in the Carnival’s vibrant atmosphere without concern for their safety. This concerted effort contributed significantly to the overall success of Sugar Mas 53, underscoring the importance of collaboration between event organizers and security personnel.

The Prime Minister further extended his appreciation to the citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis for their active participation in fostering a safe and secure environment throughout the Carnival season. He emphasized their collective responsibility in upholding public safety, acknowledging their contribution to the peaceful atmosphere that characterized not only the festivities but also the preceding 90-day period. This collective commitment to safety reflects a broader national ethos, where citizens actively participate in creating a secure and harmonious society. Dr. Drew underscored the importance of this partnership between the government and the people, recognizing that public safety is a shared responsibility that transcends specific events like Carnival.

Building on the success of Sugar Mas and the demonstrable commitment to public safety, Dr. Drew reiterated the government’s ongoing focus on citizen security, emphasizing a renewed public health approach to addressing the underlying issues that contribute to crime and violence. This perspective signifies a shift towards preventative measures and a deeper understanding of the social determinants of crime, recognizing that public health and safety are intrinsically linked. The Prime Minister welcomed this new approach, highlighting its potential to create a more holistic and sustainable framework for citizen security. This integrated strategy aims to address the root causes of crime, fostering a more resilient and peaceful society.

The government’s commitment to citizen security extends beyond the immediate context of Carnival, reflecting a broader vision for the future of St. Kitts and Nevis. Dr. Drew underscored the importance of sustaining and strengthening public safety measures to ensure that cultural celebrations like Sugar Mas can continue to thrive in a secure and vibrant environment. This commitment not only safeguards the present but also lays the foundation for future generations to experience and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the nation. By prioritizing safety, the government aims to create a legacy of peaceful and prosperous celebrations that continue to unite and inspire the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

In conclusion, the success of Sugar Mas 53 serves as a powerful testament to the collaborative spirit and shared responsibility of the people and government of St. Kitts and Nevis. From the meticulous planning and execution by the Carnival organizers to the unwavering dedication of the security forces and the active participation of citizens in maintaining a safe environment, the event showcased the nation’s collective strength. This collaborative approach, coupled with the government’s renewed focus on citizen security through a public health lens, promises a future where cultural celebrations like Sugar Mas can continue to flourish, enriching the lives of generations to come and solidifying the nation’s identity as a beacon of cultural pride and unity within a safe and secure environment.