Second Reading of Three Bills in the National Assembly (July 24, 2025)

The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is scheduled to convene on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the National Assembly Chambers in Government Headquarters, Basseterre. The primary focus of this session will be the second reading of three crucial bills, marking a significant step in the government’s ongoing good governance legislative agenda. The session will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and other participating radio stations, as well as televised on Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis. Live streaming will also be available online at www.zizonline.com, ensuring accessibility for the public.

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who also oversees the portfolios of Finance, National Security, Citizenship and Immigration, Health, and Social Security, will lead the second reading of two bills: the Larceny (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Gang (Prohibition and Prevention) (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The Larceny (Amendment) Bill, 2025, received its first reading on July 10, 2025, while the Gang (Prohibition and Prevention) (Amendment) Bill, 2024, underwent its initial reading on September 18, 2024. These bills likely represent the government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement and enhancing public safety within the federation.

The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Garth Wilkin, will steer the second reading of the Judge Alone Trials (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This bill, which also had its first reading on July 10, 2025, suggests potential reforms to the judicial process, possibly aiming to improve efficiency and expedite case resolution within the court system. The specific amendments being proposed will become clearer during the second reading and subsequent debates within the National Assembly.

These three bills collectively contribute to the government’s broader good governance initiative, reflecting a focus on strengthening law and order, modernizing legal frameworks, and addressing critical issues affecting the nation. The public is encouraged to engage with the legislative process by accessing copies of the bills and following the proceedings of the National Assembly.

To facilitate public access to these important legislative documents, copies of the bills will be available on the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service website (www.sknis.gov.kn) under the “Bills” section. Additionally, they will be accessible through the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service Facebook page. This multi-platform approach ensures widespread dissemination of information and promotes transparency in the legislative process.

The emphasis on public access to the bills underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and citizen engagement in the legislative process. By providing multiple avenues for accessing the bills, the government aims to foster informed public discourse and encourage participation in the shaping of national laws. The upcoming National Assembly session promises to be a significant event in the ongoing development of the legal landscape of St. Kitts and Nevis.