Second Reading of Three Bills Scheduled for Thursday, July 24, 2025, in the National Assembly

Paragraph 1: Overview of the Upcoming National Assembly Sitting

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 Basseterre, Government Headquarters. This session marks a continuation of the government’s legislative agenda focused on good governance and will feature the second reading of three significant bills. The proceedings will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and other participating radio stations, televised on Channel 5 in St. Kitts and Channel 98 in Nevis, and streamed online at www.zizonline.com, ensuring widespread public access to the legislative process.

Paragraph 2: The Larceny (Amendment) Bill, 2025

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, National Security, Citizenship and Immigration, Health and Social Security, Dr. Terrance Drew, will introduce the second reading of the Larceny (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This bill, having undergone its first reading on July 10, 2025, seeks to amend existing larceny laws. While the specific amendments are not detailed in the provided information, it can be inferred that they aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding theft and property crimes, contributing to the government’s broader objective of enhancing good governance and public safety within Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Paragraph 3: The Gang (Prohibition and Prevention) (Amendment) Bill, 2024

Also to be presented for its second reading by Prime Minister Drew is the Gang (Prohibition and Prevention) (Amendment) Bill, 2024. This bill, initially introduced on September 18, 2024, aims to modify existing legislation related to gang activity. The amendments likely seek to address the challenges posed by gangs, potentially by enhancing law enforcement powers, strengthening preventative measures, or providing support for gang intervention and rehabilitation programs. This bill underscores the government’s commitment to addressing crime and maintaining public order.

Paragraph 4: The Judge Alone Trials (Amendment) Bill, 2025

The Honourable Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Garth Wilkin, will oversee the second reading of the Judge Alone Trials (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This bill, which had its first reading on July 10, 2025, pertains to the procedures for trials conducted by a judge without a jury. The specific amendments remain undefined, but they potentially relate to streamlining judicial processes, improving efficiency, or addressing specific circumstances under which judge-alone trials are deemed appropriate.

Paragraph 5: Accessing Bill Documents and Promoting Transparency

To facilitate public awareness and engagement with the legislative process, copies of the bills will be made available on the official website of the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (www.sknis.gov.kn) under the “Bills” section. Additionally, the bills can be accessed through the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service Facebook page. This multi-platform approach ensures accessibility for a wider audience, promoting transparency and encouraging public participation in the lawmaking process.

Paragraph 6: Significance of the Legislative Agenda

The upcoming National Assembly sitting represents a significant step in the government’s commitment to good governance and enhancing the legal framework of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The three bills under consideration – addressing larceny, gang activity, and judge-alone trials – reflect a focus on key aspects of justice, public safety, and efficient judicial processes. The government’s emphasis on transparency, evidenced by the widespread availability of the bill documents, further strengthens public trust and fosters a more informed and engaged citizenry. This legislative agenda underscores the ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen the legal infrastructure for the benefit of all citizens.