By Caribbean News Global
BASSETERRE, St Kitts – St Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) deputy political leader Marcella Liburd cautions that prime minister Dr Timothy Harris is “hell-bent on securing a victory at any cost and by whatever means possible” advised that one safeguard is the intervention of international observers representing key organisations including the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) CARICOM and the Organization of Associates (OAS).
Liburd asserted, “This is the only way we can be sure that the general election is free and fair as well as free from fear.”
The NextGen SKN deputy labour party leader explained that the election is being held under a State of Emergency which gives the police and security forces broad powers of arrest and detention. Liburd pointed out, “There are increasing calls from business, legal and senior professionals for a repeal of the State of Emergency. They are clear in their view that there is no need for it.”
St Kitts – Nevis citizens call for an end to ‘State of Emergency’: The playing field is not level
Liburd revealed concerns that Dr Harris is using COVID-19 as an excuse for denying entry to international observers and nationals alike, who value participation in the democratic process in St Kitts and Nevis.
She emphasized: “The outgoing regime and Dr Harris, in particular, is desperate for a victory and they are panicking. Desperate people do desperate things. We all must remain vigilant and keep the pressure on Dr Harris and the attorney general, and hold them to account over the coming days,” said the NextGen SKN deputy labour party leader.