Marcella Liburd of the SKNLP has accused Prime Minister Timothy Harris of undermining democracy in St Kitts and Nevis. She expressed concerns regarding the independence of the judiciary and cited the dismissal of the DPP due to governmental interference. Moreover, she pointed out potential conflicts of interest involving the Prime Minister’s sisters serving as magistrates.
The opposition party chairman of the St Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP), Marcella Liburd, has raised serious allegations regarding Prime Minister Timothy Harris’s administration. She contends that there is an alarming trend of injustice manifesting in both the parliament and the judiciary. In an interview on Freedom 106.5 FM, Liburd accused the Team Unity government of systematically undermining fundamental rights and democratic values in the nation.
Liburd emphasized the crucial principle of separation of powers, which is essential for a functioning democracy. She articulated that the National Assembly, the executive, and the judiciary must operate independently. Specifically, she highlighted that an independent judiciary is vital to ensure that justice is not only achieved but is also perceived as being attainable by the public.
The repercussions of government actions are palpable, as Liburd noted the dismissal of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) by Attorney General Vincent Byron, allegedly due to ongoing investigations involving a cabinet member. She expressed concern over Prime Minister Harris’s presence at the court hearing related to the DPP’s lawsuit against the government, questioning his involvement in what should be a separate judicial matter.
Additionally, Liburd raised alarming concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest, noting that two of the Prime Minister’s sisters serve as magistrates, which she believes contributes to undue influence within the court. Despite these assertions, there has been no evidence substantiated by WIC News to support claims of misconduct on their part.
In conclusion, Marcella Liburd of the SKNLP has voiced significant concerns regarding the actions of Prime Minister Timothy Harris and his government, alleging a degradation of democratic principles and judicial independence in St Kitts and Nevis. The implications of these allegations, if substantiated, could impact the integrity of the nation’s legal and parliamentary systems.
Original Source: wicnews.com