AGP Executive Report

Opposition Shake-Up: People’s Action Movement (PAM) Political Leader Natasha “Shanny” Grey-Brookes has resigned effective July 31, with the party calling it a strategic realignment ahead of the next general election—while Grey-Brookes says she’ll keep campaigning for St. Christopher One. Leadership Speculation: Former minister Jonel Powell’s “PAM yesterday, PAM today, PAM tomorrow” post is already fueling talk of a possible return to senior leadership. Workforce Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis hit a record 30,146 Social Security contributors, driven by diversification and minimum wage increases under PM Terrance Drew. Public Safety: Major crime fell 10% in the first half of 2026; robberies and firearm/ammunition offences each dropped by 53%, according to police figures shared by PM Drew. Healthcare Upgrade: The JNF General Hospital’s MRI project is in its final stretch, with the building 95% complete and commissioning steps next. Regional Politics: OECS praised Cuba’s long support despite the US embargo, as the OECS continues strengthening diplomatic and development ties. Sports & Community: Patriots set CPL home fixtures at Warner Park; SKNDF reserves completed annual swimming assessment; and athletes Jonathan Essien and Skyla Connor head to Glasgow for Commonwealth Games. National Loss: Tributes continue for KC Charles Wilkin, a major legal and cricket figure, with CWI and local institutions mourning his passing.

Party Leadership: PAM Political Leader Natasha Grey-Brookes steps down effective July 31, saying it’s a strategic realignment to strengthen the party’s push in St. Christopher One while she stays active on the campaign trail. Federal Politics & Governance: The National Assembly is set to sit Thursday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m. in Basseterre, with bills posted on SKNIS and proceedings broadcast live. Regional Legal Watch: The CCJ says it has not yet received a formal Caricom request for an advisory opinion on the reappointment of Dr Carla Barnett, after Trinidad and Tobago’s objections. Healthcare Delivery: The JNF General Hospital’s push for international accreditation continues, while the MRI Centre is reported 95% complete and moving toward installation. Nevis Development: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley credits the Destiny SSZ project with funding a US$1.3m dialysis centre for up to 20 patients. Public Safety: Police report a 10% drop in major crime for Jan–Jun 2026, with robberies down 53% and firearm offences down 53%. International & Security: A five-member Commission of Inquiry panel has been named to lead the probe into the MV Barima tragedy. Diplomacy & Trade: Taiwan’s ambassador attended the opening of PM Drew’s football league, and a Latin American and Caribbean Trade Office opened in Taipei with St. Kitts and Nevis participation. Sports & National Pride: Patriots confirm overseas CPL signings and home fixtures at Warner Park; athletes Alexander Caines and Shamarie Newton head to Glasgow; and the St. Peter’s Football League opens with community teams.

Caricom-CCJ Clash: The CCJ says it has not yet received a formal Caricom request for an advisory opinion on the reappointment of Dr Carla Barnett, after Trinidad and Tobago objected to the process—while Caricom leaders agreed the status quo stays in place “unless and until” the ruling is considered. Crime Watch: Police reported a 10% drop in major crime in the first half of 2026, with robberies down 53%, firearm/ammunition offences down 53%, and drug-related offences down 13%, crediting intelligence-led policing and “all hands on deck.” Nevis Destiny Project: Federal and Nevis leaders met again to tackle four constitutional and regulatory issues blocking approval of the Destiny Project; no final sign-off yet, but talks are moving the review forward. National Assembly Set: Parliament will sit July 30 at 10:00 a.m. in Basseterre, with bills posted online and the session broadcast live. Public Safety & Environment: Solid Waste Management says it has removed 209 derelict vehicles so far this year as part of an ongoing clean-up push, urging private operators to get involved. Health on Nevis: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley announced a US$1.3m dialysis centre for Alexandra Hospital, funded by Destiny SSZ developer Olivier Janssens. Sports & Youth: SKNDF reserves completed an annual swimming assessment; Commonwealth debutant Jonathan Essien set a personal best, and St. Peter’s Football League returns with community teams.

National Loss: Charles Lucien Arthur Wilkin, CMG, KC, has died at 77, remembered as a leading constitutional lawyer, civic leader, and sportsman who helped shape West Indies cricket through the Wilkin Report and served in major public roles including chairing the Electoral Commission. Maritime Accountability: President Dr Irfaan Ali appointed Trinidad and Tobago attorney Nyree Dawn Alfonso to the MV Barima Commission of Inquiry, as the region continues to process the tragedy and its legal fallout. Crime & Public Safety: Police Commissioner James Sutton reported major offences down in the first half of 2026, with robberies down 53% and firearm and ammunition offences down 53%, as PM Terrance Drew credits an “all hands on deck” public-health approach. Nevis Healthcare: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley says the Destiny Special Sustainability Zone project will fund a US$1.3m dialysis centre for up to 20 patients, aimed at improving access to renal care. Medicinal Cannabis Finance: The Medicinal Cannabis Authority is pushing for a secure banking framework, bringing in Saboto Caesar to help banks and credit unions build confidence. Politics Ahead of PLP Convention: Dr Timothy Harris again toured the Public Market with Team PLP, while the PLP prepares to unveil its full eight-candidate slate under “Right Team, Right Leader, Right Direction.” Federation Sports: SKN Athletics named Alexander Caines and Shamarie Newton for Glasgow Commonwealth Games, and St Kitts and Nevis athletes are also set for the CAC Games in Santo Domingo.

Caricom and the CCJ: A new commentary argues the Caribbean Court of Justice must actively persuade Caricom states and citizens that it can strengthen integration rather than fall into division. Public Safety: Police reported a mid-year drop in major crime for St. Kitts and Nevis—major offences down 10%, robberies down 53%, firearm and ammunition offences down 53%, and breakings down 19%—with Prime Minister Drew crediting an “all hands on deck” approach. Nevis Destiny Project: The federal government and Nevis Island Administration held a high-level meeting to address four constitutional and regulatory issues blocking approval of the Destiny Project; Premier Brantley says the project is not “killed,” but progress depends on resolving the concerns. Nevis Healthcare: Nevis is moving ahead with its first dedicated dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital, backed by a US$1.3 million investment and designed for up to 20 patients. Politics: The People’s Labour Party is set to unveil its full eight-candidate slate at its 2026 convention, while the People’s Action Movement postponed its 60th convention again to September 27. International Sport: St. Kitts and Nevis named Alexander Caines and Shamarie Newton for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, and the federation’s Olympic team is set for the CAC Games in Santo Domingo. Regional Athletics Hosting: Guyana will host CARIFTA 2027 and Barbados CARIFTA 2028 after St. Kitts and Nevis withdrew. Governance & Services: SCASPA and the St. Kitts Tourism Authority ran accessibility-focused customer service training for port and airport teams. Environment & Waste: The Solid Waste Management Corporation says it has removed over 1,000 derelict vehicles over three years, with 209 removed so far this year in targeted areas. Sports Business: St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots announced overseas signings for CPL 2026. National Loss: Tributes continue following the reported passing of Charles Wilkin KC, a long-serving legal and civic figure.

Crime & Public Safety: Police Commissioner James Sutton says major offences fell 10% in the first half of 2026, with robberies down 53%, firearm/ammunition offences down 53%, and drug-related offences down 13%, as PM Terrance Drew credits an “all hands on deck” public health approach. Nevis Healthcare: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley announced a US$1.3m dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital, with five stations for up to 20 patients, aiming to end the need for many residents to travel off-island. Destiny Project Review: Federal and Nevis leaders met July 23 on four constitutional/regulatory issues tied to the Destiny Special Sustainability Zone application, with talks focused on proposed project changes before further federal and oversight committee review. Local Governance: Notice issued for the National Assembly sitting Thursday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m., with live broadcast and bills to follow on SKNIS. Accessibility & Services: SCASPA and the St. Kitts Tourism Authority ran a three-day customer service excellence and accessibility training for 60 port security and customer service staff. Regional Sports: CARIFTA 2027 is set for Guyana and 2028 for Barbados after St Kitts/Nevis withdrew its bid. Politics: PLP prepares to unveil its full eight-candidate slate at its 2026 convention. Labour/Workplace: Park Hyatt servers allege financial squeeze and lack of transparency over voluntary gratuities, calling for Labour Ministry intervention.

Federal–Nevis Governance: The Destiny Project review is back in focus after a July 23 high-level meeting between the Federal Government and the Nevis Island Administration on four constitutional and regulatory issues, with “fundamental project changes” proposed and set to be relayed to the Independent Oversight Committee. Parliament Calendar: The National Assembly will sit on Thursday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m. in Basseterre, with bills to be posted on SKNIS once available and proceedings broadcast live. Local Development: Nevis is moving ahead with its first dedicated dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital, a US$1.3 million investment planned to add five dialysis stations for up to 20 patients. Justice Sector: Justice and Legal Affairs has completed training on the proposed Diversionary Caution System with court, prosecution, police, prison, and community stakeholders. Land & Agriculture: The Sustainable Development Ministry says farmers unlawfully occupying residentially designated lands have been relocated following a court ruling, clearing access for lawful landowners. Trade & Diplomacy: OECS and Morocco explored new trade and investment cooperation, while Taiwan’s expanded Latin American and Caribbean Trade Office now covers St. Kitts and Nevis. Public Safety: Authorities clarified a firearms importation debacle in Nevis, saying the shipment arrived without authorization and the matter was referred to Customs. Sports & Culture: St. Kitts Music Festival wrapped after three nights, and SKNOC announced Commonwealth Games and CAC Games delegations; separately, Patriots unveiled overseas CPL signings. Regional Athletics: After St. Kitts withdrew its CARIFTA 2027 bid, Guyana will host in 2027 and Barbados in 2028.

Healthcare Upgrades: The Ministry of Health has begun major rehabilitation at Cardin Home, building on recent additions like the facility’s first physiotherapist, nutrition and dietician services, and completed work on the Mental Health Unit. Nevis Dialysis Access: The CCM-led Nevis Island Administration says construction is underway for Nevis’ first dedicated dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital, a US$1.3 million project with five stations for up to 20 patients, aimed at ending the need for many residents to travel off-island. Land & Housing Governance: The Ministry of Sustainable Development says it has completed the safe relocation of farmers who were unlawfully occupying residentially designated lands in Lemon Hill and Cabbage Tree after a court injunction was dismissed, clearing the way for lawful landowners to access and develop their properties. Nevis “Destiny” Review: The Federal Government and NIA held a high-level meeting on four issues tied to the proposed Destiny project, with “fundamental project changes” discussed and recommendations set to be relayed through the oversight process. EU Citizenship Pressure: A report says the European Commission has asked five Eastern Caribbean CBI states to phase out programmes by June 1, 2028 or risk Schengen visa-free suspension—prompting renewed debate over the Federation’s shift toward the Sustainable Island State Agenda. Regional Diplomacy & Trade: Taiwan’s Latin American and Caribbean Trade Office (LACTO) officially opened in Taipei with expanded coverage that now includes St. Kitts and Nevis, alongside other diplomatic allies.

Party Politics: PAM is bracing for internal turmoil as reports claim former Deputy PM Shawn Richards has sent a hard-hitting letter to Political Leader Natasha “Shanny” Grey-Brookes, with insiders alleging leadership concerns and possible demands for major changes—no resignation confirmed, but the whispers raise the stakes for the party’s push to recover after the 2022 defeat. Climate & Resilience: Government hosted a National Loss and Damage stakeholder workshop to build St. Kitts and Nevis’ first National Loss and Damage Strategy, mapping how the country will identify, plan for, and respond to climate impacts across key sectors. Social Security Reform: PM Terrance Drew continues consultations on Social Security reforms amid warnings that the system is financially unsustainable without adjustments. Environment & Community: The Environment Ministry says recycling faces real hurdles, but highlights growing community and private-sector participation. International Posture: In London, PM Drew pitched the Sustainable Island State Agenda and called for stronger Africa–Caribbean connectivity, including visa-free reciprocity and reduced travel/trade barriers. Regional Governance/Finance: ECCB unveiled redesigned EC banknotes and released its 2025–2026 Annual Report, stressing ECCU stability and resilience. Sports & Culture: St. Kitts and Nevis swimmers Skyla Connor and Jonathan Essien head to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow; Nevis also gears up for Culturama 52, while the Cultural Heritage Department opens registration for an ICH knowledge camp in Basseterre.

Africa–Caribbean Economic Push: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew used the London Stock Exchange’s Royal African Society event to call for a “new era” of Africa–Caribbean connectivity, urging removal of barriers to travel, trade and investment and highlighting St. Kitts and Nevis’ visa-free access for African citizens. Sustainable Island State Agenda: In the same keynote, Drew pitched the Sustainable Island State Agenda as a 2040 blueprint built on water security, renewables, food security, resilient communities, circular economy and health/social protection. Climate Policy: St. Kitts and Nevis advanced its first National Loss and Damage Strategy with a stakeholder workshop at St. Kitts Marriott, funded by the Climate Action Unit with technical support from Climate Analytics. Social Security Reform Talks: The government said discussions continue on proposed Social Security reforms amid warnings that the system’s trajectory is unsustainable. Land & Housing: The Ministry reported completion of the safe relocation of farmers from residential lands in Lemon Hill and Cabbage Tree after a High Court decision cleared the way. Sports & Youth: St. Kitts and Nevis swimmers Skyla Connor and Jonathan Essien head to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow as the federation’s first-ever representatives; meanwhile Sports Minister Samal Duggins said the 2027 CARIFTA Games bid is deferred. Regional Finance: ECCB unveiled redesigned EC banknotes replacing Queen Elizabeth II with national heroes and regional icons, and released its 2025–2026 annual report. Diplomacy: A Taiwan embassy Second Secretary, Billy Chung, marked the end of his tenure with symbolic gifts to PM Drew and Nevis Premier Mark Brantley.

EU CBI Deadline: The European Commission has formally asked five Eastern Caribbean states, including St. Kitts and Nevis, to phase out Citizenship by Investment by June 1, 2028 or risk Schengen visa-free access—an issue St. Kitts and Nevis says it is already planning around through its Sustainable Island State Agenda. Prime Minister Drew on CBI: Drew reiterated that Third Country Nationals should not cost the Federation anything under the current approach, and he framed the shift away from CBI as a deliberate economic strategy, with reduced dependence on CBI revenues. Social Security Reform Talks: The Prime Minister says discussions continue on proposed Social Security reforms amid long-running calls for structural changes to keep the system sustainable. Cardin Home Overhaul: Major rehabilitation is underway at the Cardin Home ahead of its 100th anniversary, with upgrades managed by Public Works and labour provided by His Majesty’s Prison. ECCB Money & Governance: The ECCB unveiled redesigned EC banknotes honoring national heroes and regional icons, and released its 2025–2026 Annual Report highlighting stability and growth. Commonwealth Games Milestone: St. Kitts and Nevis swimmers Skyla Connor and Jonathan Essien will compete in Glasgow—first-ever Commonwealth Games representation for the federation. PLP Convention Dates: The People’s Labour Party will hold its annual convention in two sessions on August 6 and August 8, with candidate screening nearing completion. Sports Minister on CARIFTA: St. Kitts and Nevis deferred its 2027 CARIFTA hosting bid, with Sports Minister Samal Duggins saying it’s not the right time. Youth & Public Safety: A Security Forces United FC crime intervention soccer camp opened in Basseterre, backed by a Prime Minister’s donation aimed at youth development and crime prevention.

ECCB & Financial Governance: The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank released its 2025–2026 Annual Report, pointing to 2.5% growth in 2025, moderated inflation, stable financial conditions, and reserves rising to US$6.0 billion (as at 31 March 2026). Commonwealth Games Spotlight: St. Kitts and Nevis swimmers Skyla Connor and Jonathan Essien will compete in Glasgow starting July 23, becoming the federation’s first Commonwealth Games swimmers, with events listed for both athletes. Elder Care Infrastructure: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew toured the Cardin Home as major rehabilitation begins ahead of the facility’s 100th anniversary in May 2027, with upgrades managed through the Public Works Department and labour from His Majesty’s Prison. Health & Social Services: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley announced a new dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital to reduce the need for patients to travel to St. Kitts for treatment. Youth, Sports & Crime Prevention: The Security Forces United FC summer soccer camp continues as a structured, youth-focused crime intervention programme, backed by government support.

Commonwealth Games Breakthrough: St. Kitts & Nevis Aquatics Federation confirms Skyla Connor and Jonathan Essien will become the first swimmers to represent the Federation at Glasgow 2026, with Skyla entered in 50m freestyle/breaststroke and Jonathan in 50m/100m butterfly. Medicinal Cannabis Finance: The Federation has enlisted Saboto Caesar to help build a medicinal cannabis banking framework, including meetings with financial institutions and unveiling a track-and-trace approach. Migration & Security: PM Terrance Drew reiterated that Third Country Nationals transferred under the US arrangement undergo background, immigration, medical and security checks, stressing the Federation can reject anyone who fails security requirements. Youth in Governance: Project L.E.A.D. welcomed a new cohort at Government Headquarters, pairing students with ministries for hands-on exposure to public policy and civil leadership. Health & Infrastructure: Work is underway on major renovations at the historic Cardin Home, while Nevis Premier Mark Brantley announced a new dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital. Regional Tragedy: PM Drew expressed solidarity with Guyana after the MV Barima ferry disaster, as regional support and condolences continue. Travel Watch: A US State Department worldwide alert flags heightened caution amid the Iran conflict, with St. Kitts & Nevis listed at Level 1.

Elder Care Upgrade: Renovations are underway at the historic Cardin Home, with the Ministry of Health saying major works began Monday to modernise facilities and improve care for seniors and vulnerable residents. Youth & Public Safety: The Security Forces United FC Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp opened at the NCI Grounds, running July 20–31 with 400 children, backed by Prime Minister Terrance Drew as part of a crime-prevention approach. Regional Solidarity: PM Drew voiced St. Kitts and Nevis’ support for Guyana after the MV Barima ferry disaster, as Guyanese authorities reported rising casualties and continued searches. UN Sustainable Development: Ministers Konris Maynard and Joyelle Clarke highlighted renewable energy, economic equity for small islands, and grid modernisation during UN HLPF engagement in New York. Healthcare Access in Nevis: Nevis Premier Mark Brantley announced plans for a new dialysis centre at Alexandra Hospital to reduce the need for frequent trips to St. Kitts. Diplomacy & Trade: Taiwan’s MOFA launched a new trade promotion office for diplomatic allies, while St. Kitts and Nevis continues strengthening international partnerships. Migration Security: PM Drew reiterated that US migration transfers involve screening and security checks to avoid exposing the Federation to criminal backgrounds.

Migration & Security: PM Terrance Drew says St. Kitts and Nevis will not be “exposed to individuals with criminal backgrounds” under the U.S. migration cooperation arrangement, stressing screening before any transfers. Medicinal Cannabis Banking: St. Kitts and Nevis has enlisted former St. Vincent agriculture minister Saboto Caesar to help build a medicinal cannabis banking framework, including meetings with financial institutions and unveiling the track-and-trace system. EU Visa Pressure on CBI: The EU warns five Eastern Caribbean states, including St. Kitts and Nevis, to end citizenship-by-investment by 2028 or face loss of visa-free Schengen access; leaders plan a coordinated push to Brussels. Regional Connectivity: OECS leaders continue talks on a regional airline to restore post-COVID air links and boost trade and tourism. Healthcare Infrastructure: Work on the Smart Hospital is set to resume after design changes following a geological feature, aimed at avoiding costly foundation methods. Public Life & Culture: SKNDF marks its 29th anniversary with an open day and recruitment showcase; and the Federation mourns calypso icon King Star Shield. Regional Tragedy: Guyana’s MV Barima disaster updates report rising deaths and missing persons as search efforts continue.

Smart Hospital Restart: St. Kitts and Nevis says construction on the “smart hospital” will resume soon after a geological feature forced design changes to protect structural integrity and avoid costly pile driving. Regional Security & Health: LAMAT’s 2026 mission with U.S. Air Force medical teams reports 3,500+ patient encounters and 2,000+ medical, dental and surgical procedures, alongside equipment repairs and shared clinical know-how. Maritime Tragedy Response: Prime Minister Terrance Drew extended condolences as Guyana’s MV Barima ferry capsized; 67 rescued (including 15 children) and searches continue after reports of fatalities and missing passengers, with arrests following a positive drug test for the captain and first engineer. EU Visa Pressure on CBI: The EU warns five Eastern Caribbean states—including St. Kitts and Nevis—to end citizenship-by-investment by 2028 or face loss of visa-free access to Schengen, prompting leaders to coordinate a collective response to Brussels. Medicinal Cannabis Banking Push: St. Kitts and Nevis enlists Saboto Caesar to help build a banking and compliance framework for the medicinal cannabis sector, including meeting financial institutions and advancing “seed-to-sale” tracking. Governance & Community: The Media Association of St. Kitts and Nevis holds its first executive meeting after biennial elections, while SKNDF’s 29th anniversary Open Day showcases military life and recruitment pathways. Public Life: St. Kitts Grill Fest winners were crowned across five categories as Restaurant Week continues.