Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has strongly denied allegations of financial misconduct involving his son, Terrance ‘TJ” Drew Jr., and has called for a public retraction from Ian “Patches” Liburd, condemning the claims as “baseless, scandalous, and defamatory”.
The prime minister’s statement follows spurious allegations made by Liburd on his “Straight Talk” broadcast, accusing Dr. Drew of misusing government funds for family travel and appointing his son to a lucrative government post.
Dr. Drew has rejected these allegations, calling them “a desperate attempt to defame my family and me.”
Clarifying his son’s involvement with the St. Kitts and Nevis Robotics Association (SKNRA), Dr. Drew noted that TJ holds no government-appointed role or financial entitlement. Instead, his son serves as an Ambassador for the SKNRA, a voluntary position through a non-governmental organisation affiliated with the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College. Dr. Drew noted that since 2017, TJ’s work with the association has been rooted in a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), not politics or financial gain.
Dr. Drew voiced deep disappointment in Liburd’s targeting of a minor, describing the statements as both “reckless” and “malicious.” He condemned Liburd’s remarks, asserting that they amounted to “a deliberate attempt to belittle a teenager’s hard work and dedication.”
The prime minister further highlighted that Liburd’s statements violate Article 16 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which protects children from attacks on their honour and reputation. He condemned any political tactics targeting the children of public figures, stating, “No child should ever again be subjected to such cruel and callous attacks.”
As the nation approaches World Children’s Day on 20th November 2024, a day dedicated to affirming the protections enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Dr. Drew urged society to take seriously the responsibility of safeguarding children.
Prime Minister Drew reiterated his demand for a retraction and public apology from Mr. Liburd to his son. Should Liburd fail to act responsibly, Dr. Drew confirmed that he and TJ’s mother are prepared to pursue legal action to hold Liburd and others spreading these harmful falsehoods accountable.
Photo: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew posing with his teenage son TJ on his birthday earlier this year.
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