Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforming and safeguarding the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme amidst recent criticisms. Speaking at his Roundtable press conference on 20th November, Dr. Drew outlined significant strides made to ensure integrity in the programme while addressing allegations of past misuse and external pressures from individuals seeking personal gain.
Strong Stance Against Misconduct
Dr. Drew dismissed accusations that his administration is indifferent to historical issues within the CBI programme. He assured the public that legal actions against wrongdoers are progressing based on evidence and due process.
“We do not make dramatic declarations or release polished videos like some others. We act with proof, ensuring justice is served,” Prime Minister Drew stated.
These remarks followed claims by Phillipe Martinez, a French film producer and head of MSR Media, who alleged misconduct in the Federation’s CBI programme during a previous administration. Martinez has filed a lawsuit in the United States, demanding $450 million from various defendants for alleged damages linked to underselling in the St. Kitts and Nevis programme.
Dr. Drew clarified that the government of St. Kitts and Nevis is not a party to the lawsuit, but revealed that Martinez had approached the current administration seeking a US $40 million settlement, which was firmly rejected.
Addressing Past Challenges and Implementing Reforms
The prime minister highlighted decisive actions taken to address challenges inherited from the previous administration. He cited due diligence findings that revealed Martinez’s history, including a felony fraud conviction in France, as evidence necessitating a review of his involvement in the CBI programme.
Under Dr. Drew’s leadership, the government has enacted significant reforms to enhance the integrity of the CBI programme. These include the criminalisation of underselling – an issue that previously went unchecked.
Dr. Drew described it as ironic to accuse his administration, which pioneered these reforms, of being complicit in unlawful practices.
Commitment to Accountability
Dr. Drew announced the appointment of a Special Prosecutor within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to investigate and address any irregularities in the programme. He reassured citizens that all actions would adhere to legal standards while holding wrongdoers accountable.
A Vision for the Future
Emphasising the importance of the CBI programme to the nation’s development, Dr. Drew affirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring the benefits are equitably distributed.
“We will continue to seek the returns owed to our government and people,” he said, promising that the programme would remain a pillar of national progress under strict governance.
As St. Kitts and Nevis continues its journey of economic transformation, the Drew administration’s firm stance on accountability and justice sets a strong precedent for the future of the Federation’s CBI programme.
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