St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has called for a united front in tackling crime, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility over political rivalry. Speaking during the presentation of findings from the transformative 90-Day Campaign Against Crime and Violence on 5th December 2024, Dr. Drew delivered a strong message: crime must be addressed as a societal challenge, not a political battleground.
Unity Beyond Politics
“Crime is not a political tool,” Prime Minister Drew declared. “It’s a national issue that requires everyone—regardless of political affiliation—to come together with a shared purpose: building a safer Federation for all.”
Dr. Drew commended the inclusivity of the 90-Day Campaign, which brought together stakeholders from across political divides, religious organisations, and community groups. This approach, he noted, demonstrated the power of collaboration in addressing pressing social challenges.
Reflecting on historical trends in the region, the prime minister denounced the use of crime as a means to score political points, highlighting the human toll behind every statistic.
“Each life lost represents a family in mourning, a community impacted. Our focus must remain on finding meaningful solutions, not assigning blame,” he noted.
Impact of the 90-Day Campaign
Launched in September 2024, the campaign adopted a public health perspective to crime prevention, addressing root causes through education, engagement, and community-building initiatives. The results, including a dramatic 66% decrease in firearm-related homicides during the campaign, underscore the effectiveness of this holistic strategy.
“This achievement is not the result of any one group or individual,” said Dr. Drew. “It is the outcome of communities taking ownership and working together. It shows what we can accomplish when we move beyond partisanship and embrace collective action.”
Sustained Action for Lasting Change
Dr. Drew cautioned against complacency, urging a continued focus on long-term solutions rather than short-term gains. He emphasised the importance of sustained investment in education, rehabilitation, and grassroots programmes that empower communities to prevent crime at its source.
“Crime should never divide us. It must unite us in a shared commitment to create a safer, more prosperous society. This is not about political victories; it is about protecting lives and ensuring the well-being of every citizen.”
The prime minister’s impassioned remarks resonated as a call to action for leaders, communities, and institutions to work in unison, fostering a culture of safety and collaboration across St. Kitts and Nevis.
As the Federation transitions beyond the 90-Day Campaign, the collective resolve demonstrated during this period offers a promising blueprint for sustained success. Dr. Drew’s leadership and message of unity serve as a powerful reminder that only together can the nation build a brighter, safer future.
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