As the nation continues to monitor the illness and hospitalization of Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Terrance Drew, an important constitutional and administrative issue naturally arises: the temporary assignment of the ministries normally held by the Prime Minister.
So long as the Prime Minister is alert and able to advise the Governor-General as to who should hold particular portfolios in his absence, the Governor-General is bound to act in accordance with that advice. In such circumstances, the Prime Minister is expected to select persons in whom he has confidence and who, in his judgment, will carry out the functions of government responsibly and in keeping with his policy direction.
There are, of course, two former Prime Ministers in the National Assembly who possess considerable experience: Dr. Denzil Douglas and Dr. Timothy Harris. Between them, they have held almost every major ministry of government over a period spanning more than 20 years, giving them a depth of institutional knowledge few others can match. Both men have previously occupied the highest office in the land and understand the demands of national leadership. However, neither currently appears to enjoy the full trust and goodwill of the sitting Prime Minister. That reality helps explain the Prime Minister’s decision to sanction the appointment of Dr. Geoffrey Hanley as Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Health, along with Attorney General Mr. Garth Wilkin to assist in the continued management of government affairs.
Mr. Wilkin has proven himself to be an able and dedicated Attorney General. He has advanced and amended several pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening the rule of law and improving the legal framework of the federation. Dr. Hanley, likewise, has demonstrated commitment to public service and continuity in government. We therefore endorse both gentlemen in these temporary responsibilities and urge them to discharge their duties with seriousness, humility, and purpose.
The Prime Minister has encouraged them to ensure that the work of government continues without disruption. In that spirit, we urge the acting leadership to give urgent attention to matters of economic importance, especially in Nevis. This includes guaranteeing the financing for the renovation and expansion of the Vance W. Amory International Airport and signing off on the Destiny project, which promises an urgent economic infusion at a time when the country is in urgent need of renewed growth and activity.
At moments of uncertainty, continuity, confidence, and competent administration matter. The nation wishes the Prime Minister a full and speedy recovery. At the same time, the temporary stewards of government must move decisively to maintain stability, advance key development priorities, and demonstrate that the machinery of government remains fully engaged in the service of the people.
