PM Timothy Harris says govt sought help from World Bank on distribution of CBI revenue

Prime Minister Timothy Harris provided some insight into the hot button topics on the agenda as the Team Unity administration tries to iron out some core issues affecting the country’s leadership, policies, and decision-making.

A second meeting between the Team Unity alliance was held on Thursday (April 14) to address issues affecting the administration, which comprises representatives from the Harris-led People’s Labour Party (PLP), People’s Action Movement (PAM), and Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM).

In a televised address to the nation, Dr Harris unveiled some of the agenda items and provided insight into probable solutions.

Issues related to governance and transparency, a reassignment of ministerial duties, the external involvement of global financial institutions, and an increase in the operating budget of Nevis were all touched on in the five-minute address.

On improved internal reporting and transparency of government offices, the Prime Minister said he agreed with an increased oversight approach. He said all ministries must be subjected to greater accountability to the Cabinet.

Another hot topic he addressed briefly was talk of a cabinet reshuffle and issues related to the powers wielded by the Prime Minister’s office within the Team Unity framework.

Two major new developments were mentioned for the first time publicly during the Prime Minister’s address.

The Prime Minister announced that the government has sought external input from the World Bank on equitable distribution of the Citizenship By Investment (CBI) Revenue.

Harris said, “progress has been made with the World Bank giving its consent to undertake a study to advise equitable revenue-sharing arrangements between the federal government and the Nevis Island Administration.”

The disbursement of CBI revenues has been a national discussion topic in the past few months, with commentators and political pundits engaging in discourse about how the funds are shared.

The Prime Minister also announced The Federation’s approval of a national operating budget increase for Nevis in a related item.

Dr Harris said, “the budgetary support to our Sister Island of Nevis has been increased as per the request of the Honorable Premier.”

The Prime Minister ended the address by saying he remains steadfast in representing the people and bringing closure to the ongoing uncertainty.

“I remain fully dedicated to the approach that would bring this unfortunate situation to an end," said the Prime Minister.