Published 10 May 2017
My Fellow Citizens and Residents, I address you this evening in my capacity as the Prime Minister of our beloved country.
- Over the past few days, the public has become aware of news reports that two of our Economic Citizens resident here in the Federation have been alleged to have defrauded State institutions in the Peoples Republic of China of US$100 million.
- There are unfounded allegations that the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has been harbouring these individuals who are on the Interpol Wanted List and have not cooperated with the Chinese government.
- There is the further baseless allegation that Government Officials were to be paid US$190,000 for protecting these individuals.
- In my capacity as the Prime Minister of this country I wish to make it clear that I reject in the strongest terms the allegation that my Government is harbouring any fugitives in our country. I categorically deny as well the assertion that my Government is somehow failing to cooperate with a request with any country as mandated by law. I state further that no evidence has been provided to law enforcement or otherwise that any public official has been offered or has received any money for protection in this matter. These assertions are a malicious fabrication calculated to tarnish the hard won reputation of our beloved country.
- Here therefore are the facts: i. The individuals concerned applied for and obtained St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship in September 2013 during the tenure of the Denzil Douglas regime.
ii. On 26 May, 2014, USNCB Interpol Washington issued what is known as a Red Notice for the two individuals in question. On the face of the Red Notice it is clearly stated that it was circulated to the media including the internet.
