In a significant legal development, Rafael Adames has been sentenced to five years in prison for the crime of indecent assault. The ruling was issued by His Lordship Justice Iain Morley, KC, at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 25, 2025. The incident, which occurred on June 8, 2024, led to Adames pleading guilty to one count of indecent assault on July 8, 2025. His sentencing was postponed until September 2025. Notably, the court has deducted the 10 months and 27 days Adames spent on remand from his total sentence. Under current legal provisions, Adames is required to serve two-thirds of his sentence, contingent upon good behaviour. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing serious offences and ensuring justice for victims.
标签: Saint Kitts and Nevis
圣基茨和尼维斯
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CWA pushing for modern farming at Agriculture Week
As the 19th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) unfolds in Basseterre, St. Kitts, Acting Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley has emphasized the urgent need to transition from traditional farming practices to modern, climate-resilient methods. Addressing regional and international stakeholders, Hanley highlighted the pivotal role of technology and innovation in transforming the agricultural sector, particularly in St. Kitts and Nevis. He stressed that traditional farming alone is insufficient to meet contemporary challenges, advocating for the adoption of advanced techniques such as hydroponics, aquaponics, climate-smart farming, improved irrigation, and renewable energy to power farms. Hanley acknowledged the sector’s inherent difficulties, including hurricanes, droughts, pest outbreaks, rising costs, and market access issues, but expressed confidence in the resilience of Caribbean people. He called for strengthened regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and a renewed commitment to making agriculture a sector of pride and prosperity. Food security and the development of the next generation of farmers remain central to the region’s agenda, with new initiatives supporting aquaculture, agri-parks, livestock production, and access to financing and training. Hanley also urged young people to view agriculture as a viable and innovative career path, dispelling outdated perceptions of the sector. Agriculture Minister Samal Duggins echoed these sentiments, describing agriculture as the lifeblood of the Caribbean people and a critical component of the region’s future.
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SKELEC celebrates 14 years of Love, Light & Power
The St. Kitts Electricity Company Ltd. (SKELEC) celebrated its 14th anniversary with a grand event themed ‘Celebrating 14 Years of Love, Light & Power.’ Held in Basseterre, St. Kitts, on September 30, 2025, the occasion highlighted the company’s journey, its dedicated workforce, and the loyal customers who have been integral to its success. The celebration included a series of awards recognizing exceptional employees and teams. Among the honorees were Mahesh Nariani, who received the Power Luminary Award for his strategic leadership, and Claricia Langley-Stevens, awarded for managerial excellence. Royan Matthew was celebrated for exemplary customer service, while Sandra Gardner, Recaldo Gardener, and Garfield Thomas were recognized as Supervisors of the Year. The Information Technology Department was named Department of the Year for its role in driving digital transformation. Special recognition was also given to employees who contributed to restoration efforts after Tropical Storm Erin. The General Manager’s Award was presented to Jamal Matthew, Akeem Williams, Recaldo Gardener, and Dion Walters for their resilience. Additionally, 20 employees received the Bright Spark Award for their creativity and innovation. The anniversary festivities culminated in a Customer Appreciation Day on September 18, 2025, where attendees enjoyed branded giveaways, complimentary health screenings, and therapeutic massages. SKELEC’s General Manager, Mr. Clement Williams, emphasized the company’s commitment to its customers and community, stating, ‘This anniversary is not just a celebration of our achievements, but a tribute to the people who have stood with us over the years.’ Looking ahead, SKELEC remains focused on innovation, sustainability, and strengthening its community ties.
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Liberty Caribbean concludes successful North Caribbean Leadership Summit
PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten (September 30th, 2025) – Liberty Caribbean, the prominent telecommunications provider operating Flow and Liberty Business, has successfully concluded its North Caribbean Leadership Summit. The event brought together senior executives and business leaders from Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Cayman Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, Turks & Caicos, Montserrat, and St. Maarten. Held at the Sonesta Resort and Conference Centre in St. Maarten, the multi-day summit focused on two key priorities: delivering exceptional customer service and fostering adaptive leadership to ensure sustainable regional growth. Participants discussed strategies to leverage connectivity for tangible community benefits, including advancements in healthcare, education, and business opportunities. A significant emphasis was placed on leadership development, talent retention, and a stakeholder-centric approach to swiftly address evolving customer needs. Susanna O’Sullivan, Vice President for North Caribbean at Liberty Caribbean, highlighted the company’s commitment to empowering communities and driving economic opportunities. The summit concluded with a clear action plan centered on partnerships, operational discipline, and innovation to provide reliable, future-ready connectivity. Liberty Caribbean plans to implement these strategies across the North Caribbean in the coming months, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the region’s digital transformation.
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One Bill to receive first reading in the National Assembly on Monday, October 06, 2025
The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is set to convene on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, Basseterre. The session will mark the first reading of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority Agreement Bill, 2025. This legislative move underscores the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the Rule of Law as part of its broader good governance agenda. The Honourable Prime Minister, Dr. Terrance Drew, who oversees multiple key portfolios including Finance, National Security, and Health, will introduce the Bill. The proceedings will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM), TV Channel 5 in St. Kitts, Channel 98 in Nevis, and streamed online at www.zizonline.com. Copies of the Bill will be accessible on the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service website (www.sknis.gov.kn) and its Facebook page once available.
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CMO Laws praises PAHO for partnership in tackling NCDs
St. Kitts and Nevis is reaping significant benefits from its collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in addressing the escalating issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. Hazel Laws, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), expressed her gratitude for PAHO’s support during the 62nd Pan American Health Organization’s Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers in Washington, D.C. She underscored the importance of this partnership in enhancing the Federation’s healthcare sector. Dr. Laws, speaking at the meeting’s opening session on September 29, outlined recent health initiatives and strategies to tackle critical medical challenges. In an interview with SKNVibes News, she emphasized the need to deepen collaboration with PAHO, particularly in scaling up responses to NCDs, which she identified as the most significant health challenge. She highlighted the importance of prevention through addressing risk factors, early detection, and effective management of patients. The meeting also served as a platform for regional health ministers to exchange strategies. Guyana’s Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, stressed the importance of PAHO’s strategic plan in advancing healthcare across the Americas. He pointed out that NCDs, such as hypertension, heart disease, and cancer, are a major global health concern, contributing to approximately 43 million deaths annually, with 18 million being premature. Dr. Anthony shared that Guyana has implemented several programs, including PAHO’s HEARTS initiative, which focuses on cardiovascular disease prevention and management. Additionally, Guyana is working towards eliminating cervical cancer through HPV vaccinations for both boys and girls. The 62nd Pan American Health Organization’s Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers is set to conclude on October 3.
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Police seize firearm and ammunition during search in Christ Church
In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal firearms, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has successfully apprehended Joel Browne of Christ Church. The arrest followed a meticulously coordinated joint operation on September 25, 2025, involving the Special Services Unit (SSU) and the Joint Security Operations Tactical Team (JSOTT). During the search of Browne’s premises, law enforcement officers uncovered a cache of illegal items, including controlled drugs, firearms, and ammunition. The seized items comprised one Beretta firearm, 19 rounds of 9mm ammunition, two 12-gauge cartridges, one spent 9mm shell, and a bulletproof vest. Browne was formally charged the following day with three counts of possession of ammunition and one count of possession of a firearm. This operation underscores the RSCNPF’s unwavering commitment to reducing gun-related crimes and enhancing public safety in the region.
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PM Drew bats for Taiwan, calls for end to Cuba embargo, and pushes support for Haiti at UN
During the 80th United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan, New York, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis delivered a compelling address, advocating for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations, the lifting of the U.S. embargo on Cuba, and increased global support for Haiti. Speaking at the General Debate on September 27, 2025, Dr. Drew emphasized the importance of collective engagement in addressing global challenges, warning that excluding willing contributors weakens the international system. Under the theme ‘Better Together,’ he highlighted Taiwan’s exclusion from UN agencies, despite its significant contributions to technology, public health, and disaster response. Dr. Drew urged the international community to prioritize diplomacy over confrontation in the Taiwan Strait, stressing the need for dialogue to protect livelihoods. Turning to Cuba, he joined Caribbean leaders in calling for an end to the U.S. embargo, which he described as a relic that harms ordinary citizens and undermines regional solidarity. He also urged greater international support for Haiti, which faces political instability, violence, and economic hardship, emphasizing that the Caribbean cannot bear the burden alone.
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Police seize firearm and ammunition during search in Christ Church
In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal firearms, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has successfully apprehended Joel Browne of Christ Church. The arrest followed a meticulously coordinated joint operation on September 25, 2025, involving the Special Services Unit (SSU) and the Joint Security Operations Tactical Team (JSOTT). During the search of Browne’s premises, authorities uncovered a cache of illicit items, including controlled drugs, firearms, and ammunition. Among the seized items were a Beretta firearm, 19 rounds of 9mm ammunition, two 12-gauge cartridges, one spent 9mm shell, and a bulletproof vest. Browne was formally charged the following day with three counts of possession of ammunition and one count of possession of a firearm. This operation underscores the RSCNPF’s unwavering commitment to reducing gun-related crimes and enhancing public safety in the region.
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CWI Congratulates Quentin Sampson as Breakout Player of CPL 2025
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially recognized Quentin Sampson as the Breakout Player of the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Sampson, who made his debut with the Guyana Amazon Warriors, delivered a stellar performance throughout the tournament, which ran from August 14 to September 21. His consistency and match-winning contributions set him apart from other emerging talents. In eight matches, Sampson amassed 241 runs at an impressive average of 40.16 and a strike rate of 153, including a career-high score of 76 that proved pivotal in securing a victory for his team. The award was presented by CWI CEO Chris Dehring, highlighting Sampson’s exceptional talent and temperament. Other notable performers included Ackeem Auguste, Navin Bidaisee, Jediah Blades, Nathan Edward, and Karima Gore, who also showcased their potential during the tournament. Miles Bascombe, CWI Director of Cricket, praised the young players, stating, ‘Quentin’s performances, as well as those of others this season, are both pleasing and encouraging for West Indies cricket. They have shown that our emerging players can step up and deliver when given the opportunity.’ This recognition underscores the promising future of West Indies cricket, driven by the development of young talent.
