Last Updated on August 22, 2019, 2:20 PM AST by Anthony Morris
Senior police officers from two Caribbean states have expressed alarm at the high-handed politicization of the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force by the Federation’s Prime Minister Dr the Hon. Timothy Harris.
“It is evident by recent events that Dr Harris has direct control over the St Kitts police force. Never in my over 25 years of policing have I seen a prime minister exercising what appears to be total control of and directing police operations publicly. It’s like in your face,” said a senior police officer in Antigua.
“If the gunmen are being paid weekly, the question is one of sustainability. It also raises another serious issue. If one is paid not to kill, one can also be paid to kill,” said the officer who requested anonymity.
“I have been following closely what is happening in St Kitts-Nevis, moreso, since the removal of a highly respected police commissioner colleague, Ian Queeley, respected for his professionalism over the years,” said a senior police officer from St Lucia, whose unsolicited comment was channeled by a friend via whatsapp.
“For Dr Harris to be seen orchestrating serious police activities points to an unadulterated politicization of the St Kitts-Nevis Police Force. Yes, he is Minister of National Security, but he is seen taking the lead in these serious police matters which no doubt politically taints police operations and thus brings the law enforcement body into disrepute with the public that they are sworn to serve without fear or favour,” he said.
“When I saw the CMC photo which gives the impression that he has taken personal possession of these events, it gave me the impression that he seems to be in total control of the top command. This is not good for the moral of a police force which is sworn to protect all citizens and residents. And seriously, if there is a different outcome down the road will he distance himself?” said the high ranking police officer.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
