St Kitts and Nevis (WINN): Cabinet reviewed the proposed independence program and concluded on Tuesday (September 1) that there will be no Independence Day parade to celebrate our 37th year of independence.
Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris stated that this decision was necessary to keep the risk of spreading the virus as low as possible.
“In keeping with the new norms and to continue our leadership on the matter, Cabinet yesterday reviewed the proposed independence program and Cabinet determined that there will be no Independence parade this year.”
He went on to explain that the decision was a pained decision given the significance of Independence within our federation. However, to show our patriotism Harris suggested that we adorn our persons, properties, and businesses with our national emblems to show national pride.
Harris then went on to list other various ways to celebrate our independence including community activities. However, the public is advised that according to the COVID-19 regulations, written permission from the Commission of Police and by extension the NEOC task force would be required to hold such an activity.
He then went on to address how else the usual Independence festivities have been changed in accordance with life in a pandemic.
“The usual cocktail reception hosted by our esteemed Governor-General Sir S. W. Tapley Seaton on Independence night will not take place this year. This event would attract thousands of persons from all walks of life. Our National Heroes Day commemorative event will take place at the National Heroes Park with social distancing and wearing of masks being observed. The programme will be curtailed. Members of the public are invited; the dignitaries and family members will also be involved in the ceremony. The Prime Minister’s Lecture Series will be delivered this year by one of our citizens in an environment that will be more compliant with the new norms of COVID-19.”
To minimize health risks to everyone some events have been cancelled, scaled back, or will be delivered virtually for this our 37th celebration.
