St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN)—Acting Prime Minister Hon. Dr Geoffrey Hanley in a formal statement to the nation following the hospitalisation of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew shared that government operations will continue robustyly.
Below is the statement from the Acting Prime Minister:
“Earlier today, official communication was shared regarding the health and well-being of our Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Michael Drew. Across our islands, in our homes, workplaces, communities, and throughout our diaspora, I know that news regarding the health of our head of government naturally brings about a sense of deep concern, care, and curiosity. It is for this reason that I step forward this evening to provide you with a direct, transparent, and measured update.
First and foremost, I wish to reassure every clinician and division, our Prime Minister is in good spirits. His leadership team remains unified and focused, and the business of the government and the nation continues without interruption. I speak to you tonight, fresh from direct communication with the Prime Minister himself.
Prior to his departure, Prime Minister Drew summoned and spoke directly with the Cabinet of Ministers. I am pleased to share with you that it was a very cheerful exchange. He was upbeat, alert, and expressed his continued dedication to the work of the people.
As shared in our preliminary statement, Prime Minister Drew has travelled abroad to meet with an awaiting team of medical specialists. Upon his arrival, he will be seen and evaluated immediately by these physicians. To ensure the highest standard and continuity of care, these specialists are working in direct liaison with his local medical team right here in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Together, they will conduct a thorough medical assessment and establish a tailored remedy of care to address whatever health issues have arisen. Out of an abundance of caution and under medical guidance, the Prime Minister will be taking a brief leave of absence to dedicate the necessary time to his recovery. We want to be entirely clear with the nation.
Until we receive the complete formal report from his medical team abroad, we do not wish to engage in speculation, nor should anyone in our communities. We remain grounded in the facts, transparency, and patience. We anticipate that by 9.30 p.m. tonight, the Cabinet Secretariat will issue a follow-up update detailing his arrival, his admittance to the medical facility, and the initial assessment from his attending physicians.
The government will ensure that you, the citizens and residents whom he serves, remain fully updated every step of the way. During our conversation, Prime Minister Drew made one request very clear to myself and the entire Cabinet. Business in St. Kitts and Nevis must be conducted as normal.
In fact, he has explicitly instructed that there be no major disruption to the social, civic, or economic activity of our nation. The machinery of the state will remain robust, stable, and fully functional.
As Deputy Prime Minister, I have assumed responsibility for the daily operations of the Executive Branch. We are fully focused on keeping our national development agenda moving forward without hesitation or delay.
My fellow Kittishans and Nevisans, in times like these, the true character of our people shines brightest. The Prime Minister and his wife also convey their deepest gratitude to everyone who has reached out. The overpouring of love, prayers, and well-wishes across social media, via WhatsApp, telephone calls, and personal messages has been overwhelming and deeply moving. Furthermore, on behalf of the government, we have already reached out to our regional and international colleagues, partner governments, and diplomatic allies to keep them updated on these developments. We deeply value the message of solidarity and support that has already begun pouring in from around the Caribbean and across the globe.
As I conclude this update, let us not give space to rumour or unnecessary alarm. Instead, let us channel our energy into remaining productive, looking out for one another, and keeping our leader lifted up in prayer and positive thoughts. We are a nation built on resilience, faith, and unity. The foundation of our democracy is strong, and our commitment to the advancement of St. Kitts and Nevis remains unshakeable. May God bless our Prime Minister with a swift and complete recovery, and may God continue to bless the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Thank you, and good night.”
According to the official release from the Cabinet Secretariat Prime Minister Drew fell ill and was admitted to the Joseph N. France General Hospital on the evening of Sunday, August 30, 2026. He remains in stable condition.
As a precautionary measure, the Prime Minister has been sent overseas for specialised medical observation and continued monitoring.
