St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN)—In an update on the status of the Prime Minister Hon. Dr Terrance M. Drew, the government issued a statement indicating that he has arrived at an undisclosed location “without incident and is comfortably settled at the medical facility alongside his family, where he is currently undergoing scheduled diagnostic tests and specialist assessments”.
This comes following the official report that Prime Minister Drew admitted himself to the Joseph N. France General Hospital on the evening of Sunday, August 30, 2026, for clinical evaluation and observation after experiencing mild discomfort, including a headache and nausea.
As a precautionary measure, his medical team at the JNF Hospital recommended that he be transported abroad for specialised observation and monitoring.
The statement indicated that the attending specialists have consulted directly with the clinical team in St. Kitts to review his medical records and coordinate his care plan.
Prime Minister Drew is reportedly in stable condition, “fully alert and in good spirits” as these evaluations proceed.
Acting Prime Minister Hon. Dr Geoffrey Hanley, in a formal statement to the nation following the hospitalisation of Prime Minister Drew, shared that government operations will continue robustly.
Below is the statement from the Acting Prime Minister:
“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…
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.”
In the follow-up update given on the night of August 31, 2026, the Prime Minister and his family wish to convey their sincere gratitude to the citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis and to regional and international partners for the support and prayers extended to them.
Leaders, ministers, and public officials have been issuing public well-wishes and prayers for the swift recovery of Dr Drew.
Hon. Kronis Maynard, Premier of Nevis, and other leaders within the administration moved swiftly to show support by publicly lifting prayers for the Prime Minister’s safe transport and full recovery.
Hon. Dr Timothy Harris, Political Leader of the Peoples Labour Party, and Azard Gumbs, Deputy Leader of the People’s Action Movement (PAM), joined the chorus of individuals wishing the Prime Minister a speedy recovery.
Dr Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, released a written statement extending his heartfelt wishes to Prime Minister Drew, his family, and the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Dr Jules stated: “Our thoughts and prayers are with him at this time. We pray for God’s healing hand upon him and for wisdom and strength for the medical team caring for him. May Prime Minister Drew enjoy a swift and full recovery and return soon to good health and service.”
The Federation awaits further updates on the Prime Minister’s health and continues to pray for his speedy recovery.
In a effort to keep government business as unaffected by the Prime Minister’s absence as possible the government in a follow-up statement posted September 01, 2026, shared that Acting Prime Minister Hon. Dr Geoffrey Hanley, will assume responsibility for the Ministries of Finance, Health, and Human Resource Management and Social Security, in addition to his existing duties.
The Minister of Legal and Justice Affairs, Attorney General, Hon. Garth Wilkin, will assume responsibility for National Security, Citizenship and Immigration.
