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World Bank Delivers Report on Fair Share for Nevis, But Questions Remain

Basseterre, St. Kitts – February 7, 2025 – The long-debated issue of Nevis’ fair share of national revenues has taken a significant step forward with the submission of a World Bank report outlining recommendations for an equitable revenue-sharing arrangement between St. Kitts and Nevis.

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew announced earlier this week that the World Bank has completed its review and delivered a report that aims to guide the government in creating a sustainable and transparent system for revenue allocation.

A Campaign Flashpoint Comes Full Circle

The “Fair Share for Nevis” debate was a defining issue in the 2022 election campaign. Then-Premier Mark Brantley made it a central argument against the Team Unity government, led by former Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris. Brantley accused the federal government of failing to provide Nevis with its rightful portion of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) revenues and other financial benefits.

Dr. Harris, in response, proposed that the World Bank be engaged to design a fair and balanced framework for revenue sharing. However, at the time, Premier Brantley rejected the idea, stating that a high school student could develop a fair-share arrangement without the need for external consultants.

Despite Brantley’s opposition, upon assuming office in August 2022, Dr. Drew proceeded with the very same proposal, engaging the World Bank to assess the financial relationship between St. Kitts and Nevis.

Drew Hails World Bank Report as a Milestone

During a February 6th Round Table discussion, Prime Minister Drew described the World Bank’s recommendations as a breakthrough moment for the Federation.

“For decades, this issue has been a point of contention. Now, for the first time, we have a structured framework backed by expert analysis to ensure Nevis gets its fair share in a way that is transparent and financially sustainable.”

The report is expected to outline financial models that ensure Nevis receives its fair share of national revenues without disrupting fiscal stability in the wider Federation.

Brantley’s Response Raises Eyebrows

Despite his previous strong demands for a fair share, Premier Brantley has so far made no public statement on the findings of the World Bank’s report. His silence has led some observers to question whether the report meets Nevis’ expectations or whether political factors are influencing his response.

The absence of details regarding how the recommendations will be implemented has also raised concerns. Key questions remain:

• What percentage of national revenues will be allocated to Nevis?
• Will Nevis receive back payments for past revenue-sharing shortfalls?
• How will transparency and accountability be ensured in the revenue-sharing process?

Next Steps: Negotiation and Implementation

Dr. Drew has stated that the Federal Government and the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) will now enter discussions to finalize an agreement based on the World Bank’s recommendations.

“This is a new era for St. Kitts and Nevis. We will ensure every citizen benefits from our national wealth in a fair and structured manner.”

As discussions progress, citizens on both islands will be watching closely to see whether the long-promised fair share for Nevis becomes a reality—or remains a campaign slogan.

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