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In a stunning twist that has left citizens questioning the transparency of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew’s administration, newly surfaced documents reveal a formal agreement between the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis and Phillipe Martinez, appointing him as the first-ever Public Benefactor of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme. This move occurred even after Martinez allegedly reapplied for approval under revamped regulations introduced in January 2023.

The agreement, titled “Investment Agreement Between the Government of Saint Christopher (St. Kitts) and Nevis and the MSR Group of Companies”, was signed on November 13, 2023, granting Martinez and his affiliated entities unprecedented control over public benefit units valued at a combined US$182,875,000. The arrangement underscores Martinez’s substantial investment in film production, hotel renovations, and the establishment of a digital VFX studio, yet questions about due diligence and his suitability for such a prestigious role loom large.

The Drew Administration’s Connection to Martinez

Despite ongoing claims of rigorous oversight, the Drew administration approved Martinez’s reapplication to the CBI Programme under updated guidelines and even increased the number of shares allocated to him. This move came before appointing him as the first-ever Public Benefactor, a role supposedly designated for those who bring “substantial benefit” to the people of the federation.

Key highlights from the agreement reveal:

• 300 public benefit units valued at US$52.5 million allocated to MSR Hotels for the MSR Hotel Saint Kitts and associated ventures.
• 45 public benefit units per movie and 20 units per television episode allocated to MSR Media SKN, with a total valuation exceeding US$130 million for upcoming productions through 2029.
• Commitments to train locals in filmmaking and technology, employ residents, and collaborate with the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College to establish a film production curriculum.

Drew’s Silence Until Now

Critics are questioning why PM Drew waited until Martinez publicly accused him of being a liar to disclose explosive allegations, including claims that Martinez sought to extort $100 million from the government. When Martinez previously targeted former PMs Dr. Timothy Harris and Dr. Denzil Douglas, Drew made no mention of alleged wrongdoing unearthed during the administration’s due diligence process.

If such allegations were known, why was Martinez not removed from his CBI PBO appointment earlier? Could the revelations have been politically motivated damage control?

Public Outcry Grows

The glaring inconsistencies in Drew’s timeline have sparked outrage, with many questioning the administration’s integrity. The decision to appoint Martinez, approve increased shares, and then withhold critical information until politically convenient reflects poorly on the government’s claims of transparency.

For now, the Drew administration faces mounting pressure to address why Martinez remains in his position despite allegations of impropriety. Was this a calculated risk, or is it evidence of a leadership blind spot?

The public deserves answers—and accountability.