St Kitts and Nevis leaders congratulate new Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament

St Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, along with other leaders, extended their heartiest congratulations and wishes to Lanien Blanchette and Latoya B Jones for electing as the Speaker and deputy speaker of the national assembly of St Kitts and Nevis, respectively.

He expressed pride to announce that Lanien Blanchette has been officially elected and sworn in as the Speaker of the House of Assembly.

“I extend heartfelt congratulations to her and great success in her new role, “said the prime minister. PM Dr Drew also extended best wishes to Latoya Jones, the new Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly.

Two new females joined the Federal Parliament of St. Kitts and Nevis on Tuesday, October 25, 2022, during its ceremonial opening held at the St Kitts Marriott Resort. At the session, Lanien Blanchette was elected Speaker of the National Assembly, while Latoya Jones was elected Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly.

Further, Minister of Foreign Affairs of St Kitts and Nevis- Denzil Douglas noted that CONGRATULATIONS to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of our National Assembly, Lanein Blanchette and Latoya Jones, respectively.

Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley also appreciated the decision and stated that women are at the helm of leadership in our twin island nation, and he is pleased to be part of a team that is confidently and intentionally ensuring that women are empowered and given the opportunity to serve our people.

He noted, “Our mission of inclusivity, youth and woman empowerment has been demonstrated in our choice for Speaker and Deputy Speaker, and I take great honour in congratulating Lanein K. Blanchette and Senator Latoya B. Jones who will now serve our nation as Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively. Both women represent the power of women today and the hope for our girls tomorrow.” 

On the other hand, Premier of Nevis Mark Brantley also took to social media and added that Young women are taking their rightful place in the leadership of our country. 

He extended congratulations Latoya Biyanca Jones on her appointment as Opposition Senator in the National Assembly and presumptive Deputy Speaker in the National Parliament, a first for a Nevisian woman and a young person. 

“The CCM doesn’t just give lip service to the empowerment of women and our youth. The CCM takes concrete, tangible actions. May your service be long and rewarding for the people of Nevis and the wider Federation of St Kitts and Nevis,” said the premier.