Saint Kitts and Nevis Introduces New Anti-Corruption Laws

The government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has recently introduced a new Anti-Corruption Act aimed at tackling corruption and bribery in the country. The act, which comes into force on a day to be fixed by the Chief Minister, introduces new provisions to prevent and punish corrupt conduct.

New Provisions

The act defines two categories of crimes: “special offences” and “corrupt conduct”.

Special Offences

• Abuse of office
• Active and passive bribery
• Trading in influence
• Instigating or aiding others to commit these crimes

These offenses are punishable by:

• Imprisonment of up to three years
• A fine of $100,000

Corrupt Conduct

• Misuse of public property
• Failure to prevent conflicts of interest
• Undue favoring of individuals or groups by officials

This type of corruption is punishable by:

• Imprisonment of up to one year
• A fine of $30,000
• Confiscation of property or payment of its equivalent value (in cases of unlawful acquisition)

Office of Special Prosecutor

The act establishes an Office of Special Prosecutor, headed by a Special Prosecutor appointed for a five-year renewable term. The office will:

• Investigate corruption offenses
• Impose liability on those who commit them
• Employees must disclose any personal interest that may affect their duties

Reporting Corruption

The act requires officials who have been offered illegal remuneration or individuals who have been subject to extortion by officials to report the facts of their instigation to corruption to the Special Prosecutor. Failure to do so can result in:

• Criminal liability
• Punishment

The public is also encouraged to report any suspected corruption offenses to the Special Prosecutor, providing information about:

• The offense
• The official involved
• Other relevant details

Impact

The new anti-corruption laws are expected to strengthen the country’s efforts to combat corruption and ensure transparency and accountability in government.