Government and administration in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis · Government

How the executive, legislature and administrative state are organised, and which body is responsible for what.

The three branches

Head of state — The King, represented by the Governor-General: A Deputy Governor-General is appointed for Nevis.
Federal executive — Cabinet led by the Prime Minister: Responsible to the National Assembly.
Federal legislative — National Assembly: Unicameral: elected representatives from both islands plus appointed senators.
Island — Nevis Island Administration and Assembly: Led by the Premier of Nevis; competence over island matters.

How legislation is made

Federal bills pass three readings in the unicameral National Assembly and receive the Governor-General's assent. Amendments affecting Nevis — including the secession provisions and Schedule 5 competences — require a two-thirds majority of all elected members and, for entrenched provisions, approval by referendum in each island.

Enforcement institutions

Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force: Federal police service operating on both islands.
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions: Independent prosecution authority.
Financial Services Regulatory Commission: Separate divisions for Saint Kitts and for Nevis.
Integrity Commission: Established under integrity in public life legislation.

Government bodies and regulators

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