Premier Joseph Parry (File Photo)

CHARLESTOWN, Nevis, July 11, CMC – The ruling Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) Wednesday observed its second anniversary in office in the shadows of a court ruling that could result in the collapse of the government.

“This NRP has always been a party of and for the people of Nevis, committed to the development of the island and its residents,” said Premier Joseph Parry, as he pointed to the “many achievements” his administration has undertaken in areas of infrastructure, agriculture, housing and education.

“Training and education have been the hallmarks for this administration and by training people we believe that we have helped with the future development of the country,” said Parry, whose NRP won the July 11, 2011 local elections by a majority of 3-2.

However, the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), said it is confident that the Appeal Court will uphold the decision made by Justice Lionel Jones that declared the election results in Nevis District #2 null and void.

“From my standpoint, not being versed in the law, but judging from the initial hearing….and what transpired on Friday (July 6)….my feeling is that the decision of the trial judge will be upheld.  I say that and clearly those who have different agendas or different objectives may disagree with me,” said CCM leader Vance Amory, a former premier.

Speaking on the WINN FM98.9 radio programme “Inside the News” Amory said he is uncertain what would transpire after the court ruling is given but believes a by-election would be best for all concerned.

“A waffling attempt to defend or to have the decision of Justice Jones thrown out by the attorneys for the claimants or the appellants, I believe in my humble opinion….and I said one does not want to pre-empt the judges’ decision, but based on my observation and what I heard I believe the decision of Justice Jones will be upheld and then what transpires after that will depend on what the Judges say and what the Constitution dictates”.

CCM Deputy Leader Mark Brantley the Nevis District #2 seat by 14 votes to the NRP’s Deputy Leader, Hensley Daniel.

Brantley filed an election petition alleging that the outcome of the poll was affected by widespread irregularities including the removal of some 200 previously registered voters from the Voters List.

Following a two week trial in January, Justice Lionel Jones declared that the Nevis Island Assembly (NIA) Election for the Constituency of St. Johns was invalid and void.

But the matter is being appealed by Daniel and the respondents, Bernadette Lawrence the Registration Officer in Nevis, Leroy Benjamin the Supervisor of Elections and Premier Parry.

Last week the court heard arguments in the matter and reserved its ruling.

Premier Parry said that since taking office in July 2006, young people of all political backgrounds have benefitted tremendously from his administration.

“I am keenly aware that it is not only young people from NRP homes, or CCM homes that have been assisted with education but it is all young people that should be assisted and encouraged, because at the end of the day it is about the development of Nevis ,” the Premier said.

Parry said he was now looking forward to the future with much optimism.