PM Harris sidesteps allegations of intimidation tactics; does not deny Antiguan Minister’s assertions

Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris has sidestepped allegations of intimidation tactics against him, in relation to last weekend’s visit of the Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Education, Hon. Michael Browne.

PM Harris instead chose to focus on courtesies offered to the visiting government minister.

Harris also claimed that the allegations are part of a smear campaign by the opposition Sat. Kitts Nevis Labour Party.

Prime Minister Harris, however, did not deny the allegations of interference.

The Antigua and Barbuda Government Minister Browne, while giving a summary disclosure of alleged conversations between his Prime Minister, Hon. Gaston Browne, and St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Timothy Harris said

In his response to Minister Browne’s assertions, Prime Minister Harris branded the allegations as an opposition ploy and eventually indicated that he (Dr. Harris) had not heard the Antigua and Barbuda Education Minister’s statement when he was questioned on whether Browne lied or not.

This media house reached out to the Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Education Hon. Michael Browne for further comment on the matter and he indicated that he has already gone on record with his statements and he does not wish to add anymore at this time.

Prime Minister Harris response to the accusation of trying to interfere with Browne’s guest appearance at an opposition event, on June 22, comes two days after.

The public’s response to the visiting minister’s claims have been swift.

Some believe that Prime Minister Harris is showing that he is prepared to hold on to power and protect his interest, even if it means trying to intimidate a government minister from neighbouring Antigua and Barbuda, while some have just dismissed the claims.