Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has been flown overseas to an undisclosed destination for medical treatment after being hospitalised on Sunday, acting Prime Minister Dr Geoffrey Hanley said in a nationwide broadcast on Monday night.
A government statement had earlier indicated that the 49-year-old Prime Minister had become ‘ ill and was admitted to the Joseph N. France General Hospital on the evening of Sunday, August 30, 2026’ and that he remains in stable condition. ‘I wish to reassure every clinician and division, our Prime Minister is in good spirits. His leadership team remains unified and focused, and the business of the government and the nation continues without interruption,’ Hanley said, noting that he had held discussions with the prime minister.
‘Across our islands, in our homes, workplaces, communities, and throughout our diaspora, I know that news regarding the health of our head of government naturally brings about a sense of deep concern, care, and curiosity. It is for this reason that I step forward this evening to provide you with a direct, transparent, and measured update.’
He said that prior to his departure, Prime Minister Drew summoned and spoke directly with members of the Cabinet and ‘I am pleased to share with you that it was a very cheerful exchange. He was upbeat, alert, and expressed his continued dedication to the work of the people’.
While he did not disclose the destination of Prime Minister Drew, himself a medical practitioner, the acting Prime Minister said that he ‘has travelled abroad to meet with an awaiting team of medical specialists.
‘Upon his arrival, he will be seen and evaluated immediately by these physicians. To ensure the highest standard and continuity of care, these specialists are working in direct liaison with his local medical team right here in St. Kitts and Nevis.
‘Together, they will conduct a thorough medical assessment and establish a tailored remedy of care to address whatever health issues have arisen. Out of an abundance of caution and under medical guidance, the Prime Minister will be taking a brief leave of absence to dedicate the necessary time to his recovery. We want to be entirely clear with the nation.’
The acting Prime Minister said that until the government receives ‘the complete formal report from his medical team abroad, we do not wish to engage in speculation, nor should anyone in our communities.
‘We remain grounded in the facts, transparency, and patience. We anticipate that by 9.30 pm (local time) tonight, the Cabinet Secretariat will issue a follow-up update detailing his arrival, his admittance to the medical facility, and the initial assessment from his attending physicians.’
Hanley said that the government will ensure that ‘the citizens and residents whom he serves, remain fully updated every step of the way’ adding that during the discussions with Prime MInister Drew he made ‘one request very clear to myself and the entire Cabinet. Business in St. Kitts and Nevis must be conducted as normal.
‘In fact, he has explicitly instructed that there be no major disruption to the social, civic, or economic activity of our nation. The machinery of the state will remain robust, stable, and fully functional.’
Hanley said that as Deputy Prime Minister, he has assumed responsibility for the daily operations of the executive, adding ‘we are fully focused on keeping our national development agenda moving forward without hesitation or delay’.
He said that in times like these, ‘the true character of our people shines brightest’ and Prime Minister Drew and his wife ‘also convey their deepest gratitude to everyone who has reached out.
‘The overpouring of love, prayers, and well-wishes across social media, via WhatsApp, telephone calls, and personal messages has been overwhelming and deeply moving.
‘Furthermore, on behalf of the government, we have already reached out to our regional and international colleagues, partner governments, and diplomatic allies to keep them updated on these developments. We deeply value the message of solidarity and support that has already begun pouring in from around the Caribbean and across the globe.’
He urged citizens not to engage in ‘rumour or unnecessary alarm,’ saying ‘instead, let us channel our energy into remaining productive, looking out for one another, and keeping our leader lifted up in prayer and positive thoughts.
‘We are a nation built on resilience, faith, and unity. The foundation of our democracy is strong, and our commitment to the advancement of St. Kitts and Nevis remains unshakeable. May God bless our Prime Minister with a swift and complete recovery,’ Hanley added.