St Kitts and Nevis PM rebuffed over concerns regarding CDB president’s suspension

Dr Gene Leon’s return to his position as president of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) appears unlikely in the near future, as concerns persist regarding the bank’s handling of whistleblower complaints against him.

Tensions escalated in February following perceived disregard from Ahmed Hussen, the Canadian minister currently chairing the CDB board of governors, in response to concerns raised by nine heads of government from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Dr Terrance Drew, the St Kitts and Nevis prime minister, in his capacity as chairman of the OECS Authority, wrote a letter to Hussen expressing concerns.

But in a sharp reply through a law firm, the CDB said, “This is an internal bank matter and is not within the jurisdiction of the OECS.”

The missive continued: “Therefore, to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the investigation, we recommend you cease from commenting on this matter publicly and from contacting the board of governors regarding the investigation.”

The Barbados-based bank sent Leon on administrative leave in mid-January for three months and confirmed through its acting president, Isaac Solomon that there was “an internal administrative process involving the president”.

Last week, The Sunday Gleaner asked the CDB whether Leon would be returning to work in April, and about the process that led to the probe, among other queries.

Its response was brief.

“The administrative process involving the Caribbean Development Bank’s President, Dr Hyginus ‘Gene’ Leon, has not yet concluded,” it said. “The CDB continues to prioritise the independence, integrity, and confidentiality of this process. Therefore, the bank is not in a position to make any further disclosures on the matter at this time.”

The Sunday Gleaner has been unable to reach Leon for a comment. (Barbados NationNews)