BASSETERRE, ST KITTS, June 28, 2021 — Leader of the Opposition Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has reiterated that the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) has never been against vaccination, responding to claims made during Emergency Parliament by PM Harris. Speaking on ‘Voices’ hosted by Devonne Cornelius of WINNFM, Dr. Douglas said: “To say that we are anti-vax means that people do not understand what the term means. It means there is an absolute block against taking vaccines of all types. We are not anti-vaccine in this party, and we must also emphasise that we are pro-choice — meaning that people must be educated and must be given all of the facts. They must be made aware of some of the challenges, must be told of the positive outcomes, and then must make that choice. I am personally of the view that if they are given the facts, they will make the right choice, and if there is uncertainty they will consult with their doctors and then make that decision.”
Dr. Douglas stated his personal position clearly: “I have been very consistent in saying that for my own personal reasons, I have not taken the AstraZeneca vaccine. I have consulted with my doctors and my family and that is the position I have arrived at. But I have never, ever — neither has the party — dissuaded anyone from taking the vaccine.” He pointed out that there are members in the leadership of the SKNLP who have taken the vaccine and members who have not, reflecting the pro-choice position of the party.