Amidst the splendor of a grand official residence being constructed for the Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has raised his voice in opposition to this excessive expenditure. The extravagant mansion, with a price tag of EC$22 million, has stirred up controversy and discontent among the populace, drawing sharp criticism from PM Gonsalves.
In a scathing letter to the Chairman of the ECCU Monetary Council, Antigua’s PM Gaston Browne, Gonsalves expressed his dismay at the lack of transparency surrounding the project. He condemned the perceived lack of oversight from the ECCB, its Board of Directors, and the Monetary Council, labeling the situation as nothing short of scandalous.
Here are the key points highlighted by Prime Minister Gonsalves in his letter:
- The scale of the construction project, involving the creation of a 10,000 square foot mansion, was deemed excessive and extravagant by Gonsalves.
- The timing of such lavish spending, during a period of economic hardship for the region, was criticized as tone-deaf and insensitive.
- Gonsalves urged for a reconsideration of the Governor’s tenure in light of the controversy, questioning the viability of his continued occupancy of the position.
- The potential financial burden of maintaining the lavish residence was a cause for concern, with Gonsalves warning of additional costs that would fall on the working class of the region.
As a proposed solution, Gonsalves suggested selling the property to the government of St. Kitts and Nevis for alternative use, thereby alleviating the financial strain on the region. He emphasized the need for the ECCB to reconsider the necessity of such extravagant accommodations for the Governor, advocating for a fresh approach that prioritizes practicality over opulence.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Gonsalves called upon the Monetary Council to carefully evaluate the situation and make a decision that reflects the best interests of the region. With the fate of the lavish residence hanging in the balance, Gonsalves urged for urgent and favorable consideration from the council, signaling the importance of addressing this issue promptly and responsibly.
