ST. KITTS & NEVIS
The Struggle To Become A Mature Nation
Introduction
This website centers on the publication St. Kitts & Nevis - The Struggle to Become a Mature Nation by Charles Wilkin KC, a candid examination of the country’s political, constitutional, economic, and social development since independence.
The writer describes in frank and unreserved terms the country’s progress in fulfilling its aspirations and the challenges, external and self-induced, which the country faces on the long road to achieving them. The writer suggests changes to the constitution and the transformation of the political culture and the outlook and attitudes of the people which are needed.
To provide further context, the site features a comprehensive overview of St. Kitts and Nevis. For those who prefer to listen, an audio version of this overview is also available. These and other additional resources are provided to help readers further explore these themes and better understand the issues shaping the nation’s development.
PROFILE OF
CHARLES WILKIN
CMG, KC, M.A (Cantab)
Charles was blessed with a wonderful family. He was married to Shermine Wilkin and had two children, Garth Wilkin and Chazzette Adams, and three grandchildren. His parents were Calvin Wilkin, MBE, and Agnes Kelsick. He had a twin sister, six other sisters and two brothers. His stepmother was Gloria Wilkin, and his stepfather was Frederick Kelsick, QC.
Mr. Wilkin was born in St. Kitts. He received his early education at the Epworth Junior School, now the Maurice Hillier Memorial Junior School, and the St. Kitts-Nevis Grammar School. He taught in St. Kitts for one year before attending Cambridge University in England, where he earned a master’s degree in law. He was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in London, England, in July 1971, at the age of 22.
He practised law in St. Kitts and Nevis for 50 years, first as a partner in the law firm of Kelsick and Wilkin and later as Senior Partner of Kelsick, Wilkin and Ferdinand. He subsequently served as a Consultant with the firm.
"I believe that St. Kitts and Nevis is capable of ultimately achieving maturity as a nation and has made strides since independence but there is a tough road and steep challenges ahead especially in the changes of politics and reform of the public service and changes of attitudes generally needed."
- Charles Wilkin
