The protracted, heated and merciless election campaign is now, thankfully, an event of the past. This comes as the incumbent Anguilla United Movement Government has been overwhelmingly voted out of office and a new administration, formed by the Anguilla United Front, has been elected to govern the affairs of the island. All that is now left for us, as a right-thinking and responsible people, to do, is to accept the will of the people however startled or disappointed some of us may be with the outcome of the polling.
For the winning party, the overwhelming victory, as Chief Minister Victor Banks has rightfully stated, is a humbling experience. At the same time, however, it is one of tremendous responsibility and challenge in this difficult time with Anguilla lying at every economic and social crossroad imaginable. One can only wish the new government every success with its plans and efforts to move the island forward in a clear and well-defined path of development and progress. It is this same wish that would have been conveyed to the other main political party – the AUM – had it won the election and became the government instead. What is badly needed in Anguilla is a spirit of unity and cooperation in order to achieve the best there is for the island and its citizenry – away from the tumult and confusion of politics and strife.
It is in this vein of thought that one must call attention to the statesmanship shown in particular by Dr. Ellis Webster, Leader of the Anguilla United Movement. Not only has he publicly congratulated Mr. Banks and his party for winning the election, but his opponent, Ms Palmavon Webster, as well, for her success in being the elected independent candidate in District 1. What was of much admiration was the particular statement he made: I also trust that our supporters of our Anguilla United Movement will accept the outcome of the polls as we move towards our island returning to a sense of normalcy and unity following this lengthy campaign. That brief statement is a responsible response – to the election results – that will help all of our people to forget the bitterness of the election campaign, including those who experienced the pain of defeat; and to remember that we are one people, with one common aim and destiny; and that unity must be the centrepiece of this endeavour.
Another matter for comment is Mr. Banks’ statement in which he cautioned that, with the change of government, persons must not expect a quick solution to matters affecting the island. The fact is that Anguilla is still in the doldrums of a global economic squeeze; and although there may be signs of relief on the horizon, trickling down to Anguilla, in some small ways, perhaps, the situation may remain volatile and incremental for some time.
It will be mandatory, however, for the government to bring to bear all of its wits, efforts and skills to enhance the development of Anguilla, and to find gainful employment for our people in the shortest possible period of its administration of the island. Patience, tolerance and understanding are indeed key words to consider as we await the progress of the island we so long to see. Hopefully, this will eventually happen in line with the government’s manifesto which is now being adopted as the blueprint for Anguilla’s development over the next five years and beyond.
What is now required is for the new government to settle down to the multiple tasks ahead – to govern Anguilla and for nation-building; to avoid the mistakes of the past; to involve the people in the decision-making process as much as possible; and, in Mr. Banks’ own words, to provide “a kinder and gentler administration” for all of our people. We all can assist the government not just in settling down, but in effectively and efficiently carrying out the overwhelming mandate it received from the electorate. When we do so, we are helping ourselves as well in the process.
