The Anguilla House of Assembly suspended – on Monday 12th December – its debate on the 2017 national budget to pay tribute to the late Leader of the Anguilla Revolution and Father of the Nation, Mr. James Ronald Webster.
The tributes were led by Leader of Government Business and Chief Minister, Mr. Victor Banks. He spoke about Mr. Webster’s vision, determination and other leadership qualities which at times put him at odds with the British Government and other persons. He observed that in all circumstances Mr. Webster remained a humble person.
“I have never known him to raise his voice beyond a certain level.” He continued. “For the most part, everything that he had to convey he conveyed in a very level tone despite the fact that you could recognise the passion he contributed to what he said. You knew his resolve was strong because he never capitulated on the issues he felt were important.”
Leader of the Opposition, Ms. Palmavon Webster, likened Mr. Webster to such great leaders as Nelson Mandella. She stated in part: “I did my duty is how he would have coined it. Yes, the Father of the Nation did his duty.”
She added: “May God bless his memory, his family, the people of Anguilla – and the people of the world who also loved him.”
All other members of the House of Assembly also gave stirring tributes to Mr. Webster, praised his leadership, bravery, patriotism and commitment to the people of Anguilla over the years.
