On the evening of Saturday, October 20th, the Anguilla United Movement held its first pre-election outdoor meeting in what can be considered a three-pronged night of activities — the presentation of the AUM team; the holding of a fundraiser; and the hosting of a mini-concert featuring Gypsy out of Trinidad.
AUM’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Leon Lake, brought out the best of his talent in keeping the modest crowd attentive and lively, as he serenaded them with his signature song, “Tears Behind Closed Doors”.
The presentation of the candidates for the upcoming 2020 elections took on the flavor of a mini political campaign, with each contender laying out his/her views on our society’s state of affairs, but falling short of making any “promises” on what they would do to turn things around.
The first speaker was Mr. Haydn Hughes, candidate for District #6, who proclaimed: “The road ahead will not be easy. The damage done to Anguilla and its reputation will require fresh, new leadership to repair it. And that is why we say ‘no’ to any new taxes and ‘yes’ to Dr. Ellis Lorenzo Webster and his team.” (This met with cheers from the crowd.) He continued, “Team AUM puts people first. We put Anguilla first, and we have a track record to prove it. Over the duration of the 2020 campaign, we will be articulating our solutions and plans to put Anguilla first. We will not be afraid to do so because, in putting you first, it means we must open up ourselves to criticism so that we can become better servants of you, the people of Anguilla.”
The last speaker was the Leader of the party, Dr. Ellis Lorenzo Webster who spoke about hopes for the future: “Anguillians are a proud, strong and free people. But what hope do we have under this administration? The government has failed to keep its promises. They have adopted laws and policies which have threatened the pillars of our progress. We have lost faith in our government, but we need to know that the Anguilla dream is still possible, and that we can dream again. This ship, Anguilla, will make it to port by God’s help. We will get you back on course for forward progress and upward mobility. This is not just a time of great challenge, but we have a moment of great opportunity. We have this chance to work together to make the lives of Anguillians, present and future, better and sustainable.”
Other candidates addressing the gathering included: Mr. Jerome Roberts of District #2; Mr. Evan Gumbs of District #4; Mr. Merrick Richardson of District #5; and Ms. Kimberly Fleming of District #7.
The crowd proved to be dedicated patrons of support at the food and refreshments stall which was manned by AUM’s Deputy Chairman, restaurateur Oliver McDonna, along with accomplished cook, Hugo Brooks, AUM’s Treasurer. The delectable meals served made the fundraiser an evident success.
The noteworthy calypso legend, Mr. Winston Peters, better known as “The “Mighty Gypsy”, enthused the happy crowd with his entertaining singing, backed up by the music of the Platinum Band. He kicked off the concert with the encouraging hit, “Pick Yourself Up, and Dust Yourself Off”, and he delighted the cheerful gathering with his classical tunes and jovial stage rapport throughout the night.
