As the election campaign heats up, Mr. Oris Smith, the Anguilla United Front’s first-time candidate for District 1, Island Habour, has spoken about what he sees as some of his leadership qualities as well as some of his visions for his district and Anguilla, in general.
“There are many qualities that define a good leader, but if I had to limit just three, I will say vision, accountability and resilience. Those are in me,” he told AUF supporters and others at a public meeting at East End, District 2, on Saturday, February 22.
He went on: “I believe vision and determination go hand in hand. A good leader must be able to create a vision, describe that vision; passionately owned that vision; and drive it to completion. This requires cooperation with others and the community to bring this vision to fruition.
“He must have accountability because a good leader holds himself to the highest standards of excellence, and takes responsibility for whatever the outcome may be. Good or bad, he must give credit to where credit is due. But what distinguishes a good leader from a great leader is not how that person performs during the good times, but how he or she can roll up his or her sleeves and produce the good product during the most difficult times.
“Fellow Anguillians, great leaders have positive attitudes and lead by example. They are able to rally their team no matter the circumstances, and are able to achieve solutions to problems. The question was asked: ‘What sets me apart from the other candidates and what qualifies me for leadership?’
“Well, it is my genuine love for my community and my love for the people. This is not something that began when I acknowledged my aspiration. It is something that has always been a part of me. I am committed to making a lasting impact for the better… Fellow Anguilians, look at my work in Island Harbour. I have removed the old Baptist School that was eyesore for many years. No one but my uncle Kenneth Harrigan, and I, took up the challenge, put our hands in our pockets and paid for it and got it done. After Hurricane Irma, the wharf was badly damaged and again we took up the challenge and fixed it. In the future we will be doing a complete job on that wharf in Island Harbour.
“I am currently speaking about other issues in District 1 so that when I am elected I will be able to promptly get the ball rolling. My constituency is important to me, and I will work with the other members of the Anguilla United Front Government to ensure that our community will have sustainable solutions. The AUF has not let Anguilla down after Hurricane Irma. It worked hand in hand to repair Anguilla: look at the marvelous schools and other hard work all around the island. That is progress and teamwork.”
Mr. Smith told his listeners: “My plans for District 1 are simple and achievable. I would like to develop a sports park for our young people to engage in various types of sports in District 1. It is my hope to build an indoor sports stadium that can house basketball, volleyball and netball games here in District 1. This would not only serve for local games, but regional and international games. Imagine the possibilities for the youth of District 1; imagine the possibilities for all Anguillian youth on the island… I will also work with the Government to ensure that the fishermen in Anguilla will have tax-free exemptions for their supplies in totality.
“There are many opportunities to further one’s education at the Anguilla Community College but some of our people may not be able to afford to go there. This is why I will find a way to give financial assistance to all interested individuals who want to attend vocational courses. Eventually, I would like to establish a vocational centre to teach trades and skills within our district. These areas are very important to the future of Anguilla. Without tradesmen, we cannot build schools, roads and bridges…We have a good team in Government that can deliver in the good and bad times – and you have seen it after Hurricane Irma.”
Smith added: “I stand with the Anguilla United Front Government because they present a better opportunity for all of us in District1 and Anguilla, in general.”
