The Anguilla Election 2020 has come and gone and it has truly been one for the history books. A record number of candidates participated in this election and I was proud to see several Independents standing against the tide in our two party political system.
While some may argue that there is no longer any space for independent candidates in our jurisdiction, I am living proof that independents do have a voice and can make a difference in our local political context. I therefore salute my fellow brothers and sisters who chose the path less travelled in this recent election – and presented ideas and policies that allowed the people of Anguilla to see what was possible and what was achievable when we work together as One Anguilla.
Despite the gains in political discourse and ideas that the Independents espoused, the majority chose differently. This we must accept, since Democracy in its simplest form means that the “majority rule”. That being said, it does not negate the views and opinions of the minority, and it is therefore our responsibility to be the voice of reason and insight as our country moves forward into uncharted territory.
I express my deepest gratitude to the people of District One – Island Harbour – who afforded me the opportunity to serve as their Representative from 2015 to 2020, and also through their vote allowed me to serve Anguilla as Leader of the Opposition for that same period. This experience has truly enriched my life and has taught me many important lessons. I hope and believe that it has also contributed to democracy in Anguilla.
To my campaign team who fought the good fight, and kept it clean and principled, I thank you for believing in our vision and mission. To my family and friends who have been a constant source of encouragement and support, I could not have done this without you. To everyone who sent best wishes and messages of support and love, I thank you for taking the time to reach out. The love that surrounds me gives me strength.
I send congratulations once more to the newly Elected Members of the Anguilla House of Assembly, including our new Premier, the Hon. Dr. Ellis Lorenzo Webster. I also extend congratulations and best wishes to the Hon. Cora Richardson-Hodge who is now our Leader of the Opposition. This is indeed a critical role in the overall governance of Anguilla and, with the support of her parliamentary colleagues and a vigilant civil society, I have every confidence that the role of Opposition will continue to meet the highest standards.
This is also a critical time for the work of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to continue. This is a vital tool to secure transparency and accountability in government and to fight any and all instances of corruption. I am proud of the work that the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has been able to accomplish over the last five years, and I look forward to the continued inquiries and reports that will come from this Committee in the interests of good governance for the people of Anguilla.
Anguilla’s positive transformation is dependent on the participation of the whole. Our country cannot survive on the efforts of one social group, nor on the opportunities provided to special interests. The months ahead will be challenging, the effects of COVID-19 have not yet subsided, and the solutions to our problems rest on our ability to find common ground and to work together as One Anguilla. This is the test that we now face. This is a test where failure is not an option. I pray for God’s guidance as we seek to do the right thing, stay true to our principles and values, and work in the people’s best interests – always.
