PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands – Three years after London resumed the daily administration of this Overseas Territory, voters will head to the polls early tomorrow to elect a new government.
Officials have confirmed that 37 candidates have been nominated to contest the General Election with the Progressive National Party (PNP), the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) each nominating 15 candidates, while five candidates will represent the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).
There are two independents in the race to control the 21 members Legislative Council for a four-year term.
Supervisor of Elections, Dudley Lewis said the preliminary list puts the total of verified registered voters at 6,884, with an additional 455 cases pending due to insufficient supporting materials by the applicants.
According to the electoral officials, 15 members will be elected by the voters with three ex-offico members appointed and a Speaker will be chosen from outside the Legislative Council
Commenting on the elections, UK Foreign Secretary, William Hague said Friday will herald the islands’ return to a democratic government
“This is a significant step and I would like to thank the interim administration and public servants and advisers of the TCI for their hard work to bring us to this day”
He said the Government of the UK has provided practical support, as well as financial support in the form of a US$260m loan guarantee, to the interim administration for the last three years to help implement a wide ranging reform programme to address concerns about corruption and maladministration
“A solid foundation has been built for a successful return to elected government. There is still a challenging road ahead, including the need to maintain prudent financial management and I hope the new government will continue the hard work to consolidate and build on the interim government’s legacy” he said
The Interim Administration headed by Governor Ric Todd has been in place since August 2009. (CMC)
