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Leader of Movement for Change and Prosperity in Montserrat, Dr. Samuel Joseph. (Via CMC)
BRADES, Montserrat, CMC – Montserratians will vote for a new government on October 24, after the Legislative Assembly was dissolved on Thursday.
“Today marks a pivotal chapter in Montserrat’s history as we officially dissolve the Government, paving the way for the upcoming elections. I am honoured to accept the leadership of the Movement for Change and Prosperity (MCAP), following the exemplary guidance of Hon. Joseph E. Taylor-Farrell, who has led our island with unwavering commitment as Premier for the past five years,” said Dr. Samuel Joseph.
In the November 18, 2019, general election, the MCAP won five of the nine seats, with the British Overseas Territory is a single nine-member constituency, with voters able to vote for up to nine candidates on their ballot paper under plurality-at-large voting.
Candidates must receive at least six per cent of the vote to be elected. If fewer than nine candidates receive more than six per cent of the vote, a second round is held within 21 days.
Political observers say MCAP is expected to face a strong challenge in the upcoming poll with with People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) headed by outgoing Opposition Leader, Paul Lewis and the United Alliance, headed by former premier, Reuben Meade, which has already launched its manifesto.
In his statement, Joseph praised the outgoing administration saying “we we look to the future, our path forward will not be without challenges, but I am ready to confront them head-on with a bold and proactive approach”.
He said the rising cost of living, access and utility issues, and the need for better education and higher wages all demand immediate and focused attention.
“If granted the privilege to serve as your next Premier, I will continue our work by advocating for increased economic support from the UK to ease the financial burden on our residents, while creating investment opportunities and providing robust support for the private sector.
“Our vision is to rebuild Montserrat, not merely to restore it but to surpass its heyday when we thrived without financial aid, driven by patriotism, resilience, and determination. By prioritizing sustainable development and social progress, we will move “Forward Together.” as a united community.”
The ruling party on Thursday night presented its slate of nine candidates, six of whom are newcomers, for the election with Joseph urging support.
“I ask for your trust and support. Together, we can overcome the challenges before us and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. With my strong and decisive leadership, alongside a dedicated team, we will forge a path toward a prosperous and thriving Montserrat, where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed.”
Meanwhile, former premier, Donaldson Romeo, has written to the United Kingdom Secretary of State, outlining the severe risks to the lives and economy of Montserrat.
In a statement, Romeo, an opposition legislator, said that he had written to David Lammy on August 4, outlining the unresolved safety issues, and the current limitations on air and sea access to the island, and requested actions to be implemented immediately.
Romeo requested the reinstatement of the Twin Otter aircraft for safer and more economical air travel to Montserrat; and the restoration of a regular and affordable ferry service between Montserrat and Antigua.
In addition, he is also wants an independent, transparent assessment of Montserrat’s access problems and needs with strong whistle-blower protection and the right to interview all relevant persons, including the local Governor and her superiors.
Romeo said these requests were supported by accompanying documentation including brief notes on safety, which he had submitted to the “Access Special Committee” of the Montserrat Legislative Assembly.
Romeo said that to ensure full transparency and to facilitate timely cooperation all correspondence with the UK Secretary of State, inclusive of supporting documentation, has also been copied to Governor Sarah Tucker as well as Premier Joseph-Farrell and the Opposition Leader.
