Following her historic appointment as Anguilla’s first female premier last week, Cora Richardson Hodge has received an outpouring of congratulations from across the Caribbean.
Government officials, political representatives and regional organisations have all commended her impressive achievement and expressed hopes for continued collaboration.
Mia Mottley, prime minister of Barbados, congratulated the new premier on Instagram, saying: “This is a historic moment, not just for our Caribbean brothers and sisters in Anguilla, but for the entire region.
“As an associate member of CARICOM, Anguilla is an integral part of our regional family.
“We look forward to working together as a family, to strengthen our ties and advance development for our people!”
Sint Maarten’s tourism and transport minister, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, extended “heartfelt congratulations” to Richardson Hodge on her election victory in a Facebook post.
“As the island’s first female premier, Cora Richardson Hodge is not only breaking barriers but also paving the way for future generations of leaders,” she said.
“Her achievement is an inspiration to many, and I have no doubt that she will serve Anguilla with dedication and vision.”
‘Significant milestone’
Janice Daniel-Hodge, leader of the Nevis Reformation Party in St Kitts and Nevis, called it an “incredible and historic victory for the people of Anguilla”.
“This moment marks not just a political victory but a significant milestone in the history of Anguilla, one that will inspire generations to come,” she said.
Daniel-Hodge said Richardson Hodge’s election as the first female premier of Anguilla is a testament to her strength, dedication and the trust placed in her.
“It is also a powerful reminder to young girls and women everywhere that there are no limits to what they can achieve with vision, hard work, and perseverance,” she said.
In Jamaica, leader of the opposition party Mark J Golding congratulated the premier on making history, adding that it is a “proud moment” for Anguilla and the entire Caribbean.
“I look forward to working together to build a stronger, more united region. Here’s to progress, partnership, and a brighter future for all!” he said in an Instagram post.
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank also extended congratulations to the new premier and said it looks forward to a “fruitful” relationship as they together advance the transformation agenda of the region.
And in the UK, Stephen Doughty, Minister of State for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories, offered his well-wishes in a post on X.
“Congratulations to Cora Richardson-Hodge and the Anguilla United Front on your victory in the Anguilla elections. I look forward to working with you for the people of Anguilla,” he said.
