At the first meeting of the newly elected Anguilla House of Assembly, Premier Cora Richardson Hodge pledged to serve with integrity, honesty and the highest ethical standards.
She delivered her inaugural speech, in which she outlined her administration’s priorities, after the new assembly members swore their oaths of allegiance on Tuesday, 11 March.
“Today we stand at the precipice of a new era under the banner of the Anguilla United Front,” she told attendees and those watching the live stream.
“This historic moment marks not just a change in governance, but an opportunity for renewal, collaboration and growth for our beloved island.”
Richardson Hodge emphasised that the outcome of the recent election reflected the will of the Anguillian people and is testament to “people power”.
“That in the face of adversity, threats, intimidation, trickery, the people came out and soundly chose who they want to lead Anguilla for the next five years,” she said.
People’s servant
Richardson Hodge said she is not just a leader but the people’s servant, committed to carrying Anguilla’s hopes and aspirations with her as the island moves forward.
She pledged to work to improve the standard of living for the island’s residents, to allow their voices to be heard and to build an island which those at home and in the diaspora can feel proud of.
“I commit to serving with integrity, honesty and with the highest ethical standards,” she said.
The premier thanked God, her supporters, family and friends for believing in her, carrying her and making sure she remained grounded.
She also thanked the outgoing premier Ellis Webster – now the leader of the opposition – and his government for their contribution to the development of Anguilla.
The premier also expressed “admiration and affection” for every elected member of government who she said are hard workers who have taken on a tremendous responsibility.
Government’s goals
The premier said the new government’s goal is to foster an environment of inclusivity, innovation and shared responsibility as it works to propel Anguilla into a prosperous future.
She spoke of the Anguilla United Front’s ‘people first’ agenda which “is not just about policies, it is about changing lives”.
Richardson Hodge said that among its primary goals is economic diversification with investment in areas such as renewable energy technology and agriculture
The agenda also places young people at the forefront ensuring they have the tools, resources and support necessary to succeed and drive economic growth in Anguilla.
Other priorities of the new government include improving and transforming education and healthcare, and a keeping a focus on Anguilla’s “most valuable asset”, the natural environment, she said.
The premier also plans to establish regular forums for community feedback and consultation, ensuring that public voices guide the administration’s decisions.
Unity
Richardson Hodge said that to achieve these ambitious objectives, unity is essential.
“We must come together – government officials, business leaders, civil society, and most importantly, the people of Anguilla,” she said.
The premier called upon each member of the assembly, every constituency and every citizen to engage in this process with enthusiasm.
“It is time to transcend political divides and collaborate for the greater good,” she said.
“Let us focus on what binds us together, our love for Anguilla and our commitment to a brighter future for our families and our children.”
She pledged to work side by side with the public “as partners in progress” to reclaim Anguilla’s narrative and craft a legacy that future generations will be proud of.
Watch the first meeting of the new Anguilla House of Assembly below:
