Cora Richardson Hodge has made history after being officially sworn in as Anguilla’s first female premier.
She has taken over from former premier Ellis Webster after the Anguilla United Front secured a majority in the Anguilla House of Assembly during the general election.
The brief swearing in ceremony was held in the executive chambers of the House of Assembly building at 3pm on 27 February.
The party leader took the oaths of allegiance and office before Governor Julia Crouch, who formally confirmed her appointment as the island’s 11th head of government.
The governor also appointed Shellya Rogers Webster, Kyle Hodge, Cardigan Connor and José Vanterpool as new ministers and Cordell Richardson as parliamentary secretary.
Following the ceremony, Richardson Hodge and her team moved outside to speak to gathered press and well-wishers.
“My fellow Anguillans, today, we stand on the brink of a new chapter in Anguilla’s history,” she said.
“The people have spoken and together we have chosen progress, unity and a future that puts people first.”
She said she was deeply honoured and humbled by the trust voters placed in both her and the Anguilla United Front.
A victory for all
Richardson Hodge said the victory belongs to every Anguillian who believes in a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Anguilla.
“This election was about you – the hard working men and women determined to build a better life for their families,” she said.
“Our young people eager for real opportunities to shape our future, our seniors who have given so much and deserve dignity and care.
“Our business owners, teachers, healthcare workers, public servants and every citizen who makes this island the extraordinary home that it is.”
She congratulated her Anguilla United Front team for a “clean, passionate campaign that showed Anguilla what leadership with integrity looks like”.
“To my fellow Anguilla United Front candidates, both those who won and those who fought hard but did not prevail – thank you. Your service, dedication and belief in this movement brought us here,” she added.
“Your work does not end tonight, because your voices and commitment will continue to serve Anguilla in meaningful ways.”
A strong democracy
Richardson Hodge went on to recognise outgoing premier Ellis Webster, the Anguilla Progressive Movement candidates and all other candidates who stepped forward to serve.
“Democracy is stronger when good people put themselves forward for public service, and for that I thank them,” she said.
The premier assured that the general election victory was not the finish line but simply the beginning.
“The people have entrusted us with the responsibility to lead and we will, we will deliver. It is time that we bring healing to the nation and for all of us to move forward in one accord,” she said.
Richardson Hodge thanked her team in district two, her family, friends and supporters for knocking on doors, making calls and believing in the party’s vision.
“To every child listening to this message, I say – dream boldly, work hard and know that this government will fight to ensure you have the opportunities to build your future, right here in Anguilla,” she said.
“Thank you, Anguilla. Thank you for believing in us and thank you for believing in a future that puts people first.”
Richardson Hodge said the new Anguilla United Front members would be immediately meeting in chambers for the first executive council meeting to approve Friday, 28 February, as a public holiday.
Watch the ceremony in full below:
