Premier Charles Washington Misick. File photo courtesy “TCI Sun”.
COCKBURN TOWN, Turks and Caicos--In a landmark decision that will transform the political landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), the House of Assembly last week Thursday voted to approve a series of draft constitutional amendments, marking a significant step towards greater autonomy and modernised governance.
Premier Charles Washington Misick, who tabled the motion, hailed the collaborative spirit that led to this historic moment. "I think it's appropriate for me to express gratitude on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition and myself, on the work that the attorney general has done," he remarked, acknowledging the extensive consultations and public engagement that paved the way for the amendments.
The amendments, encapsulated in the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitutional Amendment Order 2024, introduced a raft of changes aimed at enhancing the islands' self-governance while maintaining its relationship with the United Kingdom.
Key among these changes is the renaming of the House of Assembly to Parliament, a symbolic shift that signifies a more mature and empowered legislative body.
Furthermore, the amendments extend the parliamentary term from four to five years, a move that aims to provide greater stability and continuity in governance.
The controversial issue of appointed members has also been addressed, with the amendments abolishing these positions in favour of a fully-elected Parliament.
Leader of the Opposition, Edwin Astwood, while endorsing the overall package, expressed reservations about certain aspects, particularly the appointment of the cabinet secretary.
He argued for a system where the cabinet secretary is appointed by the premier, ensuring alignment with the elected government's agenda.
"This is the person who is following up on your agenda," Astwood emphasised, "[the – Ed.] hard-core functions of your cabinet. And for instance, Mr. Speaker, imagine if you were the premier and you come into office and you realise that the cabinet secretary was your ex-girlfriend, somebody who really hates you, hates your guts, and only wants to see you fail."
He cautioned against potential conflicts if the cabinet secretary were appointed by the governor, drawing on historical examples of differing approaches between governors and elected officials.
The deputy premier, in a passionate address, championed the amendments as a "pivotal moment in governance", emphasising their role in strengthening democratic foundations and aligning with the evolving identity of the islands.
He dismissed concerns about the necessity of the amendments, stating, "Just how we adjust our wardrobes to suit modern tastes and styles, so too must we adapt our constitution to reflect the values and realities of today."
The amendments also received strong support from Member of Parliament for Leeward and Long Bay, Akierra Misick, who highlighted the establishment of a Constitutional Commission which allows for a referendum to take place.
"We have a process," she stated, emphasising the importance of a structured mechanism for future constitutional reviews, ensuring the islands' governance framework remains adaptable and responsive to the needs of its citizens.
The passage of these amendments is the culmination of years of cross-party consultations, community engagements and negotiations with the United Kingdom.
It reflects a broad consensus on the need to modernise the islands' governance framework and strengthen its democratic institutions.
As the TCI embarks on this new chapter, the impact of these amendments on its political landscape and future development remains to be seen.
However, the resounding support from across the political spectrum suggests a shared optimism for a more autonomous, accountable and prosperous future. ~ Turks and Caicos Weekly News ~
