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2025 Anguillian general election
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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General elections were held in Anguilla on 26 February 2025.[1] The election resulted in a victory for the opposition Anguilla United Front, with Cora Richardson-Hodge becoming Anguilla's first female premier.[2][3]
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Electoral system
The 13-member House of Assembly consists of seven members elected in single-member constituencies by first-past-the-post voting, four at-large members elected from the entire island by plurality at-large voting and two ex officio members, the Attorney General and Deputy Governor.[4][5] Voters may vote up to four candidates in the at-large seats.[6] Voters had to be at least 18 years old, whilst candidates had to be at least 21.[6]
A controversial proposal to revoke the voting rights of Anguillians living abroad sparked public backlash. Facing opposition, the plan was ultimately abandoned.[7]
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Campaign
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Key campaign issues included economic diversification, governance integrity, youth employment, and healthcare.[8] The campaign period featured multiple public debates and rallies. This election cycle has also included the use of social media, with parties leveraging digital outreach to engage younger voters and the wider Anguillian diaspora.
One key issue in the election campaign was the management of Anguilla’s lucrative .ai internet domain, which has gained global significance due to its association with artificial intelligence.[7] The growing demand for .ai domain names, fueled by startups and tech firms seeking AI-related branding, has become a major revenue source for Anguilla, generating about $32 million in 2023 alone.[9]
The ruling Anguilla Progressive Movement (APM), led by Premier Ellis Webster, centered its campaign on its record since taking office in 2020, emphasizing economic stabilization and efforts to strengthen healthcare and education.[10]
The Anguilla United Front (AUF), the main opposition party, criticized the incumbent government’s handling of economic challenges, arguing that the cost of living remains too high and calling for small business support and job creation.[11]
The Anguilla Reliable Team (ART), a new party not present in the last election, campaigned for financial independence, aiming to reduce citizens' reliance on government aid.[12]
Party slogans
Contesting parties
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Results
By constituency
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Aftermath
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Following the election, Cora Richardson-Hodge became Anguilla’s first female Premier, a milestone that received widespread praise both locally and regionally.[14][15] The Anguilla United Front won eight of the eleven contested seats, including all four at-large seats and four district constituencies, defeating the ruling Anguilla Progressive Movement.[16] For the first time in its history, Anguilla is led by an all-female leadership at the highest level, with Richardson-Hodge serving as Premier alongside British-appointed Governor Julia Crouch.
Outgoing Premier Ellis Webster publicly acknowledged the outcome and congratulated Richardson Hodge. In post-election remarks, he encouraged national unity and committed to continuing his service as an opposition representative in the House of Assembly.[17]
In her inaugural address, Premier Richardson-Hodge declared, "The people have spoken and together we have chosen progress, unity and a future that puts people first." She also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Premier Ellis Webster, the APM candidates, and all others who participated in the democratic process.[18]
According to election observers, the election was assessed as free and fair. Observers praised the orderly conduct of the polls, the professionalism of election officials, and the peaceful environment throughout the process.[19]
International reactions
Barbados: Prime Minister Mia Mottley congratulated Richardson-Hodge, describing the election as “a historic moment, not just for our Caribbean brothers and sisters in Anguilla, but for the entire region.” Mottley expressed eagerness to work together and emphasized Anguilla’s importance as an associate member of CARICOM, stating, “As an associate member of CARICOM, Anguilla is an integral part of our regional family.”[20]
Sint Maarten: Minister of Tourism and Transport Grisha Heyliger-Marten, extended her “heartfelt congratulations” to Richardson-Hodge on her election victory. She stated, “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.”[20]
United Kingdom: Minister of State for Europe, North America, and Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, expressed his congratulations to Cora Richardson-Hodge and the Anguilla United Front, adding, "I look forward to working with you for the people of Anguilla."[20]
Other
In Saint Kitts and Nevis, Janice Daniel-Hodge, leader of the Nevis Reformation Party, described Richardson-Hodge’s election as an “incredible and historic victory for the people of Anguilla.” She emphasized that the moment marked not just a political victory, but also a significant milestone in both Anguilla’s history and gender representation. In Jamaica, Mark J. Golding, leader of the People's National Party, congratulated Richardson-Hodge on her victory, calling it a “proud moment” for both Anguilla and the entire Caribbean. He expressed his anticipation for future collaboration.[21]
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) congratulated Richardson-Hodge on her election as Premier and expressed its anticipation for a "fruitful" relationship with her, as well as with the government and people of Anguilla, in advancing the region's "transformation agenda." The ECCB also acknowledged the service of former Premier Ellis Webster, who had served as a member of the ECCB Council and Chairman.[22]
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References
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