Deandrea Hamilton
Editor
Turks and Caicos, February 8, 2025 – In 2021 the People’s Democratic Movement managed to hold onto one seat and in 2025, four years later the party in blue has now managed to, just barely claw back one seat to form a tiny minority in the House of Assembly.
It was a devastating February 7 for Astwood and the PDM, which was unable to derail the PNP train. Astwood, who was silent throughout the night as election results rolled in, issued a statement on Saturday afternoon.
“I want to begin by congratulating the winners of this election. To the incoming government, I extend my best wishes. The responsibility of leadership is great, and I pray that you will govern with wisdom, fairness, and a deep commitment to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The challenges before us are real, and while we may sit on opposite sides of the political aisle, we all share a common love for this country,” said the leader of the PDM.
Edwin Astwood, who ran in the constituency of Grand Turk South, which includes the island of Salt Cay was able to hold onto his seat, where the race was a three way contention.
Astwood secured 363 votes, and will once again serve in parliament along with Audric Skippings, who clinched the Bight by one vote.
“And we, the People’s Democratic Movement, will continue to be a voice for the people, holding the government accountable and ensuring that the promises made tonight are kept in the days and years ahead.
This is not the end of our journey. The PDM is strong. The PDM is resilient. And the PDM will rise again.”
Rising again will take a lot of honest soul searching as the effort erected by the team lay in ruins, the PNP with its “keep it where you got it” campaign widened support in many areas, getting a clear mandate from the 74% of the electorate which turned out at the polls.
“To the incredible candidates of the People’s Democratic Movement, I could not be prouder of the campaign we ran. Though we did not win this time, your dedication, passion, and service to this country will never be forgotten.
To our campaign team, our volunteers, and the Young Democrats, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You worked day and night, sacrificing your time, your energy, and your resources for this cause. You inspired so many, and I have no doubt that the future of the PDM—and indeed the future of this nation—is bright because of you.
And most importantly, to every single person who placed their trust in us, who cast their vote for the PDM, who believed in our vision for a better Turks and Caicos— thank you. Your support means everything, and while we may not have won this election, we will never stop fighting for you.”
Among the issues the PDM pitched in the hope to secure the majority of House of Assembly seats was on crime, infrastructural development, housing, immigration and youth development. Though rallies, talk shows, press conferences, statements and media interviews the party had hoped for returned support and new voters.
The Leader said his candidates fought hard and acknowledged the sacrifices.
“I urge every supporter to stay engaged, stay hopeful, and stay committed to the progress of our nation. We may have lost an election, but we have not lost our vision, our purpose, or our determination to see the Turks and Caicos Islands reach its full potential.”
Edwin Astwoon, who is serving a fourth consecutive term said the PDM respects the election outcome and remains committed to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude and pride, even as we accept the results of this election. The people have spoken, and in a democracy, we honor and respect the will of the people.”