Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – A bold new chapter in financial empowerment has begun with the official launch of Turks and Caicos United Investment Ltd. (TCUI) on Tuesday, March 17th, during a special edition of Financially Speaking. This initiative is set to transform how Turks and Caicos Islanders—both at home and abroad—engage in wealth creation and economic growth.

Uniting Investors, Strengthening the Economy

TCUI is more than just an investment platform; it is a movement designed to unite and empower Turks and Caicos residents to take control of their financial future. By pooling resources, TCUI members will have access to strategic investment opportunities that foster economic sustainability, financial independence, and generational wealth.

“Our goal is to ensure that Turks and Caicos Islanders are at the forefront of economic development,” said Drexwell Seymour, Chairperson of TCUI. “Through collaboration and smart investing, we are creating a pathway for residents to build long-term financial security and preserve a legacy for future generations.”

A Vision for Prosperity

The idea for TCUI emerged after the Government’s announcement of a $1,000 cost-of-living relief stimulus. Instead of viewing the stimulus as a short-term fix, a group of more than 20 forward-thinking individuals came together to establish an organization that would provide lasting financial benefits. Their collective vision is to create an investment vehicle that allows Turks and Caicos Islanders to actively shape the nation’s financial landscape.

With an emphasis on community-driven investing, TCUI is positioning itself as a catalyst for economic transformation. The company aims to support ventures that not only yield strong financial returns but also contribute to the overall development and sustainability of the Turks and Caicos economy.

Meet the Leaders Behind TCUI

TCUI is backed by a strong leadership team committed to guiding the organization toward success:

• Drexwell Seymour – Chairperson
• Jena Janse – Deputy Chairperson
• Kendi Jones – Secretary
• Tekarrah Gardiner – Treasurer
• Ranekia Lightbourne Daley – Member & Liaison Relationship Director

How to Get Involved

TCUI is inviting residents of Turks and Caicos Islands and TCI citizens abroad to become part of this groundbreaking initiative. Whether you’re an experienced investor or new to the world of finance, TCUI offers a structured, community-driven approach to wealth-building that ensures every investor has a stake in the nation’s future.

To learn more about TCUI and how you can participate, visit www.tcunitedinvestment.com.

Turks and Caicos, March 22, 2025 – Turks and Caicos’ aviation scene has taken a major leap forward with the return of South Caicos as a must-visit destination for travelers eager to explore beyond Providenciales. The Norman B. Saunders International Airport (NBSIA), a historic national landmark, is now welcoming direct flights from Miami to ‘The Big South!’

The inaugural flight was met with a cannon salute by the TCIAA NBSIA Fire Division, followed by a festive celebration organized by Experience Turks and Caicos, in collaboration with key stakeholders such as Salterra Resort Spa, Sailrock, and American Airlines.                                                                                                                                                              Among the dignitaries present for this momentous occasion were Her Excellency The Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnam, Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams, Deputy Premier Honourable Jamell Robinson, Minister of Tourism Honourable Zhavargo Jolly, and other members of parliament. Also in attendance was Mr. Dwayne Gardiner, Chairman of the TCIAA Board of Directors, alongside other esteemed board members.

PHOTOS BY TURKS & CAICOS DIGEST

Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

Turks and Caicos, March 22, 2025 – The Supreme Court Justice weighed in and the decision gives a consequential round one victory to the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) party which believes corruption and a failure to follow the letter of the law led to a questionable election outcome; their claim has validity now as Hon Chris Selochan, Supreme Court Justice has ruled that the matter must proceed to trial.

The PDM filed the petition through their attorney George Missick of Geordins Law Firm.  The lion’s share of their petition centered around their claim that the Elections Office failed to follow the precise specifications for ballots as described in the Elections Ordinance.   The other outcry accused the Progressive National Party (PNP) of buying votes to win the House.

On the latter point, the PDM found its case was too weak.

His Lordship Selochan determined there was insufficient evidence in the allegation that the PNP bought or bribed voters to return them to office. On their more substantial point, however, the Judge agreed that there was a case to answer by the government following the February 7, 2025 general election.

Edwin Astwood and Robert Been, the PDM’s Leader and Deputy leader, filed the petition which has now gained traction and renewed attention due to this validating supreme court decision to progress to trial.

Now, minds are racing, and tongues are wagging as residents wonder if it could really be proven that the entire electorate voted incorrectly and if so, will his lordship rule that the General Election be carried out again.

What is clearly outlined in the amended ordinance is there should be two ballots.  Each ballot should be of a different colour.  Each ballot should hold distinguishing information – including occupation – about each candidates offering to hold a parliamentary seat and each ballot must be published ahead of the national poll.

In the 2025 General Election, which was the first to be held using electronic tabulating machines, there was one ballot paper.

Eagle Legal News Media, which heavily focuses on court reporting in the Turks and Caicos Islands, provided some insight.

“His Lordship, the Hon Mr. Justice Chris Selochan refused the Attorney General’s application to strike out the election petition by Hon Edwin Astwood and Mr. Robert Been, the matter will go to trial,” as shared on social media platforms.

Turks and Caicos Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite Knowles, KC and Akierra Missick, who is the Senior Civil attorney representing the PNP both submitted arguments to strike out certain portions of the PDM election petitions.

“…in the areas where they alleged corruption and bribery against the PNP for failing to meet the procedural requirements of the Elections Ordinance.”

It is understood by Magnetic Media, the PDM was unable to provide material witnesses to corroborate or prove their allegation of individuals being bribed or “treated” for votes.

On Friday, we learned that the Attorney General’s Chambers has withdrawn an application to have the PDM case related to alleged discrepancies in the Blue Hills district vote, dropped.

“This follows the failure of a similar strike out application, CL 15/25, the Election Petition brought by Edwin Astwood and Robert Been, which was dismissed yesterday in relation to issues with the ballots and voting process.”

The Attorney General was ordered to pay two thirds of the PDM’s legal costs attached to her, now withdrawn application.

As for what happens now, a popular social media pundit – Eugene Arthur – reflects much of the public discourse well.

“If the election was conducted in full compliance with the law, why would the government be so eager to avoid judicial review?

The judge’s ruling sends a powerful message: no political party, and certainly no Attorney General is above electoral scrutiny.  The case will now proceed to trial, where the people of the TCI will finally get the transparency, they deserve.”