‘It’s time for Independence’ – LOO Astwood to Governor Selvaratnam

By Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer 

#TurksandCaicos, July 2, 2023 – “While I welcome you in this official capacity there are many of us who look forward to the master-servant relationship between the TCI and the UK to come to an end,”.  That was the firm admission from Edwin Astwood, Opposition Leader as he addressed the country’s newest Governor, Her Excellency, Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam at her swearing in ceremony on Thursday June 29th.

While expressing respect and gratitude for the Governor’s presence, Astwood took an unequivocal stand against colonialism.

“There are some who would like to see this country under British rule forever, I am not one of those people.”

Astwood’s message extended to the people of the Turks and Caicos as he urged them to strive for independence.

“I believe that it is now more than any other time in our history that we as leaders must prepare our people for self determination.” He stressed, “there is no way in the year 2023 that we should still have decisions of this honourable House, of Cabinet, of the country to be ultimately signed off and approved by those who are not born here or live here.”

He however congratulated Selvaratnam on her appointment and wished her well as she served the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Congratulations and welcome to team TCI.  I believe that we will soon be entering a very critical and future shaping time here in the TCI and we are hopeful that your knowledge, skills, and special abilities will be valuable to us on this journey.  I believe that all members in this House are working towards a common goal and your contribution is integral to achieving that.”

He maintained that despite his feelings toward colonialism it was not a personal slight against the office of the Governor which was a partner to his own office.

“I believe that what the Government, the Opposition and the Office of the Governor can achieve together is much greater, far larger, and will immensely exceed that which we can do alone.”