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REVOKED: E. Jay Saunders “officially” fired by Premier Washington Misick

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Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

E Jay Saunders at 3:09pm on Tuesday was fired as the Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade for the Turks and Caicos Islands.  Taking up the portfolio is Premier Washington Misick.

The Premier has advised Her Excellency Anya Williams, Acting Governor, in accordance with Section 34(2)(b) of the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution the following change to ministerial appointments with effect from Tuesday 27 February 2024:  Honourable Charles Washington Misick, Premier and Minister with responsibility for Finance, Investment, and Trade.  The Honourable Erwin Jay Saunders will continue to serve as Member of Parliament for the All-Island District.”

A stinging fall-out from what was described by Saunders as a “spirited” challenge for leader of the party at the Saturday February 24 National General Congress of the PNP; it means Washington Misick will lead the party into the next general elections and Saunders will slide from the front to the back bench.

And it did not take very long.  Less than three days after he faced-off with Washington Misick, the Progressive National Party all-island member confirmed that rumors became reality and he would join the backbench in the House of Assembly.  

Washington Misick, exercised his prerogative as party leader and premier, and decided to strip Saunders of the ministerial portfolio which included his role as the deputy premier and the minister with responsibility for finance investment and trade.

Both of which, are constitutionally granted at the pleasure of the serving premier.

In announcing this ministerial change, the Premier stated “I wish to thank Honourable Saunders for his service these past three years as my Deputy and for his stewardship in the ministries he served. My government will undertake a review of the various functions and responsibilities as outlined in the current ministerial portfolios, and I will advise the Acting Governor of any additional changes in due course.” 

Residents weighing in ahead of the official confirmation had said, they expected as much and are not shocked that Saunders was axed.

“It happened to AK (Akierra Missick) it will happen to E. Jay,” said a Magnetic Media subscriber.

Saunders made the reveal in a WhatsApp chatroom he had created to keep local media informed. 

“Fyi, its official,” he typed.

When asked by our Dana Malcolm, if the termination meant he would no longer be deputy premier and would still hold the post of finance minister, Saunders said it means, “I’ll be joining the others in the back bench.”

  1. Jay Saunders, had even earlier in the day confirmed to Magnetic Media he had seen the rumors circulating about his termination; rumors that also said Jamell Robinson, currently the minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development was top of the list to replace him as deputy – but at that time, there was no official recall of his post in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cabinet.

Today, that is all changed.  

We have reached out for comment from the premier on the events of Saturday and the National General Council of the PNP and his decision to cut E. Jay Saunders from his front bench, but there has been no reply up to publication time.

It is also reported that another who challenged Washington Misick for leader of the PNP has been disciplined and may lose his government job.  Jas Walkin, the North Caicos District Commissioner, despite withdrawing his name from the ballot, reportedly after a warning from the Office of the Deputy Governor is now on suspension.

Saunders, who ran at large with some 4,700 voters supporting his bid on the PNP ticket has since the sacking, delivered a national address via his personal YouTube channel.

In it he supports Washington Misick for another term.  He downplays his desire to leader the party, his father, former chief minister Norman Saunders once led.  Some described the motion for leadership brought to the floor as a battle of two strong PNP dynasties.  The Saunders of South Caicos vs the Misicks of North Caicos.

The vote at the convention was 88 in support of a two thirds majority for the E Jay Saunders’ name to be added to the leader race ballot.  Only 58 of the voting delegates decided a small minority was sufficient in order for the interest to advance.  The motion by Saunders’ side lost and so were his prominent jobs as second in command for the party and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

National chairman of the PNP, Kyle Knowles, MP on Sunday February 25, in a statement declared that Washington Misick was duly elected of the governing party.  

It set off a firestorm of comments about what would happen next.  E Jay had on Sunday, a day after the contentious vote, said he would like to keep his job as the DP but was also prepared to have his positions revoked.

The premier has remained relatively silent on the matter, only issuing a statement from his office saying thank you and farewell.  

No explanation was offered by the elder statesman to confirm the motive for sacking Saunders; a move many have decried as unwise given the high performance demonstrated and long-standing challenges E. has remedied in his three years in the Cabinet.

No one has been named to the deputy premier’s position as yet.

It is unclear also how seriously this shocking turn of events has fractured the Progressive National Party.

Government

Tamica Prospere Appointed Director of Learning and Development

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Turks and Caicos, September 6, 2025 – The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Tamica Prospere as the Director of the Department of Learning and Development within the Office of the Deputy Governor.

Mrs. Prospere holds a Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development (RQF Level 5), a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of the West Indies (UWI) and an Associate Degree in Education, also from UWI. She has further enhanced her credentials with certifications and coursework in content delivery, human resource management, talent management, and training and development from esteemed institutions, including Mico University College and CIPD.

With a strong foundation in public service and education in St. Lucia, Mrs. Prospere dedicated over a decade to classroom teaching at the secondary school level, beginning in 2002. During her tenure, she educated a diverse student body across various subjects, including Mathematics, Information Technology, and Life Skills, all aimed at fostering students’ personal and social well-being. She also facilitated community adult learning programs, showcasing her enduring commitment to promoting inclusive and varied educational opportunities.

Her career in public service in the Turks and Caicos Islands began in 2014 as a teacher at Marjorie Basden High School. From 2019, she served as the Learning and Development Manager for the legacy Customs Department and later for the TCI Border Force. In this role, she made significant contributions to improvements and championed a culture of professional growth.

Mrs. Prospere has been a strong advocate for leadership development through several key programmes. She conceptualised and introduced the Leading Effectively through Accountability and Development (LEAD) programme for the management team, which has successfully run for three consecutive years, with its most recent leadership reinforcement event held in 2025. Additionally, she implemented several programmes in partnership with educational institutions, resulting in 27 Border Force officers earning continuing professional development (CPD) certifications in supervisory management from UWI and 10 managers completing the Dynamic Leadership course with the Caribbean Maritime University.

She played a pivotal role in developing operational strategic plans and frameworks for both the Customs Department and the TCI Border Force. Mrs. Prospere spearheaded the creation and delivery of professional programmes, such as the Customs Broker Certification Programme. She introduced a Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate scalable learning for aspiring Customs Brokers.

Moreover, she led the implementation of several significant projects, most notably the Regional Clearance System in the TCI and a comprehensive revamp of customs procedures at Howard Hamilton International Airport, which greatly enhanced operational efficiency. She also facilitated key engagements that strengthened partnerships with leading regional bodies, including the Caribbean Customs Legislation and Enforcement Council (CCLEC), the border security team within CARICOM IMPACS, and the customs advisory arm of CARTAC. These collaborations were instrumental in securing vital technical assistance for training.

Speaking on the appointment, Mrs. Prospere said, “I am honoured to step into this role and lead the Learning and Development Directorate. I believe that a world-class public service is built together. I’m dedicated to partnering with civil servants at all levels to foster a dynamic learning environment where we can collectively develop the skills needed to be adaptable, exceed standards, and deliver truly exceptional service to the public.”

In congratulating Mrs. Prospere, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H.E. Anya Williams stated, “We are pleased to extend congratulations to Mrs. Tamica Prospere on her appointment as the new Director of the Department of Learning and Development within the Office of the Deputy Governor.

With over a decade of dedicated service in the field of training and development, Mrs. Prospere has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to building capacity and strengthening the public service workforce in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Her innovative and strategic approach to learning has transformed teams and empowered individuals, ensuring the public service is well-equipped to meet the demands of a constantly evolving landscape.

As the government continues its efforts to enhance service delivery through robust and comprehensive training initiatives, we are confident that Mrs. Prospere’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing a culture of excellence, collaboration and continuous growth across the public sector.

Congratulations Mrs. Prospere, on your well-deserved promotion. We look forward to working with you to shape the future of learning and development in the Public Service in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

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Government

Melissa Holland Appointed as Public Service Information Officer

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Turks and Caicos, September 6, 2025 – The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is proud to announce the appointment of Ms. Melissa Holland as the new Public Service Information Officer within the Office of the Deputy Governor.

Ms. Holland holds an Associate Degree in Business from Turks and Caicos Community College, a Creative Suite Certificate in Website Development from StackSkills, and an Administrative Professional Certification from the College of Administrative Professionals. She has also engaged in continuous learning through Coursera.

Over the course of her career, Ms. Holland has accumulated valuable experience in various roles. She began her journey as a Clerical Officer at the Ministry of Education from June 2007 to May 2009 and was promoted to Secretary to the CEO from December 2009 to April 2010. Subsequently, she served as the Assistant to the Director of Sales, Marketing & Rentals at Apes Hill Club in Barbados from May 2011 to July 2014. Ms. Holland then took on the role of Office Assistant at Growing Soul Records in Miami, FL, from August 2014 to October 2015, followed by another position as an Office Assistant at Arrow Electronics in Denver, CO, from November 2015 to June 2018.

In June 2018, she became a Multimedia Specialist at Shop Genesis and later transitioned to the role of Creative Director at Black Sage Analytics from September 2020 to 2022. More recently, she served as an Administrative Officer at the Ministry of Health and Human Services from December 2022 to March 2023, before moving to the Ministry of Immigration and Border Services as an Administrative Officer from March 2023 to August 2025. She acted as the Communications Officer for Border Force in September 2023.

Upon her appointment, Ms. Holland shared her enthusiasm, stating, “My journey from capturing moments through lifestyle photography to creating designs that honor the vibrance of Caribbean culture has been shaped by both creativity and faith. Stepping into the role of Public Service Information Officer is a privilege and an exciting opportunity to unite my love for storytelling with service. Guided by Proverbs 3:5-6, I trust God to continue directing my path and using my gifts for a greater purpose”.

Her Excellency Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, congratulated Ms. Holland, stating, “We are delighted to congratulate Ms. Melissa Holland on her appointment as Public Service Information Officer and to welcome her to our team in the Office of the Deputy Governor.

In this important role, Ms. Holland will be responsible for the accurate and timely dissemination of both internal and external communications related to the operations of the public service, including circulars, notices, appointment announcements and other official updates.

We are confident that Ms. Holland’s diverse background and professional expertise will be invaluable in fulfilling these responsibilities and we look forward to the meaningful contributions she will undoubtedly bring to the team.

Congratulations, Ms. Holland, on your new appointment!”

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    Government

    Andy Missick Appointed Juvenile Manager

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    Turks and Caicos, September 6, 2025 – The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Andy Missick as the Juvenile Manager within the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Services in the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities.

    Mr. Missick holds a Bachelor’s Degree with Honours in Social Work from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.

    His professional experience includes serving as a Registration Officer at the Financial Services Commission for three years, a Social Worker for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government for one year and as a Probation Officer in the Department of Rehabilitation & Community Supervision from 2023 until his recent promotion.

    Sharpening his skills in the area of rehabilitation, Mr. Missick has completed professional training in the following areas: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Case Management, Risk Assessment, Intake and Interviewing Techniques, Counseling, Report Writing, Conflict Resolution and Mediation, Reentry and Reintegration Planning, Community Resource Networking, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Behavior Modification, and Social Skills Training.

    Known for his contributions to Youth Leadership and Representation in the Turks and Caicos Islands and elsewhere, Mr. Missick currently serves as the Male CARICOM Youth Ambassador since 2023 and is a currently a Youth Parliamentarian having representing the Turks and Caicos Islands at the 12th Annual Commonwealth Youth Parliament in Wellington, New Zealand; the 10th Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting in London, United Kingdom and the Caribbean Youth Summit 2023 in Kingston, Jamaica.

    In addition to his professional roles, Mr. Missick is involved in community service and volunteerism through the Rotaract Club of Providenciales, where he has been an active member for seven years. He has held various leadership positions, including Sergeant-at-Arms, Foundation Chair, Youth Service Director, Wellness Chair, Fundraising Director, Vice President and currently serves as the President.

    Speaking on his appointment, Mr. Missick stated, “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity. Growing up in the Turks and Caicos, I have seen far too many young lives cut short. Some lost to violence, some to poor choices and some to the weight of circumstances they never asked for. Those experiences are etched into me and they are the reason I feel such deep gratitude and responsibility in being appointed Juvenile Manager. This is more than a role; it is a calling to stand in the gap for our youth, to remind them that they are not defined by their mistakes but by the greatness still inside of them. I believe in second chances, I believe in opportunity, and I believe that with guidance, accountability and hope, our young people can rise above their struggles and become the leaders of tomorrow.

    I anchor myself in the words of Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” True leadership is service, and in serving our youth, I serve the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This appointment is not just about today. It is about building a legacy of hope, discipline and purpose for tomorrow”.

    In congratulatory remarks, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H.E. Anya Williams, said, “It gives me great pleasure to officially congratulate Mr. Andy Missick on his appointment as Juvenile Manager with the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Services, within the Ministry of Public Safety.

    The post of Juvenile Manager is a critical role, focused on shaping the future of our islands by supporting, guiding and rehabilitating at-risk youth. The Juvenile Manager plays a key part in ensuring that young individuals are given every opportunity to grow into productive, empowered citizens who contribute meaningfully to society.

    Mr. Missick brings to this position a wealth of experience, a deep passion for youth empowerment and a proven track record of service and leadership. His longstanding commitment to the development of young people in the Turks and Caicos Islands is well known, having served with distinction as a CARICOM Youth Ambassador, Youth Parliamentarian and a dedicated member of the Rotaract. Through these platforms, he has consistently advocated for youth engagement, policy development and community service, earning the respect of peers and stakeholders alike.

    We are confident that Mr. Missick will continue to inspire and implement innovative initiatives that uplift our youth and strengthen our communities.

    Congratulations, Mr. Missick, on your well-deserved promotion. We look forward to the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in this vital role.”

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