News
New PDM Headquarters and Elected Executives after July Convention
Garfield Ekon
Staff Writer
#TurksandCaicos, July 29, 2024 – As the Turks and Caicos (TCI) moves closer to General Elections, the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) has celebrated the official opening of its headquarters, in Downtown Providenciales, under the theme “Forward Together.”
Leader of the Movement, the Hon. Edwin A. Astwood told the gathering of supporters who were largely clad in their white and blue colours, that completion of the facility came about by commitment of the officers and members, amidst the many challenges.
Deputy Leader of the PDM, Robert Been Jr. in his wide-ranging address, said a decision was made not to enter the upcoming
elections, the “same way we came out last time,” and the new headquarters represents the party’s readiness to take the reign of Government.
“We are going to prove them wrong on that day once the election is called, this building is not for lease, this building is the people’s building, and it is going to always be for future generations to come,” Mr. Been told his audience.
Patry Stalwart and former Minister of Government, Vaden Delroy Williams said a “dedicated party headquarters” is crucial for fostering unity, planning strategies and engaging with community effectively, and it “serves as a central hub for our activities, providing a space for collaboration and innovation.
“I am proud to see the People’s Democratic Movement continue to grow and strengthen our efforts for a brighter future,” he argued, while Candidate for Electoral District 7, Rose Gardiner-Higgs, said the opening of the “people’s house” was a symbol of a new beginning, and “it represents our dedication to serving the people with integrity and transparency.
“Our slate of candidates is passionate and committed to addressing the needs of our society, ensuring that every decision benefits all TCI islanders. As we move forward, let us remember the significance of this day and the promise it holds,” she said.
From the National Chairman: “On July 13, 2024, the People’s Democratic Movement successfully re-opened its Providenciales headquarters with strong attendance from its members, supporters, and well-wishers.
In conjunction with the re-opening the PDM also successfully held its national convention under the theme “Forward Together” which was well attended by party executives, stalwarts, candidates, and delegates from island branches.
The party also held elections of officers. The Leader, Deputy Leader, and National Chairman positions were unchallenged during the elections process, the results are as follows.
Executives and Officers of the party.
- Hon. Edwin Astwood, Leader
- Mr. Robert Been, Deputy Leader
- Mr. Ezra Taylor, National Chairman
- Mr. Ian Astwood, 1st Vice Chairman
- Hon. Clarence Selver, 2nd Vice Chairman
- Secretary General-TBD
- Mr. Djourdayne Redman, Assistant Secretary General
- Mr. Drexler Smith, National Treasurer
- Mr. Roshawn Been, Assistant Treasurer
- Mr. Trevor Missick, Party Whip
- Hon. Dwayne Taylor, Party Chaplain
Trustees of the party.
- Hon. Llewelyn Handfield
- Hon. Derek Taylor
- Mr. Princie Harris Inducted
Stalwarts.
- Mr. Ian Astwood
- Hon. O’Neil Delancy
- Ms. Sharlene Gardiner
- Mr. Joshua Harvey
- Mr. Roynal Robinson
- Mr. Curtis Tony Lightbourne
- Mrs. Patricia Saunders-Missick
- Mr. Lewis Jack Parker
- Hon. Clarence Selver
- Mr. Anthony Walkin
The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is the oldest established political organization in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Founded in October 1975, the PDM was the first party to be elected to head the Government. Mr. Astwood has been Leader of the Opposition since February 2021, and Leader of the PDM party since June 2021. He served as Minister of Health, Agriculture and Human Services from 2016 to 2021.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (March 5, 2026) – As the Turks and Caicos sporting community celebrates the spirit of youth athleticism, leading telecoms provider, Flow is highlighting the transformative power of connectivity following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Inter-High Track and Field Championships held at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Stadium from February 26 to 28.
As the Official Media Sponsor for the event, Flow provided livestreaming services that premiered across social media and on Flow TV’s
Channel 111. This ensured that families and fans throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands could witness every record-breaking moment. To keep the event running at top speed, Flow also provided broadband services throughout the venue, maintaining seamless connectivity throughout the games.
“Our long-standing partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission is a shared promise to invest in the next generation. Over the years we have worked together to create opportunities for young people to train, compete and grow,” said Joanne Missick, Country Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands.
“We make this investment because sport develops more than athletes. It’s a long-term investment for us in our people, pride and possibility, and it’s a partnership we hold close because advancing our youth advances the entire nation.”
The commitment to the Games extended directly to the track, where Flow served as the headline sponsor for the 200-meter category. Spanning seven races, the partnership culminated during the official medal ceremony with the company presenting winners with Flow merchandise bags.
Off the track, Flow mobilised engagement through the interactive sales booth. The site became a hub for activity, featuring Spin the Wheel promotions and gift certificate giveaways during Q&A intermissions, ensuring the energy of the crowd remained high.
Looking ahead, Flow is preparing to carry this momentum into the upcoming Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships, continuing its investment in the next generation of sporting talent in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.
The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders,
executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.
Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.
In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.
The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.
This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.
(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.
Key Activities Included:
Educational Training Sessions
Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.
House Call Talk Show Feature
A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.
Red Fridays Awareness Campaign
Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.
Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run
In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of
heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.
Digital Health Education Campaign
To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.
Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment
While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:
- Community-based education initiatives
- Preventative screening and early detection programs
- Lifestyle and wellness promotion
- Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes
“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant. “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”
For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc
About TCI Hospital
TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.
