News
PDM Leader says PDM will rise again
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.”
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.
