Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, has publicly addressed recent comments made by Hon. Edwin Astwood, Leader of the Opposition, in response to the government's recently announced $1,000 Cost of Living Relief package.
The Governor’s statement follows media remarks from Hon. Astwood, which she described as "unfounded" and contrary to the principles of constitutional governance.
In her statement, the Governor emphasized that the opposition leader’s claims about her actions, as well as those of the Deputy Governor and Attorney General, were “untrue” and dismissed them as undermining the impartiality and duties of constitutional offices.
"As Governor, I am addressing the comments made by the Hon. Leader of the Opposition regarding the implementation of the Cost of Living Relief initiative. The Hon. Leader of the Opposition is well aware of the roles and responsibilities we hold under our constitutional government," the Governor stated. She further clarified that assertions about unconstitutional conduct on her part, or that of other senior officials, are inaccurate and serve to question the integrity of their offices.
Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam stressed the commitment to neutrality and good governance that her office, along with those of the Deputy Governor and Attorney General, uphold. She pointed out that these roles are intended to be impartial and independent of political influence, adding, “Commentary suggesting otherwise disregards the established responsibilities and impartial standards of our offices, which we continue to uphold.”
Acknowledging the heightened political climate, she urged that public officials critique policies in a way that respects institutional dignity and factual accuracy. “While the Hon. Leader of the Opposition is entitled and even obligated to challenge government policies, I urge that this be done with respect for the facts and in a manner that upholds the dignity of our respective institutions,” she said.
The Governor confirmed that she has written directly to Hon. Astwood to express her concerns and hopes that all parties will continue to uphold cooperation and respect within their respective roles.
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