Chris Mann’s Island Blog

Well, tomorrow (Friday 9th) is election day here. There are 2 political parties - the PNP (Progressive National Party), who are currently in power and seeking re-election, and the PDM (People’s Democratic Movement), at present in opposition.

Whether there will be a change of government is anybody’s guess - unlike bigger countries we don’t have opinion polls - in any case the electorate is probably too small for an opinion poll to be statistically valid.

As a mere foreigner I don’t get to vote - only “Belongers” - native Turks & Caicos Islanders or those who have become naturalized citizens - can elect members of the Legislative Council.

At the last election in 2003 the outcome was very close, and in two constituencies the results were disputed so that two by-elections had to be called to resolve the matter, which resulted in the overall election result being overturned and the PNP under Dr. Michael Misick gaining power. Whether the PDM under Floyd Seymour will get back this time or Dr. Misick gets a mandate for another four years - I have no idea! We’ll find out in a few days - probably! I’ll let you know what happens!