Senate President eyes autonomy
By Deslyn A Joseph Senator Alincia Williams-Grant was officially re-appointed as President of the Senate, marking her fourth consecutive term leading the Upper House of Parliament. Following her swearing-in ceremony last Friday, the veteran legislator signalled that her new tenure will focus heavily on strengthening the independence of the legislative branch. Addressing the media, Williams-Grant […]
Black News 
By Deslyn A Joseph
Senator Alincia Williams-Grant was officially re-appointed as President of the Senate, marking her fourth consecutive term leading the Upper House of Parliament.
Following her swearing-in ceremony last Friday, the veteran legislator signalled that her new tenure will focus heavily on strengthening the independence of the legislative branch.
Addressing the media, Williams-Grant described her reappointment as an emotional milestone. “It is a daily task, public service, and you come to the office with humility and gratitude,” she stated, noting that she is prepared for the unique challenges of the new dispensation.
She noted that a primary focus for this term is the professionalization of the Senate. She revealed that she has already engaged regional and international partners to facilitate training for the influx of younger senators. Williams-Grant also emphasized a need to separate the identity of the Legislature from the Executive branch.
“We need some autonomy,” she said. “Just like the judiciary has its autonomy, the legislative element is what is next.”
Regarding gender parity, Williams-Grant noted a slight “step back” in the current numbers compared to the 2014 administration. However, she expressed optimism citing a surge of interest from young women during the recent election cycle. She paid tribute to the late Senator Mary-Claire Hurst, crediting her legacy for the rising tide of female interest in Antiguan politics.
