If Anguilla is to continue to achieve all-round development in every aspect of life, one of the obvious goals is that its people must occupy positions of leadership, influence and authority whenever the opportunity presents itself. When this occurs the proud island, unrepentant of its 1967 revolution, will be seen as really getting somewhere in its resolve to take its place among the developing nations of the world society in which strong and indigenous human resources play a major role.

The recent advertisement of the coming vacancy of Attorney General is one such opportunity for an Anguillian or belonger of Anguilla. The period for applications has passed, but it is hoped that it could never be said that no Anguillians had come forward for consideration. We have had nationals from elsewhere serving in the post over the years and we are grateful to them for their tenure of office and commitment; but it would be foolhardy and a backward step if we were to perpetuate those days by having another foreigner appointed.

On Anguilla Day, while announcing the appointment of local Deputy Governor, Stanley Reid, Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming boasted that he had told the British Government that an Anguillian must be given the post in 2006. Mr. Fleming and his Cabinet, with the support of the people, must now make a similar demand that a capable Anguillian gets the job of Attorney General. In the past, it was erroneously believed by some persons that the Constitution needed to be amended to facilitate such appointments, but it is now clear that the posts of Deputy Governor and Attorney General can simply be filled by advertising and selecting a suitable applicant without touching the Constitution.

Over the years, in the Caribbean area, there have been occasions when the position of Attorney General has been held by elected persons who contested a general election like any politician. It is difficult for such persons not to be seen as politically partisan in matters of state. Luckily for Anguilla at this time, the candidate is to be selected based entirely on his or her professional legal ability, high integrity and strong leadership and management competencies among other requirements. Granted the post may not carry the income level earned by a successful practising lawyer in the private sector, but the distinction and pride associated with the appointment, as well as the honour to serve one’s country in this constitutional position, may be good compensation and an attraction for a committed Anguillian.

As Anguilla develops, its people must advance and hold positions of authority, leadership and management in that development. An Anguillian Attorney General would be yet another proud step in the progress of the island and the advancement of its human capital.

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