It is customary in most parts of the world for a Head of State or the Government in general to be examined, as far as achievements or leadership policies and styles are concerned, in the first 100 days in office. That’s far less than a third of the 365 days that make up a calendar year. In that short period, the Anguilla United Movement of Chief Minister Hughes which came in Government on February 15, 2010, on a wave of popularity, has encountered various challenges and setbacks. This is unfortunate for any new Government promising to rebuild the island’s shattered economy and return the unemployed masses to work.

The expectations of the people have been lofty, but except for the much-criticised Viceroy project during pre-election times, no other new source of mass employment has materialised. Sadly, despite the flurry of activity to re-start the Flag/Temenos project and the hope it held out, to this day nothing positive has appeared. There has been much talk about a string of new projects in the pipeline, but to date no construction work has started. The lack of movement in these and other projects is by no means an attempt to criticise the Government for failure to deliver on promises. The stark reality is that Anguilla is continuing to be negatively impacted by the global financial and economic situation and there is hardly anything one can do about it except to hope for a quick recovery. An obvious lesson to be learnt is that it is only when you are in a given situation that the real impact is felt, compared to looking in from the outside.

Thankfully that Viceroy and Cap Juluca, from the development and sale of villas and other associated agreements under the re-written MOUs, have become increased contributors to the economy. Indeed, in his Radio Anguilla interview this week, the Chief Minister disclosed that income derived from Cap Juluca had made it possible to pay civil servants this month, rather than doing so through borrowing.

Despite the gravity of the situation, the Government will be well advised, in the face of growing disappointment among the populace, to redouble its efforts to start the ball rolling by getting one or more projects delivered. The Flag/Temenos project may well hold the key to much financial and economic relief if the Government tries harder and is probably more flexible in its negotiations without, of course, running the risk of compromising Anguilla and its people. Despite the financial obligations that seem to engulf the project, and probably stall agreements, the fact that it is virtually at an advanced state of construction, should be an incentive to new investors who might not really be hard to find.

As if bedeviled, the Government has found itself in a plight in which there have been three budgets presented in less than a year with two disapprovals by the British Government. Whatever are the reasons, it is both unfortunate and embarrassing. One can only hope that with the cooperation of the two Governments, and the technocrats on both sides, that agreement can be quickly reached on a revised 2011 budget. Taxation is expected to continue to be a prominent feature of the budget. It cuts across the Anguilla Government’s pre-election vow not to raise or introduce new taxes and fees but, like the promise to turn around the economy within a short time of ascension to office, in these difficult times this has turned out to be futile.

Before getting off on a good start, the Government is talking about independence. It is not that Anguilla is ready for this advanced status, but because it probably appears to be a way to govern without what may be regarded as a nuisance to account to the administering power especially in terms of borrowing and governance. Such a bid for independence depends on a referendum but, rather than achieving the hoped for result, it might likely turn out to be the biggest defeat for the Government. To contend for independence at this time, as a solution to the economic crisis, is to yield to panic and the temptation and ego for further and unnecessary political power.

Then there is the question of relationships that the Government must work towards mending. There is no point picking a fight with the Governor or the British Government. It will get Anguilla and its people nowhere. And there is a need to tone down the rhetoric which many people are uneasy about. The Government needs to look at its conduct and leadership style and restore unity within its own ranks. This is important to ensure stability the lack of which can eventually result in its demise. The Government must also set an example for the citizenry and, along with the Opposition, extend a hand of friendship and camaraderie to heal the divisions that exist on the island. Unnecessary incitement of the people to behave in any unbecoming manner has no room in our small society. The past 365 days have had too many misfortunes and blunders, some of which could not be avoided and others of our on making. May the coming year in office be a better one for the Government and people of Anguilla.

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