In a letter to Sir Edmund, who was sworn in as Head of State on Wednesday 2nd January, 2013, PAM’s leader, MP Shawn Richards, said that he and his party affirm their commitment to continue to support the Office of the Governor General.
But Richards, who is the parliamentary representative for Sandy Point in the National Assembly, also pointed out to the Governor General that, “At this critical juncture in the history of our parliamentary democracy, we are confident that all can safely look to you to support the will of the People.
Richard said his party is encouraged by Sir Edmund’s exemplary reputation for responsible, just and wise leadership, and are sure that he will carry on the work of the two predecessors, with the dignity and honour for which he is renowned.”
The PAM Leader noted that the Governor General’s appointment marks the culmination of a long career of remarkable achievements and honourable service. Richards expressed his Party’s wishes for a fruitful relationship during His Excellency’s tenure.
He also used the occasion to express his gratitude, on behalf of his Party, in a separate letter to outgoing Governor General, Sir Cuthbert Sebastian, for his 17 years of sterling service to the Federation.
Richards noted: “History will undoubtedly remember you fondly, not only for your illustrious career of public service, but also for earning the distinction as the world’s oldest ever Head of State. As you begin your richly-deserved retirement, it is indeed a privilege for us to count you amongst our distinguished sons of the soil.”
Richards further thanked the nation’s second Governor General for his long support of the People’s Action Movement in which he accepted the invitation to grace the head table at the Party’s Independence Anniversary Ball for many years.
The Parliamentarian expressed appreciation to Sir Cuthbert Sebastian for his amicable relationship with the PAM Party and wished him a happy and peaceful retirement.
The first Governor General of St. Kitts and Nevis was the late Sir clement Arrindell, who served from 1983-1995. He died in 2012.