AUF Leader Defeated In Anguilla

As counting of Election ballots continued in the Valley, Anguilla, at about midnight a major upset was registered in District 4. Incumbant Minister of Finance, the Honourable Victor Banks, longstanding political stalwart and leader of the Anguilla United Front (AUF) with his first opportunity to be Chief Minister of Anguilla was heavily defeated by Mr. Evan Gumbs of the Anguilla United Movement (AUM).  The defeat undoubtedly represents a shift in Anguilla with the effects yet to be known.

Much of the discussion within the AUF in the past two years have centered around the resignation of the outgoing Chief Minister, Osbourne Fleming, with his position to be assumed by Mr. Banks. Their internal search centered around suitable candidates primarily in Districts 1 and 2 to make this all become a reality. Tonight party supporters expressed shock at the result.

Anguilla has seven electoral districts.

In District 1, newcomer, Othlyn Vanterpool of the AUF, defeated Pam Webster of the APP, Mr. Sam Webster of the AUM and independent candidates, Mr. Kennedy Hodge and Mr. Terry Harrigan.

In District 2, Cora Richardson Hodge, the candidate endorsed by outgoing Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming was defeated by Mr. Jerome Roberts of the Anguilla Progressive Party (APP). His election represents the first for the APP lead by young Businessman Mr. Brent Davis.

Districts 6, incumbant and AUM leader, Hubert Hughes secured victory

District 7, Walcott Richardson of the AUM secured victory