By Kisean Joseph
The Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Minister Ambassador Lionel Hurst has given an assurance that the upcoming transition from Police Commissioner Atlee Rodney to a successor will not disrupt ongoing investigations or compromise the nation’s security strategy.
Hurst made this statement during Thursday’s weekly Cabinet press briefing while addressing concerns about potential disruptions during the leadership change.
“The movement from one commissioner to the other has always been seamless and has produced no threats to security in the process.”
The Chief of Staff spoke of the established pattern of succession within the police force, highlighting the continuity of leadership that has maintained stability since the 1970s.
“We had Commissioner Wright George in 1974, right up until, for about 15 years. It was followed by Edric Potter, followed by Alvin Goodwin, followed by Mr Tony Smith, and … the first female commissioner, Delano Christopher. And then we had two Canadians who subsequently served,” Hurst recounted.
Hurst explained the constitutional process for selecting a new police commissioner, which involves multiple levels of oversight and approval.
“Under the Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda, it is the Police Service Commission that selects from a short list and that it is the Prime Minister who must ultimately give his approval,” said Hurst, outlining procedural safeguards embedded in the selection process.
According to Hurst, PM Gaston Brown is committed to collaborative governance when making such significant appointments.
“In our case, the case of the Gaston Brown administration, the Prime Minister has brought these matters before the Cabinet so that it is a joint decision of the Cabinet.”
As he expressed confidence in the pool of potential successors, Hurst noted that several highly qualified candidates from within the force are under consideration: “We have some very competent persons who are being considered.”
The Police Service Commission is expected to present its recommendations in the coming weeks, after which the formal approval process will begin with the Cabinet’s review. The Prime Minister will then give final authorization.
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