By Aabigayle McIntosh

Both sides of the Lower House have given approval to the appointment of Ian Hughes as the next Supervisor of Elections.

The ten lawmakers who were present when Parliament convened on Thursday gave their full support. Hughes is currently the Human Resources and Training Officer.

The resolution was tabled by Prime Minister Gaston Browne who commended him since there was no objection on either side challenging the appointment.

“I take this opportunity to commend him and to remind him of his responsibility, it is easily one of the most significant constitutional positions, and as a government we expect him to be impartial in carrying out his duties.

“We expect him to continue to act with probity just like he did when he was acting supervisor of elections. So again, congratulation to the previous holder of the position we thank her very much for her long tenure,” the Prime Minister said.

Hughes is replacing Dame Lorna Simon who is considered the longest-serving civil servant in the country’s history. She officially retired earlier this year.

Festivals Minister Daryll Mathew also praised Hughes for his work and commitment to the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC).

“I believe he is imminently qualified; he is a man of integrity as was indicated earlier and I believe his experience has really demonstrated that he is more than capable of administering the electoral process in Antigua and Barbuda to the benefit of those you reside here”.

Leader of the opposition United Progressive Party Jamale Pringle also stated, “You are a person from the All-Saints community and I trust that you will serve Antigua and Barbuda well, and I trust that you will serve the people of the countryside even better,” Pringle said.

Barbudan MP Trevor Walker also congratulated the newly appointed election supervisor encouraging him to remain committed and serve with integrity.

Prior to her retirement, Simon stated that Hughes was her choice for a replacement, however, the final decision is left up to Parliament.