Governor General Urges Integrity as 20 Members Take Oaths for Public Bodies

Governor General Sir Rodney Williams has urged newly sworn-in members of four public bodies to ensure their decisions reflect integrity, impartiality and a commitment to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

Twenty members took their oaths during ceremonies at Government House on Wednesday: seven members of the Midwives’ Board, one member of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority Board, three members of the Police Service Commission and nine members of the Central Board of Health.

Sir Rodney said that although the institutions have different statutory and constitutional responsibilities, they share an obligation to protect the public interest, uphold standards and contribute to the country’s quality of life.

“Public office is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. The confidence placed in you must be reflected not merely in the positions you occupy, but in the decisions you make and the standards you uphold,” he said.

The Governor General stressed that taking an oath goes beyond ceremonial procedure and represents a commitment to faithful service, sound judgement and diligence.

Addressing the Midwives’ Board, he highlighted its role in safeguarding mothers and newborns during a particularly vulnerable period of life.

“Behind every professional standard, every regulatory decision and every effort to improve competency and accountability are families who depend upon a healthcare system that is safe, compassionate and trustworthy,” he said.

Turning to the APUA Board appointment, Sir Rodney emphasised the authority’s influence on daily life and national development. Reliable water, electricity and telecommunications, he noted, support households, healthcare, education, tourism and business, while strengthening the country’s resilience.

He also urged the newly sworn-in Police Service Commission members to uphold fairness and transparency in matters affecting police officers.

“Our police officers are entrusted with protecting life and property, preserving public order and upholding the law. It is therefore essential that the systems governing their professional development, advancement and accountability are characterised by fairness, merit, transparency and sound judgement,” he said.

For the Central Board of Health, Sir Rodney underscored the importance of public health work beyond hospitals and medical facilities.

He pointed to community cleanliness, sanitation, waste management, food and water safety, disease prevention and the conditions in which families live and work.

The Governor General concluded that the effectiveness of the country’s laws depends on the integrity, competence and commitment of those responsible for putting them into practice.