Speaker of the House Sir Gerald Watt

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Sir Gerald Watt has officially stepped down as the Speaker of the House.

Sir Gerald made the official announcement just a few hours ago in Parliament.

He spoke briefly, thanking Prime Minister Gaston Browne for appointing him in 2014.

He mentioned that he had immense pride in stepping down after contributing positively to the nation.

Sir Gerald received a standing ovation after speaking.

Prime Minister Browne was the first to speak congratulating Sir Gerald on a long and colorful political career but also admonishing the new Speaker of the House to lean on Sir Gerald’s wisdom and contributions as a stepping stone.

MP for Barbuda Trevor Walker also had warm words for Sir Gerald saying that Sir Geralds contributions have been remarkable especially for someone of his age.

He said it is important that those on the Opposition recognize and celebrate him for his efforts in improving Parliament.

Sir Gerald was appointed in 2014 as the Speaker of the House.

In September, news broke that Sir Gerald would be stepping down.

The 85-year-old has had a long and distinguished career in public service, serving in several key positions, first as a Senator from 1967 to 1971.

 He was elected to the House of Representatives from 1971 to 1975, serving as Minister for Public Utilities and Communications (1971-1973), and then as Attorney General and Minister for Legal Affairs and Labour (1974-1975).

Sir Gerald was elevated to the position of Queen’s Counsel in November 1997 and has been Head of Chambers and senior partner in the law firm Watt, Dorsett & Company.

He also served as President of the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association (ABBA) from 1983 to 1986.

PM Browne also added that he will be going to Cabinet with the suggestion to honor Sir Gerald beyond Parliament.

It was also the first sitting since the tragic passing of St. Peters Member of Parliament (MP) Asot Michael who was murdered in his Dry Hill Home earlier this month.

A moment of silence was held for MP Michael.

Michael was found on the floor of his home in a corridor with multiple wounds, one very prominent in his chest.

Michael became the first Independent MP in Antigua after winning his seat for the St. Peter’s constituency. A seat he has held for almost two decades, first as a member of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) and then as an independent candidate.

He was also a former Tourism and Energy Minister.