Anette Sanford has been elected as the new Kalinago Chief, marking a historic win as the first woman to hold this position. Preliminary results from the July 22, 2024, election show Sanford securing 693 votes, significantly ahead of her nearest competitor, Natasha Green, who received 272 votes.
Following the announcement of the results, celebrations erupted in the Carib/Kalinago Territory, including motorcades and street festivities. Sanford expressed gratitude to her supporters, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration. “Let us join hands and hearts to put the Kalinago Territory first,” she said. “We need to set aside our political differences and focus on developing our community. As your leader, I will support you and help us accomplish just that.”
Sanford, a registered nurse and former United Workers Party (UWP) Senator, had previously contested the 2019 general elections and the Kalinago Chief elections but faced narrow defeats. Her victory in this election by a margin of 421 votes demonstrates a significant increase in support, with 1,208 votes cast compared to 1,179 in 2019.
In her speech, Sanford promised to work diligently for the Kalinago community. “I promise you I am going to work and I will keep my word,” she stated. Her election win not only reflects her resilience but also the community’s desire for change and progress.
Former parliamentary representative Casius Darroux, who finished third with 162 votes, conceded defeat and pledged his full support to Sanford. The other candidates included Kenrick Dana Auguiste (19 votes), Veronica Ideline Burton (32 votes), Wilbert Devon Cuffy (3 votes), and Jumadine Faustinus Frederick (6 votes).
Sanford’s victory underscores the evolving political landscape in the Kalinago Territory and sets a precedent for female leadership in the community.
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