(Commonwealth_ Nette Sanford set aside the disappointment of not becoming Dominica’s first head of state when she achieved a historic victory in the Kalinago election on Monday night, becoming the first woman elected as Chief for the Territory.
Last October, Sanford, 41, a former opposition United Workers Party (UWP) legislator, had been nominated by the former opposition leader, Jesma Paul Victor, as the opposition candidate to replace the outgoing president, Charles Savarin. Despite not succeeding in that endeavor, Sanford’s political journey took a momentous turn with her latest accomplishment.
Sanford, like the government nominee, 58-year-old Sylvanie Burton, hails from the Kalinago Territory, a region where the descendants of the country’s indigenous people, the Caribs, reside. The Kalinago Territory, with its rich cultural heritage, has long been a symbol of the resilience and endurance of the Carib people.
The preliminary results released on Monday night showed Sanford receiving 693 votes, significantly ahead of her closest rival, Natash Zandra Green, who garnered 272 votes. This decisive victory highlighted the overwhelming support for Sanford within the community.
Among those defeated in the election was Casius Darroux, a former parliamentary representative for the Kalinago Territory, who received 162 votes. Other candidates included Kenrick Dana Auguiste, who received 10 votes; St Cyr, who also garnered 10 votes; Veronica Ideline Burton, with 32 votes; Wilbert Devon Cuffy, with three votes; and Jumadine Faustinus Frederick, who received nine votes.
In her victory speech, Sanford, a registered nurse by profession, emphasized the importance of unity within the Territory. She called for collaboration among all sectors to foster progress and development for the community. Her message of unity and cooperation resonated with many, as the Kalinago Territory faces numerous challenges, including economic development, preservation of cultural heritage, and improving access to healthcare and education.
Sanford’s election as Chief marks a significant milestone not only for the Kalinago Territory but also for Dominica as a whole. Her leadership is expected to bring a new perspective and approach to addressing the issues facing the Territory. With her background in healthcare, Sanford is likely to prioritize improvements in medical services and support for community health initiatives.
The Kalinago Territory, historically marginalized and often overlooked, now has a leader who has experienced firsthand the struggles and triumphs of its people. Sanford’s victory is a testament to the changing dynamics within the community and the increasing recognition of the contributions and capabilities of women in leadership roles.
As the first female Chief of the Kalinago Territory, Sanford’s election is a beacon of hope and progress for the women and youth of the community. It reflects a growing acceptance and encouragement of women stepping into leadership positions traditionally dominated by men. Sanford’s success is likely to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles and actively participate in the political and social spheres of Dominica.
In the coming months, Sanford’s leadership will be crucial in steering the Kalinago Territory towards a future that honors its rich past while embracing modern advancements. Her call for unity and collective effort will be pivotal in achieving the goals she has set for the community.
As the Kalinago Territory looks forward to a new chapter under Sanford’s leadership, there is a sense of optimism and anticipation for the positive changes and developments that lie ahead. Her victory is not just a personal achievement but a significant step forward for the entire Kalinago community and a milestone in Dominica’s political landscape.
