FINBAR GRANT COMMANDS PDM LEADERSHIP TRANSITIONS, CALLS FOR UNITY FOLLOWING PARTY ELECTION
Tuesday 14th July 2026 – Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
Attorney-at-law Finbar Grant has praised the recent leadership transition within the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), describing the change as one marked by humility, unity, and political maturity.
In a video commentary shared on Friday, Grant reflected on the party’s recent leadership election, during which Hon. Edwin Astwood stepped down as Leader of the Opposition and PDM Leader, making way for Hon. Douglas Parnell, who was elected unopposed.
Grant commended Astwood’s tenure, saying he believed the former leader had guided the party with dignity during what he described as one of its most difficult periods.
According to Grant, Astwood did not seek the leadership for personal ambition but accepted the role when the party needed stability after the 2021 General Election, when he was the only elected PDM candidate to retain a seat in the House of Assembly.
Grant recalled that during the first term following that election, Astwood and the party’s appointed member, Hon. Alvin Garland, carried the responsibility of opposing government legislation with limited numbers in the House. He said their contributions were measured, reasoned, and focused on the national interest rather than opposing government simply for the sake of opposition.
As additional PDM members returned to the House following subsequent elections and elections, Grant said Astwood continued to lead what he viewed as a disciplined and constructive parliamentary opposition.
A significant part of Grant’s commentary focused on the manner in which Astwood relinquished the leadership.
He described Astwood’s decision not to contest the leadership amid growing calls within the party for change as an example of humility and service, noting that he did not campaign to retain the position or seek to rally delegates in an effort to remain leader.
Grant contrasted that approach with political leadership contests seen elsewhere, saying he viewed Astwood’s willingness to step aside as placing the interests of the party above personal ambition.
Grant also welcomed the election of Hon. Douglas Parnell, expressing confidence that the new leader would continue building party unity.
He pointed to one of Parnell’s first decisions after assuming the leadership—nominating Astwood to serve as Deputy Leader—as a move that demonstrated inclusiveness and continuity rather than division.
According to Grant, retaining Astwood in a senior leadership role suggests a willingness to draw on experience while positioning the party for the future.
Grant concluded by encouraging supporters to thank Astwood for his service while offering their full support to Parnell as he begins leading the party into its next chapter.
The commentary reflects Grant’s personal opinions and observations on the recent developments within the PDM and comes as the party seeks to reorganize ahead of future political challenges.
