Isle of Man could get first female chief minister

The Isle of Man could have its first female chief minister, depending on the outcome of a crucial vote later this month.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew member Kirrie Jenkins is up against Douglas Central's Chris Thomas for the top job in Tynwald.

Members will vote for their preferred candidate in the historic parliament on 13 October.

Jenkins would make history if elected, as not only the first chief minister as a first-time MHK, but as the island's first female chief.

Thomas has been a member of the House of Keys since 2013.

In his statement, Thomas said his "record shows I can work together with, and lead teams including, politicians, officers, stakeholders, technical experts and the public to get things done".

"That is why I am standing in this election," he said.

His nomination was proposed by Ramsey MHK Robert Cowell, and seconded by Middle MHK Jane Poole-Wilson.

Thomas cited several pieces of work he had undertaken in his various political roles.

He said: "I have been a minister for slightly less than half of my 13 years as a central Douglas MHK, getting elected four times including twice topping the poll with a large vote share."

He explained that he had served as minister for Treasury, Infrastructure, and Policy and Reform departments, as well as having chaired bodies including the Public Services Commission.

In contrast, newcomer Jenkins said the next chief minister should reflect the public's call for change in Tynwald.

Fifteen of the 24 MHKs are newcomers, having been elected at the general election on 24 September.

In her statement, Jenkins said: "The degree of change in this House of Keys signals the people's desire to see a departure from the 'old ways' to a better way. It would be remiss of us to ignore that sentiment."

She also said the next in the role should be an MHK that topped the polls in their constituency, something she did that Thomas did not this time.

She added that "the MHKs, the civil service and the public need to be brought together to solve big challenges over the next five years".

Jenkins was proposed by Glenfaba and Peel MHK Katrina Baptist and seconded by Ayre and Michael member Stephen Broad.

On Tuesday, 13 October, a sitting of the Keys takes place at 10:00 BST when the candidates will make an opening address and face questions tabled by members.

A ballot is then held to identify a preferred nominee, who must secure at least 13 votes. A second vote is then held to confirm the appointment.

If no candidates attract the required votes, the Speaker can call for fresh nominations.

Once selected by the MHKs, the nominee is formally appointed by the lieutenant governor.

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