Just days after being appointed to the Senate, Senator Joel Anderson Rayne was on Wednesday sworn in as Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships during a ceremony at Government House, taking on what officials described as an expanded role in national service.
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams said the appointment reflected the government’s confidence in Rayne’s “capacity and commitment” to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
Rayne, who was only appointed to the Senate on May 8, has now been tasked with assisting in ministerial administration, parliamentary engagement and government operations as Parliamentary Secretary.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Sir Rodney described the position as one requiring “discipline, dedication and the willingness to serve diligently.”
“Before even taking a seat at the first calling of the Senate, he has now been entrusted with another important responsibility and an expanded role of service to the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” the Governor General said.
Officials also highlighted the significance of the updated constitutional oaths administered during the ceremony, which now place allegiance on Antigua and Barbuda’s Constitution and laws rather than the monarchy.
The ceremony was attended by ministers, senators, family members and other government officials.