Governor General Sir Rodney Williams on Thursday urged newly appointed Parliamentary Secretary Joel Anderson-Rayne and Senator Tiffany Strann-Peters to carry out their duties “with humility, with professionalism, wisdom, and respect for the democratic institutions of Antigua and Barbuda.”

Sir Rodney made the remarks during a swearing-in ceremony at Government House where Rayne was appointed Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public-Private Partnerships, while Strann-Peters was sworn in as the 11th and final government senator.

Addressing attendees, the Governor General said public office “is never merely ceremonial” but “a sacred responsibility, entrusted by the people and exercised under the authority of the Constitution.”

He congratulated both appointees and said the ceremony reflected “the continued strengthening of our parliamentary democracy through public service representation and constitutional governance.”

Sir Rodney also highlighted the significance of Strann-Peters’ appointment, noting that it increased the number of female senators to six and brought female representation in Parliament to eight members in the country’s 34-member legislature.

“This is an important and encouraging development for our democracy,” he said.

The Governor General added that the growing involvement of women in leadership helps “strengthen governance, deepen representation, and broaden perspectives in decision-making.”

He also said the appointments send “a powerful message to our young women and girls of Antigua and Barbuda that leadership, public service, and national contribution are open to all who are prepared to serve with excellence and with integrity.”

Speaking about Rayne’s promotion, Sir Rodney noted that the former senator had only recently been appointed to the Upper House before being entrusted with expanded responsibilities as Parliamentary Secretary.

“The confidence placed in Senator Rayne reflects the belief that he possesses the capacity and commitment necessary for this expanded responsibility,” he said.