The Antigua and Barbuda Fishermen Co-operative Society Limited has officially returned to member control following the election of a new board during an Annual General Meeting convened by the Supervisor of Co-operatives on Sunday.

The meeting, held at the Fisheries Conference Room at Point Wharf, brought an end to a prolonged twelve-year period of legal and administrative uncertainty that had left the society unable to function under a democratically elected leadership.

Acting under the provisions of the Co-operative Societies Act, the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC), through the Office of the Supervisor of Co-operatives, executed thier mandate to facilitate the process that would restore governance to the organization. The Electoral Commission was also engaged to ensure the integrity and transparency of the election.

Members gathered to receive an update on the status of the society before proceeding to the nomination and election of directors and committee representatives. The process concluded with the installation of a new leadership team, which received the full support of those present.

For many in attendance, the outcome represented more than an election. It signaled the restoration of a voice that fishermen felt had been absent for more than a decade.

The successful conclusion of the process was widely welcomed within the fishing community, with members expressing appreciation to both the FSRC and the Electoral Commission for guiding the society through a difficult chapter and ensuring that the will of the membership prevailed.

New Board of Directors

• Sir Anderson Roberts

• Mr. Gary Gore

• Mr. Orel Benjamin

• Mr. Dale Stoute

• Mr. Euro. Henry Jr.

• Mr. Colin Francis

• Mr. Charles Simon

New Supervisory and Compliance Committee

• Ms. Mavis George

• Ms. Fellisa Simon

• Mr. Devon Revan

The new board now inherits the responsibility of rebuilding and strengthening the co-operative while renewing confidence among members. Attention is expected to focus on improving governance, increasing participation, and creating opportunities that directly benefit fishers and their families.

The election closes one chapter in the history of the society and opens another, with fishermen united behind a leadership team they have chosen for themselves and a renewed commitment to the principles of co-operation that first brought the organization into existence.