The Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce is calling on voters to look beyond constituency‑level promises and consider whether candidates have the capability to govern in the national interest.
While candidates are elected locally, those chosen on September 24 will collectively form the House of Keys, select the next Chief Minister, and shape the island’s economic direction for the next five years.
Chamber says voters should weigh not only local pledges but also a candidate’s judgement, leadership and ability to make difficult island‑wide decisions.
Island’s Future
Chamber President Claire Watterson said the next administration will face connected challenges, economic growth, housing, skills, infrastructure and the cost of government, and will only succeed if enough members can see those issues in context.
She said businesses have made clear through Chamber’s Future of the Economy research that growth is their top priority, with concerns about government delivery, regulatory friction and skills shortages.
Chamber remains independent and non‑partisan, but is urging voters to test whether candidates have the experience, courage and economic understanding the island needs.
Chamber CEO Rebecca George said brave leadership means being honest about the island’s challenges and taking responsibility for tough decisions, adding that constituency elections ultimately produce one House of Keys and determine who can form the next government.
Manx.News spoke to Claire Watterson about the General Election, you can watch the interview below:
