Chief Minister Alf Cannan has indicated support for exploring the direct election of the island’s political leader by the public, stating the idea has “merit” and is “worthwhile continuing to consider”.
His comments came during an evidence session with the Standing Committee on Constitutional, Legal Affairs and Justice, which is reviewing the ministerial system.
Mr Cannan argued that the current process, where the House of Keys elects the Chief Minister based on a manifesto, can lead to a disconnect with the government’s eventual programme.
“I do think there is merit, actually, in considering how a chief minister on a public mandate could be successfully elected with the right caveats in place and the right protections in in place, that is certainly worthwhile continuing to consider,” he said.
He suggested a publicly elected leader, with enhanced responsibilities, could improve democratic clarity and accountability, especially when dealing with complex modern challenges.
“Giving the person who has been asked to lead the government more direct responsibility is has got its justification in terms of determining outcomes,” Mr Cannan told the committee.
The Chief Minister’s evidence forms part of the committee’s ongoing inquiry into the island’s governance structures.