Newly-elected MHK Kirrie Jenkins has formally launched her bid to become the Isle of Man’s next Chief Minister, setting out a vision for a government focused on delivery, accountability and rebuilding public trust.
Her manifesto, titled “A Government That Delivers”, is built around three themes: stabilise, strengthen and streamline, with a focus on improving government performance, growing the economy and providing better public services.
Jenkins, who was elected for Arbory, Castletown and Malew at last month’s General Election, told colleagues that voters want a government that focuses on solving everyday problems rather than “political point scoring”.
She said the new House of Keys must work together regardless of political outlook and place delivery ahead of division.
Potential History Maker
The newcomer to national politics would make history if successful. She would become the Isle of Man’s first female Chief Minister and the first person to move directly from a first election to the House of Keys into the island’s highest political office.
Before entering national politics, Jenkins built a career in the finance sector, specialising in fiduciary services, corporate governance and assurance.
She says that experience has equipped her with skills in accountability, oversight and financial scrutiny. She was first elected to local government in 2021 when she won a seat on Arbory and Rushen Parish Commissioners and was re-elected in 2025.
A key theme of her manifesto is restoring trust between politicians and the public through what she describes as credibility, reliability and honesty in government.
Her proposed programme would begin with ministers reviewing inherited commitments and major projects before developing a strategy focused on economic growth, health, housing, connectivity, infrastructure, government efficiency and food and energy security.
Jenkins also called for a more collegiate style of government, arguing that ministers should lead while parliament scrutinises and contributes ideas, regardless of where they originate.
Summing up her vision, she said: “In the short term, we will stabilise. In the medium term, we will strengthen. In the long term, we will streamline.”
Members of the House of Keys will decide whether that vision is enough to secure her election as the island’s next Chief Minister.
