Alderney goes to the polls

Friday 29 November 2024

Voters in Alderney will elect the island's new President tomorrow.

William Tate and Mark Smith have both been nominated.

The incumbent, William Tate has been in position for five years after being elected originally in 2019 for an 18 month period replacing his predecessor Stuart Trought who resigned before his term of office had expired. Mr Tate was then re-elected in 2020 for a full-four year term.

A retired barrister he faces Mr Smith in tomorrow's election. 

Mr Smith holds numerous positions in the community in Alderney through his involvement with sports and charity organisations.

The ballot boxes will be open at the Island Hall between 09:30 and 18:30 so voters can have their say.

The results of the two way competition will be announced later on during the evening, also at the Island Hall.

Whoever wins the election will serve the States, and island, as President for the next four years.

As the highest ranking civil servant in Alderney, the President is non-political. The President does have the right to cast the deciding vote in the event of a tied vote however. 

The President represents the island at home and abroad as well as overseeing States meetings. They will rank after a member of the Royal Family, directly representing the Sovereign in the island.