Ascension Island Elects New Council in Close Contest

Of the 546 registered electors, 207 participated, casting a total of 923 valid votes. This represents a voter turnout of approximately 37.9%, demonstrating active engagement from the island's community.

The election saw a diverse field of candidates, with results highlighting the community's varied preferences. Eugene Leroy Bennett secured the highest number of votes with 145 (16%), followed closely by Thomas Tyson George Hickling with 140 votes (15%). Laura Marie Shearer also garnered significant support with 130 votes (14%).

The full breakdown of votes and percentages is as follows:

Eugene Leroy Bennett: 145 votes (16%)

In accordance with the votes cast and the result the following individuals have been duly elected to serve on the Ascension Island Council:

The results of the election will be formally published by certificate in the St Helena Gazette, on the official notice board in the foyer of the Ascension Island Government (AIG) administration building, and also in the Islander, as per s23(3) of the Island Government (Ascension) Ordinance 2008.

The newly elected Councillors are set to be sworn in at the Court House in Georgetown at 17:00 on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. This swearing-in ceremony is open to the public, providing an opportunity for residents to witness the formal commencement of their new representatives' terms.

The Ascension Island public is reminded that formal meetings of the Council are open for attendance and typically occur every six weeks. The next scheduled meeting is slated for 16:30 on Thursday, July 17, 2025. These meetings provide a vital platform for community engagement with the Island's governance. Unlike St Helena process the Ascension Island Council plays a crucial advisory role to the Administrator of Ascension Island on matters pertaining to the island's governance.