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The new Complaints Commissioner: Mrs. Cheryl Ann Jones
Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, announced on 9 October 2025 the appointment of Mrs. Cheryl Ann Jones as the new Complaints Commissioner, following the successful completion of the term of Complaints Commissioner Rita Gardiner. This appointment underscores the Governor’s commitment to supporting the continued effectiveness of the Office in promoting and protecting good governance and administrative justice across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Following consultation with the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition, in accordance with Section 99 (1) of the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Mrs. Cheryl Ann Jones has been formally appointed as Complaints Commissioner.
Mrs. Jones, a former Permanent Secretary, brings to the post more than three decades of distinguished public service, marked by a deep understanding of government operations and a steadfast commitment to the principles of good governance. Her leadership across key portfolios, including Education, Tourism and Environment, has demonstrated her proven ability to navigate complex public-sector matters and to advance reforms with balance and integrity. These qualities will undoubtedly strengthen the work of the Office in its next chapter.
The appointment follows the successful conclusion of Mrs. Rita Gardiner’s tenure, which ends on 31st October 2025. Her Excellency extended sincere thanks to Mrs. Gardiner for her dedicated service and her significant contribution in advancing the work of the Commission across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Her Excellency the Governor stated:
“I wish to acknowledge and thank sincerely outgoing Commissioner, Mrs. Rita Gardiner, for her committed service and leadership in advancing the mission of the Office of the Complaints Commissioner. Her stewardship has laid a strong foundation for accountability, fairness and confidence in the delivery of public services.
As we welcome Mrs. Cheryl Ann Jones to this important role, I am confident that her wealth of experience and proven leadership will ensure the continued growth and success of the Office of the Complaints Commissioner. Mrs. Jones has long been recognised for her dedication to public service and commitment to integrity in government. I look forward to seeing her lead the Office in deepening its impact and furthering the principles of transparency and justice for all.”
Mrs. Cheryl Ann Jones stated she is honoured to be appointed in the position of Complaints Commissioner:
“I am honoured to accept the role of Ombudsman and grateful for the trust it reflects. I will bring my years of experience in problem-solving, governance and stakeholder engagement to deliver fair, timely resolutions. My focus is simple: listen carefully, act impartially, and fix root causes, not just symptoms. I look forward to working with all parties to strengthen transparency, accountability and public confidence.”
This announcement comes as the Turks and Caicos Islands joins the global observance of Ombuds Day; a day dedicated to promoting awareness of the vital role that ombuds institutions play in ensuring accountability and good governance. As part of the celebration, the Office of the Complaints Commissioner is undertaking an outreach campaign this week across all Islands, engaging with the public to raise awareness about the role and services of the Complaints Commission. The appointment of Mrs. Jones offers an encouraging moment to recognise the dedicated service of Mrs Rita Gardiner and celebrate the continued strengthening of the work of the Office of the Complaints Commissioner.
Source: Press release from the Governor's Office Turks and Caicos Islands (received via the Office of the Complaints Commissioner of the Turks and Caicos Islands)
