Montserrat’s new premier, Reuben T Meade, is recovering well following an “incident” that occurred at the close of the swearing-in ceremony for the new government.
In a Facebook statement, his son, Ben Meade, confirmed that his father experienced a health scare at Montserrat Cultural Centre in Little Bay sometime after 5pm on Friday, 25 October.
The premier, aged 70, and several of his new government had been awake until past 5am that same morning while the general election votes were counted and results announced.
“There was an incident involving my father at the conclusion of the swearing-in ceremony for the new government on Friday evening,” Ben Meade said on 26 October.
“Out of an abundance of caution, he was taken to Glendon Hospital to be evaluated.
“He was kept overnight for observation but has since been released and is doing well and back to being his jovial self.”
The younger Meade expressed profound gratitude to the medical professionals who oversaw his father’s care and to those who sought to provide immediate assistance at Montserrat Cultural Centre.
On behalf of his father and family, he also thanked those who called and sent messages to express their well wishes.
“I have no doubt that after relaxing this weekend, he will be ready to get down the business of the tough task of leading the newly elected government in their pursuit of making life better on Montserrat,” he said.
Ben Meade added that the premier will be able to say more on his own behalf at an appropriate time.
“While this is a matter of national interest, and while we appreciate your concern, we now ask that you respect our family’s privacy this weekend,” he said.
Leader of the United Alliance, Reuben T Meade, and four fellow members won seats in the Montserrat Legislative Assembly on 25 October, securing enough positions to form the new government.