CWI Governance Reforms Approved

Cricket West Indies (CWI) embarked on a transformative journey on Sunday, March 26, 2023, as its full member shareholders unanimously approved a landmark set of governance reforms, ushering in a new era of transparency, accountability, and renewed focus on the growth of the game. The centerpiece of these reforms is the introduction of term limits for the positions of president and vice-president, a measure long advocated for by stakeholders and now finally realized. This signifies a pivotal moment in the history of West Indies cricket, setting the stage for a more dynamic and forward-thinking institution.

The newly approved term limits restrict the tenure of the president and vice-president to a maximum of three terms of three years each. This crucial change will take effect from the next round of elections scheduled for March 2024, ensuring a regular influx of fresh perspectives and ideas at the highest levels of CWI leadership. The move is expected to foster a more inclusive and representative governance structure, allowing for greater participation and engagement from diverse stakeholders within the cricket community.

The decision to implement term limits comes after years of debate and calls for greater accountability within CWI. This reform addresses a long-standing concern regarding the concentration of power and the potential for stagnation within the organization. By limiting the duration of leadership terms, CWI aims to create a more level playing field, encourage broader participation, and prevent the entrenchment of individuals in positions of power. This move is anticipated to invigorate the organization with new energy and ideas, promoting a more responsive and adaptable leadership structure.

The momentous decision was reached during a meeting of CWI’s full member shareholders held at the organization’s headquarters in Antigua. The meeting saw the participation of all six full members: the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Leeward Islands Cricket Board (LICB), Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), and Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB). This unanimous endorsement by all member boards underscores the collective commitment to reform and the shared desire for a more robust and sustainable future for West Indies cricket.

CWI President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, hailed the passage of the reforms as a “defining moment” for the organization, emphasizing the importance of strong, transparent, and accountable leadership. Dr. Shallow, a long-time advocate for term limits, expressed his satisfaction at seeing this principle finally enshrined within CWI’s governance framework. He highlighted the significance of this reform in addressing the historical concerns surrounding governance within the organization, and emphasized the unity of purpose among the member boards in their commitment to strengthening West Indies cricket.

Dr. Shallow’s own advocacy for term limits, stemming from his experience as president of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Windward Islands Cricket Board, underscores his personal commitment to this principle. He expressed gratitude to the full member shareholders for their support and leadership throughout the reform process, recognizing their instrumental role in driving this initiative forward. The unanimous endorsement of these reforms signifies a watershed moment for CWI, marking a significant step towards building a more resilient and future-oriented organization capable of effectively addressing the challenges and opportunities facing West Indies cricket. This collective commitment to transparency and accountability lays the foundation for a more vibrant and prosperous future for the sport in the region.