Turks and Caicos Islands. Photo: Caribbean Journal

The move was announced on Monday by Turks and Caicos Governor Peter Beckingham.

She is the first Turks and Caicos islander to serve in the role; the post has traditionally been held by foreign nationals.

“Today is a significant day, and a historical one, for us as Turks and Caicos Islanders with Hon. Braithwaite-Knowles as the first local to be appointed to the position of Attorney General,” Turks and Caicos Premier Dr Rufus Ewing said in a statement. “It is our hope that this is just the beginning and that over time we can see more Turks and Caicos Islanders being appointed to critical roles both within the public and private sectors.”

Barthwaite-Knowles had been serving as the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Acting Attorney General since October 2013, following the departure of former Attorney General Huw Shepheard.

“I have worked closely with Rhondalee since my arrival last October, and she has always impressed me with her professional judgement, energy, and willingness to make tough decisions,” Beckingham said in a statement. “Rhondalee Knowles’ was the outstanding candidate in an open and keenly fought selection process, which included international candidates from the Caribbean and Europe.”

The Governor’s office said 26 candidates applied, with five selected for interview.