St Helena is governed within a democratic system where the people of St Helena elect members of the public to represent them in Legislative Council (LegCo).

Following a General Election in October 2021, the system of governance changed from a Council Committee system to a Ministerial system, to allow for the election of a Chief Minister by secret ballot from amongst the 12 Elected Members. 

The Chief Minister then recommends to the Governor the appointment of 4 Minsters and together they form the Executive Council.

Part of the remit of the seven Elected Members of Legislative Council who are not Ministers will be to examine and scrutinise the performance of sectors of government through Select Committees.  This will include scrutinising the decision making of Ministers and contribute to ensuring the effective use of public funds. 

Select Committees

Select Committee 1

Is responsible for the following sectors of Government:
Health and Social Care,
Environment, Natural Resources and Planning, and
Education, Skills and Employment;

Chairman, Hon Robert Midwinter
Member, Hon Julie Thomas
Member, Hon Ronald Coleman
Member, Hon Dennis Leo
Secretary, Marita Bagley

Order Papers

Select Committee 2

Is responsible for the following sectors of Government:
Treasury,
Economic Development,
Safety, Security and Home Affairs, and
Central Support Service.

Chairperson, Hon Dr Corinda Essex
Member, Hon Clint Beard
Member, Hon Derek Thomas
Secretary, Anita Legg

Order Papers

Select Committees (Establishment) Order 2026