Understand
An overview of the role, powers, and history of the Isle of Man's chief minister
Overview
Newly elected members of the House of Keys are set to vote for the Isle of Man's next chief minister, with candidates Kirrie Jenkins and Chris Thomas vying for the position. The chief minister leads the Manx government, sets its overall political direction, builds a Council of Ministers to head up the island's departments, and serves a five-year term. The modern ministerial setup was introduced in 1985, with Sir Miles Walker elected as the first chief minister in 1986.
Key points
- Members of the House of Keys are voting for the Isle of Man's next chief minister between candidates Kirrie Jenkins and Chris Thomas.
- The chief minister leads the Manx government, sets its overall direction, and is accountable for policy delivery.
- The role involves building a Council of Ministers by selecting MHKs to head up the island's eight departments.
- The chief minister coordinates ministerial work and promotes policies, but cannot override individual statutory responsibilities or bypass legislative approval from Tynwald.
- The modern ministerial system was introduced in 1985, replacing the previous chairman of the Executive Council position, with Sir Miles Walker becoming the first chief minister in 1986.