Chris Thomas must demonstrate a ‘genuinely fresh approach’ to the island’s biggest challenges after becoming Chief Minister, according to veteran political commentator Alistair Ramsay.

Mr Thomas was elected to the top job on Tuesday, defeating Kirrie Jenkins by 16 votes to six in the House of Keys, with two votes ruled invalid.

Mr Ramsay said the new Chief Minister had won on experience but warned that public patience could be limited if people did not see early signs of change.

He said: ‘Chris Thomas won on experience but his challenge is to show the public a genuinely fresh approach to priority issues like the economy, housing and government spending. People will become quickly disillusioned if they don’t see early signs of a change of direction.’

Mr Ramsay said Mr Thomas should establish a clear agenda of national priorities, supported by a timetable for tackling them.

He added that all MHKs should be involved in the process and that the public needed regular, clear updates on progress.

‘The biggest danger for new governments trying to move forward is getting bogged down in technocratic processes and language,’ he said.

Mr Ramsay’s comments come as Mr Thomas begins the process of forming his Council of Ministers and setting out the priorities of the new administration.

The Council of Ministers comprises the Chief Minister and up to nine other ministers. It is responsible for setting policy, providing leadership across government and developing a five-year programme following the General Election.

Mr Thomas has confirmed that Mrs Jenkins will be invited to be part of his Council of Ministers.

Mr Ramsay also praised Mrs Jenkins, who was elected as MHK for Arbory, Castletown and Malew in September, saying she had established herself as a political figure to watch.

‘Kirrie Jenkins, meanwhile, has made history by being the first newly elected MHK to challenge for the top job. She has established herself as a member to watch for the future,’ he added.