Travelers from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are being urged to check their passport validity before visiting the United States, as officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands have begun enforcing the six-month passport validity rule for entry into U.S. territories and the mainland.

According to a recent bulletin issued by the Office of the Deputy Governor in the BVI, the Civil Registry and Passport Office is advising citizens to renew their passports well in advance to avoid disruptions to travel plans.

“The United States Virgin Islands is enforcing the six-month passport validity requirement for entry to U.S. Territories and mainland,” the bulletin stated. “As such, all citizens are encouraged to renew their passports well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.”

The advisory also reminded British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) and British passport holders that they are eligible to renew their passports up to nine months before their expiration date. This early renewal process is designed to prevent last-minute complications and ensure uninterrupted travel.

Authorities strongly recommend that all travelers verify their passport validity before making travel arrangements. The Civil Registry and Passport Office remains available for assistance and inquiries regarding renewal procedures.

For further information, BVI residents are encouraged to contact the Civil Registry and Passport Office at 468-3035.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF)  have charged Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, Virgin Gorda, in connection with a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of Rasheel Thomas Alexander.

Farrell who remains in police custody is expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.

The charge follows an ongoing investigation into the stabbing incident, which has drawn significant public attention. Police have not yet disclosed details surrounding the circumstances of the attack.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Tips can be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477. International callers can reach Crime Stoppers at (284) 800-8477.

Sixth District Representative Honourable Myron V. Walwyn has officially been sworn in as Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition by Governor Daniel Pruce. The ceremony, which took place ahead of the House of Assembly (HoA) sitting on Monday, March 24, marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the British Virgin Islands.

Walwyn’s appointment follows a formal request submitted to the Governor on Friday, March 21, by members of the recently formed opposition faction known as “The Alliance.” The letter, signed by Walwyn, Second District Representative Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull, and Honourable Stacy R. Mather, called for Walwyn to replace Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton as Opposition Leader. The Governor accepted the request in accordance with Section 70(5) of the British Virgin Islands Constitution, which allows opposition members to determine their leader by majority vote.

With The Alliance holding a majority within the Opposition, surpassing Skelton of the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) and Eighth District Representative Honourable Marlon A. Penn of the National Democratic Party (NDP), the transition was all but assured. This realignment comes in the wake of internal disagreements within PVIM, particularly over a recent attempt by Skelton and Penn to dissolve PVIM and integrate its members into the NDP. That effort led to a rift within the Opposition, prompting Mather and Turnbull to shift their support away from Skelton.

The political maneuvering has raised speculation about potential challenges from Skelton or Penn in response to the change in leadership. However, for now, Walwyn assumes his role as Opposition Leader, with the responsibility of unifying the bloc amid ongoing internal divisions.

Meanwhile, the ruling Virgin Islands Party (VIP), led by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, continues to maintain its eight-seat majority in the HoA. With the Opposition now under new leadership, political analysts will be watching closely to see how Walwyn steers his faction in the months ahead.

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