Local News
OECS Condemns Threats to Democracy in the British Virgin Islands
Urges UK to Uphold Principles of Self-Determination
The Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) are alarmed at the Governor’s request for additional powers, which, if granted, would enable him to “bypass the Territorial Government and unilaterally implement recommendations” from the Commission of Inquiry (COI) for governance reforms in the BVI.
The OECS strongly condemned any efforts to “undermine the legitimate government of the BVI,” standing in solidarity with its people and government in their pursuit of necessary reforms.
“Commending the diligence” of the democratically elected government and citizens of the BVI for the progress made in implementing governance reforms since the successful elections in April 2023, the OECS leaders acknowledged the ongoing work required for the recommended reforms. They called on the United Kingdom to “provide technical assistance” to support the BVI government in this process.
Expressing deep concern over attempts to “bypass the elected government of the BVI,” the OECS leaders highlighted the potential threat to democratic principles. They emphasized that such actions would “undermine the progress achieved” and “jeopardise the democratically elected government.”
The OECS “concurred with the BVI’s assertion” that granting additional powers to the Governor would be a ‘Colonial Act’ incompatible with modern democratic governance. They reiterated that the responsibility for “strengthening governance in the BVI lies with the elected representatives and the people,” ensuring good governance, transparency, and accountability.
Emphasising the “inalienable right of the people of the British Virgin Islands to self-determination,” the OECS leaders reiterated that any decision to grant the Governor’s request would contravene democratic principles outlined in “international agreements to which the United Kingdom is a party.”
Endorsing the UN resolution on the Question of the British Virgin Islands (A/RES/78/79), the OECS urged the UK government to “work collaboratively with the democratically elected government of the BVI to support the ongoing reforms process.” They strongly urged the UK government to “refrain from granting undemocratic powers to the Governor,” emphasising that such an act would “hinder democracy in the BVI and erode trust” between the people and the government.
The OECS reaffirmed its commitment to providing “technical and other support” to the BVI as an Associate Member of the Organisation, reinforcing their dedication to fostering good governance and democratic principles in the region.
The Crown Lands Management Bill, recently introduced by the Virgin Islands government, under the leadership of the Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier and Minister of Finance, is set to transform the utilisation and safeguarding of land resources for the future.
“At the core of this bill lies a commitment to transparency and the interests of the community,” declared Premier Wheatley. “We have carefully crafted these regulations to reflect our historical context, current challenges, and aspirations for the future.”
The bill sets out strict criteria and processes for the disposal and leasing of Crown Lands, ensuring decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the community. Key components of the legislation include sustainability, affordability, suitability for development, eligibility criteria and responsible management.
Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a comprehensive Land Use Plan, a strategic tool to guide future land allocation and mitigate the adverse impacts of unsuitable development.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, echoed Premier Wheatley’s sentiments, urging residents to familiarise themselves with the bill’s contents.
“The Virgin Islands Crown Lands Management Bill is crucial in shaping our collective future,” remarked Dr. Smith-Berkeley. “It is imperative for every member of our community to engage with this legislation, as it holds the key to our development and prosperity.”
The bill, which governs the administration, management, development, and use of all Crown lands, has already garnered attention and anticipation among residents. To encourage public participation, the government has made the bill accessible on the official Government of the Virgin Islands website, bvi.gov.vg, inviting feedback and comments from citizens.
A stabbing incident that occurred on May 12 at His Majesty’s Prison, resulted in inmate Shakeel Ryan being transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, another individual has been apprehended and is currently being questioned at the Road Town Police Station.
Ryan, who is incarcerated for conspiracy to murder, remained hospitalised at the time of publication.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The retaining wall at the Social Security-funded homes in Joe’s Hill Manor Estate sustained substantial damage after heavy rains inundated the territory on May 7 and 8, leaving significant damage at multiple sites across the area.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far, but efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of all affected areas.
In addition to the damage at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate, the torrential rains caused widespread flooding on the streets, with businesses on Flemming Street bearing the brunt of the floodwaters. The situation was compounded by erosion, landslides, and flash flooding on Virgin Gorda, rendering access to North Sound via Valley impassable and posing hazardous conditions for residents.
As a result of the adverse weather conditions, several banks across the region, including Bank of Asia (BVI), CIBC Caribbean, First Bank Virgin Islands, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) and VP Bank (BVI), were forced to close their doors.
In a precautionary move to prioritise public safety, all public schools across the territory were closed. However, as of today, May 9, they have reopened, except for Elmore Stoutt High School, which will resume face-to-face sessions on Friday, May 10th, 2024.
Virgin Islands Set for Crown Land Management Overhaul with New Legislation
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