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.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
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