Local News
Celebrating the Legacy of H. Lavity Stoutt: A Tribute to a Pioneering Politician
A Flashback on H. Lavity Stoutt’s Impact
The 24th H. Lavity Stoutt Commemorative Celebration is set to unfold from February 27th to March 7th, 2024.
This event pays homage to the legacy of H. Lavity Stoutt, a trailblazing politician who left an indelible mark on the history of the territory.
H. Lavity Stoutt, revered as the first and longest-serving Chief Minister of the British Virgin Islands, remains a towering figure in Caribbean politics. Throughout his distinguished career, Stoutt exemplified unwavering commitment and visionary leadership, earning the admiration and respect of his constituents.
Stoutt’s remarkable tenure spanned five decades, marked by an unprecedented string of electoral victories. He triumphed in five general elections, securing mandates in 1967, 1979, 1986, 1991, and 1995. His tenure as Chief Minister encompassed three non-consecutive terms, serving from 1967 to 1971, 1979 to 1983, and 1986 until his passing in 1995.
Under Stoutt’s stewardship, the British Virgin Islands experienced significant advancements and transformative initiatives across various sectors. His visionary policies laid the foundation for economic growth, infrastructure development, and social progress, shaping the territory into the vibrant community it is today.
Beyond his political achievements, Stoutt’s legacy endures as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. His commitment to public service, integrity, and inclusivity continues to resonate, serving as a guiding light for leaders and citizens alike.
His legacy remains etched in the hearts and minds of all who cherish the rich heritage of the British Virgin Islands.
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Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
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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