Local News
Premier Urges UK to Revoke Order in Council Suspending BVI Constitution
Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley has called on the United Kingdom to withdraw its Order in Council, which grants the power to suspend the British Virgin Islands’ constitution, during his address to the United Nations (UN) Fourth Committee on Special Political and Decolonisation at the 79th Session of the General Assembly in New York. Premier Wheatley stated that the order is no longer necessary, as governance reforms in the Territory are nearing completion.
“We maintain that the Order in Council is undemocratic, unnecessary, and should be lifted. Its removal would not only improve the UK-BVI relationship but also enhance the UK’s standing regionally and internationally,” Premier Wheatley said.
He also noted that he looked forward to welcoming the new UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, Hon. Stephen Doughty, to the British Virgin Islands in November for further discussions. The Premier expressed optimism that these talks would help forge a modern partnership between the UK and the BVI, focusing on self-determination, sustainable development, climate resilience, economic stability, security, and democracy.
Additionally, Premier Wheatley lauded the successful visit by the UN Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24), which conducted a fact-finding mission in the Territory from 26-27 August to assess progress on decolonisation. He thanked the C-24, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and the UK’s Permanent Mission to the UN for their roles in ensuring the visit took place.
While at the UN, Premier Wheatley met with Her Excellency Ambassador Menissa Rambally, Chair of the C-24 and Permanent Representative of Saint Lucia to the UN. Ambassador Rambally reaffirmed the C-24’s commitment to supporting the will of the people of the British Virgin Islands, as mandated by the committee.
Premier Wheatley delivered his statement on 7 October, accompanied by Special Envoy Mr. Benito Wheatley. The general debate of the Fourth Committee concluded on 16 October.
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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.
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
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