Opposition Members Meet With Governor to Voice Concerns Over Law Enforcement Review

Three members of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition met with His Excellency, Governor Daniel Pruce, on Monday, April 28, to raise what they described as “serious concerns” regarding the recently published Criminal Law Enforcement Review and the Commission of Inquiry.

The two-hour meeting was attended by Hon. Myron Walwyn, Leader of the Opposition and Sixth District Representative; Hon. Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull, Second District Representative; and Hon. Stacy Mather, At-Large Representative and Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly. The Opposition members said the meeting was a vital opportunity to present the views of Virgin Islands residents at the highest level of government.

“We were glad for this opportunity to raise concerns from the public with respect to the Criminal Law Enforcement Review,” Hon. Walwyn said in a statement issued after the meeting. “His Excellency listened intently and gave us the assurance that the concerns raised on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands will be given much consideration.”

Among the key issues raised was the Opposition’s strong disagreement with a recommendation that the Governor re-specify his powers under Section 60 of the Virgin Islands Constitution. That section outlines the Governor’s authority over external affairs, defense, internal security, and the public service.

The Opposition also objected to a proposal that would transfer responsibility for customs and immigration from the local government to the Governor’s office. They insisted that these matters remain under the control of locally elected officials.

Additionally, members voiced firm opposition to any suggestion that sea ports and airports on the sister islands be closed — a recommendation they argue would severely impact the local economy and increase the vulnerability of residents in those areas.

“The matters addressed in the Criminal Law Enforcement Review have significant implications for the governance and the future of law enforcement in our territory,” the Opposition said in a joint statement. “It is therefore critical that the voice of the people is heard and carefully considered in any reforms that are proposed.”

The meeting comes as Virgin Islands authorities continue to weigh a series of recommendations emerging from both the law enforcement review and the 2022 Commission of Inquiry, which examined allegations of corruption and poor governance.

Opposition members said they remain committed to ensuring that “transparency, fairness, and respect for the rights and aspirations of the Virgin Islands people remain at the forefront of any ongoing or future reforms.”

Governor Pruce has not yet issued a public statement regarding the meeting.