Local News
Akeem Pickering Takes the Helm at British Virgin Islands Ports Authority
The British Virgin Islands Ports Authority (BVIPA) is set to chart a new course under the leadership of Akeem Pickering, who has been appointed as the managing director for an initial two-year term. This appointment comes as the Authority seeks to strengthen its position in the maritime sector and enhance its role in the development of the British Virgin Islands.
Pickering, who previously served as the BVIPA’s acting deputy managing director, brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. He has a history of strategic leadership and successful management, making him a standout choice for this crucial role.
BVIPA Chair Roxane Ritter-Herbert spoke highly of Pickering’s qualifications, stating, “Akeem Pickering’s exceptional leadership skills and unwavering commitment to the growth of the BVI’s maritime sector make him the ideal candidate to lead the Authority into the future. We believe that under his guidance and direction, the BVIPA will thrive and make significant contributions to the development of the British Virgin Islands.”
In his new role, Pickering will be responsible for directing the Authority’s business operations, overseeing the workforce, driving strategic initiatives, and collaborating closely with key stakeholders to strengthen the BVIPA’s presence in the region’s trade and travel landscape.
“In the maritime industry, success is the result of collective effort, not individual strength,” Pickering emphasized. “I have returned to the organisation with renewed dedication and focus, and my aim is to strengthen the BVIPA with this revitalized commitment. Together we can build a more robust and interconnected BVIPA, one that efficiently manages operations while cultivating lasting relationships.”
Pickering’s appointment marks a new chapter for the BVIPA as it aims to navigate the dynamic waters of the maritime sector and further contribute to the development of the British Virgin Islands. With his experience and vision, the Authority is poised to make significant strides in the region’s trade and travel landscape under his leadership.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office has announced an increase in fees for United Kingdom passports, effective April 8, 2026.
According to the office, the revised fees apply to new, renewal and replacement passport applications, as well as other related services.
Under the new structure, the cost for a new, renewal or replacement adult passport has been set at £116.50, while the fee for a child passport is £75.50. Adult frequent traveller passports will cost £130.50, and child frequent traveller passports £89.50.
The fee for changes to an existing passport will also be £116.50. In addition, a delivery fee of £14.32 will apply.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office advised that the updated fees are now in effect and apply to all relevant applications submitted on or after April 8.
A bill proposing wide-ranging changes to the Virgin Islands’ electoral system was introduced in the House of Assembly today, Tuesday, April 22, by Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley.
The proposed Elections (Amendment) Act, 2026, is based on consultations with stakeholders and recommendations from observer missions, as well as input from the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections.
“This is the Elections Amendment Act 2026, following extensive deliberations with a number of entities, including a committee of the House who looked at recommendations of various observer missions that came to The Virgin Islands,” Hon. Wheatley said during the continuation of the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly.
He said the bill also builds on work undertaken by the previous House of Assembly. “Also, the last House of Assembly looked at a number of recommendations that were forwarded through the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections,” he said.
Hon. Wheatley said the proposed amendments were developed through discussions on changes to the Elections Act. “We had very extensive discussions about amendments to the Elections Act, and of course, those recommendations were used to make this Amendment Act. This received its first reading some time ago, and now we are here to debate this Elections Act, so that it can therefore become law,” he said.
The bill introduces several reforms to the electoral framework, including expanded access to voting through mobile and curbside options for individuals with physical limitations and the formal use of assistive technologies for voters with disabilities.
It also provides for the establishment of a Department of Elections and an Elections Advisory Committee to oversee voter registration and election administration.
Additional provisions include a formal Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates, along with new rules governing campaign donations and political financing.
The legislation also proposes restrictions on the announcement of major public grants or projects shortly before an election, aimed at addressing potential incumbency advantages.
The bill has already received its first reading and is expected to be referred to a committee when the House of Assembly resumes on April 30, 2026, at 10 a.m., where it will undergo further review as part of the legislative process.
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