House of Assembly (HoA) met today Tuesday, May 29, 2018, in an informal session at the request of Leader of Government business Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable D. Orlando Smith (AL). Photo: VINO/File

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable D. Orlando Smith (AL), is fighting for his political survival along with the United Kingdom (UK) who on May 1, 2018, voted to impose public registry for beneficial ownership on all Caribbean Overseas Territories that could result in a collapse of the local economy. Photo: VINO/File

Dr Smith is fighting for his political survival as rebel backbenchers and his National Democratic Party (NDP) progressive wing are planning to oust him as party President at a meeting scheduled for June 23, 2018.

The 73-year-old Leader is also in a fight with the United Kingdom (UK) who on May 1, 2018, voted to impose public registry for beneficial ownership on all Caribbean Overseas Territories that could result in a collapse of the local economy and widespread layoffs, flight of capital and poverty.

Some ducked the meeting

Many Legislators were a no-show at the informal meeting held at the House of Assembly Chambers, in Road Town the capital city, where the topic was ‘Election demonstration using machines'. 

Members ducking the informal meeting were some of Premier Smith’s front bench Ministers Hon Kedrick D. Pickering (R7), Hon Mark H. Vanterpool (R4) and Hon Myron V. Walwyn (AL).

Also not present according to senior NDP sources were Hon Julian Fraser RA (R3) and Dr the Honourable Hubert R. O’Neal (R9).

The meeting ended around 2:15 P.M., and it is unclear when Legislators will meet for public business.