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Cindy Rosan shut out of Premier’s press conference

- other media entities boycott press conference
Reporters boycotted the press conference by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) after Rosemary Cindy Rosan (2nd from right) was reportedly barred from it. Photo: VINO
Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) updating the public today, February 20, 2023, on his attendance at the recent CARICOM Meeting in The Bahamas. Photo: Facebook
Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) updating the public today, February 20, 2023, on his attendance at the recent CARICOM Meeting in The Bahamas. Photo: Facebook
Reporters interview Rosemary Cindy Rosan, right, outside of the RJT Edifice where she was barred from attending the Premier’s Press Conference on February 20, 2023. Photo: Team of Reporters
Reporters interview Rosemary Cindy Rosan, right, outside of the RJT Edifice where she was barred from attending the Premier’s Press Conference on February 20, 2023. Photo: Team of Reporters
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Controversial talk show host Rosemary Cindy Rosan was reportedly barred from attending a press conference called today, February 20, 2023, by Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) to give a report on his attendance at the recent CARICOM Meeting in The Bahamas.

According to reports reaching our newsroom, Rosan of Guavaberry Media was twice asked to excuse herself from the press briefing.

Prior to the press conference, Chief Information Officer Ms Desriee Smith had first reportedly invited Rosan to a private meeting and admonished her not to leave her personal belongings behind.

Rosan returned shortly after and informed her colleagues that she was asked to leave as the Premier refused to have her present.

Shortly after, a uniformed female police officer attempted to have Ms Rosan leave; however, the talk show host refused.

After more than 45 minutes past the scheduled start of the press conference, all reporters present took a unified decision to boycott the press conference as a show of solidarity to Rosan and press freedom.

‘The Premier didn’t want me there’- Rosan

Asked about the reasons given for wanting to refuse her access to the press conference, Rosan told Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) that none was given.

“They gave none besides the premier didn’t want me there.

“Same thing he has done with Tola Radio. Told the owner I’m not to be a part of the panel when he is on and he’s not to accept questions from me,” Rosan said.

Chief Information Officer Smith did not respond to our request for comment; however, she issued a statement moments ago, but did not address the matter with Rosan.

“Regrettably, we could not bring the press briefing as expected, and we do apologise for this inconvenience.

In place of the press briefing, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley was able to report to the public via a press statement to provide the public with an update on his CARICOM meeting attendance,” Smith stated.

Premier Wheatley also did not respond to our request for comment.

Rosan has been a fierce critic of the Premier and has also used press conferences to level serious allegations against the Premier, including about violating Labour laws and infidelity.

65 Responses to “Cindy Rosan shut out of Premier’s press conference”

  • I stand with the press (20/02/2023, 17:32) Like (66) Dislike (24) Reply
    Do not put your knee on the necks of the press to drown out freedom of speech . This is mental slavery . As a Nationalistic Black Man do not allow your personal emotions to lead you into making unwise decisions . This was a foolish blunder on your part and is helping to sink
    Political nails in your beig reelected bad move Hon Premiet
    • Mad mad mad (20/02/2023, 18:39) Like (44) Dislike (32) Reply
      Sindee is not press. He “newsroom” is her cell phone (when the police have not seized it). I would not let her into any press conference. She is a disgrace. Does Guavaberry Media have a press trade licence.
      • Trade License (21/02/2023, 07:24) Like (16) Dislike (5) Reply
        Every member of the ‘press’ should be required to produce a trade license - having a Facebook page does not make you a member of the press.
        • Outlaw (21/02/2023, 13:27) Like (1) Dislike (2) Reply
          @ Trade License. Totally agree. Zan Lewis is not a Journalist. Let Zan tell the people where he studied Journalism.
  • Reporters (20/02/2023, 17:49) Like (37) Dislike (90) Reply
    None of them are from here and should be send home for their disrespecting behavior. No other country could they insult the Premier and Governor like they do it here ????
    • @Reporters (20/02/2023, 18:18) Like (52) Dislike (11) Reply
      You sound really silly! Do you understand what really happened? The Premier for whatever reason took a stance that in any part of the world would be deemed as PRESS SANCTION, maybe you should google why that is bad. Now let's say it was only "Local" reporters - what that has made it right in your eyes? You are here saying this on VINO which by all definitions is a media. Do you know if such things as what happened today is not nipped in bud as it was it can open the door for shut down of this blogging section that you are enjoying and other worst freedom of speech sanctions. It may sound far fetch but you should research what a precedent is and how one action can be used to justify another. Persons like you who is from here and like to say what you like can also be pulled in if the Government's feelings is hurt by what you say. That is not the BVI I know, and it is not what I want for my children. I stand with the media - I DONT CARE WHERE THEY ARE FROM! My BVI is a Democracy, and will never close my eyes and watch it become a dictatorship.
    • @Reporters (20/02/2023, 20:02) Like (41) Dislike (23) Reply
      Well I am from here and granted Cindy is at times out of line, but the Premiership is not a dictatorship! He was
      Absolutely Wrong! He is not above democracy! Power has gotten to his head!
    • Trump (21/02/2023, 06:55) Like (11) Dislike (4) Reply
      This is so TRUMP like. Did the premier steal his playbook? FREE the PRESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  • Ok (20/02/2023, 17:50) Like (6) Dislike (5) Reply
    Very good
    • Lei lun (21/02/2023, 19:23) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Who spoke to Rosan? What was it about? What was the topic? Why was the police called? What was Rosan doing? I am happy for freedom of the press but none on the press up to this time given a true narrative of what happened. Freedom of press yet some simple facts not published. Did the Premier speak to Rosan at any time? Did he asked her to leave the press conference? Why did she not leave when asked? Is Rosan press pass a guarantee that any and every question must be answered? Theres a time for everything under the sun . Some press or pressers comes with their own agenda when they’re not in charge but wishes to be the prettiest bird.
  • resident (20/02/2023, 18:01) Like (63) Dislike (16) Reply
    My advice to the premier is to walk the high road. Do not antagonise the press. Yes we know that Cindy can be a bit overbearing but to shut her out does not bode well for you. If she asks a personal question just don't answer. Treat her respectfully and answer the questions the best way you can. To do otherwise is throwing coals on the fire that you don't want at this time.
  • I Love Cindy (20/02/2023, 18:04) Like (33) Dislike (31) Reply
    This is good news that the rest of the Press stood up for her. She is a Voice to be reckoned with. Fire Cindy fire ????
    • @I Love Cindy (20/02/2023, 20:17) Like (36) Dislike (3) Reply
      I am pleased that the press stood up for ‘Freedom of the Press’! Cindy however, is at times out of control and should not take this as a victory but more so as God’s grace. She needs to be a wiser journalist and the Premiere a wiser leader. Obviously, wisdom cannot be taught in books. No matter how many degrees you hold a man/woman without wisdom is a fool!
  • crazy (20/02/2023, 18:05) Like (30) Dislike (26) Reply
    A thumbs up for press freedom. Continue to report Cindy, great job. To hell with Slowman. Great stance taken by the press corp against this illigimate premier. Bal.. too soft. Harlot.
  • Eyes Wide Open (20/02/2023, 18:06) Like (17) Dislike (1) Reply
    this is sad sad sad
  • both side (20/02/2023, 18:09) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
    United we stand, D....... we fall.
    Mouth open, story jump out.
  • HMMM (20/02/2023, 18:12) Like (40) Dislike (14) Reply
    This premier is very childish!! Where is the democracy in the country? How can he want to censor rather mefdua? The premier is a public figure and should know how to behave as a representative of the people. You will be criticized and frankly everyone won’t like you. It’s a given! He need to humble and come off that high horse he is on. I am disappointed to say the least with this new stunt. You are killing your team.
    • Advocate (21/02/2023, 09:26) Like (2) Dislike (6) Reply
      No one would invite their enemy to their table unless they were planning to poison them. No need to poison your enemy, just know them and avoid them. If she showed respect for herself then others would respect her. To those who stood up for her, know that you have tainted yourself.
  • "Parliament of Law" (20/02/2023, 18:23) Like (52) Dislike (7) Reply
    Many have been very personal with madam Rosan,who,like any body else,can be critical of our elected officials.Our elected officials must understand,that you shall be criticised everyday,in public office:
    The office is not yours.I support the media people,to support cindy.
    The Premier is out of order.
    He is behaving like the COI.
  • resident (20/02/2023, 18:27) Like (36) Dislike (18) Reply
    Don't worry he won't be premier much longer, he getting vote out as soon as he is brave enough to call elections
  • hmm (20/02/2023, 18:49) Like (20) Dislike (18) Reply
    since when Cindy become media? Because you have a Facebook page with the name media? All media should be vetted and approved to attend official press events.

    It is not automatic that every single media in the USA gets to attend President press activities. Other media have to simply draw from official statements or recordings in order to get their news.

    Cindy has no degree, or qualifications in any aspect of journalism! I doubt she has an up to date Trade Licence, tax certificate, NHI good standing etc. She has no rights!
  • TRUE CALLING (20/02/2023, 18:53) Like (27) Dislike (15) Reply
    I believe Cindy has truly found her true calling and I expect nothing less than responsible journalism. I also applaud the media for their stance, GROW UP NATHALIO!!!!!
  • smh (20/02/2023, 18:57) Like (24) Dislike (2) Reply
    If the report is true, that was a very unwise move on the Premier's part.
  • This is it (20/02/2023, 18:59) Like (29) Dislike (13) Reply
    I have been undecided on whether Natalio get my vote but this is it. It’s a NO. I don’t like Cindy but what he done today is wrong. He is too imature. He need to go
  • Lb (20/02/2023, 19:04) Like (13) Dislike (8) Reply
    Both premier and Cindy need to keep there crazy irrational behavior in the seventh district DO NOT BRING IT ROAD TOWN WHERE THERE IS CIVILIZATION

    Shame shame on you both a disgrace to the bvi that is why the lower class must stay out of the city
  • word (20/02/2023, 19:25) Like (25) Dislike (1) Reply
    Hon Premier you need a strong polítical advisor and a better coordinated Press team. What happened today does not speak well for you.
    Your support team is lacking in needed Public Relation strategies. Someone should have advised you to utilise diplomacy today.
    Right or wrong with your intent you allowed the BVI Press to form a unified coup against your actions.
    DAMAGE CONTROL - How will you get over this going into a critical election? Do not let emotions get the best of you.

    My
  • Xxx (20/02/2023, 19:32) Like (21) Dislike (25) Reply
    Good job premier do not back down the girl is rude and have no respect for god or man
    • @ xxx (20/02/2023, 23:00) Like (11) Dislike (5) Reply
      Couldn't agree more. She wants to bully the premier and anyone else then turns and speaks about being bullied. She is the definition of disrespectful.
  • Well Sah (20/02/2023, 19:37) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    FIRST UNITY GOVERNMENT NOW UNITY OF THE PRESS GOVERNMENT ....LOLOLOLOLOL LAWD JESUS
  • BIG youth (20/02/2023, 19:43) Like (20) Dislike (5) Reply
    FLEXING OFF HESELF (((((???????? ))))) WOW ???? WHAT IS HE AFRAID OF ? ???? THAT WAS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW MATURITY AS A REAL LEADER AND WELCOME HER ONE HUMAN TO ANOTHER ) AFTER ALL , THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE REPRESENTING THE PEOPLE . ( SURELY HE CANNOT BE SCARED OF THE GIRL , THERE IS MUCH MORE TO BE SCARED OF ( LIKE THE INCREASE OF GUN VIOLENCE IN THIS ONCE PEACEFUL AND QUIET COUNTRY , BUT I GUESS THAT IS WHAT WE ARE GOING TO HAVE TO GET ACCUSTOMED TO , FROM NOW ON ????
  • Two tongue. (20/02/2023, 19:59) Like (49) Dislike (8) Reply
    Aint he was on Tiola Radio just this morning talking about democracy and people's right to free expression..That's why I believe the Governor over them....They are so weak and fake that they afraid of real and strong people....Why are they so afraid of Cindy?
  • streupppssss (20/02/2023, 20:14) Like (21) Dislike (13) Reply
    Cindy only after the premier because he didn't give her the money she asked for! Tell her go look work and pay her rent and child school fee.
  • oh ho (20/02/2023, 20:27) Like (25) Dislike (9) Reply
    This premier use police force to deny basic rights and freedom of press? Is this the same premier who claim say he knew nothing about a police act that plan to use police force to deny the people of their basic human rights? He just told on himself. He fully well knew what was in the police bill and probably had Cindy in mind. Oh ho. The truth never lie.
  • How can Cindy just slander people (20/02/2023, 20:28) Like (26) Dislike (15) Reply
    The media is bias. Cindy has terrible inappropriate behaviour toward the Premier at a press conference and they said nothing about it. Did not publicly chastise her. But here they trying defend her. Strupes! Yes to free press but no to free bad behaviour. The next time she is inappropriate will they walk out on her? Let's see.
    • @How can Cindy (20/02/2023, 22:11) Like (11) Dislike (2) Reply
      I think a valid point is recognition that if one is banned, it can happen to any or to all. I don't think it's so much Cindy, it's the precedent being set.
    • Street Reporter.. VIP again. (21/02/2023, 02:25) Like (27) Dislike (1) Reply
      Someone ask you a question you answer truthfully and honestly, you have nothing or no one to fear..They can't do Cindy any thing like threatening to hold or cancel her Permit like what Ralph use to do Zan. Intimidate them., they can't intimidate Cindy, she ask the tuff questions let them answer hinestly. Raloh and VIP is who start this thing about locking out, threatening and shutting out the Media..Ralph leadership start the decline of the BVI...
      • @Street Reporter (21/02/2023, 08:34) Like (6) Dislike (19) Reply
        She rude and you like her questions because you like melee
      • from here (22/02/2023, 14:44) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        As soon as zan got his papers under thr NDP he automatically think that he is from here and has been an anti VIP supporter eversince. Bev should be ashamed of herself for stooping to Cindy level.
    • @How can Cindy (21/02/2023, 08:10) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
      I don't think that it is so much Cindy, I think it's a legitimate concern that once a precedent has been set the same could happen to any, or all, of the others. I see their action as justified. You can refuse to give a one-on-one interview, you can even refuse to answer certain questions at a press conference, but banning from a press conference is a bit much.
  • ... (20/02/2023, 20:35) Like (22) Dislike (18) Reply
    guavaberry spreads too much wrong news and cindy has a hard on for sowande so it makes sense
  • She’s Rude (20/02/2023, 21:13) Like (17) Dislike (3) Reply
    No one else in the media is as rude and disrespectful as Cindy.
    I have absolutely no respect for her.
    She need some journalism training!
  • Fire Them! (20/02/2023, 21:15) Like (9) Dislike (6) Reply
    each media person should be fired. You are allowed to deny access to whoever you want. Cindy needs to go sit down. she better not run for politics. she has no sense of diplomacy.
    • @Fire them (21/02/2023, 08:30) Like (20) Dislike (2) Reply
      I am calling for their employees to fire them. I think their employee should fire them all. They know, Cindy from here and don't need a work permit.
  • OB (20/02/2023, 22:30) Like (10) Dislike (20) Reply
    Cindy has a fb page!! She’s not a professional reporter!! Girl go away
  • Democracy (20/02/2023, 23:41) Like (21) Dislike (2) Reply
    Freedom of information, freedom of speech, freedom of the press. You might not like the questions but the people has the right to ask and hear the answers or refusal to answers. Otherwise democracy is dead.
  • Sad Lee (21/02/2023, 05:05) Like (13) Dislike (14) Reply
    ApCindy appears to be sexually frustrated and rejected by Mr Premier.
  • 2023 (21/02/2023, 05:24) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply
    Communism have a arrived in the territory: a set of non black police are now here and just given time you could have a knee in the back of your neck

    Freedom of the press have no turned into freedom to depress: all the other press people are from outside this territory however the one from the VI gets lockout

    If the report is factual the leader of this territory needs to be replaced with someone that is more open minded: was the young woman discriminated against because she need more information on the police bill



  • fromafar (21/02/2023, 07:37) Like (6) Dislike (19) Reply
    I said it before and I will say it again The Press is there to do their job, but they have at times appear disrespectful especially Cindy, and Zan Lewis by showing solidarity does not make their actions right,
  • @,,............. (21/02/2023, 07:42) Like (7) Dislike (9) Reply
    Cindy has always been "The Vilian " Today she is "A heroine " .This is a good time to declare your candidacy girl! Ride the wave before it hits the shore.
  • Undercover Observer (21/02/2023, 07:52) Like (10) Dislike (2) Reply
    Not a smart move by the Premier. Instead of diminishing the stature of Cindy, this action has elevated it. The Premier is failing to grasp that he a job to do and the press their’s. Further, negative news sells and the press is not your friend. A Premier must be adept at rolling with negative press, even the rude, unprofessional, annoying member(s). Instead of sullying Cindy’s star, her star was brighten.
  • respect (21/02/2023, 08:44) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
    It's not what you ask and say. It is how you ask and what you say. Learn to respect people and their office. For a long time she seems to have beef with the premier her actions spoke loud and clear before and it still speaks today.
  • fromafar (21/02/2023, 10:24) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    If we continue to praise and honor those who disrespect those in authority what are we saying to our community? what are we saying to our young people? I listened to Zan Lewis not too long ago speaking to the Premier if you understand our local twang he sounded like a hog. Cindy is just the same, if I was the premier, I would have done the same, the management of ZBVI need to discipline Zan he can get his point across without being so disrespectful.

    .

  • Cindy take your medication (21/02/2023, 10:30) Like (2) Dislike (8) Reply
    Cindy ain no journalist. Why she allowed into a press conference. She clearly have a personal issue with the Premier. She need to deal with her mental health problems. Premier don't study her.
  • bb (21/02/2023, 10:38) Like (1) Dislike (10) Reply
    She wants the man but she can't have him, so she makes up fake, unfounded stories on him. Besides being rude, her face is not pleasant to the eyes. She is trying her best to bring him down to her level, but that would never happen. He comes from good family, she, on the other hand is crazy as a bat.
  • (21/02/2023, 13:00) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Good! Bye.
  • one (21/02/2023, 16:37) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    One community one village one people yet she is making it seem like nothing good can come out of Nazareth.
  • barry say (22/02/2023, 14:39) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    Barry say you will hear, Barry say you will see. Cindy need to focus on her personal affairs and keep out of people business.
  • marketing (22/02/2023, 17:39) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Marketing trying to do journalism. Square penguin a round hole.
    We the public can read between the lines you have an agenda to try to push female agenda. Girl it's time to take a seat this election is not for you and who you are pushing your agenda for.
  • @live (22/02/2023, 21:08) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    I don't usually follow politics; however, someone said it best earlier "cindy is a disgrace". I totally agree with the Premier. No one should let cindy near anything. She turns everything upside down and into unnecessary mess.


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