Former British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority Human Resource Manager and at-large candidate for the upcoming general elections under the Virgin Islands Innovative Association (VIIA), Levor A.H. Lettsome has called for residents to be given a stronger voice in national decision-making, arguing that public involvement is essential to improving governance in the Territory. Photo: Facebook

On the Talking Points programme on Monday, September 7, Levor A.H. Lettsome said the Virgin Islands Innovative Association (VIIA) committee’s central objective is to restore meaningful participation for the people of the Virgin Islands in matters that affect their lives. Photo: Facebook

Speaking on the Talking Points programme on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, September 7, 2026, Lettsome said the committee’s central objective is to restore meaningful participation for the people of the Virgin Islands in matters that affect their lives.

“Our fundamental objective in this particular initiative … is to give the people of the Virgin Islands back their voice,” Lettsome said.

He said residents should be able to experience and understand what is taking place in the country, including how the country functions and how decisions are made on national issues.

Public participation

Lettsome expressed concern that many people feel unable to speak openly or influence decisions being made by the government.

He described the current climate as one in which residents simply observe developments without having a meaningful say in what is transpiring.

“It’s like … we’re in a fairy land, you know, can’t say anything. Nobody can; you just see things happening, and you don’t have any say,” Lettsome stated.

Consequences of exclusion

Lettsome said government decisions made without prioritising the public can lead to avoidable mistakes and negative consequences for residents.

He said the effects of such decisions eventually “trickle down,” leaving the public to bear the impact.

“We become affected by it,” Mr Lettsome added.

The call comes amid ongoing public discussion in the Virgin Islands about transparency, consultation and residents’ access to decision-making processes; however, recent government notices have included mechanisms for public review of certain resolutions, while officials have also acknowledged public concerns on issues affecting households and businesses.