HoA fires back @ OT Minister Doughty's threats over law enforcement reforms
However, said the House remains ready to work transparently with Governor Daniel Pruce under agreed monitoring arrangements.
This follows a statement made by Minister Doughty on October 13, 2025, in which His Majesty’s Government recognised the significant progress the Virgin Islands (VI) had made in delivering governance reform.
In a press release, the House of Assembly stated that its members expect the spirit of partnership and mutual respect, which has underpinned the Virgin Islands' reform journey, to be clearly recognised. Although the Minister’s statement echoes language from the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) that describes past governance failings, it is important to stress that the Virgin Islands has engaged in this process in good faith, with diligence, integrity, and a commitment to meaningful reform.
Progress began before CoI
"Progress towards stronger governance began well before the Inquiry, with deeper commitments made to ensure that the necessary reforms were completed. The Governor himself has publicly acknowledged on several occasions the seriousness with which the House has approached its responsibilities and the tangible progress that has been achieved. The people of the Virgin Islands and their elected representatives have delivered substantial change that is designed to last, and this achievement deserves to be acknowledged with respect. Today, we are stronger, better, and more prepared to continue our journey towards good governance in every aspect of our growth and development. We look forward to continuing to build on this foundation as equal partners."
Additionally, it stated that the revocation of the draft Order in Council marks an important moment for the Territory, a recognition of the strength of the VI's democratic institutions and the seriousness with which the Government and the Assembly have approached reform.
"Building on a long-standing commitment to good governance, and working with the Governor, the public service, and international partners, we have completed the Framework agreed with the United Kingdom and advanced the most comprehensive programme of legislative and institutional change imaginable."
Reforms must become self-sustaining governance
Eighteen new laws have been passed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, underpinned by a Governance Reform Transition Plan to ensure these reforms endure across administrations. Real reform requires consultation, depth, and durability. "That is the path we have chosen."
Members of the HoA stated, "Reform cannot be a perpetual state. It must mature into self-sustaining governance, grounded in local accountability and the right of Virgin Islanders to shape their own democratic future."
The members reaffirmed their commitment to elevating their relationship with the United Kingdom to a new level of maturity, characterised by trust, collaboration, and mutual respect, while continuing to work closely with the Governor and the dedicated public service to realise shared aspirations for the Territory.
"The revocation of the Order in Council is not an end, but a recognition of a maturing democracy. As elected representatives, we remain committed to building a Virgin Islands that is transparent, accountable, and self-confident, a Territory that engages with the United Kingdom as an equal partner in good governance, mutual respect, and self-determination."
See link to related story
.png)
Follow Us On
13 Responses to “HoA fires back @ OT Minister Doughty's threats over law enforcement reforms”
Any reports or audits forthcoming. Secret pay rises or Movements of large sums of money?
Too bad BVI loses this war because an MP Minister outranks the 13 politicians in this BVI colony!
Keep pushing this independence rhetoric and the UK Parliament just might put all these little islands up for sale separately or all together in a package deal!