Hon Smith Out! Hon Fraser In! Dr Wheatley fires Lorna G. Smith
Hon Fraser is expected to be sworn in today, Wednesday, October 23, 2024, as Deputy Premier; however, his portfolio is unclear.
Political bombshell
The full reasons for the removal of Hon Smith, the wife of a former Premier, is unclear. Senior sources within the ruling Virgin Islands Party (VIP) familiar with the political bombshell; however, claimed it is believed there were growing tensions between her and the Premier and her position on the Vote of No Confidence was unclear.
The former Deputy Premier is expected to hold a press conference today to address her firing and other matters.
Hon Smith was the head of a new Ministry as she wanted to focus more on financial services, trade and the business community.
The now-former Deputy Premier first ran for office in 2023 and was successful as a Territorial At-Large candidate with the Opposition National Democratic Party (NDP), which won three seats out of thirteen.
Hon Smith then crossed the floor and joined the VIP's six members to give them a seven-seat majority.
Neither the Premier, Hons Smith nor Fraser responded to our inquiry for more information.
We will have more details as this story develops.
70 Responses to “Hon Smith Out! Hon Fraser In! Dr Wheatley fires Lorna G. Smith”
What is admirable, however, is that she made no pretense. Her ambitions were clear, and she acted with transparency, which is to be commended. She clearly has her sights set on becoming Premier and will navigate the political terrain as necessary to achieve that goal. But let this be a reminder—true leadership is not just about ambition, but about knowing when to lead, when to wait, and how to recognize those who truly stand with you.
Truth be told you are working for the people not yourself. We decide who is doing an outstanding job. Not your look in the mirror and say everything good.
Well well well you stabbed her in the back before she could do it to you. But you weren't sure of her position. OK you will still be the same backstabber when you come down off that high horse. Cant trust you man.
Power hungry Frazer crosses floor instead of standing on business off No Confidence in this Premier and making the change needed to set our territory on the right path. Just for a title! All the shyt he talked about this Premier but now he can cozy up to the same inept person, just to get a title? Why not just let the Opposition take over the government? Oh yeah because he wouldn’t get to be Deputy himself over Marlon or Myron. Frazer put himself and his ambitions ahead of the BVI.
But I am certain this comment will not get posted for the obvious reason!
If Premier Wheatley was aware that his deputy was leaning toward supporting the opposition in a no-confidence vote, then his move could be seen as a calculated and strategic preemption—a maneuver that should be applauded for its political astuteness. But if this is not the case, we are left with an error that threatens to weaken the administration and alienate those who once felt reassured by Smith’s moderating influence.
He should jnstead,have stepped down voluntariy,rather than take steps to possibly thwart the " no confidence votr" on the affirmative.
What have we done to deserve the loss of our Blessed heritage?...well a few things but....
Demo all the way.
Lorna this is lesson for you to learn from, that you will always"reap whatever you sew" .
Long Look people ain’t wait for massa to give freedom they tek it.