New constitution must help VI realise aspirations 'without undue impediment'- Premier Wheatley
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Premier Wheatley said this while addressing the first public engagement session on the upcoming constitutional negotiations at Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College Campus, on May 5, 2026.
“The current constitution has served its purpose for the time in which it was written, but the Virgin Islands has evolved. Our society has grown more complex, our economy more dynamic, and our people more empowered,” Dr Wheatley said, addressing attendees of the public meeting.
He added that the global landscape evolved as well, and therefore the VI is now in need of a “modern constitution”.
The new constitution, Premier Wheatley explained, should be “one that enables us to respond efficiently and effectively to domestic needs and opportunities abroad”.
The VI, he said, needs a constitution that is roadworthy and capable of carrying the VI to the next stage of development. “A constitution that will enable us to realise our aspirations without undue impediment. A constitution which is fit for purpose. What should be our next step in our development journey? And what timetable should guide us?”
HoA positions not taken lightly
Members of the House of Assembly reviewed the Constitutional Review Commission’s report and set out its deliberations on the CRC’s report in a document titled ‘A Report of the Committee of the Whole House’.
The report highlights the recommendations accepted by the HoA and those that were rejected.
“We have conducted this process of constitutional reform responsibly,” Premier Wheatley said, “We did not come to these positions lightly. There were a number of factors taken into consideration in arriving at a final position.”
According to the Premier, who will lead the 10-member negotiating team from the VI in the negotiations with the United Kingdom, their negotiation position reflects a desire for stronger checks and balances, for strengthened democracy, for stronger accountability, for greater efficiency in delivering public services, for more scrutiny in the legislative process, for systems that work, and for protecting VI culture and heritage.
The constitutional negotiating team which Premier Wheatley will lead includes Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Hon Julian Fraser RA (R3); Minister for Communications and Works, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5); Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL), Attorney General, Hon Dawn J. Smith; Chair of the 2005 Constitutional Review Commission, Mr Gerard St. C. Farara, KC; Hon Ronnie W. Skelton (AL); Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8); Chair of the 2023 Constitutional Review Commission, Mrs Lisa E. Penn Lettsome; and Member of the 2023 Constitutional Review Commission, Mrs Maya Barry.
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9 Responses to “New constitution must help VI realise aspirations 'without undue impediment'- Premier Wheatley”
Well Sowande you won't get that from the oppressor. Just look at this MS Proose man did to our local girl and he going put Xamiykans to run de force over we locales ahyou beya fk*g geh See rus wid dis country to fight for we rights. De way we going we ain't gone gah none. We'll be over run because of popperts like de so called dpp sk**t woman.
Great news.
Make us feel even prouder to be bona-fide Virgin Islanders in every sense of the word.
by Tafari Zharr
“Sometimes I feel like I’m drowning, can’t find my way back home...” In the British Virgin Islands, where stunning landscapes meet tumultuous challenges, Monea Richardson's art powerfully resonates.
The fall of Andrew Fahie underscores an urgent need for liberation from external control, by some especially with the looming Order in Council. This pivotal moment compels us to reflect on whether BVI can overcome these challenges or risk entering another cycle of oversight during upcoming elections.
Disunity currently plagues our political arena, undermining the effectiveness of opposition voices. As elections near, this lack of cohesion diminishes the potential to mount meaningful challenges against incumbents. Yet amidst adversity, Jon Lucien's words remind us: “In the silence, I can hear you calling.” These whispers of hope urge us to come together in collective action.
The rumors of divisive ministers within the Premier’s agenda complicates the quest for unity. Differing views can fracture party solidarity and impact public perception of leadership. The Premier must find ways to harness these diverse perspectives while striving to present a coherent vision that resonates with constituents.
While the aspiration for reform is noble, the journey is fraught with complications that complicate the BVI’s efforts for promise. A legacy of unequal land distribution has fostered disenfranchisement among many constituents, casting doubt on proposed reforms. Historical grievances can hinder dialogue and foster skepticism about the sincerity of intentions.
The existing constitutional framework imposes legal constraints that may stall meaningful reforms. Complexities surrounding land rights and governance structures complicate the path toward enacting policies that genuinely reflect community needs.
Rusty reforms can become superficial if they primarily serve elite interests instead of facilitating true inclusivity. The challenge is ensuring that proposed changes genuinely address the needs of marginalized communities rather than merely perpetuating existing power dynamics. Limited public awareness of constitutional issues often results in insufficient participation in discussions. Without widespread understanding, reforms may be perceived as top-down impositions rather than collaborative efforts.
To effectively tackle these challenges, the BVI must prioritize community engagement in decision-making, particularly around land rights. Establishing public forums for constitutional discussions is essential to ensuring every voice—especially those from marginalized groups—is heard and valued. Transparent processes will foster trust, allowing residents to feel a sense of ownership over the outcomes. Comprehensive reform initiatives should include a thorough examination of ancestral rights to prevent discrimination against those without land. Exploring models like community land trusts can empower constituents, enabling more equitable distribution of resources.
As constitutional negotiations unfold, it is crucial that these conversations prioritize dismantling systemic barriers and addressing inequalities. Accountability and integrity must remain central to leadership efforts, ensuring that all residents have a stake in governance and resource management. Regarding dual citizenship, the current BVI voting rights law allows dual citizens to vote, reinforcing their inclusion in the electoral process. Additionally, the CARICOM stance on "dreamers" complicates the reality for individuals born in the BVI without full rights, highlighting the disparities that need addressing.
As BVI navigate this intricate landscape, we must maintain focus on unity and transformation. The whispers of hope remind us of our potential to forge a new, inclusive future, emphasizing equity for all. Together, we have the opportunity to shape the place into a community where every voice matters and collective dreams can be realized.
As Patsy Lake wisely states, “Together, we rise, and together, we stand.” In this spirit, let us aspire to create an inclusive and prosperous future for all, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The Ethos of the Climb by Tafari Zharr Copyright (c) 2026 by Tafari Zharr. Used by permission of Tafari Zharr, LLC. All rights reserved.