Courts have granted USVI Governor Albert A. Bryan Jr a decision for his divorce proceedings between himself and First Lady Yolanda C. Bryan be conducted under seal, so as to protect Mrs Bryan and their two adult children. Photo: Internet Source

The VI Consortium reported that the decision was made by the V.I. Superior Court in the divorce proceeding with First Lady Yolanda Bryan under ST-2023-DI-00113, which will no longer appear on the court docket for the District of St. Thomas/St. John. Photo: Internet Source

The VI Consortium reported that the decision was made by the [US] VI Superior Court in the divorce proceeding with First Lady Bryan under ST-2023-DI-00113, which will no longer appear on the court docket for the District of St Thomas/St John.  

Last November, Governor Bryan appealed to the courts to allow the divorce petition, which he initiated, to be filed under seal. His attorney argued that the matter would generate unwanted publicity which would potentially "adversely affect his wife and two children."

Mr Bryan through his attorney Henry Smock of SmockLaw PC had asked to file the divorce petition under seal so that details related to their relationship are not made public. The lawyer also argued that the dissolution of the governor's marriage is a "private matter which does not merit public inquiry.

Gov concerned for welfare of family 

Despite Governor Bryan's apparent concern for the welfare of his wife, VI society has been buzzing about his seeming elevation of a female friend into the spotlight.

At the official Government House Christmas party on St Thomas in December, it was not the First Lady who welcomed guests but Governor Bryan's companion, with whom he danced and embraced during the festivities. 

Governor Bryan told the Consortium in October 2023 that an official statement on the couple's divorce would be forthcoming when the time was right.

Until then, he sought to placate his constituents concerned that his private life might affect his ability to effectively govern the territory. "That's not the issue with me," Mr Bryan said. "I think we're moving along at a good pace, we're having a good year.

Despite his confidence, the governor's marital woes have captured the imagination of the public, with last night's Calypso Monarch winner LadyMac referencing a rumored incident at Government House during her performance.