VI people must be fully involved in decisions on their political future– Hon Malone
Speaking during the Fifth Sitting of the Fourth Session of the Fourth House of Assembly today, July 19, 2022, on the actions of other countries to remove the Queen as the head of state, Hon Malone said none of it could have happened without the involvement of the people.
“The people of the Virgin Islands must be totally informed, engaged, educated and they must make the decisions as it relates to their political future,” he said.
The Government of National Unity has been accused of making critical decisions regarding the future of the territory and only engaging the people after the fact.
Hon Malone added, “If you try to do it without full engagement, you will fail and this is where we as leaders must be prepared to go the extra mile, even with those persons who think they don’t like you,” he said.
The Opposition Member added that once you give persons the facts, then you are going to be able to leave them with something to consider.
Independence a decision of the people - Premier Wheatley
Meanwhile, Premier Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has already said that independence of any similar decision on the way forward will be a decision of the people of the VI.
During a recent episode of the cross-border show, 'Territories Talk', on July 13, 2022, Dr Wheatley when questioned on the subject said, “Well, definitely independence is a decision for the people of the Virgin Islands that they will express through a referendum. But certainly, I think if we are ever to take that step, it will be because we have helped mature our institutions.”
The Premier said, however, that it is good that there's an awakening among the people of the VI, where there is a need to mature and grow as well as mature the local politics to ensure that the best interests of the territory are at the heart of everything and that relationships are formed.
Premier Wheatley said a decision to be independent; however, is not the only option regarding the territory's future as the VI can also choose to have a free association with another state on the way forward.
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7 Responses to “VI people must be fully involved in decisions on their political future– Hon Malone”
Finally the CoI has brought you to your sense to admit to the truth. But for you, Sir, it is too late.
In my opinion, the BVI voters will not vote you as a political Minister again.
Moreover, Virgin Islanders must actively engaged in determining the fate of the VI. It is risky to allow it to occur by chance and they cannot and should not allow others to determine it for them. Consequently, Virgin Islanders must recognize the political, economic, and social trends and policies that are detrimental to them as people. And must unite and work collectively, cooperatively, and collaboratively to chart a path forward, promoting the public good. It will require all hands on deck, pulling the wagon.