Constitutional review for debate in early 2025

The BVI will begin debating its constitutional review in early 2025, according to Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley.

The announcement signals a crucial step in shaping the territory’s governance framework for the future. Premier Wheatley confirmed that the constitutional review will be a priority for the House of Assembly in the new year.

“It will be one of the first items we do after the Speech from the Throne in the new year,” he explained during a recent press conference. He added that a negotiating committee would be established following the debate to discuss the proposed changes.

The constitutional review process began in June 2022 with the establishment of the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC). The Commission was tasked with engaging the public and making recommendations to reflect the aspirations of the people of the Virgin Islands. After months of consultations and submissions, the CRC delivered its report to former Governor John Rankin and Premier Wheatley in December 2023.

Among the key recommendations in the report is a proposal to prohibit same-sex marriage in the Virgin Islands. Another suggestion calls for restricting the positions of Premier and Deputy Premier to At-Large Representatives, regardless of their political party.

The CRC also stressed the importance of including all residents in the constitutional review discussions, despite their immigration status, to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive process.

The constitutional review comes after the 2021 Commission of Inquiry, which highlighted governance weaknesses in the BVI. The Inquiry recommended reforms to strengthen transparency and accountability while aligning governance practices with the aspirations of the BVI people. The review is widely seen as a critical step toward greater self-governance.