Controversial Virgin Islands Inquiries Bill passed
After a spirited debate, the House of Assembly passed the contentious Virgin Islands Inquiries Bill 2024, introducing significant changes to the territory’s approach to public inquiries.
The passage of this bill reflects ongoing efforts to adapt and improve governance in the BVI as the territory continues to evolve and respond to both local and international expectations for transparency and integrity in administration.
The bill, championed by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, replaces old laws dating back to 1880, aiming to modernise how the government handles inquiries into public matters. The updated law will allow the governor to appoint commissioners to oversee these inquiries to bolster governance and transparency.
This legislative change is in response to the Commission of Inquiry (COI) findings, which recommended overhauling some of the territory’s outdated systems.
Criticism
Despite its intentions for greater accountability, the bill faced severe criticism from Opposition lawmakers. They argued that it could grant excessive power to the governor, potentially undermining elected authority.
In presenting the bill, Premier Wheatley urged that the final legislation should not “smack of the colonialism of 1880”. He also stressed the importance of aligning with international standards to ensure thorough and impartial investigations.
Dr Wheatley also raised concerns about the inquiry process outlined in the bill, emphasising the need for due process, including the rights to representation and protections for witnesses and individuals under inquiry.
The Premier strongly opposed maintaining outdated colonial practices, advocating for a complete reevaluation of the Virgin Islands’ colonial relationship with the United Kingdom.
He called for unity among lawmakers to transcend colonial legacies and establish a genuinely equitable partnership with the UK, emphasising actions over mere verbal commitments to a modern partnership.
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Was this bill not passed with amendments made by the HOA?
Is there any way for the public to know exactly what the amendments are?
I need Andrew Fahie Attorney to get in touch with me at Cel#929-555-7608. I was allegedly part of their stink, and I am defending myself as a pro-see in the appellate court in NY. Since 2015, I was a blogger with the banner as “CHANGING PARADIGMS.” Only DEATH will Stop me from exposing this Evil COBAL. I’m willing to expose what I have been experiencing being part of fighting for CHANGE in THE VIRGIN ISLANDS. PASS THE WORD!
@Question A perfect demonstration of how these legislators have no intentions of taking on the findings of the COI. Only thing we can be sure of is their changes will not be the will of the people just the will of the legislators. They will of course be claiming it is what the people want.
The Governor is off island until mid August. This new law requires his assent unless the Acting Governor is empowered to assent.
The more we attempt to break away from the uk institutions with the Privy council’s protection the more corrupt we look the less likely foreign individuals or businesses will trust incorporating here risking moving money through the BVI and rather opt for Cayman or Bermuda etc . With Bermuda trying to impose taxation on foreign owned major businesses (as their only solution to pay off their greedy corrupt politicians recently amassed huge National debts )why not ignore our local politicians crying wolf and exploit are current advantages stay calm and carry on.
Setta clowns mehson. “This not what the virgin island people would want”
My backside.
Y’all does ever ask us anything or hold any survey?
It’s always what y’all want and what fits your interest best