Governor Rankin thanks Premier for “personal friendship”

Former governor John Rankin last week used his farewell speech to extend gratitude to Premier Natalio Wheatley, saying he has “enduring respect” for the territory’s leader.

In his farewell speech, Governor Rankin said he had the best intentions towards the people of the BVI, adding that he knows Premier Wheatley has the same goal.

“I thank him (Premier Wheatley) for his commitment and personal friendship that he and his wife Caroline have shown to me and Tara. We have worked together constructively in many areas and the Premier has my enduring respect,” Rankin said.

Despite criticism from some sections of the community who believe the former governor didn’t do enough to stem crime and violence, Rankin told his farewell audience that he took his role seriously and said he is still concerned about the drug trade, those who are linked to it, and the corresponding negative effect it has on the wider community.

As for the Commission of Inquiry (COI) reforms that caused an uncomfortable rift between the governor and elected leaders, Rankin said he knows the reform process was “unsettling for many.” But he said it shows what needs to be done to give the people what they deserve.

Rankin’s farewell ceremony was attended by many community leaders and civil servants though the Premier, Opposition Leader and most House of Assembly members were noticeably absent.

Though their absence was conspicuous, it comes as no surprise to members of the community, as tension had grown between the governor and local leaders in the past few weeks, following Rankin’s threat to seek additional powers over the BVI.