New governor more collaborative, says Premier
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley stated that he believes there is a much more collaborative approach between his office and the current Governor, Daniel Pruce, compared to his predecessor, Governor John Rankin.
Premier Wheatley’s comments were made at a recent press conference where he noted that progress was being made in relation to implementing the Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommendations.
The COI, which scrutinised the governance framework of the territory, proposed several reforms to enhance transparency and accountability. These recommendations are set to be implemented by the newly extended deadline of August 31.
“We’ve been able to establish, with Governor Pruce, a much more collaborative approach than was happening before,” the Premier said. “I would say that this was assisted by the current overseas territories minister, David Rutley, because, of course, he gave us some very useful suggestions on how we can work more collaboratively to make more progress.”
During Rankin’s tenure, there were notable tensions, particularly regarding his push for additional powers to enforce COI recommendations — a move Wheatley criticised as a “colonial act” and an overreach into local governance.
Governor Rankin notably threatened to seek extended powers from the UK government to ensure these reforms were implemented by a previous May 31 deadline.
The Premier openly praised the new collaborative approach with Governor Pruce, stating significant progress in governance reforms, contrasting with the more strained interactions with former Governor Rankin. Dr Wheatley pointed to establishing the Governance Reform Coordinating Centre and appointing Kedrick Malone as the Governance Reform Delivery Manager as evidence of this.
Despite the apparent strained relations between the government and the former governor, Rankin expressed his respect for Premier Wheatley during his farewell, acknowledging their personal friendship and constructive work in many areas. However, many community leaders and members of the House of Assembly did not attend his farewell ceremony.
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More likely that you, premier, are actually now being more collaborative and less obstructive. That is why things are going better. Anti UK restablishement stuff started with Fahie and you carried it onwards. Hopefully you are working with the UK now ans not against them. VI is after all a Territory of the UK.
Rankin had his share of rancor, so don’t unload it all on Sowande.
I agree this that this Governor seems to have a much more respectful attitude towards the locally elected Government while still being mindful of his obligations including his obligations to ensure that the recommendations of the COI are implemented. To be fair, Governor Rankin also did a commendable job in difficult circumstances. I must, however, give kudos to Governor Pruce for his efforts toward improved relations with the locally elected Government. As long as the VI remains an OT of the UK a good working relationship between both sides can only benefit the VI and its people.