Opposition to host marathon LIVE before confidence vote

in All News / By: BVI News on October 14, 2024 at 7:25 AM /

Just days ahead a planned no-confidence vote against Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s government, scheduled for October 18, members of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition are set to host a special three-hour LIVE broadcast event on Tuesday, October 15, from 7 pm to 10 pm.

The event will be broadcast across various platforms, including ZBVI Radio, Facebook Live, CBN Radio 90.9 FM, and TOLA Radio. The LIVE event will allow residents to engage directly with the Opposition on critical issues. The topics for discussion include their motion of no confidence, the state of the Virgin Islands, and the use of public funds. The Opposition encouraged the public to participate actively, emphasising that it is the public’s opportunity to speak out.

“It’s your time to speak and be heard! Let your voice be heard,” they said in a notice about the broadcast event.

The no-confidence motion, led by Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton, reflects growing concerns about the current government’s performance. In a recent statement, Skelton expressed dissatisfaction with how the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) administration has managed critical issues, such as economic challenges and governance.

The Opposition Leader was particularly vocal over the apparent financial strain on the government, noting recent budgetary errors that led to a nearly $20 million shortfall for public servant salaries and pension benefits. “Where is the money coming from? Because we have made a nearly $20 million mistake in the salary increases and budgeting that we did for civil servants and public servants increases and pension benefits,” Skelton said in a recent interview.

Skelton questioned whether the government’s priorities align with the needs of the people, especially small businesses struggling in the current economic climate.

Opposition members accused the government of dodging the no-confidence vote after Premier Wheatley removed the motion previously from the House of Assembly’s agenda over procedural issues.