Premier: Some media reports ‘slanderous’ and ‘libellous’
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has issued a strong warning to sections of the media and public commentators, accusing them of spreading “slanderous” and “libellous” claims that he says are damaging the Virgin Islands’ reputation at a time of heightened scrutiny.
Speaking at a government press conference on Monday, the Premier cautioned media outlets against what he described as unethical reporting, particularly on sensitive matters such as the controversial $5 million government deposit made to the now-defunct Bank of Asia.
“There have been a number of things circulated in the media which are slanderous, libellous, and damaging to the reputation of the Territory, and I ask that we refrain from these unethical practices,” he said.
While not naming specific platforms, Wheatley’s remarks appear to respond to intense public and media interest in the government’s dealings with the Bank of Asia, which is currently undergoing liquidation. The Premier has confirmed that an internal audit is underway to examine the circumstances surrounding the deposit, but insisted this should not be interpreted as a sign of wrongdoing..
Dr Wheatley also described as false, claims that Junior Minister Lorna Smith directed the payment of the aforementioned five million dollars.
“That’s completely false, and that’s actually quite slanderous,” he added.
Meanwhile, some media figures have criticised the Premier’s comments, interpreting them as attempts to stifle press freedom. One media host vowed to continue reporting on the issue and said more information would be published soon.
The public continues to raise questions about the timing of the $5 million transaction, which reportedly occurred after the bank’s owners had entered bankruptcy proceedings. Government officials have maintained that the deposit was made in good faith and with the expectation that the institution was still operating within regulatory bounds.
Despite the criticism, Dr Wheatley reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency.
“We are navigating complex times, but we do so with clarity of vision, unity of purpose, and an unshakable commitment to progress,” he stated.
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All you have to do is file a suit against those making the false claims. Something tells me that you wouldn’t because what is being said is true. We need an independent investigation in this.
Natalio is associated with the most slanderous new site ever in the BVI – that hog wash yellow site that demonizes people who speak out about the government. And what did he do? he allegedly gave its owner a contract as his advisor paying him 10k per month for doing nothing. Now he has the gall to be talking? Either he is crazy or he thinks that we are.
Meanwhile his yellow site is writing false stories to defend him and help to cover up what happened. INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION NEEDED!!
Being led to slaughter.
That high yellow news site that the Premier is in bed with is going to come topping down very soon. They print lies and is very bias. The whole damn high yellow site and the black horse fly is going to come crashing down.
The voice of our dearly beloved sister, mother, parliamentarian have also conveyed her grief, disappointment of this government. May her sole rest in peace now!!
Look at the fingers in the facs comments between the supporters of the Racist, imperialist Red, White and Blue and Yellow news sites.
SECRECY
We are navigating complex times, but we do so with clarity of vision, unity of purpose, and an unshakable commitment to progress.
Shrouded in SECRECY
What are you hiding?
Why do we never see reports. Who are they for? What are they telling you that we can’t see?
The article states:
“Government officials have maintained that the deposit was made in good faith and with the expectation that the institution was still operating within regulatory bounds.”
How? If the subject bank was not in compliance for years (allegedly), FSC and other regulators would have been privy to this which by default; the Premier and his cabinet as well. What I find strange is that regardless of the red flag, and what appears to be the transaction date for the BVIGOV deposit (April 2025). This was way after all the legal wrangling’s, judgments etc.
Why? Just why would anyone still go ahead and put funds into a questionable entity that BVIGOV seemingly followed through with. Is this prudent stewardship of the Public’s Finances? Why is there no urgency from the BVIGOV minister of Finance & Financial affairs to curtail the so-called mis-information? Is there truth to the investigative reporting?
The answers to your questions lie in the fact that govt does as it pleases without consequences. When was the last time any elected official here had to face them?
As to the allegations of slander and libel, that is why the courts exist. That there has been no suit suggests that the allegations are spurious and that there is not much of a case. Losing in court could result in govt having to pay court costs as well as defense costs.
Seems to me Mr. Wheatley is vexed because he is being called for mediocrity. He could instead use this as an opportunity to do better, but not much point in holding one’s breath over this.
file a lawsuit in the High Court for defamation against ALL the media companies that have defamed you. Threats are useless. File your suit or shut up!
The Nat is looking a whole lot nervous . UK now
I am sure there is a better one that can be used … He looks clu****s and in****etent in that picture.