Smith sets aside differences with Premier for historic appointment

Territorial At-large Representative Lorna Smith declared that she set aside past differences with Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley after rejoining the government to serve in her new role as the territory’s first ever Minister of State.

“The present economic climate and global uncertainty demand that we put aside our differences for a greater good,” Smith said on Tuesday after announcing her return.

“My entire professional career has been in service to the people of the Virgin Islands. That commitment has never wavered, and it will not waver now.”

Smith expressed gratitude after receiving her new appointment and said she stood ready to do her part. “I am grateful to the Premier for this opportunity. Regardless of any past differences, I believe we share the common goal of seeing our country prosper,” she said.

Sense of duty

Smith, who was abruptly dismissed from her post as Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services in October 2024, said she accepted the new role out of a sense of duty. She highlighted the importance of unity in navigating the challenges faced by the Virgin Islands, particularly in securing economic stability.

After she was fired last year, Smith suggested that she had no interest in rejoining the government or contesting Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s decision to remove her from office. Smith also denounced the Premier, arguing that under Premier Wheatley’s leadership, the country was “not progressing for the good of the people”.

She also accused him of “surrounding himself with individuals he believes are more willing to go along, to get along, even if it’s to the detriment of the territory”.

“I refuse to be that person,” Smith said then. “My loyalty is and will always remain to the people of the Virgin Islands.”

The former Deputy Premier was especially critical of Dr Wheatley’s handling of government spending, specifically pointing to a controversial $220,000 expenditure on the Vybz Kartel concert set to be held this weekend. Smith said she believed the contribution was ill-timed given the pressing needs in education, infrastructure, and water supply. “For you to take up that kind of money to give for a concert… that was beyond the pale,” Smith said.

Pulling together

With a swing in fortunes, Smith has since been effusive in praise of the Premier’s leadership.

“Now, more than ever, those of us in elected roles must pull together to protect and strengthen our beloved Virgin Islands. This cannot be about individual ambition or political manoeuvring; it is about duty, about ensuring that the next generation inherits a Territory that is not just surviving but thriving,” Smith stated.

Smith recently accompanied the Premier on a mission to Asia, where she engaged with key partners in the financial services sector. “While we remain optimistic about the future of our key economic sectors, there is no denying the concerns and challenges. How we respond in this critical moment will determine our continued positive standing… not only in Asia but on the global stage,” she said.

For his part, Premier Wheatley, who previously dismissed Smith because of uncertainty over her loyalty, has welcomed her return. He has described Smith as “capable” and “intelligent,” with valuable experience that can help steer the territory through uncertain economic conditions.

Smith’s renewed focus will include ensuring greater participation of Virgin Islanders in the financial services sector. “One of my core focuses in this role will be ensuring that more Virgin Islanders see themselves in this industry, not as bystanders, but as active participants and beneficiaries,” she explained.