Willock pledges 2027 run, rules out challenging Fraser

Former House of Assembly Speaker Julian Willock reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 general election, while maintaining that he will never run against Third District Representative Julian Fraser.

Speaking during a podcast interview with Lawrence ‘Bunchie’ Kirton-Wheatley, Willock confirmed his interest in representing the Third District and said he hoped to secure the governing Virgin Islands Party’s nomination.

Asked whether his earlier commitment not to challenge Fraser had changed, Willock said his position remained the same.

“I will never run against the Honorable Julian Fraser. That’s my political mentor. However, I will be a candidate in the 2027 general election,” Willock stated.

“And I will say no more on that,” he added.

Willock acknowledged that he must complete the party’s selection process before he could contest the election on its ticket.

“You know they have a process where you have to go through their Congress in order to run on their ticket. So right now, I’m a candidate. So the next process will be to go through their process,” he explained.

Earlier this year, Willock announced his intention to contest the Third District seat during an appearance on the Talking Points programme. He also said then that he would seek the VIP nomination and rejected the suggestion of running independently if unsuccessful.

During the interview with Kirton-Wheatley, Willock cited his experience, integrity and ability to represent constituents as reasons for seeking office. He also praised Fraser’s participation in constitutional talks in London.

Asked which ministerial portfolio he would want if elected, Willock said his immediate task was to convince Third District residents to support him. Any ministerial appointment would be a decision for the Premier, he said.

His proposals included lobbying to retain Ellis Thomas Downs in the district, revisiting Fraser’s plans for the Sea Cows Bay harbour, removing derelict vehicles and creating a park for families.

He also proposed an addition to the community centre to showcase the district’s history and traditions, alongside efforts to improve access to jobs, scholarships, trade licences and housing.

Willock said his community programmes would continue regardless of the election result. He reported that previous job fairs had helped place close to 20 people in employment, with about 10 still in those jobs.

“And if the people of the third district make a decision not to elect me, I will continue to be in the community,” Willock said.