On January 20th, 2020 residents and citizens of the Virgin Islands, particularly 6th district residents were shocked as they learnt that 6th District Representative Hon. Alvera Maduro Caines had crossed the floor and joined the Fahie Lead Government. The announcement came just after 3pm at a press conference held at the Village Cay Marina Conference room with a small audience of family, government ministers and media.
Caines began by saying: “I have tendered my resignation from the NDP and to pledge my support to the Hon. Andrew Fahie,”
She added, “I have not been made any promises or offered any inducements or have I asked for any. I simply want which is best for our Territory. I believe for what is best for the BVI at this time is for all patriotic Virgin Islanders to be working together on one common goal”
Her aim she said is to do away with party politics and make decisions for the betterment and security of the Virgin Islands with no strict allegiance along party lines.
While the news came as a shock to many, others seemed not surprised. Many residents took to social media sharing their view, some seemingly still supportive of the minister and her decision while others feeling blindsided.
One resident said: “Wow wow”, “is this for real?!” “What a slap in the face for district 6th.”
While another said: “Something she should have done years ago”
Caines, a third term legislator who briefly held the post of Junior Minister of Trade and Economic Development and also acted in the post of Education Minister on several occasions said she made the decision after ‘deep prayer’ and said she believes she will accomplish more under Premier Fahie’s leadership.
She also said that she was promised nothing from the Fahie administration to cross the political floor.
This transfer of alliance puts the Fahie lead administration at nine seats among the elected 13 members in the House of Assembly.
To view the entire press conference, visit our Facebook page at 284 Media.