At-Large Representative Hon. Lorna Smith has issued a statement regarding her decision to join the Virgin Islands Party in order to form the Government.
The newly sworn in Minister said, “I thank the people of the BVI who have voted for me, who have faith in me, who have shown me such overwhelming support and those too who have rightly placed country above party. I will uphold my promises to you, now and throughout my term in office, because now is the time for us to work as one for the betterment of our beautiful Virgin Islands. Politics is for the people, by the people and now the people have spoken. This is no landslide victory for any one party and our election process shows us all that we are a nation of proud and free-thinking people. It shows us that we must listen to each and every voice.”
Smith addressed the happens that lead to her decision stating, “Last night and into the early hours of this morning, I have been speaking with all political parties at length; with the National Democratic Party (NDP), the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) and the Virgin Islands Part (VIP) to ensure we arrive at a position in which we can take this territory forward. I started my campaign as an independent candidate before joining the NDP and throughout my campaign my promises to you and my plans for the future have never once wavered. That is because I place the needs of our country above the needs of a political party and I will never lose sight of that fact.”
Additionally, she said, “As a public servant with many years’ experience, I have worked with numerous administrations and parties to ensure the best interests of the BVI are always placed front and centre. That does not and will not change, because I am old enough to know what is needed and young enough to make sure it happens. My experience, strength and hope has never wavered, and I pledge to you that it never will. I have decided that in order to ensure a cohesive, clear and dynamic government can be sworn in, that I will form a coalition with the VIP. This is no lightweight decision, nor is it born from a need for power or control. It is a decision based upon my desire to serve you, the people, to the best of my abilities and with the determination for change to start immediately in this country. This decision may shock some of you, or make you doubt the political machinations of our country but I urge you to remain steadfast, and to remain focused on country over party. It is only by focusing upon that, that we grow as a nation with every voice heard.”
Smith was sworn into office at a ceremony at Government last evening April 25th, 2023.