Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, recently addressed fellow Heads of Government within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) regarding the concerning situation faced by the British Virgin Islands (BVI) during the Opening Ceremony of the 73rd Meeting of the OECS Authority.
As noted in the Communique of the 73rd Meeting of the OECS Authority the premier made his address as the Territory faces “the threat of direct rule being imposed on the people of the islands by the United Kingdom (UK) that is maintaining an Order in Council in reserve that would immediately suspend the Territory’s constitution if triggered”
“The Governor stationed on the islands is also seeking additional powers over the Territory. The Government and people of the BVI requested ongoing support from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to prevent these outcomes”, it continued.
Expressing gratitude, he thanked the OECS for their unwavering support during the unprecedented challenges faced by the BVI in recent years.
In solidarity, the Heads of Government within the OECS expressed unequivocal support for the BVI. They pledged to provide assistance in ensuring the completion of the decolonization process in the Caribbean and upholding the democratic will of the people of the BVI.
During his speech, the Premier called for continued collaboration in protecting democratic principles and self-governance throughout the Caribbean.
Premier Wheatley affirmed the BVI’s commitment to working closely with the OECS and the incoming chairman. He also highlighted the shared challenges lying ahead, recognizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing them.