Territorial At Large Representative Hon. Lorna Smith has pushed back against Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley’s claim that keeping her as Deputy Premier and minister would have caused instability within his administration.
Speaking at an impromptu press conference on Wednesday, October 23, Smith expressed her shock over the premier’s rationale for her sudden dismissal, arguing that her removal is the real source of instability.
Premier Wheatley, in announcing Hon. Julian Fraser as the new Deputy Premier, explained that he dismissed Smith because he lacked confidence in her commitment to remain with his administration throughout its term. Wheatley cited concerns about political uncertainty and potential instability as key reasons behind the decision.
At her press conference Smith, who previously served as Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, expressed her disbelief at Wheatley’s comments.
Despite the abrupt firing, Smith said she remains open to contributing her expertise to the government in the financial services ministry once it serves the interests of the Virgin Islands.