Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Ronnie Skelton, has voiced sharp criticism of the Virgin Islands Government following a walkout by government members that prevented debate and voting on a Motion of No Confidence.
The motion, scheduled as the next item on the House of Assembly’s Order Paper, was left undiscussed when members of the government, except for the Minister of Communications and Works Hon. Kye Rymer, vacated the chamber at a critical moment, leaving the House without a quorum and forcing an adjournment.
Skelton expressed deep disappointment in a press release on Thursday, describing the government’s actions as “a disregard for the House of Assembly and its procedures.” He noted that the Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley’s absence, along with other government members, cast doubts on the administration’s commitment to democratic institutions and good governance in the territory.
“The premier’s lack of maturity and respect in this matter leads me to question his commitment to our Democratic Institutions and to good governance in the territory,” Skelton remarked, calling the situation “astonishing.”
The Opposition’s Motion of No Confidence had been poised to spotlight alleged leadership failings, with Skelton emphasizing that the Premier’s refusal to engage only solidified the Opposition’s view that he may not be fit to lead the Virgin Islands.
“The premier’s refusal to face the House reinforces my view that he is not fit to lead the Virgin Islands,” Skelton added, questioning the unity within the Premier’s party and suggesting the walkout might have been a tactic to avoid a divisive vote.
According to Skelton, the absence of government members despite their ability to outvote the Opposition, further indicated potential fractures within the ruling party. He suggested that a full government presence in the House would likely have secured a defeat of the motion, making their exit appear “a tactic to avoid transparency and public scrutiny.”
In a statement, the Opposition called for “greater accountability and commitment to democratic principles” and urged the government to uphold the integrity of the House of Assembly by engaging transparently in future sessions.