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Did Premier & Opposition Leader boycott Governor Rankin's farewell ceremony?

Governor John J. Rankin CMG made his farewell speech at Government House today, January 18, 2024, before exiting the [British] Virgin Islands. Photo: Team of Reporters
Both Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), right, and Leader of the Opposition Hon Ronnie W. Skelton (AL), left, did not attend the farewell ceremony for Governor John J. Rankin, CMG, although invited. Photo: VINO/File
Both Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), right, and Leader of the Opposition Hon Ronnie W. Skelton (AL), left, did not attend the farewell ceremony for Governor John J. Rankin, CMG, although invited. Photo: VINO/File
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, Road Town, VI- Not one of the 14 elected members of the House of Assembly (HoA), including the Speaker of the HoA Honourable Corine N. George-Massicote, turned up this morning Thursday, January 18, 2024, for the farewell ceremony for the controversial UK-appointed Governor of the Virgin Islands, John J. Rankin, CMG.

The ceremony was attended by senior public officers, including the Hon Attorney General Dawn J. Smith and Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr, Cabinet Secretary Sandra I. Ward and Financial Secretary Jeremiah G. A. Frett, and over a dozen UK nationals who work at the Governor’s Office.

According to a brief statement from the Office of the Governor, “As is customary, the only House of Assembly members invited to the Governor’s farewell ceremony were the Premier, Leader of the Opposition and the Attorney General. The Leader of the Opposition sent his apologies in advance.”

The Governor; however, was embarrassed as the ceremony was delayed waiting on the Premier, who was a no show. To smooth it off, the Governor noted that the Premier "was on BVI time."

Premier Wheatley was slated to be on Jost van Dyke this morning for the opening of the new Jost van Dyke Primary School.

He subsequently told JTV Channel 55, "I got delayed and the ceremony was short, so unfortunately I  missed it, but I called the Governor and gave my best wishes on his departure."

Power grab that turned off many

Mr Rankin, as he retires from the UK Foreign Service, is leaving as another unpopular Governor. About 10 days ago, he tried to do a power grab by asking for more power under the false pretence, as many alleged, so he could "help the country in moving the Commission of Inquiry recommendations forward".

Many, including elected officials, have alleged he really wanted power to ram through the HoA a backward Police Bill that takes away the rights and freedoms of residents and allow UK police officers to go into homes without search warrants, and while persons are not even at home. 

Many also claimed he wanted to push through a Gay Marriage Bill and give many UK nationals Belonger status by taking over the Immigration Department.

Mr Rankin has; however, denied those claims, saying he was only focused on the reforms outlined in the CoI Report and which the VI Government agreed to implement.

The outgoing Governor also authorised a sting operation against the former Premier Andrew A. Fahie and allegedly lied about it. His double standards and integrity were further questioned after some 55 allegations were made by over 30 police officers against his friend, Police Commissioner Mark Collins; however, he refused to send him on administrative leave while the investigation was ongoing, which is the current practice.

CoI used as weapon

Questions have now been raised about the relationship between Mr Collins and the person chosen by Mr Rankin to investigate him, the Commissioner of Police of the Cayman Islands, Mr Kurt Walton, who allegedly told persons they are friends.

Many have also claimed, including Cabinet members, that former Governor Rankin has used the one-man CoI report as a weapon to harass residents, the government of the day and enforce a target list of persons for arrest, including businesspersons who have been outspoken against him for his alleged unfair practices and disregard for law and order.

The new Governor, Mr Daniel Pruce, is expected to arrive on January 28, 2024.

Mr Archer will act as Governor until Mr Pruce is sworn in on Monday, January 29, 2024.

Many residents continue to agitate for our independence; however, the Territory appears to be split over the idea of our freedom and self-determination.

106 Responses to “Did Premier & Opposition Leader boycott Governor Rankin's farewell ceremony?”

  • What!!’ (18/01/2024, 12:19) Like (228) Dislike (33) Reply
    Agreed with him or not the no show was very disrespectful.
    • No invite (18/01/2024, 13:18) Like (39) Dislike (21) Reply
      The entire house of assembly was not invited. I wouldn’t go where I am not wanted either
      • dizzy (18/01/2024, 13:59) Like (65) Dislike (18) Reply
        fight the UK at every chance and then run england and beg for 100 million loan

        i just dont get it ,
        • UK resident (18/01/2024, 14:30) Like (12) Dislike (13) Reply
          Norhing wrong with making a stance against dictatorship and disrespect. It is a fact the UK has proven to be the most corrupt country who always find how to cover up their corruption and make their explanation sound justifiable. They have no word and no one to hold them accountable so they keep getting away with it. Just look how they handling the alleged corruption of their own white UK Commissioner of Police in BVI. They cannot be trusted. They are known for abusing power. A man can only take so much abuse before reacting.
        • vg youth (18/01/2024, 14:32) Like (12) Dislike (20) Reply
          Rankin just leave. Most of the BVI public have loss ALL respect, trust, and confidence in the Governor. We found him to be like the Commissioner of police. They both are challenged with the truth and will do anything to get their own way to justify their unjustifiable actions.
        • @dizzy (18/01/2024, 20:17) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
          Are you for real a LOAN! They need to give us reparations. You obviously will never get it!
      • @What!!’ (18/01/2024, 14:15) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply
        Well said.
      • To: No invite (18/01/2024, 14:16) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
        I could not say it better myself.
      • @no invite (18/01/2024, 14:35) Like (10) Dislike (2) Reply
        The Premier and leader of the opposition were.
      • What modern partnership? (18/01/2024, 14:51) Like (13) Dislike (2) Reply
        In any partnership, each person involved tries to support and empower the other partner, not try to take power from them. They both must be in a position to hold each other accountable, and not one holding the other accountable but the other cannot hold the one partner accountable. The Governor has violated every tenant of a credible partnership. There is nothing modern about this partnership so putting on a show for the public makes no sense. The one partner intends to kill the next and they are not hiding their intentions.
    • @wHAT (18/01/2024, 13:45) Like (69) Dislike (14) Reply
      Indeed it was. You can disagree with someone and not be rude or disrespectful towards them. Secondly, they're so hell bent on villainizing Mr. Rankin forgetting that invoking more of his powers was because of their own failures and shortcomings as a Government. No accountability whatsoever. They just proved to him why we will never get anywhere as a country with people like them at our helm.
      • Realist (18/01/2024, 14:23) Like (11) Dislike (15) Reply
        Look at the track record of the Governor and UK and tell me if they are serious about developing the people of the Caribbean through democracy and good governance. For this reason they do not need any more power. They need to do better by the people with the power they have and stop disrespecting and lying on the BVI and pretend as if they are saints. Look at their track record:
        1) The Governor is in charge of the prison and can pardon prisoners. There are no transparent process in this regard nor can anyone hold him accountable. In the last 20yrs the only persons pardon who were prisoners were two white people.
        2) The Governor is in charge of the public service and he has failed the public service miserably in all areas but loves to throw the blame on elected officials.
        3) The Governor ensured all public officers accused of corruption were 1st put on leave and then investigated but he allowed his white UK Commissioner of Police to remain on the job while being investigated. This is because of what all evil they have planned using the COI as a front.
        4) During covid the Governor refused to help the BVI and left them on their own. It is in the latter part they beat their chest saying they brought vaccines to save the day. The COI was meant to belittle the good efforts of the BVI during covid.
        5) The Governor said the COI was independent. Yet he wrote the terms of reference. He putt them to go after what he wanted them to go after and exempted other areas especially around him He put his fellow UK staff to assist the COI Commissioner. He hand picked the COI Commissioner in a non transparent manner. The COI lawyers practiced law in BVI illegally and got away with it. The COI was preauthored and prearranged. The list of unethical actions with the COI and its processes is long.
        6) To this day the UK cannot state how one can become a Governor. To date there is not one black person as Governor. To date there is not one Caribbean person as Governor. Only in 2020 they appointed a woman as Governor.
        7) To this date the Governor & UK cannot identify where one can go to research and find the clear path one can follow and apply if they want independence. Yet they are stipulating through the COI this kind of process be established in all of BVI affairs in government. This is called hypocrisy.
        8) The Governor refuses to register his interest according to BVI law while working in the BVI stating he has already done so in the UK. He holds the same view for all UK officials working in BVI. Talk about hypocrisy.
        9) The Governor already have the power over the public service to had second persons in the areas where he felt was falling behind with the 48 ill advised & unrealistic COI
        recommendations. He did no such thing because he wants the BVI to fail so their plot can succeed. It is not about what is best for the people of the BVI, only what is best for the UK unjustified takeover plot.
        10) The police force said they are cleaning up corruption in the force but this is only supported because the Commissioner is from the UK and it is a subject under the Governor. They are failing at it. Now they want more power.
        11) The Governor & UK awarded less than 20 scholarships to study abroad or the UK in the last 20yrs.
        12) The Governor gives the UK updates about what happens in the BVI but it is never made public so its validity can be tested. After all they have challenges with the truth.

        When you truly care about people you develop them and empower them. Not try to take power from them and try to belittle them. They are no brighter than anyone else. They have no more nor less integrity than anyone else. They need to stop behaving as if they are more superior than others. It is wrong and racists.
      • To @wHAT (18/01/2024, 20:46) Like (2) Dislike (4) Reply
        Stop talking foolishness you UK paid blogger. The UK trying to paint the BVI in a negative light using abuse of power and lies. The people and leaders did a good job building BVI without aby help from the UK.
        • what (19/01/2024, 09:03) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
          BTFOL I born here thank you very much. Secondly, without any help from the UK?! You sure about that? Lmao! I don't dispute that they tried to make us leave when the BVI was originally deemed a bird sanctuary, however, go check your history books again with your bogus claim of them not doing anything to help the VI thrive. Don't be an ungrateful, entitled VIslander.
          • please (20/01/2024, 11:10) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
            White person who you’re trying to feel please you are not one of us.
      • @ @what (19/01/2024, 13:27) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        So how would you like us to tell you all to get your racist, backstabbing, hypocritical, colonizing, envious, corrupt, inhumane, barbaric, sociopathic, backside out of your country and don’t come back!!! Is saying Please respectful enough?? Ok then Please!!
    • @What!!’ (18/01/2024, 14:14) Like (8) Dislike (6) Reply
      You UK bloggers always making statements to put the people of the BVI to fight each other then press like a million times for your own blog. The Governor is challenged with the truth and his actions, especially how he is dealing with the allegations against the white UK Commissioner of Police is unethical. Trying to take away power in a non democratic manner is dictatorship. A great person once said sometimes to get peace you must prepare for war.
    • the real issue (18/01/2024, 14:21) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
      The real issue with this matter is the Governor & his UK bosses should be preserving democracy and not promoting colonialism and dictatorship. This action to either partially or fully suspend a country's constitution is saying to the public worldwide is the UK have no respect for the BVI's democratic process and judiciary system. This is a slap in the face of justice and democracy.
    • @What!!’ (18/01/2024, 14:36) Like (14) Dislike (3) Reply
      When you show up you are saying to the public you agree with his unethical actions. Anyone who engages in the suspension of another country's constitution is engaging in unethical and suppressive actions. It is as simple as that. So why will anyone who has sense and care for their people support any event for persons of this mindset. You cannot hit a man a fist then expect him to come to your retirement farewell party.
    • @What!! (18/01/2024, 14:46) Like (23) Dislike (13) Reply
      Yes it was extremely disrespectful. It just shows the calibre of men and women we have running this country. God help us all. I know for certain the one ain't born yet who can get me to revisit any poll for any future elections. I will sit them out and I do not care what anybody has to say. These people do not represent me no they do NOT.
    • Agreed. This site.hmmm. (18/01/2024, 15:39) Like (6) Dislike (6) Reply
      Kept pushing a hateful and divisive agenda / narrative..How come we not bearing about the new names mentioned in Andy trials starting on Monday. Blame the Governor for that too. People who take responsibility for their wrong are willing to change and do better, those that don't will remain the same..
    • Josiahsbay (18/01/2024, 15:46) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
      Relationships have to be respectful both ways. Respecting people or entities that don't respect us is stupidity.
    • Get Out! (18/01/2024, 16:30) Like (6) Dislike (12) Reply
      It's disrespectful to come into someone home to colonize it!
    • SHAME (18/01/2024, 17:18) Like (16) Dislike (10) Reply
      Shame on the opposition leader. It shows he is NO BETTER than sowande. I do not care what they feel about the governor. We are in this mess because of POOR LEADERSHIP FROM INSIDE THE BVI! That place is a frig, left right and flekkin center!!!
      • and (20/01/2024, 21:22) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        from colonizers who feel that all are accountable to them. Although they are some of the most corrupt people in the world and have always been.
    • Rubber Duck (18/01/2024, 19:32) Like (0) Dislike (6) Reply
      This Governor was a decent chap who could be trusted. Hopefully the new Governor will be similar, and not like Jaspert who was the worst Governor we have ever had.
    • @ what (19/01/2024, 13:11) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Diplomacy?? When they colonized the world they came in diplomacy with smiles as they waged war on the whole world. Stop smiling up with your enemies! Stop going to their events! Stop petting up bulldogs! You all better stop playing around with fire and take back your dignity. Stop being naïve! We all know the nature of that evil wild beast!
    • @ what (20/01/2024, 11:35) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Western blogger liking up a storm on this article. Westerns you’ll are losing ground in this world. Your kingdom of deception and hypocrisy is exposed and soon will be dissolved. Your old games are Old and played out! Diplomacy with a Sword is in the old colonization rule book of the ‘White Man’s World Rule and Conquer Game’! This is 2024 your Kingdom will fall! London Bridge is Falling Down! You will return home starting this gentleman.
  • Hmm (18/01/2024, 12:20) Like (16) Dislike (88) Reply
    Sir just go home please/thanks carry Officer Mike and his Caribbean loving wife as well!
    • @hmmm (18/01/2024, 14:27) Like (8) Dislike (4) Reply
      Most of the people of the BVI feels the same way. Look at the bogus organized investigation of the Commissioner of Police he did just like what he did with the COI. It was not transparent. The Commissioner of the COI was hand picked by the Governor and he delivered what his masters wanted. Most of the recommendations are not good for the BVI but it is by design. The deadlines for implementation were unrealistic and unattainable from the inception but that was the whole point where the Governor & UK always intended to ensure the BVI fails. These UK officials with their Governor is a Cabal system. They are not better than the mafia. They want to try to destroy you and then expect you to show up to their functions with a smile on your face. Those days are over.
  • Cheers! (18/01/2024, 12:29) Like (69) Dislike (10) Reply
    Hopefully the Premier had good reasons why he was a no show. By the way, what was his secretary doing? She should have ensure that the message was deliver to the relevant persons that he would not be in attendance for the Governor farewell event.

    If this was a deliberate move by the Premier and The Leader of the Opposition, then this does not sit well. Regardless of the issues or differences, you both hold the highest office in the land and we should always lead by example! Hopefully this was not the case in this situation.

    Cheers Mr. Governor!
    • @Cheers! (18/01/2024, 13:38) Like (41) Dislike (10) Reply
      100% correct. It looks like it was indeed a deliberate act/move by the Premier and the leader of the opposition and it is going to backfire. That was so rude and disrespectful. We have children and locals studying, working and living in the UK. How would you like it if they were treated in that manner.
    • To cheers (18/01/2024, 14:38) Like (7) Dislike (8) Reply
      You paid UK bloggers are out in force but save your energy. The days of playing and fighting with people who have no respect for you and will do anything to eliminate you is over. You do not wage war and expect peace at the same time.
    • Myron is correct: The Governor is out of order (18/01/2024, 14:42) Like (5) Dislike (11) Reply
      The Governor & UK have no good intentions for the BVI & Caribbean people overall and his actions showed it. Imagine the Governor wants more power to do things like what he did with the alleged corruption of his white C.O.P. to protect his own only and also allow him to ignore the democratic process to do the following (Note these are just a few of his alleged intentions cloaked as good governance):
      1) Take over Immigration: He wants to immediately give over 4000 of his kind status so they can out number the people of the BVI and then allow them to have a secondary take over plan.
      2) Pass the new police act on his own: He wants to give the police unlimited powers to do many anti-democratic things such as but not limited to searching anyone's home without a warrant and do so on mere suspicion. Talk about making the BVI a police state where people will have no basic human nor democratic rights.
      3) He wants to pass the Jury Act: Here is where he wants the cases to proceed without any jury to decided the cases but rather have the Judge themselves decide if you are guilty. Not only is this anti democratic but it represents dictatorship as all the UK will do next is flood the position of Judges with persons from the UK who have like minds as them against the locals and Caribbean people. It is another tier of their take over plan.
      4) Powers to pass laws by himself without HOA: Here is where he wants to legalize same sex marriage. Here is where he wants to redefine who is a Virgin Islander.

      I will stop there for now but people of the BVI these people have no good intention for us. They have no respect for our democracy and democratic rights. It is time to wake up and stand up for what is right and represents true democracy and not sit back and allow a wicked agenda by the Brits to get through.
  • herbs power (18/01/2024, 12:39) Like (19) Dislike (59) Reply
    Dont show up for colonial Pruce swearing in either. Fed up of them now, they are very disrespectful to the caribbean culture. And surely not needed around here unless they are visiting.
  • resident (18/01/2024, 12:40) Like (112) Dislike (14) Reply
    Premier that was wilful, petty and childish. But I guess it's where the votes are that was more important.
    To the editor.
    Only a handful of people want independence. Don't be fooled. The majority does not.
    • @ resident (18/01/2024, 13:05) Like (11) Dislike (44) Reply
      Lot more people want there freedom from slavery trust
    • @resident (18/01/2024, 13:14) Like (37) Dislike (9) Reply
      Did you do a survey?? Who are you speaking for?
    • @tesident (18/01/2024, 18:21) Like (11) Dislike (4) Reply
      I am one that is NOT IN FAVOR of the BVI going independent. The BVI is in no way shape or form to go independent. The ones that is hollering Independence is the ones who want to continue with the BS that they are doing.
  • Really! (18/01/2024, 12:45) Like (12) Dislike (22) Reply
    We just can’t please you people can we! If the Premier along with the other legislators were there yall would have nailed them to the cross! United they stood, and yet still yall complain? Just hush for heavens sake!
    • @Really (18/01/2024, 13:47) Like (30) Dislike (6) Reply
      Well then they would have gotten nailed to the cross. This has nothing to do with United they stood. It was unprofessional and childish and rude.
    • @Really! (18/01/2024, 16:23) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
      And what if they had gotten nailed to the cross, it would have only toughen them up. When you are a leader or legislator if you are required to sit in a chair of red hot burning coals you have to grin and deal with it.
  • hmm (18/01/2024, 12:54) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    LOL.........
  • (18/01/2024, 12:59) Like (22) Dislike (31) Reply
    I support the boycott
  • respect (18/01/2024, 13:03) Like (67) Dislike (15) Reply
    The former Premier and now this accidental one need a lesson on respect. It does not matter if you don't like the man, RESPECT THE OFFICE!!!!!!! There are MANY of us who don't like you Mr. premier, but we show you respect despite your MANY shortcomings.

    Get yourself a reliable secretary!!! At least Ronnie sent his apologies but the Jost Van Dyke school opening ceremony could have been delayed or rescheduled. This is the Governor we are speaking about.

    Stop embarrassing the people of the BVI because if it is one thing we have, it is manners. Mr Premier please get some!!!!

  • Migoman (18/01/2024, 13:04) Like (16) Dislike (1) Reply
    And yall say the government and opposition cant hold one head on anything..
  • Common Sense (18/01/2024, 13:04) Like (31) Dislike (7) Reply
    Well, this departing Governor probably did not know what he was coming into when he arrived here, however, due to the actions and behavior of the BVI government, the new incoming Governor certainly will. It’s unlikely there will be anymore Mr Nice guy moving forward as the government have really nailed their colours to the mast for everyone to see.
  • Bury thy selves (18/01/2024, 13:05) Like (16) Dislike (3) Reply
    Always know what you got but the unknown is what coming if this is what is what going to happen in this country and England going let it slide by as excuses on top of excuses look back at his no shows Police recruits parade very late parade in Elizabeth Park very very late and now this wow what a poor track record of the leaders in this country what can we expect from the ones that trying to look up to them for leadership and guidance very poor standards
    But this New Governor will make things straight in BVI remember this a leap year
  • Typical (18/01/2024, 13:17) Like (33) Dislike (4) Reply
    More classless ignorance by people who you would think know better..... well maybe not
  • every dog has his day (18/01/2024, 13:18) Like (28) Dislike (6) Reply
    The Lil boy retaliated, let's just hope the UK don't retaliate too
  • Unbelievable (18/01/2024, 13:27) Like (56) Dislike (10) Reply
    That was so unprofessional, spiteful and rude. Mr. Premier, even if you and the Governor don’t see eye to eye you are the leader of the Territory and you should have conducted yourself in a professional manner. WHICH IS WORSE YOU NOT SHOWING UP OR WHEN THE EX PREMIER WORE JEANS AND A LONG OVERSIZED JEANS SHIRT FOR THE LAST GOVERNOR’S SEND OFF. Hate to say it but I hope the new Governor give you guys HELLLLLLLLL. YOU SHOWED JUST HOW MUCH OF AN UNPROFESSIONAL COWARD YOU ARE MR. PREMIER.
    • Not fit to B leaders. (18/01/2024, 14:13) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
      Put your differences aside and have some decency, respect and Diplomacy.. This is a country not an Animal form' 'Grow Up'..Don't you think in large companies managers and owners and share holders have their beef but when they are together you will never believe they do, they are professionals..
  • hmm (18/01/2024, 13:36) Like (23) Dislike (4) Reply
    All of a sudden he remember JVD exist!!!!
  • x (18/01/2024, 13:41) Like (18) Dislike (7) Reply
    Them had a right.
  • Guest (18/01/2024, 14:00) Like (8) Dislike (21) Reply
    If they boycotted the event, they have a right to. Protest comes in various forms.
    • @guest (18/01/2024, 15:01) Like (14) Dislike (4) Reply
      So they were protesting/boycotting? Is that what you are trying to say? All in all it was unprofessional and rude. Shows that we have no manners. The outside is watching and taking notes.
  • Phoebe (18/01/2024, 14:02) Like (29) Dislike (6) Reply
    Well what more proof y'all want that y'all put a little child to lead these beautiful Virgin Islands. Im not surprised just ashamed because we will all be classified based on Natalio's actions. It truly is heartbreaking to see him behave this way.
  • @ MIGOMAN (18/01/2024, 14:31) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    WE ALL KNOW THAT WAS ONLY A PUBLICITY STUNT , BECAUSE THEY BOTH WILL CUT EACHOTHER'S THROAT FOR THAT ALMIGHTY POWER / BUT IT EXPOSED WHO THEY ARE , SADLY THE WHOLE BVI WILL CARRY THE ( WONDERFUL BEHAVIOR OF BOTH OPPOSITION & GOVERNMENT LEADERS , WHICH LEAVES A LOT TO BE DESIRED / HOW IRONIC , THAT IN THE LAST ELECTION ONE OF THEM COULD NOT UNITE AND FORM THE GOVERNMENT , ( AND SOME HYPOCRITES WANT TO BLAME LORNA ) THEN AGAIN , IT BRINGS TO MIND THOSE HYPOCRITES WHO SAT IN THE STREET TO FOOL THE PEOPLE , AND WE ALL KNOW IT WAS ONLY FOR THE CAMERA ( AKA ) PUBLICITY STUNT . SO ARE GOING TO GET ANOTHER STUNT , LIKE A MARCH OR ANOTHER CHILLING OUT ON THE STREET ? / OH MIGOMAN YOU MISPELT YOUR NAME , IT SHOULD OF BEEN (* EGOMANIAC )
  • premier (18/01/2024, 14:47) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    If it was something beneficial to you you would have been there. Stop making lame excuses.
  • that is why (18/01/2024, 14:55) Like (2) Dislike (6) Reply
    We are always being referred to as ignorant, dumb, slow bush people, retards and imbeciles.we are the butt of jokes on the outside. No one takes us seriously.
  • jack@$$ (18/01/2024, 14:56) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Well he was trying to spite them and remove their roles as elected officials. If he was successful do you expect that they would've been obligated to be there?
  • mad max (18/01/2024, 14:57) Like (12) Dislike (3) Reply
    Premier - you represent the people of the BVI and to not show up (even in fancy dress like Fahie did) is a great insult to all of us as well as the Governor.
  • The plot & white magic is real (18/01/2024, 14:57) Like (2) Dislike (6) Reply
    God is watching all including these colonial people. The people of the BVI please take heed. Those who have ears and eyes let them see and hear. These colomial official people are like the mafia. They have evil spiritual people hired as consultants in many law enforcement areas and paying them out of tax payers money to guide them and show them who is against their agenda and how to eliminate them while making it look like their hands are clean. This is real but the people are fast a sleep by their design. Look at who all died or they moved out of the way but make it look like their hands are clean with Sam, Carvin, Wade, Fahie, the white UK officer that died, Najan, Myron, just to name a few that they know are a threat to what they trying to achieve. Look out this week for them to do something drastically major to further abuse their powers and instill more fear in the people to warn them not to interfere with their wicked agenda. The BVI people need to pray and unite against this colonial dragon or they will be in bondage crying for years. This is for real just watch this week and see and when the new one comes.
  • King Charles II (18/01/2024, 14:58) Like (14) Dislike (3) Reply
    Colonialism or not, it was very rude and disrespectful not to show up. Look out for another hammer to fall. These guys who are “leading us” are not smart AT ALL…
  • Create (18/01/2024, 14:59) Like (12) Dislike (3) Reply
    The premier only make it bad for us the people's ayo watch and see how the UK going to deal with this ,mr premier the other governor coming with alot a pressure on you
  • King Charles II (18/01/2024, 15:12) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Both the Governor and the Premier wrote to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office or whatever it’s called. After this stunt, guess whose side they are going to take…
  • Vision of hope (18/01/2024, 15:15) Like (18) Dislike (5) Reply
    The 14 members of the HoA no Show to the Governor Rankin's farewell Ceremony is clear evidence of lack of respect by our local politicians headed by no other than the Hon. Premier, Dr. Natalio Sujande Wheatley, what a shameful act of disloyalty.
    The political leaders of our BVI has disrespected the constrtutional principles, from head to toe, so to speak. The showed no respect to the voters that empowered them to represent us.
    But I can assure you that the next appointed Governor of the BVI name is not Santa Clause nor is it Puss-Me-Aside.

  • Help (18/01/2024, 15:15) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    He did not boycott. He fell into a pothole. It will take weeks for him to get back to the surface.
  • judge (18/01/2024, 15:33) Like (8) Dislike (8) Reply
    What make you all think that the Premier did not have a valid reason for not being there? Please you all stop making accusation you only know one side of the story.
  • Demonic Cat (18/01/2024, 15:38) Like (12) Dislike (7) Reply
    The BVI would fall apart very quickly if we secured independence- imagine the level of corruption if the ‘government’ of either party was left to its own devices.

    I’m tired of reading the word ‘slavery’ being weaved into every discussion regardless of topic, the whole world, every population has been subjected to slavery. The Vikings and the Romans enslaved those in the British Isles, it is an abhorrent crime, still going on today, it is not unique to the BVI history.
  • Truly Embarrassing (18/01/2024, 15:41) Like (9) Dislike (1) Reply
    It was not a good look. Regardless of what was going on between the Government and the Governor it was rude and disrespectful. Is that the type of people we truly are? This is the second Governor that has left the Island and was given the shitty treatment as if to say get out by the former and now Premier.
  • Hold Up! (18/01/2024, 16:40) Like (2) Dislike (9) Reply
    Over a dozen UK nationals work at the governors office??? Were those jobs advertised locally?? Who paying their salaries?? As long as it is not the taxpayers then fine. Otherwise, we need a COI on this.
    • Quiet Rebel (19/01/2024, 08:24) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      To Hold up, Microsecond by microsecond the Colonialists are showing us they don’t give a rat’s ass about us but we don’t want to take no for an answer. Clearly, the Governor don’t trust you/us so he bring Britons with whom he has a comfort level. Are these jobs requiring complex skills which Virgin Islanders don’t have and therefore not qualified to do or they don’t trust and feel uncomfortable with Virgin Islanders? The Brits are using and seeing the OTs as employment opportunities, are they not?
  • Once again- You Idiots (18/01/2024, 16:45) Like (2) Dislike (16) Reply
    You all are a bunch of idiots. If someone is trying to take over your country, why would you see them off? To send a message? That to me is childish. You people need to use your brains. All of them did the right thing. Now, I do believe that there is a fight but did you guys not ask for the premier to stand up to the Governor? What more do you want? One minute you say this and the next minute you say something else? These are humans, not animals. They need help and they were too proud to ask for help. I am glad they are seeking help now and can see a little better, the agenda of the UK. The agenda for the UK is not one of partnership, its a direct take over. I refuse to be a slave and if you want to be told what to do like a child, go ahead and have the UK step in. Some of you, will cry. They do not support the governor, just like the governor do not support them. You can see the tension in the pictures between the governor and the premier and we the people are the ones pushing this. Stand up and tell the government they have our support and we demand that they start to work. Take action or you will recommend direct rule. However, don't take away the chance for us to fix our problems ourselves. Let the government try.
  • HMMM (18/01/2024, 16:45) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    There was a reason for the jvd school being opened today????
  • 123 (18/01/2024, 16:45) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    wait until the new boss man takes official position

    may the Lord continue watching over us
  • fromafar (18/01/2024, 16:49) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
    @ What. What other way to show you are not in agreement with the governor 's actions sometimes you have to do that. Were you vocal when the governor threatened to request additional powers? Were you vocal when he threatened to suspend the constitution?
  • Backthen (18/01/2024, 16:52) Like (15) Dislike (1) Reply
    Can you remember the way that Former Premier Anndrew Fahie dressed when he turned up at one of these Governor's departure ceremony? He Fahie is now history. When you are in certain Offices you could make your point clear without bring disrespectful. Just imagine if the GOVERNOR had not shown up at Primier's swearing-in ceremony. Lot of you are are talking about colonialism would have been singing the same song but with a different rhythm.
  • embarrassed (18/01/2024, 16:54) Like (21) Dislike (2) Reply
    What the Premier did is embarrassing to the territory and it's people His action is childish to say the least. I was always told when your hands are in the lion's mouth you take very good care when removing it. This is enough for the Governor to be petty also and push for his agenda which Wheatley can do absolutely nothing about it. Guess the same stunt the Ronnie pulled off when he didn't join Wheatley at the press conference is the same stunt Wheatley pulled off today.
  • Expected (18/01/2024, 16:56) Like (14) Dislike (2) Reply
    The Premiere is a banana republic type, BVI should be embarrassed by his childish behavior.
  • fromafar (18/01/2024, 17:18) Like (2) Dislike (8) Reply
    not sure what some of you want try standing for what the Virgin Islands need for once you think this is a joke let be clear we are not happy with what the UK and the governor wants,
  • Nah (18/01/2024, 18:01) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    They were just being rude because they did not like being called out for their malfeasance, and did not like to be reminded that they need to fix how the country is run.
  • James Bond - 007 (18/01/2024, 18:15) Like (11) Dislike (2) Reply
    The UK should have saved themselves the headache of wrangling with these buffoons and partially suspend the constitution. The Governor gave them a break and he was rewarded with disrespect. Now the taxpayers of the Virgin Islands have to pay these non performing buffoons a pension for the rest of tbeir lives.
  • FYI (18/01/2024, 19:04) Like (8) Dislike (1) Reply
    Just remember that the United States of America and the United Kingdom are Allies.
  • We pushing P (18/01/2024, 20:40) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    WE ALL IN THE 7TH DISTRICT VOTING FOR PERLINE NEXT TIME FOR SURE..........WE SHAME SHAME SHAME
  • THE PAST PREMIERS WOULD'VE NEVER DONE THAT (18/01/2024, 20:44) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    LORNA RAN DOWN BY THE SAME GOVERNOR THE DAY AFTER ELECTION WAY BEFORE HIS OFFICE OPENED.....WHERE SHE WAS TODAY???
  • go fast (19/01/2024, 01:39) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply
    We the people of the bvi understand both Mr premier and Mr Skelton are very busy people we have no ill will against john rankin we wish him a safe flight back to London
  • ................................. (19/01/2024, 02:48) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply
    I believe the governor office is probably the most corrupt department within Government.

    When allegations of abuse where brought forward, the Governor opted to investigate it themselves rather than an independent body.
  • @ ONCE AGAIN (19/01/2024, 07:11) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    THANKS FOR REMINDING US THHAT ( WE ) ARE IDIOTS , YET YOU STILL LIVE AMONGST US WHY DON'T YOU TENT A BARGE AMD TAKE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY BACK TO AFRICA , WHERE YOU ALL WILL BE WORSHIPPED AS KINGS AND QUEENS AND DON'T 4GET YOUR WIG
  • fromafar (19/01/2024, 07:34) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    hi, some of you need to call the governor out for his lack of actions for areas he was responsible for .
  • GateKeeper (19/01/2024, 07:40) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
    Silent protest. Nevertheless, if only the masses had the courage, heart, guts , etc, to physically protests, as Virgin Islanders did with the Great March of 1949 against John Augustus Cockburn Cruikshank, against him while he ( Rankin) was on site carrying on and out his mischief. Good riddance. Nonetheless, Virgin Islanders must be vigilate. Daniel Pruce, the incoming Governor, is part of the cabal and will be picking up and carrying on where Rankin left off. His job will be to complete closing the circle to complete the plan. Don’t be fooled people, for Rankin push for more power was not him, for he was leaving on his way out, he was setting up his predecessor, passing the baton, People you cannot let your guards down. You must hit the ground running. The UK is planning its take over work and is working its plan. Our disunity makes executing the plan easier like taking candy from a child. We cannit be playing checkers while the UK is playing advanced chess. Be vigilate, be vigilant. Fool me once shame on you, fool twice shame on me.
    • @GateKeeper (19/01/2024, 08:39) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      To GateKeeper, you know BVI people are a bunch entitled, no heart, no courage cowards who want change but don’t want to sacrifice for changed, wanting others to fight and sacrifice for change. They wants things on a platinum platter. They foolishly think tge Colonialists are going to feel compassion for them and will willingly give them what they want. Marie Antoinette told tge French people to eat cake. Well, the BVI people can eat dumb bread would be tge wish of tge Brits?
    • Frig… (20/01/2024, 09:04) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      To GateKeeper, the Frig…. here , you are a frig but a useful, observant frig. You are on point with the UK plan to take control. They are planning their work and working their plan. They are pretending to helping the VI but at the same time wanting the VI to fail. For example, Ray Charles could see clearly that the timeline for accomplishing/completing was not realistic. The UK is excited about the timeline , for they know the deal. When the timeline was agreed to the VI was between a rock and a hard place. Governor Rankin was the lead in seeing the plan flounder, offering little assistance, crowing about the lag in completing the CoI. For example given the choice by Hutley of 1) more power or b) technical assistance, he chose more power. The Frig out.
  • Mark (19/01/2024, 08:14) Like (2) Dislike (5) Reply
    This Governor did not care about the people of the BVI. let him go his way, The premier did the right thing, support what?
  • smh (19/01/2024, 10:22) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    There is a difference between civility and servility. We need to stop mixing them up.
    • @SMH (19/01/2024, 17:20) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      No matter how many ways you spin it, the Premier made a poor choice by being unprofessional, rude and spiteful, he lowered his standards. He is the one looking bad and embarrassing.
  • Big dogg (19/01/2024, 11:07) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    The governor didnt want them setta criminals from the HOA next to him.
  • So said (19/01/2024, 15:25) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Rankin is bad news period
  • Would it ……… (19/01/2024, 17:53) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Mr. Premier, wouldn’t it be something if you fly into the UK on one of your meetings or to meet with UK officials and they tell you that you are no longer welcome in the UK.
  • hmm (22/01/2024, 10:07) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Set of babies.Uk treat them as such.waaawaawaaaa????


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