‘Give the people back their voice’- Levor A.H. Lettsome
Speaking on the Talking Points programme on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, September 7, 2026, Lettsome said the committee’s central objective is to restore meaningful participation for the people of the Virgin Islands in matters that affect their lives.
“Our fundamental objective in this particular initiative … is to give the people of the Virgin Islands back their voice,” Lettsome said.
He said residents should be able to experience and understand what is taking place in the country, including how the country functions and how decisions are made on national issues.
Public participation
Lettsome expressed concern that many people feel unable to speak openly or influence decisions being made by the government.
He described the current climate as one in which residents simply observe developments without having a meaningful say in what is transpiring.
“It’s like … we’re in a fairy land, you know, can’t say anything. Nobody can; you just see things happening, and you don’t have any say,” Lettsome stated.
Consequences of exclusion
Lettsome said government decisions made without prioritising the public can lead to avoidable mistakes and negative consequences for residents.
He said the effects of such decisions eventually “trickle down,” leaving the public to bear the impact.
“We become affected by it,” Mr Lettsome added.
The call comes amid ongoing public discussion in the Virgin Islands about transparency, consultation and residents’ access to decision-making processes; however, recent government notices have included mechanisms for public review of certain resolutions, while officials have also acknowledged public concerns on issues affecting households and businesses.
.png)
Follow Us On
6 Responses to “‘Give the people back their voice’- Levor A.H. Lettsome ”
In any Democracy and I believe we should have one here in the Virgin Islands. The public needs a voice to contribute to better rules. People know their own lives best and genuinely listening to them helps leaders fix real problems. And yes, the Virgin Islands has real problems. Fairness in power distribution. The people must live with the laws and policies that so-called leaders pass. People have a basic human right to share their views. Views on any and every issue that shows it's face.
Public input brings LOCAL facts and useful knowledge to the table and the views and the voice of the youth can and will help elected leaders if they chose to listen to them. "Be careful the youths change their minds". Listening to the young people will help leaders understand different needs. This can benefit this society in gaining the trust of the young people. When trust is gained, the people will trust the government more when they help make positive choices and changes. This might lead to less anger. We have to be more passionate about positive leadership. Talking with the public early might stop protests later.
In the VIRGIN ISLANDS I believe we need stronger fairness. Letting everyone speak might stop people from feeling left out of society. We share our voices by casting a vote. A vote to pick leaders who share the same values. Speaking out can be done by a call, email, whatsapp note or the old fashioned and reliable letter. While all these can and will be ignored by some aspiring leaders, they still need to be done for the record. When this does not get attention of those seeking office, then call a public meeting and hold open talks so people can share ideas face-to-face. A lot of those seeking leadership opportunity do not like these meetings too much but in any event, seize the time.