NDP discrimination: Visa free access for Chinese, not for CARICOM nationals
He has not however, pushed for the same courtesy for three Caribbean countries, namely Jamaica, Haiti, and Guyana—all members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Under the Treaty of Chaguaramus establishing CARICOM—of which the VI is an Associate Member—nationals are granted an automatic six months stay upon entry, visa-free.
Some VI residents and critics say, the new ‘visa free’ policy for Chinese nationals, is in line with the ruling National Democratic Party’s (NDP) track record of discrimination against Caribbean nationals.
NDP hates island people?
The NDP has long been accused of running a divisive government, opening the red carpet for European and American visitors to live and work, while discriminating against locals and Caribbean nationals.
They have also made it harder for persons to become permanent resident, amending the residency requirements to 20 years, when under the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), it was 10 years. Caribbean residents are most affected.
The NDP is also accused of granting ‘Belonger’ status, to 'lots' of persons ahead of an election, in order to have more persons vote for the party.
There was in fact, a proposal from the Dr Smith Administration, for him to have the power to grant ‘Belonger’ status, without having to go through the Immigration Board, according to information obtained by our newsroom.
Under the NDP, they have doubled fees for Work Permits, visas and immigration services, mostly affecting persons from the Caribbean region.
Opposition growing to decision
The Chinese, visa free announcement, was met with outrage by many in the Territory, including Opposition Leader, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1), who told ZBVI, he “understands each administration has the right to adjust immigration policies, however, why not for our brothers and sisters from the Caribbean who has been here with us for years.” Several residents also took to social media, to express their outrage over the decision.
Radio 'talk show' host, Edmund G. Maduro, declared while he has nothing against Chinese, “it was a bad decision.”
Mr Maduro, a former Chief Immigration Officer, also questions if Premier Smith, “has the power to make this possible.”
To justify the unpopular move, Premier Smith—no longer the Chairman of the NDP—said, “…the visa free proposal is aimed at shoring up the Territory’s tourism sector by attracting Chinese tourists to the VI.”
Sign the petition
One resident, Julio S. Henry, has over the weekend started an online petition against the move by Dr Smith.
In his petition, Henry point to concerns over the large influx of Chinese interests, into the British Overseas Territory of the VI, and the negative effects it will have on the development and future of the VI.
The political and social activist noted in a Facebook post, “…one should carefully examine current Chinese trend(s) around the world, listen to the cries of the people on the ground and set policies based on knowledge, best practices, fair trade and equal opportunities for your people.”
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24 Responses to “NDP discrimination: Visa free access for Chinese, not for CARICOM nationals”
Everything the man do is a problem. Doctor Smith just need to come out and leave these Israelites so they can wonder in the wilderness for forty more years. SMDH!
The Chinese are flushed with cash and often offer cash starved countries low interest or no interest loans; they do give grants. However, their assistance often require using Chinese equipment, material/goods, labour........etc. They also require relaxed immigration rules for their citizens and support at the UN and other world bodies.
Moreover, many resource rich yet poor countries (resource curse), ie, many African countries.......etc are coerced into yielding control of mineral and other natural resources to the Chinese.
Imposible! If I'm not mistaken, most of the spouses of the ruling party are island nationals.
The party has just elected its leader whose parents are island nationals.
....Nahhh...I want to believe it's all about economics; the new wave of tourists from the East. Remember, financial services is on its death bed and newer forms of revenue streams must be had if the econmic future of this country will remain sound and in the black..
My only concern is, will their presence here be indicative of the take-over that usually occurs when massive amounts of Chineese citizenry are allowed to populate any given locale
Coming home to vote for Unity - it’s the only solution for our people. In dedication of Bradley Lettsome of the East Sunrise.
There is very little doubt that Chinese investors will be among potential foreign investors who will be approached and asked to undertake the TB Lettsome International Airport expansion. Furthermore, it should also be noted that the majority of the financial services business originates from Hong Kong, China. Clearly there will have to be some form of concessions from the BVI government to the Chinese in order to safeguard the economic ties. However, Make no mistake that China is also looking after its own interests and will continue to do so regardless but still, the BVI needs as much foreign investment as possible in order to help maintain financial stability and rebuild post hurricane Irma.