As part of moves to improve transparency, accountability and good governance in the Virgin Islands (VI), Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has said that an Integrity Commission is being created, which forms part of the integrity in Public Life legislation. Photo: HoA/Youtube

Premier Natalio D. Wheatley said despite challenges, Virgin Islanders are a people of integrity and that the Integrity Commission must not be used for witch hunts. Photo: Internet Source

Premier Wheatley was at the time speaking during the Sixteenth Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly (HoA) on Friday, July 26, 2024, where he revealed that steps have already been taken to establish the Commission.

Members identified – Premier 

“We have identified an Integrity Commissioner, we have identified members of the Commission which include picks from the Leader of the Opposition, from myself, from the Governor, Christian Council,” Premier Wheatley said. 

The Premier added that time should be taken as Emancipation is being celebrated, to reflect on the Virgin Islands’ journey from enslavement, colonialism, freedom and democracy, to the ability to “determine our own destiny”. 

The strengthening of the integrity framework is an important part of the journey, he said, while adding that it gives people the confidence that as leaders, institutions will be set up “fit for purpose” while respecting the respect for the rule of law.

The ultimate goal he added, is to transform the VI into what he termed a “model democracy” with measures that will ensure wrongdoing is exposed and sanctioned, along with all other tenants of a mature democracy.

People of integrity already in VI – Premier

“Let me say despite the challenges we have had…we are a people of integrity, the vast majority of us are law-abiding citizens with good moral and ethical standards and conduct and as a people, we have a lot to be proud of being the young semi-democracy that we are,” he encouraged.  

The Integrity Commission is therefore necessary in moving towards improving democracy and the way of life in the Virgin Islands.

An Integrity Commission “is not a bad thing to have,” Premier Wheatley said, while adding that it is important the commission does not allow vexatious claims or witch-hunting expeditions.

He said rather, it must be a system under a framework that assures the “adherence to the rule of law and good moral and ethical behaviour including preventing conflicts of interest, corruption and dishonesty in public office”.