BVI Political Turmoil: Wheatley Ousts Smith Ahead of No Confidence Vote

A huge shakeup occurred within the Government of the British Virgin Islands this week, as parliamentarians prepare for a vote of no confidence against Premier Natalio Wheatley on Friday. A statement from Mr. Wheatley on Wednesday morning informed the public that Lorna Smith will no longer serve as Deputy Premier. She had also been stripped of her ministerial portfolios, the premier indicated. “She did not give me the confidence that she would remain with my administration for the duration of this term,” Mr. Wheatley's statement read. “This left room for uncertainty, and political instability, which we cannot afford at this time.” Ms. Smith was sworn in as Deputy Premier on April 25, 2023 after defecting from the National Democratic Party to give the Virgin Islands Party the majority they needed to take control of the government. Following her ouster, Mr. Wheatley announced that Julian Fraser, the lone member of the Progressive United party in the BVI Parliament, would now serve as D...