The Premier of the British Virgin Islands, Dr. Natalio Wheatley, has said the territory must first strengthen public understanding of independence before any referendum can be considered.
Speaking in a recent interview, Wheatley stressed that residents are not yet sufficiently informed to decide whether the BVI should pursue independence from the United Kingdom.
“We’re not prepared right now for a referendum on that,” Wheatley said. “There has to be the same decolonisation commission you’re speaking about. It has to be tasked with the responsibility of educating persons.”
The Premier pointed to news coverage and social media commentary as evidence that many residents still require a greater understanding of the issues involved. “When I listen, when I see some of the news articles printed, when I read some of the comments on Facebook, it reveals to me that we have to do some work in terms of the information people have at their disposal to be able to make such a decision,” he said.
Wheatley emphasized that discussions about independence should not be rushed and must extend beyond any individual political leader. He confirmed that the government plans to pursue constitutional negotiations with the United Kingdom as part of the territory’s broader political development. A report outlining the territory’s negotiating position is expected to be tabled in the House of Assembly during the current sitting.
“We had a Constitutional Review Commission that produced a report. The House of Assembly deliberated on that report and came up with a negotiating position,” the Premier explained. He added that the document will include proposals such as placing the public service under the authority of the elected government and expanding local control in several areas. Once finalised, it will be shared publicly before submission to the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to begin formal negotiations.
Wheatley reaffirmed that independence remains a long-term objective for the territory. “Whatever my position will be, I will be advocating for the Virgin Islands to become sovereign.” However, he reiterated that any move toward independence must be preceded by a process of public education and consultation to ensure residents are properly informed before participating in a referendum.
