Source: Caribbean LOOP
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley and members of his administration took their oaths of office last evening following Monday’s General Election.
Wheatley’s swearing-in as premier came after his Virgin Islands Party (VIP) made a deal with Lorna Smith, who broke ranks from the National Democratic Party (NDP), to achieve the seven seats needed to form a government.
Smith, who initially planned on running in the election as an independent candidate, will serve as the Deputy Premier.
She is replacing Kye Rymer in that office.
The portfolios of Rymer and the other successful VIP representatives will be revealed soon.
The swearing-in of the Leader of the Opposition will also take place at a later date.
In his acceptance speech, Wheatley said he was “humbled and honoured” to lead the territory once again as it “renews and rebuilds” from the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
Wheatley acknowledged that voter participation in the election was lower than in previous years and he pledged to work to regain the confidence of people who felt like the political process failed them.
Moving forward, Wheatley said his government’s agenda will be focused on reform, better roads and infrastructure, improving the public sector, sustainable development and economic growth that benefits everyone.
Wheatley issued a call for all political factions on the BVI to unite and heal after a “bruising” election campaign.
“I call on everyone to leave the campaign behind us. Let us not hold on to past grievances. Let us move forward as one people,” he said.
Governor John Rankin commended Virgin Islanders for exercising their right to vote in a free and fair manner that was void of violence.
He also thanked election officials for working to ensure the polls ran smoothly.