According to Fligelstone-Davies, the Deputy Governor holds a significant amount of power in the Virgin Islands and as such, the post should be subjected to the same democratic process as ministerial posts in the government.

“Essentially, he (the Deputy Governor) is in charge — he is the de facto boss of the court system, he’s the minister of justice or he acts like one. And he’s in charge of the civil service,” Fligelstone-Davies argued. “I think we should be a bit more democratic when it comes to those sorts of institutions, especially someone with that much power. He has as much power as a minister, you know.”

The Deputy Governor’s functions are set under section 38 of the Virgin Islands Constitution. Whoever holds the posts usually acts as the head of the territory, once the sitting Governor leaves the territory or is unable to carry out his duties.

The Deputy Governor’s office is also responsible for monitoring the quality of service delivery and developing and implementing public sector reform initiatives for greater efficiency and enhanced service delivery. That office also provides leadership and support for nine departments and accompanying units.

Fligelstone-Davies isn’t the first to suggest that the Deputy Governor’s post should be elected. But while many hold this view, they are usually more focused on issues related to the elected members of the House of Assembly.