Who is behind Mika Barry FB page?

While many still have not been able to properly verify the owners and writers associated with the page, it is unclear if any legal actions can be taken for defamation as a result of slander or libel of residents’ names and characters.

In the most recent episode the Mika Barry Facebook page published, there were clearly many erroneous information and false accusations against House of Assembly (HoA) members.

One HoA Member’s Facebook page was even ‘photoshopped’ and a fake message inserted in an effort to justify erroneous claims against that member.

One local attorney speaking to our newsroom noted that unless the owners, editors et cetera of the Mika Barry page are known, it will be challenging to bring a case for defamation (slander or libel) but there is always the option of making complaints to Facebook itself.

Our newsroom was recently informed that independent investigations have revealed that there are at least five persons behind the productions, three living in the [British] Virgin Islands and two residing in Atlanta, Georgia.

‘I’m aware’ of Mika Barry FB page- Gov Rankin

One person who had publicly sworn to bring down the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) Government as well as its Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) enquired of Governor John J. Rankin, CMG, if Premier Wheatley has sought his assistance to shut down the Mika Barry Facebook page.

Cindy Rosan, who is now presenting herself as a reporter, asked the question during the Governor’s press conference on April 6, 2023.

The Governor was first asked if he is aware of the Mika Barry platform.

Bowing his head and with a smirk, the Governor responded, “I am aware of it.”

Rosan then claimed she had a question that was asked by the public.

“Did the Honourable Premier approach you to shut down the Facebook page?” She asked.

Appearing to struggle for words, Governor Rankin said: “I am not going to start discussing conversations which the Premier and I have one way or another, and you shouldn’t draw any inference from that.

“What I do say in relation to any media is that I believe in a free media but I also believe the media should be responsible in what they publish,” the Governor stated in a generalised response.

Did the Governor drop the ball?

Neither Rosan nor the only other reporter present at the press conference asked Mr Rankin whether he was in support of the Facebook page or not or whether he would order the police to find out who are the elements behind the controversial and productions that have been causing reputational damages.

Many feel the Governor should have seized the opportunity to condemn the Facebook page.