Governor Rankin in an October 4, 2022, statement, reminded that the overarching aim of the CoI and its reform programme is to improve governance, accountability and transparency for the benefit of the people of the Virgin Islands.

“It is essential that the areas of concern I have outlined are addressed and that new governance issues do not arise,” he warned.

According to the Governor, much hard work remains to be done and he said the next few months the VI will start to see the outcomes from the various reviews, audits, and investigations that are underway.

“The next stage will include consideration of those outcomes and the actions required as a result. Some are likely to involve difficult discussions and further much-needed change to previous practices.”

The Government of National Unity led by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has been warned against any new governance issues, as the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) reforms in the VI are implemented.

Gov commits to 'deep-rooted' change

The Governor assured that the UK will continue to work with the Premier and VI Government to ensure that the necessary steps to improve governance are taken.

“As Governor I remain committed to ensuring that change in the Territory is deep-rooted and that there is an ongoing and sustained effort to improve governance, transparency, and accountability in the interests of the people of the Virgin Islands,” he said.

Meanwhile, calls continue to mount for the removal of the UK Order in Council to suspend the VI constitution should the Unity Government fail to implement reform as laid out in the framework for implementation between the UK and VI, to be removed.

Many have compared the Order to that of holding a gun to the VI's head, arguing that it is not reflective of a true partnership.