Shockingly, Premier Fahie, was arrested by Drug Enforcement Administration in Miami on April 28, 2022, on charges related to conspiracy to import a controlled substance and money laundering.

According to Hon Penn, in a brief statement this morning, April 29, 2022, “We are all shocked, saddened, and even embarrassed, however it is important that we look beyond recent events and towards healing and unity.

According to Hon Penn, he accepts and acknowledge the gravity of this issue, as well as the other challenges and new headwinds that the Virgin Islands now faces.

I ‘strongly condemn’ breach of trust by public officials- Hon Penn

He also said he “strongly condemn” any violation of the confidence and responsibilities entrusted to public officials.

“So, I ask of you, citizens, residents, and friends let us pray earnestly, and work with great resolve and steadfast focus on improving our good governance structures and the proper functioning of our public institutions.

“As we prepare for whatever lies ahead, let us summon all our strength and join in unity to address our daunting challenges and realise the aspirations of our Territory for future generations. God Bless our Beloved Virgin Islands.”

Shocking arrest & CoI Report

The arrest of Premier Fahie comes as a CoI Report was dangling over the heads of the Virgin Islands and persons already fearing a possible suspension of the VI Constitution and institution of direct rule by the UK, based on possible recommendations by the CoI Commissioner.

The CoI was sponsored by the United Kingdom.

There were already concern and suspicion that Governor Rankin wanted Premier Fahie to travel to the UK to discuss the recommendations of the CoI Report without the public and press first having sight of it.

Now Governor Rankin has said the latest developments will speed up the publication of the CoI Report.

“To avoid unnecessary speculation, I intend to move ahead urgently on publication of the Inquiry Report so the people of the BVI can see its contents and its recommendations in the areas it addresses. I will have a call with Minister Milling and the Acting Premier Honourable Natalio Wheatley tomorrow [today] to discuss further engagement between the UK and BVI on this urgent issue.”

‘VI remains committed to good governance’ - Acting Premier Dr Wheatley

Meanwhile, Deputy Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), who is the Acting Premier, in a statement last night, April 28, 2022, called for “due process” for Premier Fahie.

Dr the Hon Wheatley also urged the public to read the report when it is released with an objective eye and not in the context of the recent arrest, with the aim of strengthening systems of Government under a democratic framework as opposed to draconian measures that would set the VI back.

Dr Wheatley maintained that the VI remains committed to good governance and promised to bring further updates in his capacity as acting Premier.