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by pltm
(PLTM) - Hon. Vincent Wheatley, Ninth District Representative has sought to set the record straight in the midst of persistent speculations about his intentions to leave the Government of National Unity and cross the floor to the Opposition.
In an exclusive interview with BVI Platinum News, Hon. Wheatley was asked pointedly about crossing the floor. His answer was a resounding ‘no’. He also reiterated that he is only concerned with acting in accordance with what is best in the public's interest.
Following the arrest of former Premier Andrew Fahie on drug and money laundering charges, the political climate in the Virgin Islands has been marked by varying degrees of tension and ensuing changes. These included a successful no-confidence vote against the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) administration which led to the swearing-in of the Government of National Unity led by Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and the transfer of Ministerial portfolios in Natural Resources and Labour along with Health and Social Development to members of the Opposition.
Hon. Wheatley was stripped of the Minister of Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration portfolio and opposition member, Hon. Melvin 'Mitch' Turnbull was appointed Minister of Natural Resources and Labour with Premier Wheatley picking up the Immigration portfolio.
Most recently, former Minister of Health and Social Development, Hon. Carvin Malone indicated that he would be now joining the Opposition leader Hon. Julian Fraser, in the Opposition camp. This contributed to discussions about whether former Minister of Natural Resources and Labour, Hon. Vincent Wheatley would also cross the floor.
However, Hon. Wheatley stated, “Absolutely not!”
He also asked how crossing the floor would aid in resolving any of the Territory’s current issues.
“One of the things you have to consider when you’re in a government is that your actions don’t create uncertainty or instability to the country. Right now, the whole world is very volatile, and I wouldn’t want to create further uncertainty or raise further questions.”
He also mentioned that potential investors who have an interest in the Virgin Islands would be sceptical about undertaking business enterprises if they were informed that members of government were engaging in constant floor-crossing behaviour.
To this end, Hon. Wheatley asserted that possible implications of decisions must be carefully considered, especially by persons who occupy positions of leadership.
“I am concerned about what is best for the country at this point in time. It was never about me, but it is always about the country.”
Due to his firm position on the issue of crossing the floor, Hon. Wheatley was adamant that he does not want his name to be involved in discussions about “Who’s next?”
In addition, Hon. Wheatley confirmed that fully supports the Government of National Unity and that cooperation is required to safeguard the public’s interest.
Of the newly established Government of National Unity, Hon. Wheatley said, “You have to give Governments a chance to find their vision, and I support the Government in what they’re doing. If there is something that I don’t like, I would let them know, because we have to work together.”
