Outgoing Governor John Rankin has stated his intention to ask the United Kingdom for expanded powers and an extended deadline for implementing reforms in the British Virgin Islands.
Rankin expressed doubt that the government can meet the current May 2024 target, despite two prior deadline adjustments at their request. He noted only one additional reform was completed since September, not by the government itself.
The Governor lamented his calls for “concerted effort and prioritization” from ministers went unheeded.
Rankin stressed that more than just extra time is needed for full reform implementation in the BVI.
While not calling for the constitutional suspension to be triggered, Rankin alluded to needing further steps to drive the process. This includes additional authority for the Governor’s Office.
The BVI government was given ample time to enact reforms but has shown little progress recently, Rankin argued. He remains unconvinced they can meet even the extended deadline without additional measures.
