Yesterday April 28th, 2025 members of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition — Hon. Myron Walwyn, representative for the sixth electoral district and Leader of the Opposition; Honourable Melvin Mitch Turnbull, representative for the 2nd electoral district and Hon. Stacy Mather, at large representative and Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly — met with His Excellency, Governor Daniel Pruce, to discuss serious concerns surrounding the recently published Criminal Law Enforcement Review and the Commission of Inquiry. The meeting lasted two hours and provided a vital opportunity to directly represent the views and concerns of the people of the Virgin Islands at the highest level.
In an official statement the Opposition said, “We recognize that the matters addressed in the Criminal Law Enforcement Review have significant implications for the governance and the future of law enforcement in our territory. It is therefore critical that the voice of the people is heard and carefully considered in any reforms that are proposed.”
The Opposition members among other things made clear their staunch disagreement with the recommendation made that the Governor re- specify his powers under Section 60 of the Virgin Islands Constitution and made a call for the responsibility for customs and immigrations to remain within the control of the local government. Additionally, they made clear that will not and cannot support the recommended closure of the sea ports and airports in the sister islands as this would do irreparable harm to the economy of these islands and increase the vulnerability of its residents.
Leader of the Opposition Hon. Myron Walwyn Stated, “We were glad for this opportunity to raise concerns from the public with respect to the Criminal Law Enforcement Review. His Excellency listened intently and gave us the assurance that the concerns raised on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands will be given much consideration.”
Additionally, he stated that the opposition remains committed to ensuring that transparency, fairness, and respect for the rights and aspirations of the Virgin Islands people remain at the forefront of any ongoing or future reforms.