Does the BVI really want to sever ties with the UK?

A talk show host has questioned whether the BVI is genuinely interested in separating from the UK, arguing that the issue of independence drives fear into residents’ minds.

Umoja host, Edju En Ka, said the discussion about independence has been ongoing for more than two decades, but little has happened since then. “When we talk about our relationship with the United Kingdom, it occurs to me that we don’t want that relationship to be severed,” En Ka said. He pointed out that conversations around independence often trigger fear rather than inspiration. “Whenever we talk about those things, there’s always pushback. I’ve been hearing the phrase, ‘We’re not ready yet,’ for the last 20 years. So when is the future going to reach here?” he asked. The topic of independence has lingered in the territory’s consciousness for decades. Yet, as Edju En Ka observed, progress remains slow.

Fear of the unknown

Guest on the show, Troy Christopher, suggested that fear of the unknown and a lack of preparation are significant barriers. “We have a natural fear of going to the next level, which is that we wonder whether our leaders will do A, B, and C,” Christopher said. “We are scared because we don’t want this to happen. We are fearful because of the unknown.” Umoja co-host Shaina Oyana underscored the need for preparation, drawing parallels to a child being taught to become an independent adult.