No independence without democracy, Skelton says

Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton said that although he supports a push for BVI independence, it must be accompanied by a robust democratic framework.

Skelton emphasised that while self-determination is a goal, the territory must first ensure a solid foundation of democracy before embarking on the path to independence. During a recent Opposition-held forum, Skelton made his position clear. “I am for total internal self-government, but I am not for it with a Premier who is going to make sure that the democratic process does not happen,” Skelton said.

Skelton’s remarks reflect growing concerns over how the government, led by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, has handled the issue of independence, specifically regarding the reported suppression of democratic processes. “You cannot have a democracy where a premier feels that he can manipulate the whole system to make sure democracy doesn’t happen,” he argued.

Skelton expressed frustration at the Premier’s alleged efforts to prevent a vote of no confidence, which is scheduled to be discussed in the House of Assembly. “The democratic process must happen… It is all over the place, with the Premier telling people he is going to do everything in his power to make sure the vote of no confidence does not happen,” Skelton said. He accused government members of following the Premier’s tactics, describing their posture as ‘crazy’.