New leaders aren’t the answer to BVI’s political problems — Pickering

As many in the BVI continue to call for a new set of leaders to transform the territory’s politics, former Deputy Premier Dr Kedrick Pickering has stated that “fresh people” aren’t the answer to the BVI’s political problems.

Dr Pickering, who recently announced that he will be contesting the next general election as a Territorial At-Large candidate, said the BVI would benefit most from a combination of young leaders with fresh ideas and experienced leaders who have garnered wisdom over the years.

“I think any right-thinking person can see that where the country is right now, it needs a few persons who understand not just local issues but major international issues that we have to confront,” Dr Pickering said in a recent interview with 284 Media.

Tensions between the BVI and the United Kingdom (UK) increased this year after a Commission of Inquiry (COI) report recommended direct UK rule through a suspension of the territory’s constitution. This would snatch power away from elected representatives and place it in the hands of the governor.

Many residents have blamed the current elected leaders for the breakdown in the relationship with the UK and have called for more women and young people to give the territory a ‘fresh start’ by running for elected office.