Fraser sworn in after Lorna Smith fired by Premier Wheatley

Former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith has been removed from office by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley and has since been replaced by Third District Representative Julian Fraser.

Premier Wheatley announced the bombshell reshuffle of his government moments ago in a Facebook LIVE broadcast, noting that Smith, who also held the portfolios of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, was replaced by Fraser, a senior member of the House of Assembly and Chairman of the Progressives United party. Premier Wheatley said it was a difficult decision. “I did so with a heavy heart because I enjoyed working with Honourable Smith, for she was a very capable minister,” he stated.

However, he noted that Smith’s position became untenable due to concerns about her long-term commitment to the administration and possible position regarding an upcoming vote of confidence in the HOA. “She did not give me the confidence that she would remain with my administration for the duration of this term. And this left room for uncertainty and political instability, which we cannot afford at this time,” Wheatley explained. Smith had been appointed to her roles after the 2023 general election, where she was a key figure in forming the coalition government. Her experience and capabilities were acknowledged by Premier Wheatley, who thanked her for her “hard work and dedication” during her time in office. Nonetheless, the need for political stability to address ongoing challenges in the territory, including governance reforms and infrastructure recovery, became a priority for the government.