Premier defends gov’t against corruption claims

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has pushed back against suggestions of corruption in his administration, insisting that major steps have been taken to increase transparency and accountability in the Virgin Islands.

Responding to a caller during a live broadcast of Virgin Islands Voice, the Premier said the government had acted swiftly following the Commission of Inquiry (COI) to establish key oversight bodies.

“I find that in certain sectors of the government… we still have corruption, that’s still going on,” the caller said. “I would like to see a young fellow like you stamp out corruption in every way.”

In response, Dr Wheatley highlighted steps already taken to improve accountability. “As a part of the Commission of Inquiry process, we set up a number of institutions. One of those institutions was the Integrity Commission,” Dr Wheatley stated.

He explained that the Integrity Commission had already held its inaugural meeting, chaired by Dancia Penn OBE, KC. Other members include Reynell Frazer, Gene Creque, Rev Sandra Walters Malone, and Dr Robert Mactavious, all appointed to monitor standards in public life.

The Premier urged the public to highlight instances of corruption within the government and statutory boards.