Turnbull presses Premier to end key acting appointments

Second District Representative Melvin Turnbull has urged Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and his government to confirm individuals serving in key acting public service roles, warning that prolonged delays could open the door to further external influence.

Speaking during the March 31 House of Assembly sitting while debating the Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Bill 2025, Turnbull highlighted several critical leadership positions that remain unconfirmed, including the Chief Immigration Officer and the Commissioner of Police.

“Outside of Customs, which has its own challenges, we have an acting Chief Immigration Officer, an acting Commissioner of Police, and other key roles still unconfirmed,” Turnbull stated.

He cautioned that failure to appoint competent locals on a permanent basis could result in these positions being filled by individuals unfamiliar with or indifferent to the Virgin Islands.

“If you don’t act swiftly to confirm those in these roles—who have been acting and acting and acting—I fear these positions will once again be filled by people who do not understand or care to understand the BVI,” he warned.

Turnbull specifically praised Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool, who has led the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force for six months.

“There is a level of confidence in her leadership. She is engaging with the community, meeting with residents, and trusting her officers to do their job,” he asserted.