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Former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith has been removed from office by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley and has since been replaced by Third District Representative Julian Fraser.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

With Smith’s departure, Fraser has been sworn in as Deputy Premier and is now the Minister for Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change. He will also manage Labour and Immigration, a role previously held by Smith. Premier Wheatley expressed confidence in Fraser’s ability to contribute to the government’s mission, citing his vast experience in politics. “Honourable Fraser brings much to the table as a former Cabinet Minister and the House of Assembly’s most senior member today, having served as a parliamentarian for over 25 years,” Wheatley stated.

Fraser’s appointment is seen as a step toward ensuring political stability as the government navigates various challenges, including constitutional negotiations with the United Kingdom. “His political experience will be invaluable in our future constitutional negotiations with the United Kingdom in which the Virgin Islands must become more self-determined,” Premier Wheatley added.

This reshuffle marks a crucial moment in the BVI’s political landscape as the government strives to finalise reforms and boost the territory’s economic growth. Dr Wheatley reaffirmed his commitment to Financial Services and Trade, roles he will now take on directly, promising that these areas “will receive the attention they deserve.”

Smith will continue to serve as Territorial At-Large Representative, and Premier Wheatley expressed hope for a positive working relationship with her moving forward.