Following the revelation Monday night that the incumbent Virgin Islands Party did not gain enough wins for a clear majority, electeds entered closed-door discussions on forming a coalition government. Now, the party has announced that National Democratic Party winner Lorna Smith formed an alliance with the VIP, giving it the numbers it needed to regain a majority.
The VIP said in a statement Tuesday afternoon that the seven members signed official documents in the presence of Governor John Rankin, and a swearing-in ceremony would take place that evening.
The six winning VIP candidates include Dr. Karl Dawson for District One, Luce Hodge-Smith for District Four, Kye Rymer for District Five, Premier Dr. Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley for District Seven, Vincent Wheatley for District Nine, and Sharie de Castro at large.
The VIP statement did not explicitly state whether Dr. Wheatley would retain his position as premier.
Ms. Smith initially announced her intention to run as an independent candidate but later campaigned with the NDP and won one of the four at-large seats, along with VIP candidate Sharie de Castro and Progressive Virgin Islands Movement candidates Ronnie Skelton and Stacy “Buddha” Mather.
“As you know, throughout my campaign I have remained steadfast in my belief that the best days of the BVI are ahead, however, there is much to do if we are to achieve that,” she said in a statement. “As the discussions over the government’s formation will continue, please rest assured that your objectives in electing me will be at the top of my mind.”
The VIP published a statement earlier on Tuesday thanking voters for their unwavering support.
“Your contribution has been invaluable, and without your participation, this accomplishment would not have been possible,” it said. “It is essential that we continue to strive forward collectively as a team.”
The PVIM also released a statement Tuesday morning that it was engaging in coalition discussions. The NDP has yet to release a statement.