STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR MR. AUGUSTUS JASPERT
ON LATEST STATEMENT RELATING TO REPRESENTATION
IN THE FOURTH DISTRICT  

26^TH MARCH 2019
 

I am aware of the Honourable Speaker's latest statement relating to representation in the Fourth District.  

This rightly recognises that I value democracy tremendously and the role it plays in good governance and improving the lives of the people of the Virgin Islands.  

I have received correspondence from the Honourable Speaker that sets out his views on whether the seat is vacant.   I am also aware that the question of whether the Fourth District seat is vacant is being contested by the Member-Elect of that district.

As with all matters, I will remain neutral and impartial and will be guided by the Constitution and the appropriate legal framework.  

I have received legal advice that has been copied to the Honourable Speaker, advising that the resignation of the Member-Elect was invalid on the basis that the Member-Elect has no constitutional right to resign prior to being sworn in.    Therefore, at this point, I do not intend to issue a writ for a by-election.  

The swearing in of the Member-Elect is a matter for the House to determine, having regard to the will of the electors in the Constituency.