Businessman, Troy Christopher.
Businessman and political commentator Troy Christopher has raised concerns that an independence referendum could be used to trick the Virgin Islands into giving up rights that are already theirs under international law.
Speaking on the radio programme Honestly Speaking, Christopher emphasised that Virgin Islanders already have the right to self-determination as a recognised people under international law, and any move to reaffirm that through a referendum could be dangerous if not carefully approached.
“You have already been recognised as a people, a grouping, internationally,” Christopher stated. “And the land that we live on belongs to the people of the Virgin Islands. That is enshrined in international law.”
He argued that putting a referendum on the ballot without careful consideration might risk giving away what belongs to Virgin Islanders by right.
“The trap is whether or not you have right to your land as a people,” he warned. “If by referendum it means that we don’t have any right to our land and automatically that means integration, then we would have fallen into the trap.”
Christopher called on citizens to be vigilant and educated about their rights.
“This is the problem you have when you enter into partnerships with countries that don’t recognise these democratic principles,” he said, referencing the UK’s position as the administering power under the current constitutional arrangement.
Christopher’s comments came amid growing debate in the territory about the United Kingdom’s recently published 10-year plan for the BVI, which outlines development goals and oversight provisions. The plan has drawn criticism from lawmakers, including all 13 members of the House of Assembly, who expressed concern over the UK’s approach and lack of local consultation.
Also appearing on the programme was Bishop John Cline, who agreed that the time had come to formally plan a path forward.
“I believe that a focus group that’s dedicated to charting that course needs to be identified… for education of the general public,” he explained. “What’s at stake, where did we come from, and what does the future look like?”
Cline supported the idea of a referendum but stressed the need for proper education ahead of any vote. “Let us set the timeline… and bring our people along, answer their questions, and address their concerns,” he stated.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has previously signalled support for holding a referendum on independence by 2027. However, Christopher has now challenged leaders to clarify what the ballot would include and ensure that Virgin Islanders are not misled into making a decision that could compromise their sovereignty.
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