Premier says he’s not focused on early polls, political strategy

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has said his administration is not preoccupied with early elections or political manoeuvring, stressing instead that his priority remains delivering on commitments made to the people of the Virgin Islands.

Speaking on the Talking Points radio programme recently, the Premier addressed speculation about political timing and strategy, making clear that his focus is on completing key elements of the government’s agenda before returning to the electorate.

“I have every intention of making sure that we complete our agenda before we go back to the polls,” Dr Wheatley stated. He highlighted major projects and policy goals the government aims to advance, including infrastructure development and long-term national priorities.

The Premier said the administration remains focused on tangible outcomes, such as improvements to roads, water and sewage systems, and advancing large-scale projects that have been outlined publicly. Among these, he referenced plans to extend the airport runway, develop Prospect Reef, and continue modernising infrastructure across the territory.

While acknowledging that political considerations are an unavoidable part of governance, Dr Wheatley rejected the idea that political strategy is driving decision-making. “My focus is not necessarily just on political strategy, so to speak,” he said, adding that his main concern is “delivering for the people based on what we said we would do”.

The comments came amid discussion about recent political developments, including the addition of former opposition member Stacy Mather to the government’s side and speculation about the timing of the next general election. 

A unifier rather than a divider

Dr Wheatley framed these developments as being geared toward encouraging collaboration and unity, rather than partisan advantage.

“I would like to be a leader who invites persons to collaborate and to work with me in the best interest of the Virgin Islands,” he said, describing himself as a unifier rather than a divider.

The Premier also reflected on the context in which his government assumed office, noting that his leadership began amid political uncertainty and intense scrutiny following governance concerns. He said significant effort had been invested in restoring confidence locally and internationally, allowing the government to now place greater emphasis on development and service delivery.

Against that backdrop, Dr Wheatley maintained that speculation about early polls misses the point of the administration’s objectives. The government, he said, is intent on completing substantive work and ensuring progress is visible and measurable before seeking another mandate.