Belongers Challenge Ancestry Rule
A group of young Belongers born in the BVI but without deep ancestral ties has written to government urging reform of Section 65(2)(b) of the constitution so that all persons born here can qualify for elected office regardless of their parents’ status. Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn read the letter during a House of Assembly constitutional review debate, saying the provision excludes a generation and undermines nation-building.
A collective of young Belongers between the ages of 19-42 has petitioned the government to change the constitution so that anyone born in the British Virgin Islands can stand for elected office, regardless of their parents’ belonger status at the time of birth. The group’s letter specifically targets Section 65(2)(b) of the current constitution, which bars persons born to non-belonger parents from seeking elected office.
The signatories described the provision as “unfair and outdated,” saying it creates “a paradox that excludes an entire generation of Virgin Islanders.” They called on lawmakers to review Section 65 to “ensure that Virgin Islanders born in this territory, regardless of parental belongership, are recognised as full and rightful stakeholders in this government.” Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn read the letter into the record during the House of Assembly’s ongoing constitutional review debate and framed the issue as central to nation-building and self-determination. “Nation-building is an essential part of independence and further self-determination,” Walwyn said, adding: “We can’t move forward as a people, leaving half behind.” Walwyn strongly criticised public voices who argue that some belongers should be excluded from participating in a future referendum on independence, calling such positions “disrespectful.” He asked rhetorically how anyone could justify denying long-term residents a say: “If my father was alive, you could ever tell my father, if you have a referendum that he can’t vote on the referendum?
And he’d been here for nearly 70 years — you’re drunk?” The Opposition Leader also recalled a past debate on immigration status when he unsuccessfully urged the House to grant residency to children born in the territory. He said Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley had supported that position at the time.
Walwyn told the House the letter struck a personal chord and urged leaders to work to unite all who call the islands home, warning that divisions rooted in ancestry could impede national progress. The Constitutional Review Commission’s report, tabled earlier this year, acknowledged Section 65(2)(b) as one of the most divisive issues raised during consultations.
The Commission said it could not propose changes without wider public agreement but noted many residents view the restriction as unfair to people born and raised in the BVI who lack ancestral ties. As the constitutional review continues, the letter underscores a recurring debate in the Territory about belonging, political rights and who should be able to participate fully in shaping the BVI’s future.
Primary source: BVI News