Hodge-Smith Slams Walwyn's Behaviour
Junior Minister Luce Hodge-Smith has criticised Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn for what she calls undiplomatic conduct during the 2026 budget debate, saying his approach is not fitting for someone who aspires to lead the Territory. Her comments, made in the House of Assembly, frame a broader debate about political decorum and accountability in the British Virgin Islands.
Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Luce Hodge-Smith delivered a pointed rebuke of Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn during a recent sitting of the House of Assembly, saying his conduct during the 2026 budget debate was not consistent with the temperament expected of a potential head of government.
Speaking last Thursday, Hodge-Smith acknowledged that passionate critique has a place in political debate but argued that leaders must show diplomacy. "There are many times, yes, you want to lash out, but we must use diplomacy to achieve our ultimate goal. And as leaders, no matter what level of leadership you are at, you are required to have and display diplomacy," she said, adding that this standard applies "at home as well." Hodge-Smith specifically took issue with Walwyn's repeated jabs at Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, describing them as inappropriate and unbecoming of someone who aspires to be head of government. "The desire to put jabs at the Premier — leader of the country, is not appropriate in my view," she said, noting that his performance on Tuesday and on multiple other occasions fell short of the decorum she expects.
Her intervention follows a high-profile budget debate in which Walwyn, the Sixth District representative, levelled sharp criticisms at government spending priorities and parliamentary procedure. His comments drew applause from some members of the public and ire from others who deemed the delivery disrespectful.
Hodge-Smith framed her remarks as a call for greater political maturity in the BVI, urging leaders to voice strong opposition without resorting to "harsh words and disrespectful means." She said measured dialogue is vital as politicians seek to attract attention and support for policies that affect public services, infrastructure and the territory's economy.
Critics of Hodge-Smith's attack say the opposition leader is merely holding the Wheatley government to account amid concerns over priorities and governance. Some members of the public also pointed out that heated exchanges have been a consistent feature of the House over the years, with other representatives delivering passionate speeches that drew little similar criticism.
Hodge-Smith previously defended Premier Wheatley in August, praising his "decorum to be our leader at this time" after a move to revisit a no-confidence motion was blocked — an episode that heightened tensions in the legislature. Her latest comments suggest the governing side intends to press for a standard of conduct it says better reflects the responsibilities of public office.
As the budget debate continues to spotlight competing visions for the Territory, Hodge-Smith urged all political actors to communicate their positions with respect, saying, "I really, really trust that going forward we will do much, much better."
Primary source: BVI News