Lettsome Calls For Greater Public Participation
Levor A.H. Lettsome has emphasized the urgent need to restore meaningful public participation in the Virgin Islands, calling for residents to have a stronger voice in national governance. Speaking on ZBVI's Talking Points, he warned that sidelining the public leads to avoidable policy mistakes that burden local households. His remarks come amid ongoing discussions across the Territory regarding transparency and civic engagement.
Lettsome has issued a strong appeal for greater civic engagement across the Territory, stressing the vital importance of restoring meaningful public participation in government decision-making. Speaking during an appearance on the Talking Points programme on ZBVI 780 AM, Lettsome stated that a central objective must be ensuring that residents are no longer sidelined on critical matters affecting their daily lives.
He highlighted that the fundamental goal of his current efforts is to give the people of the Virgin Islands back their voice, enabling them to understand how the country functions and how major national decisions are reached. Lettsome expressed concern regarding what he described as a growing sense of disenfranchisement among citizens, noting that many residents feel unable or hesitant to voice their perspectives openly.
He described the present climate as one where the community merely observes developments from afar without having any meaningful input, comparing the environment to watching decisions unfold without having a seat at the table. Addressing the broader consequences of civic exclusion, Lettsome warned that governmental decisions made without prioritizing the public frequently lead to avoidable missteps.
He noted that the fallout from such decisions inevitably trickles down into the community, leaving everyday residents and local businesses to bear the long-term impacts. The commentary comes at a time of heightened public discourse surrounding transparency, governance, and institutional accountability across the Virgin Islands.
While recent administrative notices have provided avenues for public review on certain legislative resolutions, community advocates continue to call for a more consistent and structured approach to public consultation on major national initiatives.
Primary source: VINO