New BVI Constitution Targeted for Early 2027
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced that negotiations on a new constitution for the Virgin Islands are progressing well following a second round of talks in the United Kingdom. The territory's bipartisan negotiating team aims to finalize the draft after one remaining round of discussions before presenting it to the House of Assembly. If all proceeds as planned, the new constitutional order will go before the Privy Council in early 2027.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley and the Virgin Islands constitutional negotiating team have returned from a second round of talks in the United Kingdom, setting their sights on having a finalized constitution before the UK Privy Council in early 2027. Reflecting on the progress made so far, Premier Wheatley disclosed that the first round held locally in the Virgin Islands established a strong working relationship and clear communication channels.
That initial phase allowed negotiators to effectively categorize issues into non-controversial items, areas requiring technical drafting, and key provisions needing direct engagement with the UK Overseas Territories Minister. Between the two rounds, significant work went into formulating specific constitutional provisions.
This preparation enabled granular, issue-by-issue deliberations during the London meetings. Premier Wheatley noted that both sides are operating under the principle that nothing is agreed until everything is agreed, ensuring that all elements of the governance framework align seamlessly before a final resolution is reached.
A notable highlight of the negotiations has been the demonstrated solidarity between Government and Opposition members. The negotiating team includes Opposition Leader Marlon A. Premier Wheatley commended the cross-party collaboration, noting that the delegation presented a completely unified front focused strictly on the best interests of the Virgin Islands.
Looking ahead, further technical discussions and ministerial engagements are slated to take place once meeting dates are established. Officials anticipate one final round of formal negotiations to settle the final draft language. Once full consensus is reached between the Virgin Islands and the UK, the proposed constitution will be brought before the House of Assembly for local review and debate.
Following legislative approval in the territory, the finalized document is expected to reach the Privy Council agenda in early 2027.
Primary source: VINO