Premier of the Virgin Islands facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Premier of the Virgin Islands |
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![]() Arms of Her Majesty's
British Virgin Islands Government |
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Style | The Honourable |
Appointer | Governor of the Virgin Islands |
Term length | At the Governor's pleasure (normally 4 years) |
Formation | 14 April 1967 |
First holder | Hamilton Lavity Stoutt as Chief Minister |
Website | Office of the Premier |
The Premier of the Virgin Islands is the main leader of the government for the British Virgin Islands. Think of them as the head of the team that runs the country day-to-day.
The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory. This means it's a place that belongs to the United Kingdom but manages most of its own affairs. The Premier is chosen by the Governor. The Governor represents the British monarch, currently Queen Elizabeth II.
The person holding this important job right now is Andrew Fahie. He has been serving as Premier since February 26, 2019.
Contents
Understanding the Premier's Role
The Premier is like the chief executive of the British Virgin Islands. They lead the government and make important decisions for the people. This role is very important for guiding the islands and making sure things run smoothly.
From Chief Minister to Premier
The top government leader in the British Virgin Islands used to be called the Chief Minister. This title changed to Premier in 2007. It was part of an update to how the islands are governed.
Who Were the Chief Ministers?
Several important people served as Chief Ministers before the title changed. They helped shape the British Virgin Islands into what it is today.
- Hamilton Lavity Stoutt was the very first Chief Minister. He served three times:
- From April 14, 1967, to June 2, 1971.
- From November 12, 1979, to November 11, 1983.
- From November 17, 1986, until he passed away on May 14, 1995.
- Willard Wheatley served as Chief Minister from June 2, 1971, to November 12, 1979.
- Cyril Romney held the position from November 11, 1983, to November 17, 1986.
- Ralph T. O'Neal was Chief Minister from May 15, 1995, to June 17, 2003.
- D. Orlando Smith served as Chief Minister from June 17, 2003, to August 23, 2007. He was the last person to hold this title.
Who Are the Premiers?
After 2007, the leader's title became Premier. Here are the people who have served as Premier:
- Ralph T. O'Neal became the first Premier on August 23, 2007. He served until November 9, 2011. He had also been a Chief Minister before.
- D. Orlando Smith became Premier on November 9, 2011. He served until February 25, 2019. He had also been a Chief Minister before.
- Andrew Fahie became the current Premier on February 26, 2019.