ROAD TOWN, Tortola — John Rankin was sworn in Friday as the British Virgin Islands’ 14th governor during a ceremony at the Save The Seed Energy Center in Duffs Bottom.
In his welcoming remarks, House Speaker Julian Willock said Rankin will take office at an interesting time in the relationship between the British overseas territory and the United Kingdom.
Previously the governor of Bermuda, Rankin trumpeted his support for the commission of inquiry into alleged official government corruption created by Augustus Jaspert, the governor before him.
The commission will investigate corruption and organized crime in the British Virgin Isands. Jaspert had previously stated that the commission would have the incoming governor’s full support
BVI governors are appointed by the British monarch on the advice of the British government.
“I fully support the Commission of Inquiry called by my predecessor and I hope the people of the BVI feel empowered to engage in the Commission so it delivers for the people,” Rankin said. “I see it as a vital opportunity for these islands to carve a clearer path towards good governance and greater self-determination.”
During his inauguration, Rankin said he would focus on the high standards expected of people who hold public office in the BVI.
“I am pleased that the government of the Virgin Islands will have Withers to advise government — in particular the expertise of Right Honorable Sir Geoffrey Cox, MP with his extensive legal knowledge and professional experience regarding Overseas Territories,” BVI Premier Andrew Fahie said.