USVI constitutional convention set to begin Monday
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| Published on Monday, October 29, 2007 |
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By Susan Mann
Caribbean Net News St Thomas-St John Correspondent
Email: susan@caribbeannetnews.com
ST THOMAS, USVI: With US Virgin Islands Governor John de Jongh out of the territory on Friday, the duty of approving a bill passed by the VI legislature early last week enabling the long-awaited start of the fifth constitutional convention for the US Virgin Islands territory, fell on the shoulders of Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis. The Acting Governor, who is bound by US Virgin Islands law to serve as Governor when deJongh is not available, immediately issued a brief statement making bill no. 27-136 an official law.
The convention was originally scheduled to begin in late July, 2007.
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| USVI Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis |
However, St. Johnian Harry Daniel sought legal remedy with the new, VI Supreme court because he felt ambiguity in the design of the delegate ballot cost him the opportunity to serve as an elected delegate. Daniel decided in early October that he would not continue his legal battle for a delegate seat, even though he still believes he was in the right.
The delegates have until October, 1, 2008, to complete work on the document, which will then be submitted to the Governor for consideration; then to US President George W. Bush for review. The President will then forward the draft constitution to the United States Congress for review and possible changes. The final draft document will then be officially returned to the US Virgin Islands, where voters may go to the polls to determine a final outcome. The USVI Constitutional Convention will begin Monday at 10:00 AM with the swearing in ceremony for the delegates. |
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