ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — The Virgin Islands Party (VIP) we understand, held its Congress on Wednesday night as the governing party continues preparations for the next General Election, with three candidates reportedly ratified to contest on the VIP slate.

Guavaberry Media understands that three candidates were ratified during the Congress, with two of those candidates understood to be seeking Territorial At-Large seats.

Among those understood to have been ratified as an At-Large candidate is well-known local attorney Nelson Samuel.

The identity of the second At-Large candidate, as well as the third candidate ratified during Wednesday night’s Congress, has not yet been officially confirmed by the party.

The latest Congress also raises questions surrounding the status of At-Large Representative Lorna G. Smith, who has publicly stated that she intends to contest the upcoming General Election with the VIP.

Despite Smith indicating her intention to run with the governing party, Guavaberry Media understands that she has yet to be ratified as a VIP candidate, even following several sittings of the party’s Congress.

Smith has previously said that she expects VIP Chairman and Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley to make the formal announcement regarding her candidacy.

Her continued absence from the list of ratified candidates, alongside the latest confirmation of three other candidates, leaves her formal status on the VIP slate still outstanding.

The Congress comes as political activity continues to intensify across the Territory ahead of the next General Election, constitutionally due by 2027.

The VIP is now moving to formalise its prospective slate, while other political parties and emerging movements are also announcing candidates.

The People’s Leadership Movement (PLM), led by Mark H. Vanterpool, recently announced Juan “Hatchett” Richard as its first Territorial At-Large candidate, adding to the growing list of candidates beginning to emerge ahead of the election.

With the 2027 election approaching, Wednesday night’s VIP Congress represents another step in the governing party’s preparations to field its slate.

Guavaberry Media understands that further announcements are expected from the VIP regarding the three candidates ratified Wednesday night and the remaining candidates to be confirmed.