2023 in the British Virgin Islands
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Incumbents
Events
January
- 10 January - Former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Julian Willock, is reportedly arrested and then released in relation to suspicions of human trafficking.[1][2] Through a statement released on an affiliated news website, Willock strenuously denied the allegations, and referred to them as "unfounded".[3] Willock had previously resigned as speaker under pressure from his party in May 2022.[4]
April
- 24 April - 2023 British Virgin Islands general election: Citizens of the British Virgin Islands elect the 13 members of the House of Assembly.[5] No party won an overall majority but the incumbent Virgin Islands Party (VIP) won the most seats. Discussions to form a coalition ensued.[6]
- 25 April - In a surprise move, Lorna Smith (wife of longtime National Democratic Party leader, Orlando Smith) switched allegiance to the VIP allowing them to form a government.[7] Lorna Smith was made Deputy Premier.[8]
- 27 April - The new Cabinet was announced. For the first time it included a new Ministerial position for financial services.[9]
July
- 1 July - an armed robbery takes place during broad daylight at the Tortola Pier Park, a key tourist location.[10]
October
- 3-4 October - Tropical Storm Philippe brings widescale flooding to the Territory, despite passing nearly 90 nautical miles to the north.[11]
- 9 October - Unknown assailants opened fire on a prison van, reportedly to try and free a prisoner. One guard was injured.[12]