Opposition Eyes United Front to Unseat VIP in Next Election, Says Skelton

Hon. Ronnie Skelton, Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, revealed at a press conference held today, January 17, that discussions are underway among opposition members about forming a united front to challenge the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) in the next general election.

“One of the things that we have recognised as an opposition, even when the Member for the Third District was with us, we rocognised is that the last two elections clearly show that as individual parties, it is very difficult to unseat the Virgin Islands Party,” Skelton said. He further noted that ongoing discussions aim to bring people together for a “common cause.”

When asked directly if he supports a merger between the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) and the National Democratic Party (NDP), Skelton responded, “I support the merger of our people on all sides getting together for the common cause of developing our country.”

Pressed on whether he envisions the merger as the two existing parties coming together or forming an entirely new entity, Skelton admitted, “That’s a difficult question. I never thought about it. But ask me again at the next press conference, and I might have an answer.” He clarified that no new entity is forming with his explicit blessing at this time.

The opposition currently comprises three members of the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM): Hon.  Ronnie Skelton, Hon. Melvin Mitch Turnbull, and Hon. Stacy Buddah Mather. It also includes Hon. Marlon A. Penn and Hon. Myron V. Walwyn of the National Democratic Party (NDP). Additionally, Hon. Lorna G. Smith, who contested the 2023 general elections under the NDP banner, sits as a member of the Opposition.

Elections are constitutionally due in 2027.