Marlon and Mitch: When a ‘clean’ political image isn’t enough

In an era marked by political turbulence and sharp public debate, two BVI legislators — Second District Representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull and Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn — are widely regarded as politicians with clean reputations and solid integrity. 

Yet, despite their relative political longevity and scandal-free images, their names are conspicuously absent from serious consideration as future leaders of the territory’s government. Both men have served multiple terms in the House of Assembly and retained their district seats in the 2023 general election. 

Across community circles and political commentary, they are viewed as dependable representatives — but somehow this hasn’t translated into the kind of dynamic leadership that captures the public’s imagination, especially in challenging times that demand political boldness, international negotiation, and internal party unity.

Good support players, not Premier material?

Local talk-show host and commentator Claude Skelton Cline is among those who have been forthright in questioning Penn’s leadership capacity. In 2025, Skelton Cline argued that Penn has not demonstrated the gravitas and weightiness required to lead the people of the BVI, adding that the public would not be happy with an NDP government led by Penn. Others view his inability to unite the fractured NDP as evidence that he is not ready to lead the territory. 

Yet some sections of the electorate see him as a future leader, saying Penn’s calm demeanour and clean image would benefit the BVI as it stands at a pivotal point in its political journey.

Likewise, though Turnbull has been repeatedly re-elected and respected for his straightforward style, he has not accumulated marquee legislative achievements that define visionary leadership. His move from the NDP to the PVIM after internal party tensions reflected principled stances but underscored his outsider position in broader leadership contests.

But there seems to be a conclusion that the public has drawn about both leaders: Turnbull and Penn are seen as reliable and ethical, but perhaps too gentle or collegial for the top job. 

Does BVI want integrity or influence?

At the heart of the debate is a fundamental political question facing the Virgin Islands: Does the electorate want leaders with integrity or leaders with influence, even if polarising?

Both Turnbull and Penn are indigenous Virgin Islanders who embody stability and ethical governance. Yet in a political environment grappling with economic pressures, international expectations, and constitutional negotiations, voters and commentators alike seem to hunger for figures who command attention, unify broad coalitions, and catalyse change.

For now, Turnbull and Penn remain respected legislators and trusted community voices — perhaps destined perpetually for supporting roles rather than the leading player at the top of the political stage. Whether that will change as the territory moves toward the next general election in 2027 remains an open question.