We will be ready for snap elections, Penn insists

Penn

Eighth District Representative and National Democratic Party (NDP) leader Marlon Penn has declared that his party is ready for a snap election if the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) government calls one.

Speaking on the Talking Points radio programme, Penn said the NDP remains focused on building a strong team to address the territory’s major challenges. He also confirmed that the NDP and the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) merger is on track, with plans to hold a party convention by the end of 2025.

“We would be ready if, indeed, the government chooses to call a snap election,” Penn stated. “I don’t see it happening, but if they so choose, then we have to be ready.”

Penn addressed recent political shifts, including the surprise announcement of the Opposition Alliance – a loose grouping of three opposition members. He confirmed that he and fellow NDP member Ronnie Skelton were unaware of the alliance’s launch until after it was publicly revealed.

“When the official announcement was made, we weren’t aware of it,” Penn said. “We were in a meeting on Tuesday, and it was made, I think, on a Thursday.”

He reiterated that the NDP had been engaged in long-standing discussions to reunite with the PVIM. “Our focus is that we have done the hard part – to get back the organisation under one roof,” he explained.

Despite fragmentation in the past two election cycles, Penn expressed confidence in the NDP’s chances at the polls. “We’re going to bring our message back to the people of the Virgin Islands… and present a viable alternative,” he asserted.

In addition to political readiness, Penn also stressed the need for collaborative leadership in addressing economic and infrastructure concerns, especially amid rising global tariffs.

“This country is not about assisting the Premier. It’s about assisting the people of the Virgin Islands,” he stated.

Penn’s comments come amid speculation over the possibility of an early general election in the BVI. According to reports, some political commentators believe the governing Virgin Islands Party may consider snap elections to capitalise on recent unity within its ranks and its legislative advantage.

Nonetheless, Penn made it clear that the NDP is focused on issues affecting the territory, including tariffs and the government’s recent $100 million loan. “Let us focus on the main issues that this country is faced with… and put together a team of individuals that have the capacity to move this country forward,” he said.