Cline Says VIP Fears the NDP
Longstanding National Democratic Party (NDP) member Bishop John Cline has declared that the governing Virgin Islands Party (VIP) views the NDP as its greatest political threat heading into the next general election.
Longstanding National Democratic Party (NDP) member Bishop John Cline has declared that the governing Virgin Islands Party (VIP) views the NDP as its greatest political threat heading into the next general election. During a Facebook Live broadcast, Cline sought to dismiss suggestions that internal fractures and the party’s relative silence meant the NDP was weakening. “The NDP is very, very much alive, and is a very strong party,” Cline declared, arguing that the challenges facing the organisation are themselves evidence that it remains politically relevant.
He went further, claiming the VIP is not particularly concerned about emerging political groups. “They have no fear for PLM… They have no fear for All 13,” Cline said. “That’s not who they see as a challenge. They see the National Democratic Party as a challenge.” Cline also alleged that some of the pressure and “undermining” facing the NDP was coming from the opposing political camp.
However, he insisted the party remains undeterred and intends to field a strong slate of candidates. “We are not moved, we are not deterred,” he said. Cline pointed to the NDP’s record in government, citing projects such as the Cyril B. Orlando Smith Hospital, infrastructure works, educational initiatives and other developments as evidence that the party can deliver.
He also launched a blistering attack on the VIP government’s performance, accusing the administration of wasteful spending, poor infrastructure development, economic stagnation and a lack of transparency. According to Cline, the recent acceleration of road and infrastructure works is an attempt to impress voters ahead of an election. “Don’t be fooled by it,” he warned, arguing that residents endured years of poor roads and unreliable water while the government had access to funding.
Primary source: BVI News