NDP Calls for Unity Ahead of 2027
The National Democratic Party has publicly urged members to set aside internal disputes and focus on preparing a united challenge for the 2027 General Election. In a statement released Thursday the party acknowledged recent public discussion about its leadership and emphasised addressing differences through internal channels while tackling issues affecting residents.
ROAD TOWN, Tortola — The National Democratic Party (NDP) has issued a public appeal for unity after comments by current and former members brought internal differences into view, saying its priority remains preparing to challenge for government in the next General Election. In a statement released Thursday, the opposition party acknowledged recent public discussion surrounding its leadership and said it was time to move beyond internal disputes and concentrate on the issues affecting people in the Virgin Islands.
The release did not name individuals or specific controversies, but appears aimed at drawing a line under weeks of public commentary following the party's internal elections earlier this year. "The democratic process has concluded, and the Party respects the will of its membership," the statement read.
The NDP stressed that differing opinions are inevitable within any democratic organisation but argued disagreements should be addressed through established internal processes rather than public exchanges. The party pointed to a list of urgent concerns it believes deserve attention from political leaders across the Territory: the rising cost of living, persistent water shortages, deteriorating infrastructure, economic uncertainty and consumer protection. "The people of the Virgin Islands expect leadership that is focused on solutions, not personalities," the statement said, underlining the NDP's intent to shift public debate back to everyday issues that affect households and businesses.
As part of its election preparations, the NDP said it is continuing to ratify candidates for the 2027 contest, having recently confirmed Aaron Parillon for the Third Electoral District and Perline Scatliffe-Leonard for the Seventh District. The party said additional candidates will be announced in coming months as it builds a full slate.
Political observers note both the NDP and the governing Virgin Islands Party, along with independents, are positioning themselves well ahead of the next general election and that campaigning is likely to intensify over the next year. The NDP called on members, elected representatives, supporters and officers to respect the internal election outcomes and work collectively toward returning the party to government. "This moment is not about any one individual," the statement added, as the party reaffirmed confidence in Opposition Leader Marlon Penn, who was elected party chairman earlier this year.
For BVI residents, the party's message aims to project stability and cohesion at a time when voters are focused on tangible service and cost-of-living issues. Whether the NDP can keep internal disagreements behind closed doors while expanding its election team will be watched closely in the months ahead.
Primary source: Guavaberry