NDP Ratifies Aaron F. Parillon and Perline
The National Democratic Party (NDP) has formally ratified Aaron F. Parillon for the Third Electoral District and Perline R. Scatliffe-Leonard for the Seventh, after a National Executive Meeting on July 9, 2026, a move confirmed in a party press release issued July 16, 2026 (VINO). Both candidates bring experience and local ties as the party continues rebuilding after its 2023 defeat and prepares for the constitutionally due 2027 General Election. The ratifications were praised by NDP Chairman and Opposition Leader Hon. Marlon A. Penn, who said the additions strengthen the party's readiness to serve as the next government (party release/VINO).
ROAD TOWN, Tortola — The National Democratic Party (NDP) has expanded its 2027 slate with the formal ratification of Aaron F. Parillon as its candidate for the Third Electoral District and veteran community advocate Perline R. The ratifications were approved at an NDP National Executive Meeting on July 9, 2026 and confirmed in a party press release issued July 16, 2026 (VINO).
In the July 16 release cited by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), NDP Chairman and Opposition Leader Hon. Penn (R8) said: "Every candidate we ratify strengthens our readiness to serve as the next Government of the Virgin Islands. Aaron Parillon and Perline Scatliffe-Leonard are respected leaders who now join an outstanding team of National Democratic Party candidates, bringing integrity, experience and a genuine commitment to serving our people." Penn added the party is building a unified team focused on strengthening the economy, improving public services and delivering results for Virgin Islanders (VINO).
Following his ratification, Aaron Parillon said he will prioritise practical leadership, youth development, economic opportunities and support for local businesses in District Three. "District Three is home to hardworking people who deserve strong, responsive leadership and real progress.
I am committed to listening to our people, advocating on their behalf and delivering practical solutions that strengthen our communities, expand opportunities for our young people, support local businesses and improve the quality of life for every resident," Parillon said in remarks reported by VINO.
He also referenced the late Chief Minister H. Lavity Stoutt’s emphasis on education and leadership development as an inspiration for his approach (Guavaberry; VINO). Parillon has previously contested the Third District twice on the NDP ticket, losing both contests to Deputy Premier and current District Three representative Hon.
Julian Fraser, RA, a detail confirmed in party materials and local reporting (VINO). Scatliffe-Leonard brings more than four decades of community service and advocacy to the NDP ticket. She said she will focus on accountability, compassion and practical representation, declaring that "District Seven deserves leadership grounded in experience, accountability, compassion and a determination to deliver results," according to the party release and local coverage (Guavaberry; VINO).
Scatliffe-Leonard ran as an independent in the 2023 general election and was defeated by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. The NDP said it will host a series of community engagements where residents of Districts Three and Seven can meet Parillon and Scatliffe-Leonard, and that more candidates are expected to be announced in the coming weeks and months as the party moves toward presenting a full slate for 2027 (VINO).
Political activity across the Territory is intensifying ahead of the constitutionally due 2027 General Election. Observers say debates are likely to centre on constitutional reform, the implementation of Commission of Inquiry recommendations, the rising cost of living, economic diversification, infrastructure, healthcare, housing and government accountability — issues the NDP has said it will prioritise in its rebuilding efforts.
Primary source: Guavaberry