Politicians Offering Bribes, NDP Warns
NDP President Bishop John Cline has accused unnamed political actors of offering money and incentives to prospective candidates and supporters ahead of the next general election, saying the territory faces a dangerous and unethical period. Cline tied the alleged activity to the recently approved $550 million national budget and criticised salary hikes and government performance.
National Democratic Party (NDP) president Bishop John Cline has accused unnamed political actors of attempting to bribe prospective candidates and supporters as the British Virgin Islands moves toward the next general election, warning residents the territory is entering a “dangerous and unethical” period in local politics.
Speaking in a wide-ranging address on the state of the territory, Cline said the election is less than two years away and alleged some politicians are already seeking to consolidate power not out of “love of country,” but out of “greed” and a desire to control public finances. He told listeners some people are “coming with cheques in hand,” offering money to join certain groupings or to stay out of the race altogether, and others are using “deceptive words and convincing language” to lure people away from prior commitments.
Cline linked the alleged behaviour to the recently approved national budget of approximately $550 million, saying the size of the budget has made the territory’s coffers “attractive” to those who want power. He added that the absence of effective “gatekeepers” and checks and balances has contributed to what he described as a political free-for-all.
While Cline did not name individuals he accused, he used the occasion to criticise the ruling Virgin Islands Party (VIP), blaming seven years of stagnation on ineffective governance and the absence of a long-term national vision. “We have no real national plan, no real national vision,” he said, arguing short-term political games and personal ambitions have replaced strategic planning for the next 10 to 20 years.
Cline also warned against the proliferation of new parties and factions ahead of the election, calling the trend “madness” and a repeat of failed experiments such as those he cited from 2018. He rejected the idea that a fresh, inexperienced group — a hinted “new 13” — would be the remedy, saying the territory needs experienced leaders who can balance budgets and manage money.
The NDP leader further criticised a recent 145 percent increase in elected officials’ salaries, calling the raise unjustifiable while roads, healthcare and other critical infrastructure remain in poor condition. He urged Virgin Islanders to be vigilant, resist unethical political advances and to act with integrity as the campaign period approaches.
Cline’s allegations are serious but remain unproven in public. He did not identify the alleged bribe-givers. Residents concerned about possible corruption are reminded they can report suspicious activity to the Territory’s oversight authorities and demand transparency from candidates and parties during the run-up to the election.
Primary source: BVI News