Skelton-Cline: Door Opened for 13
Social commentator Claude O. Skelton-Cline told ZBVI listeners he is disappointed in current elected officials across parties and urged fresh faces to enter BVI politics. He suggested the time may be right for 13 new representatives and called on voters and politicians to consider what is truly in the territory’s best interest.
Skelton-Cline has urged a rethink of political leadership in the British Virgin Islands, saying recent developments have “opened the door” for 13 brand new elected officials. Speaking on ZBVI 780 AM’s Honestly Speaking, Skelton-Cline — who describes himself as an ally of all elected representatives — voiced frustration with behaviour across the political spectrum, including the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), the National Democratic Party (NDP) and the newly formed Alliance.
He criticised continuing infighting and a lack of clear leadership following reports that the NDP and the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) had merged. “NDP and PVIM have merged, so we hear. They still can’t tell us who the leader is. That’s how crazy we are,” he said, adding that individually politicians may have “good sense,” but when put together their judgment disappears.
He warned that parties are repeating mistakes and failing to learn from past missteps. Skelton-Cline also argued that even a weak government can be made to look strong, and that voters frustrated with the sitting VIP administration should consider how to present viable alternatives rather than remaining tethered to the past.
He described The Alliance as “a gang of three” drifting “off in the deep end,” questioning how they could realistically replace the government if they remain stuck in yesterday’s politics. Central to Skelton-Cline’s argument was a call for new talent: “Maybe it’s time for 13 new people to come forward,” he said, noting that cultural voting patterns in the territory often favour charisma and familiarity over competence and accountability.
He acknowledged that replacing the entire slate in one cycle is unlikely, but suggested recent events may allow voters to begin choosing fresh candidates over long-standing figures. He urged Islanders to ask the key question: “What is in the best interest of this country?” His comments, reported by Virgin Islands News Online, reflect broader public debate about leadership, party unity and how the territory selects its representatives.
Whether Skelton-Cline’s appeal will prompt a new generation of candidates or shift voter priorities remains to be seen, but his remarks add to growing calls for political renewal ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Primary source: VINO