VIP Warned Against Calling Snap Election
Talk show host Claude Skelton Cline has urged the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) not to call a snap general election, saying the administration has not yet done enough to justify an early poll. He warned that a premature election could provoke voter backlash amid widespread frustration over the pace of recovery and unfulfilled promises.
Talk show host Claude Skelton Cline has advised the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) against calling a snap general election, arguing the Dr Natalio Wheatley-led administration has not yet earned an early return to the polls. Skelton Cline made the comments on his programme Honestly Speaking, questioning the rationale for an early vote. "Somebody said that the Virgin Islands Party should call a snap election.
Based on what?" he asked, drawing a contrast with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who he said enjoys a political position that the VIP does not. "Mia in Barbados has the luxury of calling a snap election. She ain’t got but one person in the opposition. VIP, listen to me, you do not have no such luxury," he said, adding that an untimely election would signal voters that the government simply wants to retain power rather than deliver results. "If you monkey around and call a snap election now, all that tells this country is that you simply want to maintain power.
To what end?" Skelton Cline warned of a potential backlash: "You fool around and call a snap election and you will get a sheet of licks from the disgruntled peoples of this country, the disenfranchised. The frustration of the people of this country is very real." The Constitution requires the next general election to be held in 2027, but allows a government to seek an earlier mandate.
Such moves are usually made when leaders believe they enjoy strong public support, favourable polls, or a weakened opposition. Skelton Cline argues the VIP lacks those advantages and should instead focus on performance and tangible delivery. Public dissatisfaction with the Wheatley administration stems from several issues important to BVI residents: a slow economic recovery following recent shocks, rising cost of living, ongoing infrastructure and utilities challenges, healthcare strains, and the pace of governance reforms recommended by the Commission of Inquiry.
Critics also point to perceived delays in fulfilling key campaign promises and improving public sector efficiency. Skelton Cline urged the government to concentrate on addressing those concerns and rebuilding public confidence. "I believe you still have some time and opportunity to get some things done.
Stop monkeying around and playing politics," he said, while expressing hope that rumours of a snap election were unfounded. A decision on any early poll would carry political and practical consequences for the Territory; many residents and stakeholders will be watching for clarity from the VIP on its timetable and priorities.
Primary source: BVI News