Walwyn Absence Fuels Political Alignment Questions
Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn has been noticeably absent from the National Democratic Party's revived radio programme following his defeat in the party's leadership race earlier this year. His absence has intensified speculation regarding his political future and potential alignment ahead of the upcoming general election. Party leader Marlon Penn has maintained that Walwyn remains with the NDP despite ongoing rumours of internal friction.
Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn has been noticeably absent from the National Democratic Party (NDP) public platforms, including its recently revived radio programme. His continuous absence following his defeat in the party's internal leadership race earlier this year has intensified questions across the Virgin Islands about his political alignment and future within the organisation.
The NDP recently brought back its radio broadcast as part of a strategic effort to engage the public and rally party supporters ahead of the upcoming general elections. While several high-profile party figures and candidates have made regular appearances on the show, Walwyn, a former Opposition Leader and longstanding party stalwart, has yet to participate.
Those who have appeared on the broadcast include Third District hopeful Aaron Parillon, Second District Representative Melvin 'Mitch' Turnbull, former legislator Shereen Flax-Charles, NDP Chairman Marlon Penn, and former party president Bishop John Cline. The visible involvement of these key figures has made Walwyn's non-participation particularly conspicuous among political observers.
Despite his distance from party-sponsored media, Walwyn remains highly active on the ground within the Sixth District, where he continues to spearhead community initiatives and maintain close contact with constituents. His absence from central party events has fuelled ongoing speculation that he might be considering alternative political options, including potential alignment with former legislator Mark Vanterpool's Progressive Liberal Movement (PLM).
Internal divisions have challenged the NDP in recent years, with disagreements over direction and leadership occasionally spilling into public view. The leadership contest held earlier this year, which resulted in Marlon Penn securing the party leadership, once again highlighted differing factions within the organisation.
To date, Walwyn has not issued any formal public statement regarding his political plans or affiliation ahead of the anticipated polls. When recently asked whether Walwyn and Turnbull remain part of the NDP, Penn offered a brief affirmative response without elaborating further on internal party dynamics.
Primary source: BVI News