Walwyn and Turnbull Rejoin NDP
Myron Walwyn and Melvin 'Mitch' Turnbull have formally reunited with the National Democratic Party (NDP), the party announced on March 25. The move ends months of fragmentation in the parliamentary Opposition and positions the reunited group as a consolidated alternative ahead of looming constitutional and economic challenges.
Myron Walwyn and Melvin 'Mitch' Turnbull have rejoined the National Democratic Party (NDP), the party announced in a media release on Wednesday, March 25. The return of the two members of The Alliance follows months of fragmentation within the parliamentary Opposition, which until now comprised both The Alliance and the NDP.
Party leaders say the reunification is the result of constructive dialogue and shared reflection on the territory's future. Marlon Penn, Territory 8 representative who is serving as interim chair of the NDP, said the move is focused on the people of the Virgin Islands and on rebuilding a shared vision.
He described the reunion as forward-looking: 'This reunification is not about the past — it is about the future. It not only strengthens our ranks it ensures that the NDP remains the most capable vehicle for progress. We are not just reuniting as a political organisation; we are reuniting a vision for a prosperous and self-reliant VI.' The party said combining the institutional strength of the NDP with 'the fresh perspectives of The Alliance' will position the unified body as a definitive alternative to tackle upcoming constitutional and economic challenges facing the territory.
The announcement named Territorial At-Large Representative Ronnie Skelton and District 8 Representative Marlon Penn as part of the reunited grouping. No changes to the party's executive structure or legislative priorities were announced. The NDP said it will share those details in the coming weeks and plans to host a Unity Rally where the public can engage with party leaders and hear more about their platform.
Both returning members expressed strong support for the move. Walwyn said leadership requires unity: 'Leadership is about knowing when to come together for the greater good. The challenges our territory faces require a unified, experienced team and this coming together positions the NDP to put this country back on a path to prosperity for all.' Turnbull added that the decision is about 'purpose, responsibility, and the urgent need for strong, credible leadership at this defining moment in our history.' The NDP has struggled to regain its former strength since a 2019 split that led to the creation of the Skelton-led Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM).
The PVIM was dissolved into the NDP a year ago. For residents, the reunification could mean a more coherent Opposition bench able to scrutinise government policy and present unified alternatives on economic recovery, constitutional matters and delivery of public services. Further information, including Unity Rally details, will be released by the party in the coming weeks.
Primary source: BVI News