Walwyn Rejects Claims of Opposition Disunity
Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn says recent suggestions of a divided Opposition are misplaced, explaining that those at a press briefing were simply the members who responded to invitations. He stressed the group remains united in its duty to constituents and focused on issues such as the constitutional review, economic policy and public sector salaries.
Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn has dismissed suggestions that the Opposition in the House of Assembly is fractured, saying recent public appearances reflected who responded to invitations rather than any breakdown in communication. Speaking at an Opposition press briefing, Walwyn told reporters that members were notified of both a preparatory meeting and the press event through the group’s regular channels. "The members who are present with me are the members who responded, the other two did not respond.
You will have to ask them about that when you see them," he said, adding that attendance differences should not be interpreted as disorganisation. "All of us were elected by a district… and regardless of whatever personal feelings or issues we will be having, the first and foremost responsibility that we have is to our constituents," Walwyn said.
He emphasised the Opposition’s role is to hold the government to account and to press for improvements rather than to engage in needless partisan warfare: "We are not here to oppose for opposing sake, but when we see things that need addressing, it is our responsibility to bring those things to the fore." Walwyn also noted that Territorial At-Large members Ronnie Skelton and Marlon Penn continue to participate in legislative committees and ongoing dialogue even if they do not appear at every press event.
At-Large member Stacy "Buddha" Mather supported Walwyn, arguing that differing views and variable attendance are part of democratic life. "Within families, we don't always agree on everything, but we have to walk with each other and we have to let our voices be heard," Mather said, urging the public to allow absent members the opportunity to explain their positions.
District Two Representative Melvin "Mitch" Turnbull echoed the call for unity of purpose, saying he supported the Opposition’s collaborative efforts. The briefing followed a series of Opposition engagements on matters of direct interest to BVI residents: the constitutional review process, economic policy, and concerns over public sector salaries.
The events come amid renewed scrutiny from sections of the public and media about Opposition cohesion after a no-confidence motion earlier this year, which highlighted uneven attendance among members. In a territory with a small legislature where individual representatives have significant local standing, perceptions of unity or division can affect public confidence.
Walwyn said those present at the briefing "recognise our responsibility to our constituents. We take it very seriously," and framed the Opposition’s aim as constructive oversight to push the government to perform better for residents across the BVI.
Primary source: BVI News