On January 21st, 2020, leader of the opposition and interim chairman of the National Democratic Party Hon. Marlon Penn issued a statement following the resignation of Hon. Alvera Maduro Caines from the National Democratic Party.
In the detailed letter to party supporters as well as residents and citizens of the Virgin Islands Penn said:
“At 2:36 p.m. on 20th January, 2020, I received a letter from Honourable Maduro-Caines, forwarded via WhatsApp messenger, in my capacity as Interim Chairman of the National Democratic Party, advising me of her decision to resign. I was equally notified of her decision in my capacity as Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition.
Honourable Maduro-Caines’ resignation is regrettable, as she has always been a strong representation of the NDP’s core philosophy and values, where people and family are at the heart of who we are.
I am truly disappointed, that her decision was made without consultation with me or the Party, and moreover, that she has opted to join the Virgin Islands Party – both of which are at odds with the Alvera that I have come to know, as a professional colleague and close friend, over the past several years.”
He further added that he is “comforted, that the National Democratic Party has never been about its politicians. He said their commitment of service to the people and their strong vision for these Virgin Islands is undeterred.”
He closed by saying:
“The National Democratic Party will continue to stand with the people of the 6th District, because we recognize, that our support of you and your successes, transcend beyond merely, who represents you.”
As Leader of the Opposition, I have spoken with my colleagues, and despite the fact that we are now smaller in number, we remain united, and strongly opposed to the spectacle of form over substance, ineptitude rather than competence, the tyranny of victimization, the prevalence of cronyism and the many other ills perpetrated by the VIP Government on the people of this Territory, in just under one year.”