In an official statement, the Virgin Islands Party has responded to claims by At-Large Independent Candidate Mrs. Mitsy Ellis-Simpson that the Party’s candidate selection process is unfair.
Ellis-Simpson made the following comments on Talking Points Radio Programme, “This election is not a matter of taking away votes from anyone. The challenges are there on the ground. A person like myself, with my abilities, I don’t want to sit down to the side for another four years knowing that I can do well by the country. This is a situation where, in my opinion, when I went through the process, in my opinion, I felt like the process was not fair and normal to myself.”
In response the Virgin Islands Party issued the following statement. “Virgin Islands Party Conducted Election Process Fairly and in Accordance with the Constitution The Virgin Islands Party (VIP) wishes to affirm that its recent congressional meeting, which included the election of its final At-Large candidate, was conducted with the utmost professionalism and in adherence to the party’s constitution. The VIP takes its obligations seriously and has always maintained a high standard of integrity and fairness in its processes.”
Addressing Ellis Simpson directly the release further said, “Recently, Mrs. Mitsy Ellis-Simpson, a prospective candidate, raised concerns regarding the level of fairness in the VIP’s election process during an interview on the Talking Points radio show. The VIP would like to clarify that after the conclusion of the congressional meeting, Mrs. Ellis-Simpson did not express any dissatisfaction with the process. In fact, she congratulated her opponent and did not indicate any concerns to the executive body of the party. The VIP is committed to promoting good governance, unity, and strength in preparation for the upcoming 2023 general elections. The party maintains its dedication to conducting all its affairs transparently and in accordance with its constitution.”
Additionally, “We wish Mrs. Ellis-Simpson the best of luck in her independent candidacy,” said President Sharia de Castro. “The VIP remains committed to working towards a brighter future for these Virgin Islands and we are moving forward together.”