While His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition stands united with the Government of the Virgin Islands in its opposition to His Excellency Governor John Rankin’s bid for expanded powers, Tuesday’s press conference revealed fissures within the group regarding the best approach.
Honourable Marlon Penn, Representative for the 8th District, advocated for unwavering collaboration, saying that the Opposition must set aside personal agendas and offer the government their full support.
His stance also included a willingness to wait for a future opportunity to hold the government accountable, prioritizing a united front.
However, Deputy Speaker Honourable Stacy Mather urged caution, advising the public to discern “sense from nonsense” amidst the discourse.
Mather emphasized the crucial role of constructive criticism in propelling the territory forward, arguing that blind solidarity, “singing kumbayah”, would be detrimental in the face of shortcomings.
The members’ statements led to further press inquiries directed towards Opposition Leader Honourable Ronnie Skelton. When asked if the Opposition would be willing to cede input and back the government’s chosen path forward, regardless of their views, Skelton’s initial response alluded to a willingness to do so.
Off-camera, however, still within the context of the day’s press conference, the Opposition Leader clarified his position. He asserted that the Opposition would not rubber-stamp the government’s approach without their input, even hinting at the possibility of taking more serious measures if their input is not considered equally.
Notably, he acknowledged having fully understood the initial question during the press conference, attributing his earlier response to a desire to project an image of unwavering unity with the government on this specific issue.
The public, meanwhile, is left to navigate a complex and often contradictory landscape of political pronouncements. Hon. Mather’s call for discerning “sense from nonsense” rings particularly true in this context.