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Hon Marlon A. Penn should join the VIP Gov't- Claude O. Skelton-Cline
Pastor Skelton-Cline’s weekly show returned on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, on ZBVI 780 AM, and he hit the ground running with his commentary as he continued his series on Preparation.
“If I were the Member of the Eighth [District], you know what I would do? I would join the government. And I know some people around him ain’t gonna go for that and maybe he might not even want to go for that but given the trend of what I see happening sir, if you don’t bust a move before, they’re gonna bust a move on you,” he said.
The clergyman further stated that Hon Penn, a National Democratic Party (NDP) member, is losing his leverage to negotiate.
In defending his statement, Pastor Skelton-Cline said, “This is just my commentary now, I haven’t had no conversation with none of these cats, I didn’t have no conversation, this is my commentary, and from where I sit and from what I understand, the Member for the Eighth is losing his leverage to negotiate and if you’re not careful, you’re going to be left out in the cold.”
'We need a united gov't'- Pastor Skelton-Cline
Skelton-Cline, who is never shy to give his opinions on various topics, said a united government is what is needed in the Virgin Islands.
“The truth is what we really need in this country is a united government, we don’t need no party government, what we really need in this season is a united government,” he explained.
The need for a united government, he said, was also the reason why he had previously called on Opposition Leader Hon Ronnie W. Skelton (AL) to join the government too and why he called on Premier Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) to ask Hon Skelton to join the government and be the Minister of Finance.
“The country really needs a united government, not a party government, cause we too crazy and this party system is creating too much divisive spirits among us and it is stagnating the country,” he continued.
Pastor Skelton-Cline believes it is not too late for Hon Skelton to cross the floor. “I don’t think it’s too late Honorable Leader of the Opposition. If I was the Member of the Eighth, I would join the government. I would tell you’ll offer me something so I could come and do some work…because if you don’t move sir, they’re getting ready to hit you a shot," Mr Skelton-Cline said.
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12 Responses to “Hon Marlon A. Penn should join the VIP Gov't- Claude O. Skelton-Cline”
Claude is on to something. Marlon I am one of your supporters in the 8 and if this happens I am not going to the polls. It is also being hinted that Mark the jumper is coming back to joint his sister.
Joining a VIP-led government would represent a fundamental contradiction to his longstanding position as a member of a VIP opposition. Such a move could potentially undermine the trust and credibility he has built with those who admire and rely on his commitment. His supporters value him as someone who stands firm on principles, not someone who wavers for personal or political gain.
Moreover, leaving the NDP to align with the government would require him to forfeit his status as a member of the party. This shift would carry significant political and ethical consequences, likely alienating his core supporters and diminishing his influence within both the party and the broader political landscape. He would have to transition to an independent status, existing within a coalition government, a position that currently holds no real benefit for his district or its constituents. Without any formal privilege or leverage within the government, his ability to advocate effectively for his district’s needs would be severely limited.
A decision to refrain from joining the government would be a testament to his resolve to maintain his political stance and resist compromises that might dilute his identity and values. His focus should remain on serving the people and staying true to his principles rather than seeking personal gain or political expediency. This principled approach would underscore his commitment to integrity and consistency, qualities that his constituents deeply respect and admire.
The party’s congress, however, retains the democratic right to conduct a fair and transparent process to vote for and choose a chairman or leader who will best guide the NDP toward success in the upcoming elections. Regardless of the outcome of such internal decisions, his strength remains firmly rooted in the Eighth District, where he has proven himself to be a longstanding and influential figure. His deep connection with the people ensures that his political presence will endure for years to come, regardless of his official position within the party.
Ultimately, it is the voters in the district who will determine his political future—not the schemers or deceivers seeking to undermine his position whether by default or vote. Let the plotters remember: Karma, ever-watchful, will strike at the opportune moment. Those who conspire against the will of the people will ultimately face the consequences of their actions.
God does not sleep or slumber. Let God’s will be done.