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NDP billboard ‘is a shameful act to mislead & deceive the people'- Premier

- urges the electorate to not be duped
A large billboard titled ‘VIP- A Government of mistakes’ erected in Road Town, in the vicinity of CCT Headquarters and the Road Town Fire Station, has been labelled as “shameful and misleading” by Premier and Minister Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7). Photo: VINO
Premier and Minister Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) speaking on the VIP Let’s Talk radio show on ZBVI 780 AM on April 18, 2023, when he addressed the issue of increments. Photo: Facebook
Premier and Minister Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) speaking on the VIP Let’s Talk radio show on ZBVI 780 AM on April 18, 2023, when he addressed the issue of increments. Photo: Facebook
The billboard lists several issues as mistakes of the VIP administration. Photo: VINO
The billboard lists several issues as mistakes of the VIP administration. Photo: VINO
BAUGHERS BAY, Tortola, VI- A large billboard titled ‘VIP- A Government of mistakes’ erected in Road Town, in the vicinity of CCT Headquarters and the Road Town Fire Station, has been labelled as “shameful and misleading” by Premier and Minister Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7).

NDP behind ‘shameful’ billboard- Premier

While the billboard, which lists several issues it claims were mistakes of the VIP administration, does not indicate who or which party is behind it, Premier Wheatley has said he has been informed by “good sources” that it is the work of the National Democratic Party (NDP).

Dr Wheatley was at the time speaking on the VIP Let’s Talk radio show on ZBVI 780 AM on April 18, 2023, when he was asked to address the issue of increments.

The Premier and VIP Chairman said Government has already budgeted the money in the last Supplementary Appropriation (SAP) and a Cabinet decision has already been made to pay increments for 5 years.

Dr Wheatley said he; however, wanted to set the record clear, “because I saw a billboard, a shameful billboard speaking about not paying increments. I got from good sources the National Democratic Party put up that billboard talking about the VIP is a government of mistakes.”

NDP failed to deliver on promised increments

“They have up on the billboard no payment of increments. And can you believe that? The National Democratic Party of the last administration did not pay increments for 2016, for 2017, or for 2018.”

In fact, it was during the National Democratic Party campaign prior to the June 8, 2015, elections, then leader of the NDP administration Dr D. Orlando Smith had announced on May 12, 2015, that Government had to withhold payment of increments because the Government needed the money to do "other things".

While making a promise to pay, what Dr Smith did not say is that the promised payment of the increments came as a result of heavy agitation by members of the Opposition.

Nevertheless, the NDP failed to deliver on its promise and prior to the 2019 elections it also made another promise to pay but the electorate booted the NDP from office.

VIP administration paid increments for 2016, 2017 & 2018- Premier

On VIP Let’s Talk last night, Premier Wheatley emphasised that the Virgin Islands Party had to pay the increments for those years that the National Democratic Party was in power.

He reminded that the VIP administration paid the increments for 2016, 2017 and 2018, “and in Cabinet we made the decision to pay increments in 2018 and 2019 with arrears.  And for 2020, 2021 and 2022, we moved up the steps.

“So when persons coming to you with nonsense telling you there has been no increments paid, you tell them that the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) in this administration made sure that increments will be paid for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 years, two of the years in arrears.”

‘Google’ the facts

The Premier urged the electorate not to listen to the misinformation but get the fact “You can look for it. It was a Cabinet decision and it was made public….a press release was done on it, google it. It is the truth and compare it to the lies that are being told on billboards up and down the Virgin Islands, which in my view is a shameful act to mislead and deceive the people of the Virgin Islands.”

Our reporter while taking a photograph of the billboard this morning was told by a member of the public that the billboard was spreading misinformation.

“Don’t worry about taking that picture parna, it’s all lies,” a man working in the vicinity stated.

Meanwhile, Dr Wheatley said he will address some of the other misinformation that at the VIP’s closing rally on Saturday, adding that he will be talking about 10 glass houses.

“And you don’t want to miss it. It’s going to be fire!”

NDP Chairman Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8) did not respond to our question about whether the NDP was behind the billboard.

87 Responses to “NDP billboard ‘is a shameful act to mislead & deceive the people'- Premier”

  • The watchdog (19/04/2023, 13:23) Like (87) Dislike (81) Reply
    Don’t worry we will teach ndp 1 and 2 a lesson
    • People. People. People! (19/04/2023, 14:02) Like (42) Dislike (13) Reply
      We have to take these politicians and their behaviour with the greedy bill seriously..Their words do not match their actions..They all boast of repealing the greedy bill, when they got the opportunity not one of them step up, not one of them words meant anything...Only one Politician I hear say he willing to serve the people without pay thats Mr. Parillon..Vote Parillon #3.. Pls..Most of these people or in it for the power and the money, not to work and serve...
      • :) (19/04/2023, 14:20) Like (2) Dislike (23) Reply
        hi, the name sounds just like how you talk, does that really does the whole writing make sense?
      • Voter 7 (19/04/2023, 17:05) Like (14) Dislike (6) Reply
        He said that however, remember he has the same bills as us so he will be paid.
        I loved Hon. Aaron's passion and love for the people I "m hearing good things about him I wish I could've given him a vote

    • Dee (19/04/2023, 17:16) Like (28) Dislike (35) Reply
      Pressure bursting pipe...they going really low.keep your heads up Vip. I know that Wheatley is strong.
    • Rubber Duck (19/04/2023, 17:18) Like (20) Dislike (0) Reply
      If any of it is not true , you could sue.
    • Rubber Duck (19/04/2023, 22:56) Like (9) Dislike (22) Reply
      There is only one outstanding candidate


      Lorna Smith


      Lets get Lorna in our Corner
  • WOW (19/04/2023, 13:25) Like (71) Dislike (44) Reply
    This is on a whole mother level.. just shows how desperate the NDP are that they forget they were the ones who didn’t pay the increments . People do not put NDP in power. It will be a gross mistake. They have no good intentions.
  • ... (19/04/2023, 13:26) Like (55) Dislike (2) Reply

    thank good Monday all this SH** would be over

  • Give VIP credit where credit is due (19/04/2023, 13:30) Like (82) Dislike (68) Reply
    Give the VIP credit where it is due especially having to deal with covid the worse pandemic in the last 100 years and to have to deal with the damages left unattended to from Irma and Maria in the most hectic 4 years in the history of the BVI and the world.

    - New High School buildings and facility to take our teachers and children out of that moldy building they were put in by the NDP for a ridiculous amount of money monthly paid to the NDP partner where that contract was never audited.
    - Electric shuttle bus ride service around town free to all who use it. I use it all the time and love it.
    - New Road Town Market Square.
    - National Sustainable development plan projecting the way forward for the BVI for the next 20 years which shows progressive and innovative thinking. This was assisted by the UN.
    - Thousands of persons received their belonger status after being bluffed by NDP for years & watching the NDP give status to only their rich white friends just before the 2019 general elections.
    - Direct flights to USA(Miami) and back starting soon.
    - Revived the Cruise industry after Covid
    - Salary review for all public officers ongoing with the only delay being the Governor and his office.
    - Paid some of the many increments due to public officers by the NDP Government long before VIP took office.
    - Repaired the BFEC school building on VG
    - Repaired 3 Administration buildings on VG from the damage from Irma. One in North Sound and two in the Valley.
    - Fixed the resivor in North Sound, VG and the water woes.
    - Repaired the Administration building in JVD from the damage from Irma and named it.
    - Fixed the Lee Road in Virgin Gorda
    - Constructed new port dock, building and other facilities on JVD.
    - Paved Dog Hole road on JVD.
    - Constructed and paved new and existing roads on JVD.
    - Address JVD water issues.
    - Paved and Repaired new and existing roads on Anegada.
    - Repaired CCEC school structure on Anegada
    - Repaired basketball court and sport facility on Anegada
    - Repaired Fire station building on Anegada.
    - Repaired community center building on Anegada.
    - Repaired Administration building on Anegada.
    - Saving millions through purchase of new asphalt plant to fix our horrible public roads the NDP said they fixed with $16 mill from Social Security that still remains not properly unaccounted for and somehow missed the COI.
    - Repaired many community centers on Tortola including Sea Cow's Bay, Brewer's Bay, West End and others.
    - Constructed new modern lab at the hospital in Road Town.
    - Completed and opened Hospital in VG.
    - Passed many good governance legislation
    - Governed during the most difficult time in the BVI and world during covid coupled with dealing with all the damages left unattended to by the NDP Government after Iram and Maria.
    - Did an excellent job in keeping a high majority of us safe and alive during the worse of covid and prevented the economy from tanking out with some of the same grants they are now being crucified for now by others who want the public to think the good they did to help is really bad.
    - Repaired many of the roads and infrastructure on Tortola and the other sister islands from the damages from Irma and Maria.
    - Restarted the scholarship abroad programme that was stop after Irma where 50 or more BVI people are now receiving government scholarships yearly to study abroad.
    - Teacher Associate & Bachelors programme at HLSCC and UWI to ensure teachers are trained and qualified.
    - Gained accreditation of hospital.
    - Assistance in funding Masters and above programmes.
    - Major duty tax break for all during covid to pass on to consumers to try to assist in lowering the cost of living which is rising worldwide.
    - Unemployment benefits during COVID where no one in the private industry could work during to the lock down.
    - Transportation programme to assist taxi industry during covid lock down.
    - Amended customs act to allow for many entrepreneurs in the marine industry during covid.
    - Started Marine course and certification at HLSCC to create more opportunities in the marine industry through jobs and entrepreneurs by training and qualifying persons interested from BVI.
    - Retrained and retool persons in the Hospitality industry during covid to prepare them for new opportunities.
    - Started certification programme in the area of alternative energy at HLSCC.
    - Gained accreditation of HLSCC.
    - Continued subsidy for ferry transportation to and from Anegada for Anegadians.
    - Repairing the Administration building in Tortola that was damaged after Irma and never attended to by the NDP.
    - Tax break on stamp duty for all belongers purchasing land and property during the covid era.
    - Saved many businesses, persons and university students from demise through the same grants they are now being crucified for by the well-planned attack.
    - Constructed, Repaired and paved many new and existing roads on Tortola.
    - negotiated with banks to do moratorium to assist the BVI people & businesses with difficulties being experienced in payment during covid.
    - Repaired the Ivan Dawson school and many other school facilities on Tortola.
    - Commenced construction of the long awaited and promised new school facility on Jost Van Dyke.
    - Made sure everyone was fed during all the lock downs with covid with food vouchers and home deliveries among other means.
    - kept us informed and safe as much as was possible during the early bad days of covid where no government in the world knew what to do as there was no playbook for this worse pandemic in the last 100 years.
    - Made sure all district representatives received the same amount of funds whether in government or opposition to try to help we the people during the worse of covid.
    - The first government in years to pass all budgets on time and balanced each budget each of the four years in office.
    - Passed all financial ratings regionally and abroad.
    - Funded many senior citizens programmes to take care of our seniors.
    - Restarted the Alternative Education programme so persons who did not finish school can attend and get their high school diploma.
    - Repaired the multipurpose complex and a/c after major damages due to Irma.
    - Repaired the police stations and marine bases after damages from Irma.
    - Assisted in the opening of Banco Popular on VG so there can be banking on VG again.
    - Passed consumer protection legislation.
    - Repaired many sport facilities including basketball courts like East End, West End, Diamond, Anegada, VG, Carrot Bay, Sea Cow's Bay and all over.
    - Restarted the seniors prpgramme to cherish our seniors and honor them.

    Will stop there for now as the list is extensive in only 4 years. The VIP good far outweighs their negative and that is why the ongoing devious plots are intensifying to try to get in people's mind otherwise to try to influence the elections and try to get VIP out to turn it over to their rich and famous friends but who GOD BLESS no man can curse.
    • @Give VIP credit where credit is due (19/04/2023, 15:04) Like (26) Dislike (17) Reply
      I agree with almost everything said, and I commend the VIP Government however, the repairs to Brewer's Bay Community Centers on Tortola was never done.
    • please (20/04/2023, 09:35) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply
      These are the day to day of any Government. Nothing in here includes policies that will carry the country forward. I want to here how they plan to bring business not repair and maintain buildings and roads. stupes
    • Concerned (21/04/2023, 11:05) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
      Give credit where credit is due, the VI Party always meets money and they spend it without developing plans to make more money going forwards.
  • vi (19/04/2023, 13:35) Like (87) Dislike (51) Reply
    Your story is too long still not voting for VIP.
  • How Low can u go NDP? (19/04/2023, 13:38) Like (58) Dislike (36) Reply
    That billboard needed to come down. The NDP must realise they too had mistakes or willful acts not in the best interest of the country $7m wasted in an airline that never fly, $8m take away from EE Sewage Project, $40m overrun in the TPP Project, strip civil servants of 2012 increments, failure to pay increments 2017, 18, 19. A housing Project that is no use to the common man. So they cannot talk about mistakes.
    • @ How Low can u go NDP? (19/04/2023, 14:17) Like (45) Dislike (33) Reply
      If onlyyyyyyyyy we decide to put up a board that talks of all the apologies they need to give, the board would not have enough space we might have to try the front and the back! Starting with the first they have on the list.
      1. The increment! VIP Started paying when they came into power 2019 some of the increments that were supposed to be paid by the NDP government. I know because I am a beneficiary to the testimony, NDP go sit down!!!!! and right now I know of increments that are ready to be paid, but isn't going through because of people in position on the inside that did not sign to it to be spiteful, and to give the government a bad name. So, if NDP Know what is good for them they will take down the shameless attitude they have up on boards, they don't realize they are just waking up the remembrance of their negligence of before, SHAMELESS PEOPLE
  • Black Russian (19/04/2023, 13:39) Like (21) Dislike (0) Reply
    Interesting the ridiculous bills sent to NHI by healthcare providers were not included. Healthcare providers increase their fees significantly since the establishment of NHI. Some of the owners make so much money they paid for billboards last election to air their opinions and now again this election.
  • Love this (19/04/2023, 13:42) Like (25) Dislike (3) Reply
    The “honest mistake” made me laugh out loud. Hilarious!
  • Where is the lie? (19/04/2023, 13:43) Like (49) Dislike (24) Reply
    Where is the Lie in the Billboard???
    • @where is the lie? (19/04/2023, 14:08) Like (35) Dislike (21) Reply
      Most of the billboard is a lie and some of it is political mischief. The VIP did pay a few of the increments owed to public servants that the NDP failed to pay when they were in office. Under VIP 1500 persons got status especially Caribbean people whereas under the NDP only 70 rich status quo people mainly in financial services who all live in the BVI less than 5 years got status under the NDP in 2019 just before elections. CSC contract is a wash as both NDP & VIP gave him contracts.
      • :) (19/04/2023, 14:23) Like (14) Dislike (4) Reply
        talk it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! talk d ting!!!!!!!!!! it seems like amnesia is common on the other side
    • Joel Hill Project (19/04/2023, 22:37) Like (2) Dislike (2) Reply
      Is STRICTLY SOCIAL SECURITY BOARD. Nothing to do with government. Check factores for yourself and stop being so gullible
  • Ummmm (19/04/2023, 13:47) Like (42) Dislike (5) Reply
    Didn't VIP had a billboard about the high school during the last election?
    • :) (19/04/2023, 14:29) Like (26) Dislike (15) Reply
      And it was justified, after NDP had children in moldy place for 30, 000.00 a month, why you waking up the sleeping giants, you best leave them alone. Cause we go start to rat out all NDP suppose to be apologies.
    • @ Ummmm (19/04/2023, 15:18) Like (11) Dislike (4) Reply
      Which they delivered on. I'm just saying *shrugs*
    • @ummmmm (19/04/2023, 17:27) Like (17) Dislike (1) Reply
      The difference is the destroyed school and their neglect to address it long after Irma was a FACT!
  • asking for a friend (19/04/2023, 13:51) Like (16) Dislike (25) Reply
    They lost me how can they say the esteemed was a mistake the best speaker we have had?
  • Every body wants VIP o (19/04/2023, 13:55) Like (11) Dislike (0) Reply
    Even the City Manager..She has to give approval..
  • How quick we forget (19/04/2023, 14:03) Like (44) Dislike (4) Reply
    It was just 3yrs ago the world was hit with the worse pandemic in the last 100yrs as stated by the World Health Organization. This caused ALL countries to shut down to try to save lives. The BVI Health officials called on the Government to act now or up to 5000 people in BVI would get covid and may die. The Government blazed the world trail by being one of the 1st countries to shut down cruise industry then the country in the midst of heavy criticism from most current candidates in other political parties. Right after their swift actions the entire world governments followed suite and shut down. The BVI Government saved many lives but we mourn the few we lost. The Government fed all during the lock down and did well to stop the economy from tanking out. All this without any loan, grants, or aid from the UK who said they cannot help the BVI in this area as they had to deal with their UK residents so they instructed the BVI government to help the BVI people on their own. Eventually the UK sent vaccines but the BVI VIP Government did well in the worse crisis in the last 100 years where all governments did not know what to do as there was no playbook for this pandemic. I commend the VIP Government for their swift actions. Certain things could have been done differently but this is my and all of our hindsight. Nonetheless they did well and deserves a second term of which my family and I have decided to give them. Most of us would not have been alive if it was not for their swift actions. I say thank you.
  • D6 VOTER (19/04/2023, 14:05) Like (43) Dislike (12) Reply
    This huge bill board is childish. May I remind NDP 1 and 2 that bill boards don’t win elections. I was NDP but after their last term in office no way they getting my vote. May be a few hick ups by vip but NDP 1 and we’re willful acts. Set of power hungry people. Keep them out. Vote back vip they had setbacks like Covid and COI so was difficult to complete the term. Vote vip
  • Bonky (19/04/2023, 14:12) Like (17) Dislike (11) Reply
    The Billboard is NOT NDP's doing..
    • @ Bonky (19/04/2023, 14:26) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
      no, is a retard doing, or a person that want to hang themselves, playing hangman.
  • Division (19/04/2023, 14:14) Like (18) Dislike (7) Reply
    The NDP has always have a divisive way of campaigning and calling down persons and destroying them at the same time. Some of their supporters are worse than the candidates who do such. The issue is at times they must be responded to and here is where the issue lies as they like to hit but cry out when they get hit back.
    • B (19/04/2023, 16:41) Like (12) Dislike (15) Reply
      What are you guys complaining about, at the last election Mr Fahie and his cronies campanied on the dirtiest government, the worst government in history, there needs to be a commission of enquiry plus others, you guys did not have a problem, so why are you complaining about, grow up.
    • @Division (19/04/2023, 17:21) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
      The politicians are six of one and half dozen of the next. Most of them (especially those affiliated with parties) seem to be mud-slinging - attacking each other instead of laying out credible plans to move the territory forward.
  • #@@ (19/04/2023, 14:15) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    Here is the TRUTH - Everyone of these people that here running that was voted in before, made numerous mistakes in the pass. Big or small (mistakes), and in their minds they feel that they can fool us all. A lot of people falling for it! Let's hear how much of them will still work with the new Government if they are not elected. Remember, we need all the help to move this country forward. This will definitely show that they put country and the people first and they really care. Waiting!!!
  • MY VOICE (19/04/2023, 14:17) Like (6) Dislike (9) Reply
    Weighing Errors and Mistakes

    The First time is a Mistake
    The Second time is you did not Understand
    The Third time is Willfulness or not taking Heed
    The Fourth time is Rebelliousness and Disregard
    The Fifth time is a Reprobate Mind
    The Sixth time is Due for Punishment
    The Seventh time is the Wrath of God

    • @ MY VOICE (19/04/2023, 14:43) Like (37) Dislike (7) Reply
      Everything that the NDP did that was not presidential, wasn't no mistake it was BAD MINDEDNESS. Cause
      1. you have children in moldy place for 30,000.00 a month just to give your friend a money in the pocket so you can get your whistle wet?!!!!
      2. You were given 8,000,000.00 for incinerator and e ain't work proper a day?!!!!!
      3. Not a plane flying in our air from the 7.2 but yet still want the people to put you in there so when the plane that coy get comes to be the ones to celebrate???!!!!!! come on mhen!!!!!
      4. All the talk of the 90 days project just after election still waiting to be completed!!! eh?
      5. The pair park dilemma still isn't straighten out!
      6. The money that was actually given to complete repair on road & sewage in East End, Long Look isn't anywhere to be found. oh yes it in the pair park sitting down, relaxing
      7. The Wall of CHINA!
      8. Manual Reef Hotel Project that was suppose to start since NDP take office, nothing yet
      9. NHI scheme!
      10. Price control that was just a talk by the NDP, but was never going to be a reality for them because mostly all have business that would not benefit from going through with it.
      and the list can go on, and on, and on. All you need to stop waking up sleeping dogs, stop digging holes and standing in it. NDP Take out the mold from all you eyes when you all trying to take out the little spec from others. YOU all don't hear to wheel and come again.
  • Lb (19/04/2023, 14:49) Like (24) Dislike (30) Reply
    Not ah thing shameful in the billboard. His behavior in COI was shameful! What he allowed the HC to do to BVIslanders is shameful! What the HC did is shameful!

    The VIP that paid in remembers 8 years ago has absolutely nothing to do with y’all current swamp! This group of VIP has Lavity rolling in his grave!
    • @Lb (19/04/2023, 16:41) Like (5) Dislike (4) Reply
      You are just mad because you lost your TB job. Your daddy will lose again as well so see you next week blogging again this time in tears.
    • @Lb (19/04/2023, 18:20) Like (11) Dislike (1) Reply
      Lavity was not 100% truthful either but done more good than evil.
  • Soon (19/04/2023, 14:53) Like (13) Dislike (0) Reply
    It will soon be over Monday life spare. All the noise and rhetoric will soon be over.
  • So wait... (19/04/2023, 15:15) Like (19) Dislike (7) Reply
    The CSC contracts, the multi million dollar 'Security Barge' rentals , the irresponsible grants the greedy bill amendment that actually made it the greedy bill all of that is all VIP tho... Tf he mean 'meant to mislead the people'... more like remind the people!
    • :) (19/04/2023, 15:48) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
      That alone you all can rant on? stupes its boring now, its tiring
    • Clarion (20/04/2023, 07:18) Like (7) Dislike (2) Reply
      The VIP dictator who was responsible for all of this is under house arrest in Miami. You can't expect the ministers to openly rebel against the boss, do you? So those points are irrelevant.

      Natalio deserves his own chance. One of his best actions was to remove Carvin and Vincent from cabinet, so that pulls some weight with me. If he and VIP wins, and he puts any of those two back in, then we will know he is a fake. But it may be better to take a chance with his VIP than the blatantly toxic NDP1 and NDP2
  • no shame (19/04/2023, 15:25) Like (29) Dislike (1) Reply
    Dr. Pickering has an ad running on Tola Radio saying that NDP made mistakes, but yet the have the audacity to put up this billboard? NDP has many tricks up their sleeves, but we all see right through them. Campaign and what you can offer! No one wants to hear why they shouldn't vote for VIP. Tell me why I should vote for YOU!
  • Really (19/04/2023, 15:39) Like (19) Dislike (4) Reply
    The same money they took to prepare that billboard they could have given it to the elders in the community to buy medication real shame
  • Jimmy Geratie (19/04/2023, 15:52) Like (3) Dislike (6) Reply
    Why so much excitement over elections? We have been watching out hard earned tax payers money being squandered from as long back as I can remember.
    Y’all like crabs in a bucket trying to reach the top.
    What about Schools, roads, hospital, mental health, minimum wage, and the list goes on until the cows come home.
    Please can we see new blood all around with youth and understanding of the outside world.
    I will not be voting for anyone and y’all as bad as each other.
  • Increments (19/04/2023, 15:58) Like (9) Dislike (9) Reply
    I agree parts of it is mislead as the NDP administration didn’t pay any increments. But the others seem very correct in my opinion.
  • Rabsatt (19/04/2023, 16:09) Like (17) Dislike (6) Reply
    I can't believe this!! NONSENSE¡!!!!!!This needs to be taking Down!!!!!
  • Capt (19/04/2023, 16:16) Like (11) Dislike (3) Reply
    It’s plain an simple when u go shop u don’t buy ah half bag Ah bread so why NDP worrying them done behind an the gate ain’t bust
  • 688 (19/04/2023, 16:31) Like (16) Dislike (12) Reply
    Now we the 688 will correct the mistake
    We voting vip all the way
    How disrespectful to call us humans mistakes
  • observa (19/04/2023, 16:36) Like (17) Dislike (7) Reply
    Only under vip we will get our increments!! Look at the high school so nicely built
  • Down West (19/04/2023, 16:37) Like (9) Dislike (2) Reply
    As an individual I personally don’t agree with this low level of politics that is demonstrated now with the political parties and their candidates. Years ago campaigns were held in every district just the same as is done today but it was done respectfully . Today there is no semblance of dignity on the campaign trail which is an insult and embarrassment to our former leaders like the late HLStoutt, TBLettsome, Willard Wheatley, lvan Dawson, et. al. Your fate lies in the hands of the electorate so it doesn’t make sense to continue in this vein and tear down each other to the back bone. At the end of the day, you still have to live here and work together. So, to whom it may concern, “Please stop it.”
  • Political analyst (19/04/2023, 16:52) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    From the origins of politics in Ancient times to this the modern era, politics has been a cesspool of deceit, treachery, plots, vice, betrayal, etc. The common practice is treat opponents as scoundrel and at every opportunity to remind the electorate of their alleged crimes , sex scandals, corruption, etc. Today, with availability of computer and communications technology, malinformation, misinformation and disinformation are common place. Negative campaigning is universally prevalent and it persist because it persists. The electorate likes it as it likes negative news. It will not go away unless the purveyors of misinformation, malinformation and disinformation pay a price. As long as a demand for it with no consequences , it will persists. Politicians negative campaign for one reason and one reason only, ie, dirty up opponents to win an election.

    Moreover, it is not negative campaigning to highlight an opponent’s demonstrated weaknesses and downplay their strengths. It is also not negative campaigning to avoid being “swiftboated”, ie, not letting lies go unresponded to. Negative campaigning works mostly with all-in-base-voters, low and information voters. Typically,the purveyors of negative campaigning stirs up certain grievances and fears in voters, ie, a candidate is anti-immigrant, etc. let’s buckle up for negative campaigning will be here for a while, for negative campaigning works. Just saying an opponent is spreading falsehoods though may be untrue , is ignored by the purveyors. No consequences. Further, if one is in politics, one must know the rules of the game and know how to play the game. Politics is not for choir boys or girls. Politics is a contact sport, touching opponents up close and personal. One must know how to play in the swamp with foreign, terrifying swamp creatures.
    • Political Science (19/04/2023, 18:23) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Though I’m not disagreeing with your point of views which are on point, I have to take a different view that political campaigning can be positive. If it is going to be positive though the people have the power to demand positive, not dirty campaigning. We are not there yet but I’m an eternal optimist. It may be a bit late for this campaign but the next one, the next one, can be. We cannot give up hope.
    • @Political analyst (19/04/2023, 18:34) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      @Political Analyst, you make politics appear so dirty. Is it really that dirty. Is it not just funny harmless fun? Most of us don’t I believe all the lira and promises we hear at elections. We know politicians lie, lie, and it or try to get in for benefits, status and influence. If their lips are parting most time they lying, are they not. Are raising a storm in a tea cup? They all, NDP, PVIM, PU, VIP, independents lie; done just lie more than others. Some are amateur liars.
      • @@Political Analyst (19/04/2023, 20:01) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
        Common on mon! It is dirty. Where have you been in outer space and just return. No need to sugar coat it. Political Analyst laid bare and exposed.
      • Political analyst (19/04/2023, 21:28) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
        The politics of personal character destruction is neither funny nor harmless. It has a cost to it; people are harmed.
    • Low information (19/04/2023, 22:10) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Who are the base low info voters? That is so elitist. But at election time ah yu , all a yu pretend to down with them.
    • RealPol (20/04/2023, 12:54) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      This is raw, naked, exposed, unvarnished truth. It is not sanitized, sugarcoated or varnished. Indeed, politics is dutty, negative but we love it that way. We quickly loose interest in sober policy, laws, etc proposal. But our interest peak if dirt, hearsay, melee are being dished profusely and thickly. Are you hearing any specific, quantitative proposals, policies , etc on the campaign trail? No. The candidates and mount Olympus are a playing a game with our future, way of life and livelihoods. The party system is one of the core of the Westminster system. But no party has the strength, the juice, perhaps to form the next government. A coalition or unity government will result. Hopefully, we find from among the tens of candidates 13 who are well prepared, capable and wel- suited to tackle the difficult tasks at hand. It is an interesting mix consisting of all hands who proved they were up to task in the past, and newbies, green hands. Boi, we out to sea and drifting without any oars, needing to be rescued.
    • NPolitico (20/04/2023, 13:00) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      “From the origins of politics in Ancient times to this the modern era, politics has been a cesspool of deceit, treachery, plots, vice, betrayaL.” Ouch, ouch, ouch! A cesspool.......surely the BVI can do better and deviate from the norm, can we not?
    • Political Scientist (20/04/2023, 14:40) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      I fully endorsed the historical presence of negative campaigning. It is a staple in politics. Some voters waxed their dislike but the reality is that political candidates feed voters with what they show preference hearing and negative campaign is atop the list. Voters view it as cheap entertainment. We brandish sadistic behavior and relish the pain and embarrassment of others. Nevertheless, negative campaigning, incomplete information, etc, are an integral part of politics. The BVI is replete with a myriad of challenges and parties should be proposing specific projects to address them. Instead, they are focusing on negative campaign, dirt, etc. It is an insult to the electorate but they are getting what they desire.
  • johnny (19/04/2023, 16:55) Like (6) Dislike (16) Reply
    Why would ndp take down board vip done.loose what about the increments that the premier promise them now andrew and natalio i cant wait for monday it doesn't bother me who win but the people should gave the vip another chance to finish what they started
  • RedStorm (19/04/2023, 16:58) Like (11) Dislike (9) Reply
    I tell my family that they should not vote in this election, as there is no other party mentioned any strategies for unemployment,youth development, agriculture,healthcare, housing, education etc. when I saw these build boards I thought of some malicious party behind this, so vip will now get 13 votes. Sorry guys, I think our strategy to vote all the ladies , has now turn to one party.

    If this is politics,it’s demeaning, hurtful,shameful and downplaying the work that others have done to keep this country from going way under. I must say that the Premier stand in the gap and negotiate for this country to keep its constitution. I applaud him for that, he stood his ground and we’re able to keep the country together. He show us an example.

    Now some malicious person want to call them out, as a mistake. I want to know if other parties never make mistakes. It’s part of life that say, you can become a better version of your self with improvement on your mistakes.

    These election candidates need to stop dehumanizing others, these are people as your brothers and sisters, with emotions ,feelings and this is how they are treated. Whoever ,put those boards up main objective is to break the VIP party. It is not right.God is watching.
  • Hmmmm (19/04/2023, 17:19) Like (13) Dislike (5) Reply
    Is there evidence that NDP put up the bill board for real?
  • GREED (19/04/2023, 17:33) Like (9) Dislike (4) Reply
    How many people could have had a plate of food to eat. Can you imagine how much money they spent on those things?

    The people crying
  • Google (19/04/2023, 18:14) Like (14) Dislike (8) Reply
    A massive billboard and only 9 Candidates. If VIP were as bad as they say NDP 1 and NDP 2 would each have 13 strong candidates. Their lack of support says it all. VIP has 13 despite all that has happened in the Territory.
    • Talk da (19/04/2023, 20:50) Like (6) Dislike (3) Reply
      You are soooo correct.
      That's why we are voting VIP ALL THE WAY.
      Until we get 13 perfect candidates on any party slate...we voting VIP ALL THE WAY.
      Going Green ????
  • BUSY BEE (19/04/2023, 18:22) Like (13) Dislike (9) Reply
    Which part of any one of the bullet points on the billboard is untrue?
    Not one.
  • c (19/04/2023, 19:02) Like (7) Dislike (1) Reply
    I want to know who is responsible for the very low down idea of shutting the water off in Sea Cow Bay at election time?
  • reality (19/04/2023, 19:55) Like (12) Dislike (3) Reply
    The fact is it takes real people to admit mistakes and thats what the Premier did. He is not in denial like the other politicians who also made mistakes but acting squeaky clean.
  • WOW (19/04/2023, 20:06) Like (8) Dislike (2) Reply
    It is childish ndp and the follower feel it is great but I can say ndp 1 and ndp 2 did our country so wrong if I start to list. So they had 8 years I need to know what they did in the year I hear the NDP 2 say he going to fix Nhi what a joke he could have them you were in there you cannot even travel and get sick because you just can't use out the vi. and the formal education minister feels him about the law you was the heard and know what going to the wall ever get in trouble and you think you untouchable you have to answer.
  • Who put up the billboard (19/04/2023, 20:54) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    Who actually erected the billboard?
  • All this (19/04/2023, 23:09) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    All these politicians talking but NONE I SAY NONE talking of raising public workers salaries and having better pension benefits especially for the health care workers that save thus BVI during the Hurricane Irma the Covid times but turn around and decrease the benefits to 1% fir their services at en3of their contracts cant even buy a plane ticket to get back home cause their jobs worth nothing to the BVI after it over so 1% is good for them
    So Who ever going be health minister job going be hell if he dont sort out better packages for the Hezlth care workers
  • Hoomemie (20/04/2023, 05:56) Like (1) Dislike (11) Reply
    There is also the market the only one vendor occupied. This vip has to go. Ooo I forget that was a mistake also.
  • Forbidden Truth (20/04/2023, 09:06) Like (4) Dislike (4) Reply
    That Billboard solidified the NFP'S ACRONYM........NATIONAL DOSE OF POISON. Yes that political gang is POISON Personified. Bitch now.
  • WOW (20/04/2023, 11:29) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    They forgot to list the "MARKET" , but if you're listing MISTAKES, there should be a board for every friggin PARTY GOVERNMENT. You just can't make this stuff up. While the credible and competent individuals that can really help save our little territory, stand on the sidelines unwilling to become involved in this madness.

    We need a system that attracts COMPETENT individuals!!!!!!!
  • @ GOVE VIP CREDIT (20/04/2023, 18:17) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    AH GO SAY IT AGAIN , YOU SURE PREACH A GOOD SERMON , YOU REMIND ME OF THE ( C ity S licker C line / HAVE YOU BEEN CONSULTED BY THE PAST OR / CON SULTANT AND NOW PSY CHIC ???? / A NEXT ONE AH DEM , COMES TO MIND , ( BLONDIE ) ???? WHO'S BEEN GOING CRAZY WRITING ARTICLES AND BLOGGING TO THEM TIRELESSLY ????
  • Ne Timeas (20/04/2023, 22:22) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply

    Negative campaigning whether on billboards or radio/TV/ social media campaign ads, town hall meetings, speeches, etc. is an integral part of politics in the VI and else. Voters have a visceral reaction to negative campaigning. It affects some voters warmly; others, repulse it. As another blogger, Political Analyst, noted negative campaigning persist because it persists, ie, many voters embrace the negative campaigning. Political Analyst outlined the vices of negative campaigning. Candidates negative campaign because it yields results. Most political ads are contrast add, ie, attacking opponents or promoting the candidate. Many ads are fear appealing, lies, distortion, etc. The bottomline is that negative campaigning will continue because many voters demand it and it will not diminish or stop until there is consequence for it. Politicians are opportunists who attack the weaknesses of opposing combatants. Elections are a popularity contest and negative campaigning in a twisted way may perhaps provide an edge, a competitive advantage.


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