NDP’s confidence in Marlon A. Penn 'not without merit’- Bishop John I. Cline
Cline’s defence of Penn comes following some public outcry about his ability to lead the party and maybe the country if elected in the next general election. Penn was elected NDP Chairman during a special internal election on April 18, 2026, beating Mark H. Vanterpool and Hon Ronnie V. Skelton (AL).
A proven track record
Cline sought to list some of Penn’s achievements, calling him a man who has served the Virgin Islands and the people of the Eighth District for many years, championing the cause of the VI in the House of Assembly, and who is familiar with constitutional and parliamentary procedures.
Penn, he added, “[Is a man] who, when he speaks, you know he's not speaking on his own accord, who has had the opportunity to switch sides just so he can have a look at how some of the other people do operate a portfolio, but he has stayed the course because his interest is in the people of the Virgin Islands and getting the best bang for buck for the Virgin Islands.”
Cline said Penn is a man who has served with good governance, transparency, honesty, and integrity. “You don’t hear Marlon Penn name-calling anything. And you're going to tell me that after all of that, you have people saying, well, we question his ability to lead.”
Confidence in Marlon Penn not without merit
Comparing Penn’s track record with that of Premier Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheately (R7), Cline said he came to power “by default” and is “running a royal muck” by avoiding questions, and has no accountability or transparency.
“You can have a leader [like] that and question the ability of a man like Marlon Penn?..I want to put that to rest tonight, that the confidence that the National Democratic Party and its leadership have in the leadership of our chairman is not without merit. It is based on fundamental principles on which the NDP is built, and that is to get the best out of governance for the Virgin Islands and the people of the Virgin Islands.”
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11 Responses to “NDP’s confidence in Marlon A. Penn 'not without merit’- Bishop John I. Cline”
He may not be aggressive, but he is assertive. Of course , he has earned the leadership and respect of the party for his country.
#1. Claude Skelton Cline
#2. John Cline
#3. Julian Fraser
#4. Marlon Penn
#5. Stacey Mather
#6. Lorna Smith
#7. Luce Hodge
#8. Rhonnie Skelton
#9. Melvin Turnbull
You just a salty ole fowl. You missed a few names conveniently Myron & the other VIP members. Many of which ain’t ready if you going have some of the names you got there lady!
Sharpie for one ain’t ready. Neither ayo boi MW who can’t seem to get anyone to ride with him. Not team player….wheel and come again! Dawson ain’t ready for a ministry much less Premier - your list is incomplete
Both Kline’s have never been elected so that’s a mooot point.