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Premier blazes Opp. Leader over alleged rumour mill against Hon Maduro-Caines

- Opposition labelled as weak & propped up with poor leadership
Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), right, has blazed Opposition Leader, Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8), left, for allegedly trying to discredit new Virgin Islands Party (VIP) Member, Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines (R6). Photo: VINO/File
Sixth District Representative Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines (R6), right, seen with Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) at a press conference on, January 20, 2020, said shunning the National Democratic Party (NDP) and aligning herself with the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), was a completely independent decision, free from political offers and promises. Photo: VINO/File
Sixth District Representative Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines (R6), right, seen with Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) at a press conference on, January 20, 2020, said shunning the National Democratic Party (NDP) and aligning herself with the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), was a completely independent decision, free from political offers and promises. Photo: VINO/File
Hon Julian Fraser RA said the decision of Hon Maduro-Caines to leave the opposition came as a surprise to the other opposition members and that a discussion before would have been preferred. Photo: VINO/File
Hon Julian Fraser RA said the decision of Hon Maduro-Caines to leave the opposition came as a surprise to the other opposition members and that a discussion before would have been preferred. Photo: VINO/File
Premier Andrew A. Fahie reiterated that the member of the Sixth was not forced to join the VIP Government by anyone, nor were there any bartering arrangement, rather it was a personal decision taken by Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines for what is best for the people of the territory and her district. Photo: Facebook/File
Premier Andrew A. Fahie reiterated that the member of the Sixth was not forced to join the VIP Government by anyone, nor were there any bartering arrangement, rather it was a personal decision taken by Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines for what is best for the people of the territory and her district. Photo: Facebook/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI – With a stern warning, Virgin Islands (VI) Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) has outright condemned attacks on new Virgin Islands Party (VIP) member, Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines (R6) by Opposition Leader, Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8).

“I wish to condemn without reservation, the attack levelled against the people’s party, the Virgin Islands Party—your eleven-month-old party—and the newest member of the Government Benches in the House of Assembly… by the interim Chairman of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition, Hon Marlon Penn,” Premier Fahie said in an audio statement on ZBVI 780 AM last evening, February 4, 2020.

Hon Penn singled out over alleged attacks 

According to the Premier, these alleged attacks include the spread of vicious and character damaging rumours against the Member for the Sixth. This he called "disappointing". 

On January 20, 2020, Hon Maduro-Caines at the Village Cay Hotel and Marina Conference Room, announced her bombshell resignation from the NDP and by extension from the Opposition via a press conference, alongside Premier Fahie. 

Mrs Maduro-Caines, as part of her statements, said her decision to leave the NDP and the Opposition was one that came after prayers and not from any promises or offers made to her from the VIP Government.

The event was also aired live on ZBVI 780 AM and carried via the Premier's Special Projects Facebook page.

Hon Penn released a statement the following day that he only knew of the decision less than 30 minutes before the press conference via a WhatsApp Message from Hon Maduro-Caines.

We empathise with you – Premier Fahie

“While we in the VIP empathises with Hon Penn for the sadness that he is no doubt feeling at this time, we cannot allow certain inaccurate and unfounded statements by him to be slipped into the public record without them being properly addressed,” the Premier said.

While the Premier did not reference what specifically the Opposition Leader said, he noted that Hon Maduro-Caines was humble, soft-spoken and hardworking, hence why the people of the Sixth District love her.

“It is very disappointing that the Leader of the Opposition is now speaking negatively about Hon Maduro-Caines. This kind of behaviour from Hon Penn is unacceptable and typical of the abusive treatment that many women in our society face at the hands of persons who would rather they be kept in a submissive state,” he said.

Poor Leadership & diminishing numbers

Hon Penn came under more fire for what the Premier called poor leadership of the “diminishing” Opposition numbers, with Hon Fahie saying the decision by Hon Maduro-Caines to leave the NDP has ‘bruised the ego’ of the Opposition Leader, resulting in his actions.

Premier Fahie reiterated that the Representative for the Sixth District was not forced to join the VIP Government by anyone, nor were there any bartering arrangement, rather it was a personal decision taken by the HoA member for what is best for the people of the Territory and her district.

“It so happens that the VIP’s vision for the people is the right one, and we thank Hon Maduro-Caines for joining not just the VIP but the People’s vision for a BVI that belongs to us and must continue to belong to us for generations to come."

What triggered the Premier?

It still remains unclear what exact statement triggered the Premier to lash out at Hon Penn; however, the Premier’s statement comes as a surprise since Hon Penn at the Tuesday, January 21, 2020, Opposition press conference told the media that Opposition, including himself, had ‘moved on’ from Hon Maduro-Caines.

At the same Opposition press conference, while Hon Penn had shut down further questioning about the blow to the Opposition, other Members including Hon Julian Fraser RA (R3) and Hon Melvin M. Turnbull (R2), shared a difference in opinion from their Leader.

They told the press that a conversation with Hon Maduro-Caines before her decision to cross the floor and leave the Opposition, would have been preferred on principle. "We were surprised because we weren't afforded the courtesy of a discussion before it happened, and I think that's the great unfortunate part about the whole thing," Hon Fraser said.

Cleaning up the mess

According to Premier Fahie, it was the former cabinet of the NDP who are responsible for the “mess” that the Territory was in, and hence, Hon Maduro-Caines’ decision to join the VIP and clean up the “mess” is one with great insight for the future.

"I know that Hon Maduro-Caines cares for children, having served as the head of the Prince and Princess Pageant Committee for years and she wants a bright and sound future for them. Hon Maduro-Caines has been clear that she recognises that the BVI is facing serious threats from external forces and that what the Territory needs most at this time, is for all citizens to unite behind a common vision and a workable plan with all hands on deck.”

The Premier said this strategy will combat outside threat and protect Virgin Islanders, rather than focusing on partisan politics, personal agendas and opposition just for opposition sake.

“Propping up a weak Opposition”

“She believes country must come fist and time is of the essence. Hon Maduro-Caines has been clear that she examined the work that has been done by your present government over the last eleven months,” Premier Fahie said. 

The Leader of Government Business also noting that her decision to join the VIP was one that was sound and based on the vision set out in the 2020 Budget which, according to him, is in the best interest of the people.

“The bottom line is that Hon Maduro-Caines believes she can make a greater contribution to national development by working with a strong government and supporting a strong plan than through propping up a weak Opposition that has no leadership or direction,” Premier Fahie said.

36 Responses to “Premier blazes Opp. Leader over alleged rumour mill against Hon Maduro-Caines”

  • Quiet Rebel (05/02/2020, 19:59) Like (10) Dislike (3) Reply
    True, it would have better professional form if the Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines had consulted with other Opposition members prior to teaming up with VIP. However, it was her personal choice and right not to do so. Every tory have at least three 3 sides. We have heard Hon Maduro-Caines’, and Hon Penn’s but what is the real tory. People in the know will tell us in time what the real story is——-real side. In the mean time, it is time to move on and get on with the people’s business. Look the Hon Maduro-Caines is doing what she thinks is the best interest of the territory and her D-6 constituents. She is not into you anymore; these are May words not hers. If the rumors are true, this is not smart politics and unprofessional. There is no room in BVI politics for personal destruction. Beat your opponents over the head with policies that are in the best interest of the territory. In the words of Rodney King, “can we all get along?”
    • Jacperlance (06/02/2020, 06:40) Like (19) Dislike (0) Reply
      @Quiet Rebel. So you are employed with RiteWay and you are seeking employment with OneMart and being interviewed by OneMart, do you consult with RiteWay to tell them of your plans or when you are successful with OneMart you just give RiteWay your resignation?
      • Quiet Rebel (06/02/2020, 14:32) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
        @Jackparlance, your example is not the full story. Sometimes the situation as you tell it is appropriate and smart in some circumstances. On the other hand, if the RiteWay employee had a good working relationship with RiteWay/supervisor, he/she will tell supervisor that he/she is pursuing a position with increasing responsibilities and pay with One Mart. Still sticking with my comment:”True, it would have better professional form if the Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines had consulted with other Opposition members prior to teaming up with VIP. However, it was her personal choice and right not to do so.”
    • @Quiet Rebel (06/02/2020, 14:05) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
      When you are tired an had enough of your job and want to seek other employment do you consult with the manager or secretary first, just hush your mouth the lady is a grown woman which can be Marlons mother so he needs a pacifier so he can stop the complaining. NDP done did their mess an let ppl down give VIP a Chane an enough time time clean up after
      • Quiet Rebel (06/02/2020, 14:38) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
        @@Quiet Rebel, I’m staying firm on my previous comment: “True, it would have better professional form if the Hon Alvera Maduro-Caines had consulted with other Opposition members prior to teaming up with VIP. However, it was her personal choice and right not to do so.“ out
      • Same Gig (06/02/2020, 17:02) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
        Thus is the same job and position. Same biss(The people),same location,same accountability.
        She did not find new employment. She shifted her seat
        Professionalism,maturity,class, foresight lacking in one package which ,frankly,is not surprising cknsudering her stance all along has been just to show up.collect a paycheck and clock pension time.
    • Stop It (06/02/2020, 17:08) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Would you all kill this phrase about every story have 3 sides.

      At times it’s either the truth or a lie.
  • pat (05/02/2020, 20:01) Like (28) Dislike (5) Reply
    Let them mess with the brown bummer they will hear
    • The rick (06/02/2020, 00:29) Like (1) Dislike (6) Reply
      Depury premier Hon Alvera cains, cant wait for her to get her turn!
    • Oh please pat (06/02/2020, 15:45) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      When you say brown bummer, it sounds like you are calling him a bum or a beggar.
      • u see (06/02/2020, 19:34) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
        That is because ,unfortunately,many of us choose to go throuughlife adlibbing,clueless marionettes especially regarding Black History.
        " Brown Bomber"...Well,he too was brawn and brainless....Google,research and learn.
  • resident (05/02/2020, 20:42) Like (15) Dislike (4) Reply
    I am sick and tired of the school yard behaviour. Somebody stop the madness. Some things you just let it go. Gosh man. Can't we all just get along?
    Let's live as one and forget the negativity.
  • Really (05/02/2020, 21:06) Like (15) Dislike (9) Reply
    This tit for tat back and fourth business, I'm so sick and tired of it with the opposition... VIP is such a strong party they really have nothing to over it.
  • similar hair cut (05/02/2020, 22:33) Like (24) Dislike (20) Reply
    The leader of the VIP reminds me of the leader of north korea
    • @ similar hair cut (06/02/2020, 04:14) Like (18) Dislike (13) Reply
      Hell no the ndp was bad for our democracy thank God we voted them out. Fahie you doing good
  • This Part: (05/02/2020, 22:41) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    “... and typical of the abusive treatment that many women in our society face at the hands of persons who would rather they be kept in a submissive state,” he said.“

    In a submissive state to wickedness. Yes, it is unbelievable how women are treated no matter where they are. Even under the names of religions.
  • JumpStatt (05/02/2020, 23:05) Like (35) Dislike (5) Reply
    Must have been some heavy truthflying to have Fahie getting on so..
    Unprofessional to say the least. Real issues in this country staring him in the face but he there making noisetoimpress...nah..not impressive,,not at all.
    Arguing the strength and virtue of Ms Caine is defensive and lame .
  • What is it? (05/02/2020, 23:27) Like (13) Dislike (1) Reply
    I'm really curious what Penn said, This Premier is really worked up.
    • Callus Softener (06/02/2020, 11:35) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
      Hit him in the conscious concience. Truth is like that. After all these years of a seeing rarely ever heard from reticent Rep Caines,we can all surmise whether bartering and coercion was a tool used to have her jump ship. And it is very evident that bullying and being bullish is in the governing venue these days.
  • Eagle Eye (06/02/2020, 01:23) Like (23) Dislike (4) Reply
    If its one thing I know is that the sixth district didnt vote vip.
  • Disrespectful and arrogant (06/02/2020, 02:14) Like (1) Dislike (2) Reply
    So how come de VIP is your government and de opposition her majesty loyal opposition. De government is her majesty government. Stop de disrespect and foolishness. We is a british overseas territory and we still get uk passports. Stupid a** af. And stop de blame game. You had enuff time to mark de difference.
  • no laughing matter (06/02/2020, 04:12) Like (6) Dislike (7) Reply
    With the ndp sins of corruption and financial mismanagement around his neck hon Penn not going anywhere bottom line
  • Anonymous (06/02/2020, 06:10) Like (4) Dislike (9) Reply
    But we all knew the NDP like man!
    • Quick Question (06/02/2020, 08:16) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
      So tell me, If the NDP like men then how is it possible to like men and be married to a woman at the same time. If my husband like men, I will be contacting a divorce lawyer.
    • Query (06/02/2020, 19:37) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Whag is wrong with liking men?
  • Yup (06/02/2020, 07:12) Like (5) Dislike (6) Reply
    Evil Penn boy.
  • Charley Rose (06/02/2020, 08:15) Like (3) Dislike (5) Reply
    There is a freedom of choice for every individual in this country and Hon Maduro Caines has exercised her freedom by joining the VIP. No one should be offended by her decision. I have noticed that Eagle eye was trying to hide behind his false name. However, whenever the time comes the electorates of District 6 to decide who they would like to represent them, they will.

    The territory is in need of every citizen to contribute towards its development and this is not a time for divisive politics. The country's development should be everyone's priority Whether in the opposition or in government we should work collectively and when General Election comes around we can put on our political gloves and contest.
    • Just saying (07/02/2020, 04:48) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
      Haha hope after the next election you will remember your very statement the last election was her first nail in her coffin now this move is the final one.... I know the Hon.Caines willing to help people and when you find yourself in the opposition it could be challenging but just slapping the people who supported you for 8years in their face they are the ones who going cause your demise cause even a dog run against she will win... "morale of the story is not what you do is how you do it"
  • i call this (06/02/2020, 08:20) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
    Tit for tat childishness
  • Well thanks (06/02/2020, 10:40) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
    If the opposition had a good relationship with each other she would’ve get together with them and talked it out there’s no togetherness within the NDP
  • Alric (06/02/2020, 12:16) Like (5) Dislike (7) Reply
    The ndp is a fake fake fake party. Do not believe anything they say. They are so big at orchestrating and grandstanding. All you please don’t be gullible. Dr pickering split. Ronnie split Archie split Mitch split Orlando split Alvera split Myron split. Them all liars. They all will do anything for power. DO NOT TRUST THE NDP.
  • cnn (06/02/2020, 15:09) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    It’s politics
  • Just saying (07/02/2020, 04:39) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    I think the Hon.Caines killed her political career by making such move.. My reason for saying this is her victory in the previous election wasnt by much over Samuel, know how do you win over the hearts of the people who supported you when you was with the NDP knowing the fact you didn't discuss with them... The real truth is the only thing she does is give Hon. Premier more power in the hoa.. If the house should be resolved would she run on the VIP ticket? No because she was not selected by the Congress.... crossing the floor is one thing but being a member of the party is another...
  • Meanwhile... (07/02/2020, 12:21) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    ...back at the ranch, the Corona Virus is slowly making its way to us. Are we prepared? Hardly, but see the crap we're wasting time debating. Nonsense!!
  • @meanwhile (07/02/2020, 16:50) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    NDP and the opposition leader are worst than the coronavirus.
  • legal team (09/02/2020, 20:49) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    I have read all the blogs and I wonder for a moment and I asked myself a question: ["Is this a democracy or a dictatorship"?] The BVI is governed by a Constitution.
    The BVI is a free and democratic country.
    Mrs caines can cross the floor from NDP to VIP.
    There are no provisions in the Constitution or in any statutory laws made by parliament for her to consult or discuss with anyone before making such move to cross the floor.
    So what is all the hooplay and hoopla about?
    To a point where disrespect and insults are levied against Her Majesty's elected representatives of Her Majesty's House of assembly..
    One love BVI.


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