In a recent statement during a press conference held on Sunday May 1st, 2022. Leader of the Opposition and District 8th Representative Hon. Marlon A Penn along with other members of the opposition addressed the public.
In his address to the territory, Opposition Leader Marlon A. Penn, issued the following statement.
Penn said, “Fellow Virgin Islanders and Residents, The Premier’s detainment in the United States and the subsequent release of the Commission of Inquiry report have brought undesired global attention at what is the most challenging period in our Territory’s history.
As your representatives in the House of Assembly and Members of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, we have had discussions with the Acting Premier as early as Friday, 29th April after charges were officially filed, regarding the Government’s immediate disassociation from the Premier and his actions and that they seek to have Premier Fahie voluntarily resign or that steps were immediately taken to have him removed as the Premier of the Territory of the Virgin Islands. Unfortunately, 72 hours later, the result of those discussions has not been finalized.”
Acting Premier should prioritize interest of territory and move forward
Hon. Penn spoke directly to the acting Premier stating, “We respectfully encouraged the Acting Premier to prioritise the interests of the Territory and to move swiftly to assure the people of the Virgin Islands and our friends and supporters internationally by denouncing the alleged actions that have brought the reputation of the Virgin Islands into grave disrepute.
We, the Members of the Opposition, strongly condemn the alleged actions of Premier Fahie and Managing Director Oleanvine Maynard and similarly denounce the actions of any other public official that knowingly and willfully disregarded the responsibilities with which they have been entrusted and oaths of office which they took.”
Premier Fahie should resign out of respect for the people of the VI
Speaking to the Premier of the Virgin Islands, Penn said, “We urge Premier Fahie to resign out of respect for the people of the Virgin Islands and in recognition of the need of the Territory to move forward.
The majority of Virgin Islanders are a people of integrity and respect the laws of the Territory. These reprehensible actions by a distinct minority are in no way representative of the views and actions of the people of the Virgin Islands. We therefore call on any public official that knows that they may have violated the public trust to voluntarily demit office out of respect for the people of the Virgin Islands.
Violators of the public trust do not enjoy our individual and collective support. Our aim now is to support actions that will ensure good governance and move swiftly to restore public confidence.”
In closing Penn urged residents to be resilient saying, “The Territory needs once again the resilience of its citizens and residents. We know that we are asking a lot. However, those of us who love these Virgin Islands must summon the strength and truly join in unity to address the challenges ahead of us.”