Turnbull pledges support to united NDP, new chairman

Newly appointed Deputy Chairman of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and Second District Representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull has pledged his full support to the party’s new leadership, signalling a renewed push for unity as the organisation prepares for the next general elections.

Speaking on ZBVI following the party’s recent internal elections, Turnbull said there was a strong turnout from founding members, youth supporters, and members of the business community. He described the process as smooth and encouraging, noting that the level of participation reflected growing confidence in the party’s direction.

“My commitment and support is to the chairman, to the body, to the party of the NDP, and most importantly to the people of the Virgin Islands,” Turnbull said. He added that the party is focused on forming the next government and delivering what he described as “rejuvenated hope” and “rejuvenated energy” to address longstanding issues in the territory.

Turnbull emphasised that the NDP is determined to move beyond rhetoric and focus on action. “The things that need to get done in the country, we’re not going to talk about them, we’re just going to have them done,” he stated, stressing that the NDP organisation must now operate as a unified team.

“We are one team, we are one NDP, we are one family. And we are stronger together.”

The Deputy Chairman also pointed to the party’s constitution as a guiding framework for its operations, suggesting that the NDP’s internal processes remain structured and clear. His comments come amid ongoing efforts to stabilise and rebuild the party following years of internal divisions.

Reflecting on his political journey, Turnbull said his more than decade-long tenure as an elected representative has helped prepare him for greater responsibilities. He credited mentorship from senior political figures, including veteran legislator Julian Fraser, as well as his own efforts to study governance, parliamentary procedures, and national issues.

Turnbull said his background in finance and business management, along with his focus on youth and seniors, positions him to contribute meaningfully if the NDP should form the next government.