Accessibility
Text size
People’s Leadership Movement (PLM) leader Mark Vanterpool says residents across the Virgin Islands are signalling that they are ready for “real change”, as the newly formed political movement continues preparations for the next general election.
Vanterpool made the comments following the PLM’s first General Meeting, held at its Road Town headquarters on Thursday evening, August 27.
According to the PLM, the meeting attracted supporters from Tortola, the Sister Islands and the Territory’s Spanish-speaking community.
“I am truly energized to be back in the arena, ready to serve the people of the Virgin Islands once again,” Vanterpool said.
“Last night reminded me exactly why: the passion and hope I saw in that room, and even while out touching base with the people of these beautiful islands, tell me our people are ready for real change.”
During an open-floor session, residents were invited to identify issues they want addressed. Among the concerns raised were the rising cost of living, high electricity costs, water shortages, affordable housing, jobs and economic opportunities, infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth development, good governance and accountability.
“I have come back to continue to develop the Virgin Islands, its people and its infrastructure, to listen. I have been and will continue to listen and to fight for the issues that matter most to every resident of this territory,” Vanterpool said.
“Together, we are going to build the future this territory deserves.”
The PLM said the feedback received will help shape its platform and priorities.
Updates were also provided on the formation of District Committees across all nine districts, while young people and first-time voters were encouraged to register to vote and become involved in the political process.
On its slate for the upcoming election, the PLM stressed that no candidates have yet been officially confirmed through its verification process.
Candidate discussions remain ongoing, with an official announcement expected in the near future.
The PLM thanked those who participated in the meeting and described the turnout as strong and enthusiastic.
Vanterpool made the comments following the PLM’s first General Meeting, held at its Road Town headquarters on Thursday evening, August 27.
According to the PLM, the meeting attracted supporters from Tortola, the Sister Islands and the Territory’s Spanish-speaking community.
“I am truly energized to be back in the arena, ready to serve the people of the Virgin Islands once again,” Vanterpool said.
“Last night reminded me exactly why: the passion and hope I saw in that room, and even while out touching base with the people of these beautiful islands, tell me our people are ready for real change.”
During an open-floor session, residents were invited to identify issues they want addressed. Among the concerns raised were the rising cost of living, high electricity costs, water shortages, affordable housing, jobs and economic opportunities, infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth development, good governance and accountability.
“I have come back to continue to develop the Virgin Islands, its people and its infrastructure, to listen. I have been and will continue to listen and to fight for the issues that matter most to every resident of this territory,” Vanterpool said.
“Together, we are going to build the future this territory deserves.”
The PLM said the feedback received will help shape its platform and priorities.
Updates were also provided on the formation of District Committees across all nine districts, while young people and first-time voters were encouraged to register to vote and become involved in the political process.
On its slate for the upcoming election, the PLM stressed that no candidates have yet been officially confirmed through its verification process.
Candidate discussions remain ongoing, with an official announcement expected in the near future.
The PLM thanked those who participated in the meeting and described the turnout as strong and enthusiastic.
Community
Comments
What are your thoughts on this story? Share a respectful comment with the community.
Join the conversation
Your comment will appear after review. Email is only needed if you want reply or conversation notifications.