In a press conference held this morning February 8, 2023, Perline Scatliffe-Leonard, former Director of Water & Sewerage announced her Candidacy for the upcoming general elections. Scatliffe-Leonard who is known to be a VIP supporter for years, has entered the ring as an Independent Candidate. 

Presently, the 7th District is represented in the HOA by the Honourable Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley. Overwhelming feedback from the District suggests grave disappointment in his leadership or lack thereof over the past four years. 

In 2019, the people of the 7th District sent home their Representative of 20 years for failing to appropriately represent the District. Will the Hon. Natalio Wheatley suffer the same fate?

“We’re seeing the same trend in Sowande. The District needs representation.”  said a District 7 Constituent who did not want to be identified. The Hon. Premier is affectionately known by Sowande. “We’re not seeing any development in the district. The people are hopeless.” the voter said. 

District 7 has bemoaned their lack of leadership and representation for almost 30 years. Will the 2023 election bring a change and restore hope for the people of the District?

“As a District 7 voter, I am disappointed in Natalio and it seem no matter who we put there, their goal is power and not to help District. We need someone who know the district, understand the people and will fight for we.” said another disgruntled voter. “And we don’t know what Natalio deal is with the UK. We just don’t trust him at this point.” The voter went on to say. 

If you’re listening to the ‘word’ across the Virgin Islands, there is a push for more young people, a push for more women in leadership and a push for more Independent candidates. 

“Leaning on my knowledge and experience of current and past political party performances, I believe that the country is in need of able, committed individuals who are about territory building, integrity, transparency and who will be dedicated to what is in the best interest of the people and not a party or a few.  I have chosen therefore to present myself as an independent Candidate in the next general election to serve the people of District 7 and by extension the people of this territory.” said Mrs. Scatliffe-Leonard. 

Our eyes remain locked on Decision 2023, with our focus now on the race in District 7.