ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn has categorically denied a claim made publicly by Claude Skelton-Cline that he met with Second District Representative Mitch Turnbull in an effort to persuade Turnbull to join the People’s Leadership Movement (PLM).
During his programme Honestly Speaking on Tuesday, Skelton-Cline stated that Walwyn had met with Turnbull and encouraged him to move over to the PLM, suggesting that the two could join forces and that Turnbull could potentially become Deputy Premier.
Walwyn has rejected the claim, saying he has never had such a conversation with Turnbull.
“On his show yesterday, Claude Skelton-Cline stated that I met with the Honourable Mitch Turnbull with the intention of enticing him to join the People’s Leadership Movement,” Walwyn said. “That statement is false. I categorically deny that I ever had any such conversation with the Honourable Mitch Turnbull ever!”
Walwyn said he is putting Skelton-Cline and anyone associated with the allegation “to strict proof” of the claim.
The Sixth District representative also questioned the responsibility of making unverified statements about elected officials, particularly during an election period.
“As a talk-show host, he has a responsibility to provide the public with accurate and responsible information,” Walwyn said. “When claims are made about elected representatives, political leaders, or matters affecting the public, there should be a commitment to truth, fairness, and verification — not speculation or narratives designed to create confusion.”
Walwyn also took issue with what he described as a continuing focus on his actions and statements.
“Quite frankly, I am beginning to think that Mr. Skelton-Cline has developed some level of obsession with me,” he said. “When I speak, he criticizes me. When I remain quiet, he still finds something to criticize and, worse yet, proceeds to manufacture things that he claims I have said or done.”
Referencing Skelton-Cline’s role as a pastor, Walwyn said he believes greater emphasis should be placed on truth and integrity when making public statements about other people.
“What is particularly troubling is when such conduct comes from someone who is a pastor and professes to be a follower of Christ,” Walwyn said. “Truth and integrity should matter, especially when speaking publicly about the reputations and actions of others.”
Walwyn ended his response with a pointed biblical reference, saying: “Please tell the devil you haven’t seen me.”
Skelton-Cline Stands By Statement
Guavaberry Media’s newsroom contacted Skelton-Cline on Wednesday morning seeking clarification on the claim.
Skelton-Cline categorically stood by the statement he made on Honestly Speaking, telling the newsroom that once he has stated something on the programme, he stands by it.
The newsroom also reached out to Second District Representative Mitch Turnbull for comment on the alleged meeting and the claim that he was approached about joining the PLM.
The call to Turnbull went unanswered as of publication.
The differing accounts leave the alleged meeting unconfirmed publicly, with Walwyn firmly denying that the conversation took place and Skelton-Cline maintaining that he stands by what he said on his programme.
Despite the political speculation surrounding possible alliances ahead of the next General Election, Walwyn said his attention remains on his responsibilities as the elected representative for the Sixth Electoral District.
“I will not be drawn into the usual political noise and idle talk that often accompanies election season,” he said. “My focus remains on representing the people of the Sixth Electoral District and serving them to the best of my ability.”
“The people deserve facts, not fiction. They deserve leadership focused on issues, not manufactured controversy.”
Walwyn said he intends to continue his work and allow the facts to speak for themselves.