Walwyn issued that challenge at the launch of the NDP’s slate of candidates at the weekend and extended it to all the candidates vying to become the next representative of the Sixth District.

He argued that debates provide important insight for voters as they make the critical decision to choose their representatives, and said it is high time the BVI raises its political discourse so the territory can hold elections that are “issues-based rather than [being premised on] mudslinging, lies and melee talk that has characterised our politics for so long”.

“I am therefore extending an invitation to the District 6 incumbent and whomever else that will be contesting the election for District 6 to a debate to assist the residents of the district in making their decision on April 24th, 2023,” Walwyn stated.

This is not the first time Walwyn has called for debates during a general election. Back in 2019, he challenged former VIP Chairman Andrew Fahie to a leaders’ debate but the political event never materialised.

In what appears to be a jab at the former VIP chairman, Walwyn said: “The last time I made a challenge for a debate I never see a person so heavy move so fast yet — [he] ran straight West End and didn’t come back up. But this time now we must have debates in the various districts to assist residents in making their decisions.”