TNN NEWS: A dynamic shift in the upcoming February 18th election, with key players, a number of them being former Parliamentarians, entering the fray as independent candidates, setting the stage for an electrifying contest across multiple constituencies.
Renee Webb Enters the Race in C-13
Renee Webb, formerly a minister under the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) government, has officially re-entered the fray. Webb, renowned for her legislative prowess during her tenure, will contest as an independent candidate in Constituency 13 Devonshire North Central, where she directly challenges the current Education Minister, Diallo Rabian.
Political analysts speculate this matchup could prove interesting, given Ms. Webb’s seasoned background and Rabian’s incumbent advantage, fueling a heated campaign.
Justin Mathias Eyes C-25
In another major development, Justin Mathias, the former chairperson of the One Bermuda Alliance (OBA), is preparing to return to the political arena as an independent candidate in Constituency 25 , Warwick North East. Mathias faces Arianna Hodgson, a prominent and established figure in the district.
Having previously served as OBA Chair with a focus on uniting diverse perspectives, Mathias’ decision to run as an independent reflects a growing trend of candidates stepping outside traditional party lines to directly engage with voters.
The Return of Controversial Candidate in C-17
Meanwhile, heightened political intrigue in Constituency 17, Pembroke Central, where Rolf Commissiong, a former PLP Parliamentarian, who exited the political stage under controversial circumstances five years ago, is staging a potential comeback.
Harassment complaints against him which led to mounting conflict within the PLP, resulted in his eventual resignation. He comes up against the incumbent and current Minister of Labour and the Economy. This race is poised to be one of the most contentious, with unresolved tensions and a fight for redemption now part of the mix. Incidentally, one of Mr. Commissiong’s alleged former accusers is among the crop of independent hopefuls seeking to become members of Parliament.
As the election draws closer, the emergence of independent candidates signals a shifting political tide. This dynamic underscores a growing dissatisfaction with traditional party systems and highlight the evolving landscape of Bermuda’s democracy.
Sir John Swan Returns in C-10
Veteran politician and Bermuda’s longest serving Premier, sir John Swan, is seen described by the PLP as the de facto leader of the independent movement which has now become part of Bermuda’s political framework. A notion which he has moved to dispel although he has attended most, if not all the announcements of independent candidates.
Sir John, Bermuda’s only living National Hero, has stated the advent of the growing number of independent candidates reflects the fact that “We need a new system, a system where all of Bermuda can be involved in finding solutions and working together to make them happen. This is the vision the Independent movement brings. It’s time for real and meaningful change.”
“Meanwhile, there is a belief that the growing number of Independents combined with the OBA and FDM all seeking to unseat the PLP, could actually prove beneficial for the ruling party with the vote being split four ways. A situation which may well favour the labour party retaining power even if with a reduced majority in the House of Assembly.
Stay tuned to TNN News for in-depth analysis in the lead-up to the February 18th general election.
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