Joanne Ball Burgess Announces Candidacy for Constituency 25 Amid PLP Shakeup

This morning, the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) announced educator and communications expert Joanne Ball Burgess as their new candidate for Constituency 25, Warwick North East, in the upcoming General Election.

During a news conference at Alaska Hall, Party Leader David Burt revealed that Arianna Hodgson will not be contesting the seat she was set to run for after taking over from Ianthia Simmons-Wade.

Mr. Burt explained that after discussions with the C25 branch, Senator Hodgson, and the party executive, the decision was made to proceed with a new candidate for the election. He expressed enthusiasm for Senator Hodgson’s future contributions to the party.

However, well placed sources within the PLP telling TNN, Ms. Hodgson was replaced as the candidate in C25, following her efforts last week to move to C5, Hamilton East, following the resignation of Derrick Burgess, who held the seat for the PLP for the past 27 years.

Our source described Ms. Hodgson’s attempts to move to #5 as agressive and claims it did not sit well with the party hirearchy.

Pastor Leroy Bean was ultimately selected to replace Mr. Burgess as the PLP candidate to contest for that seat in February 18th general election.

Ms. Ball Burgess, is noted for her commitment to empowering young people, according to the party leader. A graduate of Endicott College, she has established cottage schools in Kenya and Papua New Guinea to promote therapeutic practices through literature and local cultural celebrations.

Additionally, she is the author of a bestselling children’s book and founded the first Young Reporters for the Environment award. As a dedicated mother of three boys, she is motivated to advocate for future generations, bringing “fresh energy and innovative ideas” to both the party and her constituency.

Reflecting on her upbringing in Warwick parish, Ms. Ball Burgess expressed her deep understanding of Bermuda’s culture, enriched by her experiences living and working in four countries. She aims to foster a future that uplifts all community members, ensuring that seniors are not overlooked. “We owe it to these unsung heroes who make untold sacrifices to make it right,” she stated.

When asked about her thoughts on the ongoing education reform, Ms. Ball Burgess acknowledged the challenges inherent in such initiatives, noting, “If I were to discuss them in detail, we’d be here all day.”

Mr. Burt added that while “implementation must improve,” the ultimate goal remains to find the right solutions for education reform.

Joanne, known for her vibrant personality and strong spiritual foundation, highlighted her global experiences and the influence they’ve had on her perspective. Having lived and traveled in multiple countries, including Kenya and the United States, she shared how these experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and service.

I’ve seen life on different continents, and it taught me that at the heart of the matter, were all human. We all have a right to clean water, health care, safety, and dignity. Those lessons will guide me as I represent the people of Constituency 25, she said passionately.

Reflecting on a harrowing experience in Kenya, where she survived the 2013 Westgate Mall attack, Joanne credited a janitor who showed her and eight others a back exit, saving their lives. That experience taught me to value life and respect every human being, no matter their station. It doesn’t matter if you’re a president or a janitor”everyone deserves respect.

As a mother of three sons, Joanne also spoke about the importance of raising young Black men in today’s world. Lots of prayer and deep conversations those are my tools. I always let them know I’m proud of them, and I show up for their interests, whether it’s science for one or football for another. It’s about being present and real.

In the 2020 election, the PLP’s Ianthia Simmons-Wade secured C25 with 50% of the vote, narrowly defeating One Bermuda Alliance candidate Jon Leslie Brunson, who garnered 49%. The OBA has nominated Dr. Douglas DeCouto to contest the seat, while independent candidate Justin Mathias joined the race last week.

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