Former One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) adopted candidate for Constituency 9 (C9), Vic Ball, has been expelled from the party following a prolonged dispute over his candidacy. The announcement, made yesterday, marks the culmination of months of internal conflict and controversy within the OBA.
TNN’s Trevor Lindsay spoke with Mr. Ball this latest development.
THE DISPUTE OVER C9
The disagreement began on August 26 when Ball was informed by OBA leaders Jarion Richardson that Vance Campbell, a sitting MP who had crossed the floor to join the OBA, would be the party’s candidate for C9. Ball, who had been the adopted candidate for the constituency for four years, objected, citing the OBA Constitution.
“The Constitution states that you have three months to challenge an adopted candidate, and you need 100 signatures from constituents to do so. I don’t understand how Vance was suddenly positioned as the candidate without following these rules,” Ball explained.
Despite his objections, Ball alleged that the OBA leadership was unresponsive to his concerns. “When I sent emails, I didn’t get replies. It’s been a three-month ordeal. If they wanted Vance as the candidate, they should have been upfront about it,” he said.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND TENSIONS
Ball, determined to retain his position, collected 123 signatures from C9 constituents. He noted significant frustration among residents, particularly from Progressive Labour Party (PLP) supporters who felt betrayed by Campbell’s defection.
“PLP supporters were beyond upset. They called him a betrayer and a traitor. Even OBA supporters questioned whether they could trust him with their vote after his floor-crossing,” Ball shared.
He added that many constituents signed the petition because they wanted a primary to democratically select their candidate.
EXPULSION AND REACTION
Ball predicted his expulsion, citing his public criticisms of the party. “In my opinion piece in the Royal Gazette, I said that because I’m speaking to the media, the OBA would suspend or expel me. This was their only way to slot Vance in without opposition,” he stated.
Despite the setback, Ball remains uncertain about his political future. “I’m taking time to focus on my business and other endeavors. I’m not jumping back into politics immediately, but I believe I have something to offer. If the right opportunity arises, I’ll consider it.”
A PARTY IN TURMOIL?
Ball’s expulsion highlights ongoing tensions within the OBA, raising questions about internal transparency and democratic processes. As the party prepares for upcoming elections, the fallout from this dispute may influence public perception and support.
For now, Ball’s future in politics remains uncertain, but his criticisms of the OBA’s handling of the situation are likely to spark continued debate in Bermuda’s political landscape.
Below is the complete transcript of the One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) Expulsion Letter
After careful consideration, and with reference to Article 2.5 of the One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) Constitution, the OBA Executive has determined that your membership of the Party is withdrawn with immediate effect.
The OBA Executive took this decision following your emails of November 21 and November 28, 2024, and the regrettable fact that your actions have now caused this dispute to reach the media, which today contacted the Party for comment.
The Executive has concluded that your behavior has been contrary to our party’s principles, is unbecoming of an OBA candidate, and, ultimately, has already or will likely bring the party into disrepute.
This behavior includes the fact that you have chosen to make public internal party matters by copying in various OBA party members to your emails with your list of alleged grievances, and your threat to publicly expose your alleged grievances via an op-ed article in the media.
Further, we now learn today that your actions have in fact caused matters to reach the media.
It is with regret that we have had to take this decision. We afforded you the opportunity to take a different approach. It could have been so much better for all concerned if you had approached this issue by asking how you could stand with us, working together to ensure the OBA forms the next Government.
In any event, thank you for your service to the One Bermuda Alliance and we wish you the best with your future endeavors. Regards,
The Executive Committee
Any content which is considered unsuitable, unlawful, or offensive, includes personal details, advertises or promotes products, services or websites, or repeats previous comments will be removed.
User comments posted on this website are solely the views and opinions of the comment writer and are not a representation of or reflection of the opinions of TNN or its staff.
TNN reserves the right to remove, edit or censor any comments.
TNN accepts no liability and will not be held accountable for the comments made by users.