The Honourable Zane DeSilva has confirmed that he will not be seeking the leadership of the Progressive Labour Party or the Premiership of Bermuda, citing health and family considerations as the driving force behind his decision.
Speaking candidly during a local talk show appearance earlier this week, Mr. DeSilva revealed that while many supporters expected him to eventually transition into the leadership role following his successful deputy leadership campaign, he ultimately decided against pursuing the top position due to concerns surrounding his health and family life.
“A lot of people expected when I won the deputy leadership that the natural transition was to move into leadership of the party and Premiership of the country, which was certainly on my agenda,” Mr. DeSilva explained during the interview.
He described the decision as extremely difficult, noting the overwhelming encouragement he received daily from members of the public urging him to become the country’s next leader.
“I didn’t feel it was right for me to continue on that path if I had a worry about my health and all my family,” he stated.
However, Mr. DeSilva also shared positive news regarding his medical condition, revealing that he recently received favorable health results.
“I have had a very, very good, favorable result with regard to where I am health-wise,” he said.
Despite the encouraging update, Mr. DeSilva stressed that he intends to take time to fully process the information alongside his family before making any long-term political decisions.
While categorically ruling out a run for party leader or Premier, Mr. DeSilva disclosed that he is strongly considering remaining active within the Progressive Labour Party and may seek re-election as deputy leader.
“The thought process is that I will be throwing my hat in the ring for deputy leader of our party,” he stated.
He emphasized that any future political involvement will continue to depend on both his health and family circumstances.
“I need to be in a happy place with that. I need to be in a happy place with my family. And those two things are most important,” he added.
Mr. DeSilva also revealed that when he initially made the decision months ago not to pursue the party leadership, only two individuals were aware of the personal health challenges he was facing at the time.
Reflecting on the journey, he said he believes there is a greater purpose guiding his path.
“I believe that God has a purpose for all of us. And I’m living out the purpose that I think He’s laid out before me,” he said.
Mr. DeSilva also welcomed what he described as growing enthusiasm within the Progressive Labour Party ahead of what is expected to be an active internal election season, saying healthy competition for leadership positions is good for the organization.
“The good thing is that within the Progressive Labour Party, we do have people that want to fight for positions,” he said. “I think it’s healthy, and I look forward to it.”
His comments are expected to further fuel political discussion as attention increasingly turns toward the future leadership direction of the Progressive Labour Party.
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