Smith and King set out rival visions ahead of party conference
Two OBA constituency neighbours will duel for the party’s top position, after Jarion Richardson announced he would be stepping down earlier this summer.
Ben Smith, who has served as Deputy Leader since 2023, says he plans to lead the Opposition with “a boldness that is needed to change the trajectory of Bermuda and her people.”
While, Robert King, who entered politics after Michael Dunkley’s retirement, winning both the Smith’s North by-election in May 2024 and this year’s general election, pledges to “deliver the determined leadership Bermuda deserves.”
Mr. Smith is currently the Shadow Minister of Education and Sport, and MP for Constituency 8, Smith’s South.
The party once described him as a “son of the soil” and “passionate about a better Bermuda for all, regardless of race, social status or gender.”
Outside of politics, he’s also Bermuda’s national swimming coach and co-owner of Nonna’s Kitchen.
Mr. Smith says Bermuda needs an Opposition that is more than a watchdog – “a team that develops real solutions, communicates them clearly, and earns the confidence of the public.”
He says a stronger Opposition would focus on three priorities: political readiness with costed policies ready to roll out, deeper community engagement, and diverse representation.
He argues the Opposition cannot simply wait for voters to “vote for change,” but must prove its readiness now.
Mr. Smith adds: “I believe in a stronger, smarter, and more connected OBA. A party that is prepared to govern is a party that can transform Bermuda.”
Mr. Smith also acknowledged that trust in politics has eroded. If elected leader, he pledges to introduce a Public Accountability Pledge for MPs, including regular public reporting, open forums, and clear policy timelines.
He has also called for televising House of Assembly debates, saying Bermudians deserve to see their MPs at work.
Meanwhile, Robert King says “trust in politics has been broken,” and pledges to serve full-time as Opposition Leader if elected. Adding: “Bermudians don’t need more empty pledges – they need leadership that works full-time, rebuilds trust and delivers results.”
The party describes him as a seasoned criminal justice professional with more than 30 years’ experience working with at-risk youth and vulnerable populations in Bermuda and Canada.
Mr. King has also rolled out a 100-day action plan.
If elected, he says his first steps will be “putting people first” through a series of town halls and a monthly open house from the Opposition Leader’s office.
He also promises a refreshed communications strategy, mentoring for new MPs, professional development for candidates, and building the fundraising and volunteer machinery to win government. That includes creating a Youth Wing and a Women’s Commission within the party.
Mr. King adds, “I will be available, committed and focused on strengthening the OBA and preparing our party for the next election.”
Other conference candidates include Michael Fahy and Scott Pearman for Deputy Leader, and Victoria Cunningham, Geoffrey Faiella, and Jeremy Shrubb for Deputy Chair. William Soares will become Party Chairman by acclamation on September 6th.
