Independents, FDM: Power brokers… or spoilers?
…and if simply disruptors, will it hurt the Opposition the most?
Just over a week into the 2025 General Election campaign, and both the OBA and PLP have set their sights on the prize, with most of their candidates in place.
The FDM is yet to unveil any candidates, while four new independents have already been rolled out.
However, do any of the alternative options have a real chance of winning seats – or are they just drawing votes away from the main parties?
If the latter is true – will it work out better for the PLP or the OBA?
Gary Foster Skelton looks at the election story so far in the report above…
PLP says its message is ‘resonating’
Party upbeat after week-long registration drive
Reaching out: Premier David Burt pictured during his party’s voter registration push. Photo: PLP
The PLP today issued an update on its voter registration drives.
A press release stated: “Over the last 7 days, PLP candidates have registered many voters, especially young voters, throughout Bermuda. The PLP held voter registration drives at:
Bermuda College – organised by Progressive Minds;
The Berkeley Institute;
CedarBridge Academy;
Harrington Workmen’s Club;
Allen Temple AME Church;
Elliot Primary School (for Devonshire).
Premier David Burt – “I am incredibly proud of our candidates and the dedicated team that has been working tirelessly to engage with and help to register voters across Bermuda.
“Over the past week, we’ve seen firsthand how our message is resonating — especially with young voters who recognise and appreciate the work this PLP Government has done. From expanding scholarships and apprenticeships to implementing a minimum wage, creating jobs in tourism and construction, and making record investments in youth programmes and mental health services, we are building a fairer Bermuda for them and all Bermudians.”
Sir John: Independents working for “the greater good of all Bermudians”
Former Premier believes it’s “time for change”
A surge of independent candidates entering the political arena ahead of Nomination Day signals, for some, a new era in Bermuda’s politics.
With each new rollout, independents are collectively seeking to rock the status quo.
So far, the independent candidates – which include some new faces and some familiar – are forging a path away from party politics, with the support of former UBP Premier Sir John Swan.
Most recently, climate activist Noelle Young announced her independent candidacy for Constituency 14, Devonshire North West, bringing the total number of independent candidates on the island-wide ballot to eight. According to Sir John, more candidates are expected to follow.
He told Bermuda Broadcasting that voters may be presented with a “substantial number” of independents to choose from when they head to the polls on February 18, adding that he was “fascinated by the calibre” of those stepping up to represent the country.
“They’ve sat on the sidelines; they didn’t want to be involved with party politics, and now they’ve found a way to participate without party politics. I think the public will be pleased with what’s available,” he said.
While there are 36 seats up for grabs in the House of Assembly, Sir John noted that it is not necessary to fill all seats with independent candidates, as long as there are enough to “make a significant difference.”
Sir John has been transparent about his involvement in leading the “Independents movement,” following his own independent run in the Smith’s North by-election, where he was defeated by the One Bermuda Alliance’s Robert King by a relatively close margin.
Despite the loss, it demonstrated to Sir John that voters have an appetite for an alternative to the two main parties.
As the election campaign intensifies, independents from various walks of life are making their presence known to voters on doorsteps across the island.
While there has been speculation that the ‘Independents movement’ could evolve into a political party, Sir John has firmly denied any such intention.
He stated that he is solely there to support each independent candidate, not to dictate their actions.
When asked by Bermuda Broadcasting if he would participate in a live television debate with other leaders, Sir John declined, reaffirming that the Independents movement has no party structure.
He stated, “We’re not a party, so I can’t say I’m a party leader. Who would I represent in a debate? It just can’t happen.”
“I have no desire to be the leader. I am here for Bermuda’s sake and to best serve the island by supporting those stepping forward to play their role in a new Bermuda.”
Regarding the named independent candidates and those yet to be announced, Sir John remarked, “These are people looking at the bigger picture for the greater good of all Bermudians.”
To voters uncertain about how a government composed of independents would function, Sir John referred to the Constitution and cited working examples elsewhere such as in the Isle of Man and Guernsey.
Meanwhile, in her candidacy announcement yesterday, Juanae Crockwell, independent candidate for Constituency 31, Southampton West Central, emphasised that governing with independents is not entirely different from how the House currently functions.
“Whether the government is made up of MPs from a political party or MPs who are independent, we are all individuals who have our own thoughts, opinions, and ideas for what will most benefit Bermuda so regardless, we have to come together,” she explained.
Ms Crockwell added, “If we had a government made up entirely of independents, we would work together, we would form what is being referred to as a coalition, independent members would come together to vote and elect a premier to lead the government, and we would work together. As I hope Bermuda can already see, those of us involved in the Independents movement are committed to that – working together with our varied ideas, experiences, and expertise to be able to bring Bermuda the best option.”
BPS officers train with U.S. Secret Service to combat financial fraud
The Bermuda Police Service and U.S. Secret Service has maintained a longstanding relationship in collaborating on criminal investigations and training over the decades.
Around 30 police officers took part in one-day specialist training course with instructors from the United States Secret Service, exploring the latest techniques for detecting financial crimes.
Fraudsters and schemers know no boundaries in this increasingly digitally connected world and the Secret Service is urging everyone to take greater precautions against these crimes.
For the full story, click the video link above.
PLP Responds to FDM’s economic policy outline
PLP MP Zayne DeSilva says FDM is catering to ‘the privileged few’
PLP Logo
“Who are the FDM really trying to help?” A question posed in a recent op-ed from the Progressive Labour Party’s Zayne DeSilva, MP for Constituency 30, Southampton East. Mr DeSilva claims that the Free Democratic Movement’s willingness to collaborate with the opposition One Bermuda Alliance is not in the best interest of the country, but is instead “to gain political power.”
The FDM’s economic policy outline, published yesterday, seeks to foster fiscal transparency through measures such as; launching a digital budget dashboard that will provide real-time updates on government spending, and transitioning 50% of all publicly funded entities to performance-based funding.
Calling these proposals “vague promises”, Mr. DeSilva infers that a vote cast in favour of a political party other than the PLP is akin to gambling with Bermuda’s future. “Stand with the PLP to ensure we continue building a fairer Bermuda for all of us”.
You can read the full release, below.
Senator: PLP “dedicated to empowering young voices”
…but PLP insider says deferring to the law on absentee voting is ridiculous
Senator Arianna Hodgson
A PLP senator says her party is dedicated to empowering young voices, but repeated that our current laws do not support absentee ballots for students overseas.
Another voice in the PLP, however, says deferring to voting laws is ridiculous – because they could have been changed.
Today, Thursday January 18, is the last day to register as a voter at elections.gov.bm. Registration closes at 5pm.
Senator Arianna Hodgson this morning shared a letter to young people, saying “It’s the last day to register to vote!… As one of our island’s youngest members of the Legislature, I understand that connecting with you in meaningful ways is essential… As a party, we must engage with you directly, listen closely, and ensure your voices shape every conversation about Bermuda’s future.”
Senator Hodgson said her party recognises the importance of ensuring all voices are heard, including those studying abroad. She doubled down on a previous PLP statement citing election laws.
“Although Bermuda’s current laws do not provide for absentee voting… we are dedicated to exploring changes that would allow students abroad to participate.”
“…my door remains open to every young person in Bermuda. Whether you want to share your ideas, raise concerns, or simply be heard…”
However, a PLP insider who asked to remain anonymous told Bermuda Broadcasting that it’s ridiculous for the party to assert that “Bermuda’s electoral laws currently do not allow for absentee voting.”
Our source said that this Government has had a massive and growing parliamentary majority since 2017, and has been able to push through unpopular pieces of legislation with ease.
They could have easily changed the law to allow for absentee voting, giving our young people and others who are studying and working overseas the opportunity to participate in our democracy. This would have received bipartisan support, said the party insider.
Our source, who is high up and respected within the PLP, said it would have been better for the party to admit that they made a mistake and promise to introduce legislation to address this issue when they return to office, if that’s the election outcome.
Independent Noelle Young plans to “bring solutions” to C14
Climate activist steps into the political arena
Climate activist Noelle Young has formally announced her candidacy as an Independent in the General Election for Constituency 14, Devonshire North West.
Ms. Young chose to deliver her announcement at the Arboretum, a location she holds dear and considers a personal “sanctuary.”
Although originally from Constituency 15, Ms. Young stated that she does “not abide” by constituency lines and identifies the back of town as her neighbourhood.
Describing herself as a climate solutionist, scientist, youth advocate, and diplomat rather than a politician, Ms. Young emphasised her commitment to environmental and social issues.
In her opening remarks, she was highly critical of BELCO … citing high energy costs and expressing concern over the extent of pollution impacting Bermuda’s atmosphere and environment.
Ms. Young revealed she has developed over 50 policies, with her main priorities focusing on youth and individuals with disabilities. While she did not disclose all her policies, she highlighted specific local initiatives for Constituency 14. These include revitalising and enhancing the Arboretum, transforming Happy Valley Park into a more welcoming community space, introducing dog parks, supporting community sports clubs, and supporting the Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy.
Reflecting on her return to Bermuda after completing her education, Ms. Young expressed concern that the island is “not a safe place for children.” She aims to introduce policies to improve the safety and accessibility of playgrounds, noting that no current regulations address this issue.
If elected, Ms. Young pledged to work towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
When asked by Bermuda Broadcasting why she chose to run as an Independent rather than align with a political party, Ms. Young explained that she feared her environmental, social, and humanitarian efforts would be “overshadowed by the fact that [she] joined a party.” She added that she did not want to be constrained in what she was allowed to do and say and that she was here for “the good of our entire nation”.
You can watch Ms. Young’s full press conference below.
Police name teenage victim of fatal road crash
A’Maya DeRosa, 18, died after an accident in Paget on Friday.
BPS Image
The Bermuda Police Service has confirmed Bermuda’s first road fatality of 2025, 18-year-old A’Maya DeRosa.
The fatal collision occurred around 2:30pm on Friday, the 10th January on Middle Road in Paget, near the junction with Manse Road.
A BPS Family Liaison Officer is providing support to Ms. DeRosa’s family.
The incident is being investigated by Constable DeForest Evans of the Roads Policing Unit.
The BPS renews its appeal for any witnesses that have not already come forward, or anyone with relevant information, to call 717-0860, or e-mail devans@bps.bm
Alternatively, members of the public are encouraged to share any information that they may have with a police officer they’re familiar with, or through the BPS online community reporting portal, https://portal.police.bm/
PLP’s Iesha Musson to stand in C20
The first new PLP candidate announced since the election was called, in arguably the toughest seat for the PLP to win
The PLP today rolled out Iesha Musson as their candidate in Constituency 20, Pembroke South West. (Video highlights above, full press conference below)
Ms Musson is the first new PLP candidate announced since the election was announced – in arguably the toughest seat for the PLP to win.
The constituency encompasses Front Street to Dundonald Street as far east as King Street, and west as far as Fairylands and up to the Pitt’s Bay / St John’s Road roundabout.
Susan Jackson held the seat in 2020 with 80 per-cent of the vote. Ms Musson told Gary Foster Skelton she is only just starting to canvass the area.
Ms Musson cites a passion for youth development and family preservation, and a love of service.
Pembroke South West is the first of the five OBA-held constituencies that had no PLP candidates at the time the election was called.
The remaining are Smith’s North, held by Ben Smith, Devonshire South Central, held by Craig Cannonier, Scott Pearman’s seat in Paget East, and OBA Leader Jarion Richardson’s seat in Paget West.
FULL LIVE PRESS CONFERENCE:
FDM unveils its economic policy
Lower payroll tax, higher take-home pay, and relief for businesses promised
FDM logo
The Free Democratic Movement unveiling their economic policy this afternoon. The 5 page document outlines four core principles (fiscal responsibility, market-driven growth, empowering through economic participation, customs duty and payroll tax reforms) alongside a timeline for policy implementation.
The party promises to simplify customs duties to a flat 15% rate and reduce customs duties for registered businesses in the short term (0-1 year). Medium term (years 2-3) goals include the promotion, development, and export of Bermudian-produced products including alcohol, honey, spices, and other goods. The FDM also seeks to replace the Bermuda Tourism Authority “with a privately funded Tourism Stakeholders Council, led by private sector leaders, to drive marketing and innovation without reliance on government funding.”
Economic diversification will target ‘i-Gaming’, the cannabis industry, offshore fishing, and international education: “Upgrade Bermuda College to a university, hosting 200 international students annually, generating tuition and other related revenues.”
You can read the full document, below.
