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.”
