OBA announce candidate to fight Southampton East Central

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22: Lawyer Leah Scott is to take on ex-Chamber of Commerce president Stephen Todd in Southampton East Central.

Ms Scott was today announced as the OBA’s candidate for the seat, currently held by Health Minister Zane De Silva.

Ms Scott said she had lived in Bermuda for nearly 30 years — but “was deeply concerned that Bermuda is losing its edge”.

She added: “We are in crisis and if we do not re-chart our course now, it is inevitable that we will experience social and economic devastation of epic proportions.”

Ms Scott, a lawyer for a trust company in Hamilton, said her priorities were education and tackling gangs and gun violence.

She added: “My vision is a Bermuda with a 21st century school system. A Bermuda where every neighbourhood is safe and a pleasure to live in. A Bermuda with beautiful open spaces, arts and culture and safe, revitalised streets. A Bermuda where everyone is gainfully employed.”

Ms Scott, the mother of a grown-up son, added: “A return to fundamental common sense in Government is needed. I want to help lead our island back onto the path of growth and opportunity.”

She added: “Experience matters and mine has taught me that it is not only important to work hard, but that also there are risks worth taking.

“Those who know me and know my story also know that I am one working mother who has never waited around for change.

“Change is a matter of choice —it is not to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved. I cannot change Bermuda alone, but I can cast a stone into the water to create many ripples.”

Mr De Silva is moving to nearby Southampton East, a safer seat, currently held by the Speaker of the House of Assembly Stanley Lowe, who is retiring from politics.