This election is not about change, it's about power

FRIDAY, DEC. 14: Good day family — this is my last column to you before the General Election on Monday.

Over the last year, I have been out canvassing with several PLP candidates. On the doorsteps we have met thousands of Bermudians from every walk of life. We asked each and every one of them what their concerns are and what they would like addressed.

Depending on the area, the answers vary. In some neighbourhoods, the concerns are about a street light or a speed bump or maybe even an additional bus stop. In other neighbourhoods we hear about the economy, international business, and Government debt.

We live on an island where the concerns of one sector do not match the concerns of another. For one segment, it is about the small things that matter most, for another segment it is all about the money.

Many of you already know where you will put that ‘X’. Others are sitting there wondering which way to vote. I have the answer for you. Since I have been writing this column, I have been able to address the concerns and questions of thousands of Bermudians and convey the truth about any given issue.

Daily in the RG you will see about 3-4 letters from OBA supporters and none from PLP supporters. Why? It seems our words are not to be read. I can show you multiple e-mails of letters I have submitted that the RG refuses to print.

When I was given this column I began to expose the OBA misinformation about; FutureCare, GP cars, term limits, debt and the UBP/OBA plot. Not one of them can even think about suing me. Why? Because the truth is an offence but not a sin.

Family, make no mistake, this election is not about change, this is about power, plain and simple. PLP supporters don’t have major complaints. Why? Because the PLP has done so much for the people of Bermuda. Such as:

• Heritage Wharf;
• Perimeter Lane housing;
• HarbourView housing;
• Southside housing;
• Butterfield Lane housing;
• Anchorage View housing;
• Loughlands housing;
• Berkeley Institute;
• Dame Lois Browne -Evans Building;
• Rockaway seniors’ housing;
• Sylvia Richardson seniors’ housing;
• New TCD building;
• Fast ferries;
• New bus fleet;
• Improved police and fire equipment;
• Child & family services;
• Mirrors programme;
• Day care allowance;
• Reverse osmosis water plant;
• Resurfacing the airport runway;
• Foreshore protection at airport;
• Port Royal hosts the PGA Grand Slam;
• Lamb Foggo Clinic;
• Recycling Centre, quarry;
• Refurbished Tynes Bay Waste Facility – producing more energy;
• New bus terminal.

OBA says debt. We say development. I chose to highlight major developments by the PLP in 14 years. Where would our island be without the PLP?

I write for those incarcerated, who need a positive avenue to express themselves. Stand tall brothers and sisters; educate yourselves for when you come home. You are not forgotten.

 I write for my parents’ generation as many would not be alive without FutureCare. I write for my Godchildren who now have a home of their own due to BHC rent geared to income. I write for my son who has had a chance for an introspective look at his life, through the Mirrors programme.

I write for all my teachers who instilled values into me via a 12-inch ruler and many detentions. Hopefully they see the value of all those red marks in my; English, History and Civics books. Helen Francis, Elsie Brown, Judith James, Dale Butler, Mary Helen Bartram, Robert Horton, Heather Whaley. I thank you.

I write for my Aunts; Millie Brown, Julia Famous, Effie Godfrey, Shurnette Caines, who worked tirelessly to support the PLP. I write for my Uncle, Boo Brown, who stood on the frontlines of many PLP meetings. My Uncle Jimmy and Mr Kenny Paul who were arrested for demonstrating at Belco in 1965. We owe them a debt we can never repay. I write for the generation who sacrificed for my generation. Abandon them never. Uplift them ever.

I write and I canvass for my children’s generation. Those who will benefit from a full-time university in our island. Those who will have to face the real possibility of others opening floodgates for guest workers.

Most importantly, I write for thousands of Bermudians, black and white, who may be confused about politics. I write for you, so you can understand about politics. Not voting is not an option. Take one hour of your day to place your X next to PLP.

On Monday, some will vote for power and profits. We will vote for principles and people.

Stand Strong, People Loving Party. [email protected]