BNV Audio: Joseph Marable On Leaving OBA
“The circumstances surrounding the removal of Robert King from the party leadership were particularly troubling to me,” Joseph Marable said, adding that “his removal following his election by party members raised serious questions in my mind about the value placed on democratic voice of membership.”
Mr Marable, a former OBA candidate and deputy chairperson, made the comments while speaking with Bernews News & Views host Don Burgess about his decision to leave the party and move forward as an independent candidate.
Mr Marable told Bernews, “During my time with the OBA, I have developed meaningful relationships and worked alongside individuals whose commitment to Bermuda I sincerely respect. To those colleagues and members who have offered their friendship, encouragement, and support, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.
“However, gratitude for those relationships cannot require me to remain silent when my fundamental principles are being challenged. Over the past year, I’ve become increasingly concerned about the direction and internal culture and priorities of the party. I joined an organization that I believe valued democratic participation, accountability, fairness, and the empowerment of its members.
“Unfortunately, my experience and observations have caused me to seriously question whether those principles remain central to the leadership and decision making.
“The circumstances surrounding the removal of Robert King from the party leadership were particularly troubling to me. His removal following his election by party members raised serious questions in my mind about the value placed on democratic voice of membership.”
He added, “I can no longer reconcile my understanding of public service with an organizational approach that I believe places too much emphasis on internal control and too little on empowering members, respecting differing perspectives and embracing their democratic expression.”
