Minister Hayward On Election, PLP, Unity & More
“Do not allow this leadership contest to turn the PLP against ourselves,” Minister Jason Hayward said, adding that “our shared purpose is bigger than this election.”
Minister Hayward said, “Good day PLP members, I’ve seen the media headlines describing Curtis and me as ‘rivals.’ I want to say make it abundantly clear that we are not rivals or enemies. We are both members of the Progressive Labour Party. We may have different views and different ideas about the direction of our Party, but we need not tear one man down to boost the other.
“Yes, this has been a difficult period. There are strong feelings on all sides. But I am asking every member: do not allow this leadership contest to turn the PLP against ourselves.
“Support the person you believe in. Speak up for the direction you want our Party to take. Cast your vote according to your conscience. Remember we have far more that unites us than divides us.
“Our shared purpose is bigger than this election: fighting for workers, creating opportunities for our young people, reducing inequality and building a Bermuda where everyone has a genuine opportunity to succeed.
“I have put myself forward because I believe I can serve this Party and lead that work. But ultimately, the members will decide and I respect the members enough to trust that decision.
“So I ask you: don’t let anyone convince you that we have to tear each other down to choose a leader. Let us show Bermuda what the PLP looks like when its members put purpose over personalities.
“When this contest ends, there should be no Team Hayward and no Team Dickinson. There must be one team: Team PLP. One Party. One movement. And together, we move forward.”
