As the political temperature rises with an upcoming by-election in Sandys many voters, even those not necessarily involved in that constituency, begin to ponder whether political aspirations override the urgent need to tackle serious issues collectively in order to find a way forward that would benefit all Bermudians.

While many Bermudians, black and white, hold almost unshakeable positions when it comes to party allegiance, in recent years the gate has opened wider for a more inclusive approach as Bermuda struggles to overcome an economic dilemma, along with problems that have been with us for decades.

The two recent storms, that almost brought Bermuda to its knees, were able to cut through that divisive political and social wall that still keeps us from pooling our best resources in order to make real progress in solving challenging problems. Problems such as illegal drugs, that continue to eat away at the core of life in our communities; escalating hostile reckless behaviour on our roads by too many; an increase in violence that has even affected some sporting activities. There is also great concern about jobs, education and healthcare for seniors.

There are simply too many problems facing Bermuda and its people for the amount of political sword-fighting that precedes any election, as politicians too often relentlessly attack each other in trying to boost their party image.

Most of us respect and value democracy, which provides the opportunity to express ourselves and also to make choices in selecting those offering to serve. However, it runs far deeper than that when voters suspect political ambitions could be taking centre stage.

It is no secret that for both the One Bermuda Alliance Government, and the Opposition Progressive Labour Party, there are constituencies where support is unwavering to a point where canvassing is hardly necessary. Much of that is a part of our social history. The Island has been trying to move away from that for many years. As a result some constituencies are not good barometers for measuring the overall mood of the electorate.

There is still a long way to go, but the face of Bermuda politically and the view of the public is slowly changing as people, especially in the mainstream, are more demanding for our leaders to do what is right for Bermuda instead of placing so much emphasis on which party holds the key to success.

In other words, most Bermudians do not want to be second to the aspirations of any political group.

Whenever there is an election in any democratic jurisdiction, the unavoidable “them and us” syndrome kicks in with some feeling that unless the party they support wins the future is doomed. Most know that will not be the case, but it is a tactic used throughout the democratic world to gain support.

We forget too quickly the lesson we should have learned from Fay and Gonzalo, which made it almost mandatory that we pool our strengths to regain our day-to-day footing. When people saw the need to help one another, there were no questions about party affiliation or ethnic connections. People were simply helping people from one end of the Island to the other.

Our political arena is too immersed in divisiveness, and that could be our major obstacle. One candidate will emerge victorious in Sandys, but more importantly Bermuda must be the ultimate winner if we intend to build a more unifying approach to move the Island forward.

No election results are without celebrants and those disappointed. As Bermudians we need to face the next day, aiming to work closer together for the good of the people and for future generations. When that happens, Bermuda will truly be the winner. We should not wait for hurricanes to teach us how important it is to work together.