Never in my lifetime do I remember the roads being in such a poor state.

As I manoeuvre around potholes, holding on tight to my steering wheel for dear life, I feel like I am on a roller-coaster as I bump over the lumps and bang into the craters.

My whole car rattles and I pray for some smooth tarmac around the corner.

I watch as our tourists twist and turn around the bumps and craters and their mopeds shake, endangering their lives.

Motorists swerve over the non existent yellow and white lines and who knows who is in which lane?

Health and safety is paramount in a civilised society. Yet here we are putting everyone’s lives at risk on our roads.

How many accidents have been caused by the state of these roads? How many car, bike, taxi drivers and minibus drivers have had their vehicles’ suspension and tyres damaged?

Our Government is supposed to be there to protect us and take care of the health and safety of the community.

The roads reflect a country that has lost its way. Our health and safety on the roads seems not to be a priority and our increased homelessness shows housing is not a priority.

If a government cannot take care of our roads and cannot provide adequate housing what good are they?

The basic needs of our citizens should be a priority and not neglected.

Remember this when you cast your vote. Your vote is powerful and can create the change that Bermuda and all of us need.

Do not be fooled by slippery tongues and giveaways. All of our futures are at stake, especially Bermuda’s children.

Join the movement for independent leaders.

• Karen Hodgkins is an independent candidate for Constituency 31, Southampton West Central