In 2009, I involved myself in party politics in order to help my country.

Joining the Bermuda Democratic Alliance was the beginning of my journey in politics.

For the past 15 years, I have held many positions in the One Bermuda Alliance political party — executive party secretary, deputy chair, women’s caucus chair and, in 2020, as a candidate.

The experience was invaluable and I have learnt so much; however, it has not led me to my original purpose of helping my country. My energy was used to make a political party better and ready to win an election.

What I have observed is the amount of energy that goes into political decisions that are not always based on the right thing to do, but on the politically strategic thing to do to win the next election.

The same amount of time and energy that could be used in making our country financially stronger and socially better. Taking it back to being a leader in the world as we once were.

We need to take all that energy that is focused on political parties and use it towards the solutions Bermuda needs to make us the best we can be.

Instead, we are embroiled in a constant state of negative bickering back and forth, taking us virtually nowhere.

So this is why I believe the best way forward for this country is to just say, “No more to party politics.”

More about your candidate:

• I have owned my own business for 33 years

• I have a great financial background in accounting, investing, marketing and strategic planning

• I am a person with purpose and vision

• I am caring and passionate about our community and everyone in it

• I believe in a balance of a good economy and social programmes

• I believe everyone has the right to affordable housing, healthcare and fair food prices

These are essentials for a healthy community.

I am running as an independent candidate, as I believe Bermuda needs a new path, new vision and an unencumbered elected government working for the people not a political party agenda.

Vote for your independent candidate in the next election and let’s take Bermuda on a new positive journey.

• Karen Hodgkins is running as an independent candidate in Southampton West Central (Constituency 31) at the next General Election