For decades, Bermuda’s political landscape has been dominated by party politics. While this system once served a necessary purpose, today it too often feels like a cycle of division and disappointment. The people of Bermuda deserve an alternative.

My decision to run as an independent candidate is not just about stepping from advocacy into politics; it is about challenging a system that no longer serves the best interests of our people.

Despite the usual election-season theatrics, independent representation in Parliament is neither radical nor new. Many in my generation may not recall the election of 1989, when Stuart Hayward, an environmental activist, won his seat in Pembroke West Central as an independent. That victory was a defining moment in our political history — Mr Hayward unseated Clarence James, the incumbent and a member of the ruling United Bermuda Party, in what some considered a fluke.

Fluke or not, he remains the only independent candidate to have won a parliamentary seat under Bermuda’s modern political system. His legacy is one of advocacy, integrity and independence — qualities that should be the standard, not the exception, in political leadership.

I often reflect on that moment in 1989 and ask myself: What was it about the political climate that emboldened the voters of Pembroke West Central to take a chance on something different? What inspired them to step outside the two-party system and elect a representative without party affiliation?

The answer, I believe, lies in the conditions of the time.

The backdrop of the 1989 election bears a striking resemblance to where we find ourselves in 2025. Bermuda was grappling with economic and social instability, with an economic downturn in the early 1980s compounded by the 1981 general strike. Our economy had become heavily dependent on tourism, much like our present reliance on international business. Inflation and rising costs were squeezing households. The ruling party had been in government for more than 20 years and the people were growing restless with one-sided governance.

The more I examine that election, the more I realise that the true revolutionaries of the time were not the candidates or the parties, but the voters. Particularly the voters in Pembroke West Central, who dared to take a chance on the unknown for the betterment of their community and their country.

I wonder: do we have any revolutionary voters in Bermuda today? People willing to break from the status quo to embrace a bold vision for change? Voters who recognise the trajectory our country is on and have the courage to shift its direction?

For too long, we have been conditioned to look to the Government for solutions. But in this case, the problem — party politics — is not something the Government will or even can fix. We cannot expect solutions from those who perpetuate the problem. The power to change our system lies with the people. We must be the change — and that starts at the polls.

An independent MP is not beholden to party lines. They are free to advocate solely for their constituents, to champion policies based on merit rather than party agendas, and to work collaboratively with all elected officials for the greater good of Bermuda.

This shift would mean that legislation is actively debated, rather than pushed through or opposed simply because of party allegiance. It would ensure that representatives remain engaged with social and community issues, fulfilling their duty with integrity. It would eliminate “safe seats”, pushing every representative to earn their place based on merit, expertise and passion for public service.

This is not just a necessary shift; it is an evolution in our democracy.

Residents of Southampton West Central (Constituency 31) have shared their frustrations with me. They are concerned about issues that transcend political affiliations — affordable housing, education reform, healthcare, environmental sustainability, LGBTQ+ rights and economic stability. These are not partisan issues; they are community issues, Bermudian issues, human issues. But as long as these concerns are politicised for party gain, we will continue running in circles.

This election presents a critical opportunity to shift the balance of power. For many voters across Bermuda, the question on Election Day will not simply be “PLP or OBA?” It will be whether we continue within a system that has outlived its usefulness or take a chance on something new — an idea, a philosophy, a different way of governing.

Change does not happen overnight. But on February 18, 2025, Bermuda will stand at a crossroads. The choice before us is clear: continue down the same party-driven path or choose the road less travelled.

The people of Bermuda have long deserved an alternative. Now, they have one.

The only question that remains is: do we have any visionary voters?

• Juanae Crockwell is an independent candidate for Southampton West Central (Constituency 31). For more information about Juanae and her candidacy, visit www.crockwell31.com