On January 31, Bermuda took another step forward in its democratic journey as candidates were officially nominated to contest the upcoming General Election. I’m proud to say the Progressive Labour Party is fielding a record number of female candidates for any political party in history. I’m also proud of the next-generation leaders we have on our team. Candidates under 40 such as Alexa Lightbourne, Shomari Talbot-Woolridge, Iesha Musson and Mischa Fubler, who are ready to bring fresh ideas and new energy to a team of seasoned veterans who have experience and wisdom.

Friday was a moment that marked the beginning of an important national conversation about our island’s direction and the leadership best equipped to take us forward.

For me, this election holds special significance, as it will be my last as leader of the Progressive Labour Party. The past seven years have been trying times globally. We dealt with the worst global pandemic in 100 years and the outbreak of major wars in Europe and the Middle East that contributed to the highest global inflation in 40 years.

These are difficult times for people here in Bermuda, and the PLP understands the pain Bermudians are feeling. In the face of adversity, we have made steady progress to stabilise our economy, balance the budget, rebuild tourism, create jobs and reduce taxes. As a result, Bermuda is on a path towards a fairer and more prosperous future.

In spite of the challenges, we have made progress: introducing a living wage, cutting taxes for working families, increasing access to affordable housing, and investing in education and healthcare. But we know that too many Bermudians still feel left behind. That is why our focus in the next term will be on achievable results for our people. Our vision will introduce a seniors daycare centre, add a free primary-care visit under HIP and a specialist visit under FutureCare, expand affordable housing, reduce more taxes and fees for Bermudians, and support community-owned markets to reduce household expenses.

This election is a choice between those who will make steady progress and those who would take us back. The PLP is the only party presenting a detailed and achievable vision for the future — one that will ensure that every Bermudian has the opportunity to build a life here. Meanwhile, the Opposition and other candidates offer no real plans to grow our economy, lower the cost of living or create opportunities for Bermudians. The One Bermuda Alliance has offered a minor eight-page pamphlet, and its candidate in Constituency 36, Carl Neblett, said he had “no idea” how the OBA would reduce the cost of living. We cannot afford to gamble with our future.

This election is a choice between who will work for the many and who will work for the few — who will work for a fairer Bermuda. The PLP has presented a team that blends experience with new energy, including a record number of women stepping up to serve. They are business owners, educators and community leaders — people who know the challenges Bermudians face and are ready to tackle them head-on. With this strong team, we are prepared to build on the work we have done and take Bermuda into the future.

The choice before us is clear. The OBA, the Free Democratic Movement and independents have offered no achievable plan to improve the lives of working Bermudians. Their approach would take us backwards, undoing the progress we have made. Only the PLP has the experience, vision and team ready to lead Bermuda into the future.

This election is about fairness, stability and progress. It is about building a Bermuda where everyone — no matter their background — can afford to live, raise a family and retire with dignity. It is about ensuring that economic success benefits all, not just a few. It is about a government that is transparent, accountable and always working for the people.

On February 6, I encourage every Bermudian to pay attention, ask questions and engage in this important conversation about our future. The PLP’s platform launch will be a moment to look ahead — to see the kind of Bermuda we can create together.

Together, we have overcome many challenges. Together, we must build a fairer Bermuda for all of us.

• David Burt is the Premier of Bermuda, leader of the Progressive Labour Party and the candidate for Pembroke West Central (Constituency 18) in the next General Election

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