How do we explain a record-high number of candidates entering the General Election alongside an unprecedented decline in voter turnout? This paradox raises critical questions about the state of our political landscape.

Why couldn’t the combined opposition collaborate before the election to prevent splitting the vote? This glaring mistake clearly favoured the incumbent Progressive Labour Party. Furthermore, how do we address the PLP's failure to instil confidence among the majority of the 45,000 registered voters in Bermuda, especially when its mandate from only 12,300 voters should not be seen as sufficient justification for its platform?

By the same token, what makes independent challenges appear irrelevant to the parliamentary process? And, how can we ensure that all voices are heard in a democracy that claims to represent the interests of every citizen?

The outcomes of the General Election starkly illustrate these issues. The Emperial Group has chosen to lead by example in voicing justifiable grievances regarding the legitimacy of the PLP leadership, particularly in light of the squandered opportunity for national unity in 2009. This missed pathway could have undoubtedly helped us to avoid the cycle of violence that the PLP leadership has knowingly exploited for its own agenda of character assassination and self-aggrandisement.

The election results are sobering. The PLP retained a majority with 25 seats, while the One Bermuda Alliance increased its representation to 11. This outcome leaves many Bermudians questioning the efficacy of their political representation and the ability of opposition parties to present a viable alternative. The continued dominance of the PLP signals an alarming acceptance of mediocrity and a blatant disregard for the electorate’s dissatisfaction.

A particularly troubling indicator of this disillusionment is the record-low voter turnout of approximately 55 per cent, a stark contrast to the 82.76 per cent turnout in 1998. This decline reflects a profound disappointment in the political process itself. Many voters feel that the PLP has neglected or outright rejected their needs and expectations. The high turnout in 1998 was driven by a desire for change — an aspiration that has since eroded as citizens grapple with the reality that their voices seem increasingly irrelevant.

The Emperial Group acknowledges that while the Vote 4 Unity campaign might not have achieved its primary objective, it succeeded in bringing pressing issues to the forefront. The PLP can be trusted no longer to differentiate between winning an election and winning for the country. David Burt’s recent overtures towards collaboration with independent candidates and the Free Democratic Movement suggest a potential shift towards coalition governance. Yet this is a small consolation for voters who yearn for real accountability and representational integrity.

It is imperative for political leaders — from the Premier to the Opposition leader and fellow parliamentarians — to confront the growing apathy among the electorate. This indifference cannot be dismissed as merely a by-product of electoral fatigue; it is a clear signal that the present political framework is failing to engage and inspire. The Emperial Group stands firm in its commitment to addressing these failures and ensuring that the grievances of the public are heard.

Bermudians deserve a political landscape that is responsive to their aspirations and challenges. The failure to capitalise on the opportunity for National Unity in 2009 has left a void that has been filled by divisive politics and exploitation of societal tensions. The PLP leadership has perpetuated a cycle of violence for its own gain, focusing on character assassination rather than meaningful governance.

As we look to the future, the 2025 General Election has paved the way for us to hold leaders accountable for their responsibilities in this unprecedented political outcome. The Emperial Group stands firmly for coalition governance, which begins with accepting leadership from “we the people”. It is clear that the system itself is not broken; rather, it is the leaders who are deliberately failing to address their shortcomings.

We must demand a political landscape that prioritises the needs and aspirations of all Bermudians, and fosters genuine collaboration and accountability. Only by embracing this vision can we hope to restore trust in our political institutions and ensure that every voice is heard in the democratic process.

There is a lot more that needs to be addressed, and it will be most certainly dealt with. As the saying goes, “Who the cap fits, let them wear it”.

It’s time for all leaders to take responsibility for their actions and for Bermuda’s future. Let us work together to build a future that reflects the true will of the people and holds all leaders accountable for their manifest failures whenever that is required, without fear or favour.

• Eugene Dean ran as a candidate for the Emperial Group in Sandys South (Constituency 33) in the 2025 General Election