The recent opinion piece by the One Bermuda Alliance raises concerns about voter turnout and the strength of our mandate. And while we disagree with its conclusions, we welcome the conversation because serving for our people is not just about winning elections — it is primarily about listening, learning and constantly working to serve the people better.

That not every registered voter cast a ballot is something we take seriously. That is why our MPs, senators and candidates will be redoubling efforts to contact and build relationships with those who did not get to the polls

Elections, however, are decided by those who do actually show up, and the voters who did participate gave the Progressive Labour Party a strong mandate to continue leading. More importantly, they gave us a responsibility not just to govern, but to listen.

We recognise that our democracy must evolve to reflect the realities of modern life. Many of our young people and Bermudians working or studying overseas want to have a say in their country’s future.

We hear you loud and clear.

That is why we will be introducing absentee voting, so that every Bermudian studying or working overseas, no matter where they are, has the opportunity to participate in shaping the direction of our island.

The OBA has a role to play as the Opposition, but let us be crystal clear: in the past three general elections, 65 per cent of voters consistently rejected its plans for Bermudians:

• Bermudians rejected its leadership

• Bermudians rejected its candidates

• Bermudians rejected its agenda, including Pathways to Status.

• Bermudians ensured that the OBA came last or close to it in six constituencies

As we engage in trying to establish, re-establish or strengthen our ties with our people, the OBA should consider getting itself sorted out before going on the attack. The OBA has an opportunity: it can choose to reflect on why voters, including many independents, rejected its vision. It can engage in the real work of offering solutions, of building trust, and of putting forward ideas that serve all Bermudians. The PLP welcomes that challenge because when the debate is about real solutions, Bermuda wins.

The PLP was re-elected because we put forward a vision focused on making life better and fairer for all Bermudians, by lowering the cost of living, driving down healthcare costs, and by expanding opportunity. And we remain committed to delivering on that promise.

We encourage Bermudians to come out to the reading of the Throne Speech on March 14 to hear what we will be doing over the next year.

• Dawn Simmons is the chairwoman of the Progressive Labour Party