Premier Dr. Ewart Brown yesterday praised Dale Butler for his Cabinet contributions, saying the former Minister had "left his mark" wherever he served.

He said he only "reluctantly accepted" the former Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation's resignation but would appoint his replacement in a "matter of days".

Mr. Butler resigned Saturday in dismay at Dr. Brown's decision to accept former Guantánamo Bay detainees without consulting his Cabinet and because the Premier failed to follow due process and consult the UK.

"Dale Butler served six years in Cabinet for the people of Bermuda," said Dr. Brown at a press conference with US civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton. "During those years he served various capacities, but wherever he served, he left his mark."

He continued: "Over the weekend, I reluctantly accepted the resignation of Minister Dale Butler as the Minister responsible for Culture and Social Rehabilitation. I respect his decision and will certainly miss his immense contribution to the work of Cabinet, but I am happy to know that he will continue to participate in the leadership of Bermuda from the backbench.

"The process of finding a Cabinet replacement is underway and I expect to introduce that person to all of you in a matter of days."

The Premier complimented Mr. Butler's intellect, commitment, energy and work ethic and also stated: "He is the flesh of my flesh, the blood of my blood, you won't be able to separate me from Dale Butler."

Mr. Butler has declined to comment on his resignation or Dr. Brown's speech.

Dr. Brown's secretive nature sparked public protests with one demonstration drawing 1,500 protesters.

Yesterday, he acknowledged his popularity on the Island had fallen in the wake of his decision to allow in the four Chinese Uighurs, saying: "I'm not a popular guy right now, but I'm more concerned with the correctness of the gesture.

"I believe with more time and understanding the community will come to support the decision."