Michael Dunkley has resigned as leader of the One Bermuda Alliance.

Mr Dunkley this afternoon declined to comment on the reports until he can confer with his colleagues within the party.

He added that he is taking time to reflect on the “devastating loss”, and he would do everything he could to move the island forward and represent those who returned him to his seat in Smiths North.

It comes hours after the OBA slumped to a crushing defeat in yesterday’s General Election, losing seven seats, including that held by deputy leader Bob Richards, who subsequently announced his retirement from politics.

OBA MP Sylvan Richards, told The Royal Gazette of Mr Dunkley’s resignation this morning, with another party source confirming the news.

Asked if Mr Dunkley’s leadership of the party was still tenable, Mr Richards replied: “Mr Dunkley has already resigned as leader of the OBA.”

He added that there had not yet been any internal discussion about the future leadership of the party, but those talks would take place soon.

Mr Richards congratulated the Progressive Labour Party on its victory yesterday, wishing success to David Burt, the Premier-elect, and expressing hope that he would continue the OBA’s work in addressing the country’s debt.

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