Former premier Michael Dunkley said that Bermuda’s racial divide remained the “big issue in the room”.

In a statement posted to his Facebook page, Mr Dunkley — who resigned as One Bermuda Alliance leader on Wednesday — said there is “much work to do and progress to be made” on how to close the divide in the country so that all may “live and work together”.

“Are we going to continue to divide our country on race or work together for a better and stronger Bermuda?” he asked.

The OBA lost by 24 seats to 12 at Tuesday’s General Election, losing seven seats including deputy leader Bob Richards.

While proud of the progress made by the OBA since being elected in 2012, he said the result clearly showed the party’s efforts were not enough.

“I am heartened that the people of Smith’s North expressed confidence in me by re-electing me as their Member of Parliament,” Mr Dunkley said.

“I will continue to serve them with my heart and soul.”

His decision to step down as leader of the party was to “clear the decks” to help the party assess what comes next, he said.

“I remain totally committed to helping the party and whomever it chooses to be the next leader and deputy leader,” Mr Dunkley said.

Big challenges lie ahead for Bermuda, he said.

“Despite our progress on the economy we are not out of the woods,” Mr Dunkley said.

“Much remains to be done to stabilise government finances and continue job creation. We must also focus on and improve education, seniors, the cost of healthcare and other social issues.”

Mr Dunkley concluded: “Thank you to everyone who reached out to me following the result, and to all those who in their own way help each day to move Bermuda forward. Blessings.”