The One Bermuda Alliance today announced that Aguinaldo Medeiros has been named as the party’s new chairman.

In a statement announcing the change, Mr Medeiros, who replaces Catherine Kempe, said: “I believe the One Bermuda Alliance, with its multitude of talent, experience and political savvy, is the one political party that is not only equipped to secure Bermuda’s future but one which is exclusively poised to return Bermuda to its former economic glory.

“I am honoured to serve as chairman of the party. I know there is a lot of work to do, but nothing that the One Bermuda Alliance cannot achieve.”

Mr Medeiros studied at the Whitney Institute before attending York University in Ontario, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and earned a second degree in Business Administration.

He went on to work for the Bermuda Department of Tourism’s Canadian office for 15 years, returning to the island last November.

Cole Simons, the OBA leader, said he was looking forward to working with the new party chairman.

“Aggie brings energy, passion and enthusiasm to the party and community,” Mr Simons said.

“He is committed to principled leadership. He is a compassionate person who listens and is well qualified for a leadership role in the Party and Bermuda.

“He will be a vibrant and successful leader and chairman of the One Bermuda Alliance.”

Jarion Richardson, the deputy leader of the party, added: “Aggie is exactly what the party needs – a clear-headed, passionate and tenacious leader. He sees right to the heart of the matter.

“With him at the helm, the OBA will develop into a decisive and dedicated political team that continues to work tirelessly to strengthen communities, enforce integrity in politics and promote social fairness.

“He has a vision for Bermuda and will ensure the One Bermuda Alliance is positioned to deliver that promise.”

The announcement comes a day after the party’s Annual General Meeting and in the wake of reports of tensions within the OBA about its direction.

The AGM was not expected to include votes for top positions because the senior positions on the party’s executive were not being contested.

While the party was able to win its first General Election in 2012, voters sent them to the Opposition after five years in power.

The OBA was dealt a further blow at the General Election two years ago when it was reduced to only six MPs compared with the Progressive Labour Party’s tally of 30.