A political debate intended to take place before the General Election next week will not go ahead, Bermuda Youth Connect told would-be participants today.

An e-mail from the activist group said that the primary issue was they could not resolve the challenge of “including all political entities to everyone’s satisfaction”.

“Recent developments in the public have seriously constrained our ability to move forward with full representation,” the BYC said.

“We are sincerely and profoundly sorry about this outcome. We particularly apologise to those who operated in good faith and remained responsive to us throughout.

“Although disappointed by the events leading to today, we are hopeful that when the opportunity arises again, we will be more successful in our efforts.

“Additionally, we are grateful that our youthful energy led us to try something of this magnitude during an unprecedented election — and we thank you for trying with us.”

The group will still host an online Pre-Election Youth Forum tomorrow.

The development comes after weeks of behind-the-scenes negotiations featuring The Royal Gazette, the Bermuda Broadcasting Corporation, Bernews and the BYC, which had invited all political parties to participate in a national leaders debate on January 14.

This year’s election will include a record number of candidates, with representatives from the Progressive Labour Party, the One Bermuda Alliance and the Free Democratic Movement joined on the ballot by 26 independent candidates and one representative of the Emperial Group.

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