The mood at the Vasco da Gama Club where One Bermuda Alliance candidates and supporters gathered to watch election results roll in was surprisingly upbeat — even celebratory.

Triumphant candidates were applauded by a packed crowd and the venue, decorated with red, yellow and blue balloons, was filled with smiles rather than glum faces.

Jarion Richardson, the OBA leader explained why, declaring that the result was not a setback but a springboard to victory next time around.

In his concession speech. Mr Richardson congratulated Progressive Labour Party leader David Burt and his team, adding: “I wish them all the best in the work ahead.”

However, he went on to say that the OBA would emerge stronger and more resolute.

With OBA candidates standing behind him, Mr Richardson said: “Though this outcome is disappointing for us, we respect the process and the will of the voters.

“Elections are not just about winning or losing — they are about the people, their concerns and their hopes for the future.

“While we may not have secured victory this time, our commitment to Bermuda remains as strong as ever.

“As we move forward, the One Bermuda Alliance will remain a strong and vocal Opposition. We will hold this government to account, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and that decisions are made in the best interests of all Bermudians.

“We will continue to push for policies that improve the lives of everyday people, create opportunities for young Bermudians and build a better future for generations to come.

“While we may have lost this battle, we are not defeated. We will be back in four years, stronger, more united and even more determined.

“Our vision for Bermuda’s future remains clear, and we will continue to fight for what we know is best for our people.”

That view was shared by Craig Cannonier, the former OBA premier, who comfortably retained his Devonshire South Central seat with 70 per cent of the vote.

Mr Cannonier said the OBA had a mountain to climb in overturning the 29-7 seat majority that the PLP enjoyed in the last parliament.

He said: “I am not disappointed at all — think about what we’ve come back from.

“Obviously it would have been great for us to have won the election, but 2012, when we won, will continue to be seen as an anomaly.

“It would have been what some may consider a complete miracle if we had been able to pull off so many seats in one go — the statistics were against us.

“But you have to remember what this is about. This is about teamwork and we have shown that we have a very solid team. The work ethic is there.”

Pointing out that the party took four seats from the PLP, Mr Cannonier said: “I think the timing of [the election] this year is probably what avoided more seats being pulled back.

“There is still work to do but we have time and I guarantee the next election will be a different colour.”

Michael Fahy, who romped to victory in Pembroke South West with 73 per cent of the vote, suggested that the national result did not reflect the wishes of the electorate.

He said: “It’s not what the country is looking for in terms of a need and a desire for change.

“Hopefully what the PLP will do when it is in government will say ’let’s talk and have some more collaboration to get the country what it is looking for’.”

Mr Richardson promised that “my team and I will be watching closely to ensure the PLP fulfil their promises to the people of Bermuda”.

He thanked his 35 fellow candidates, saying: “You put in tireless hours, passionate effort and unwavering dedication to our cause.

“I am incredibly proud to have worked alongside such committed individuals, and I know that the spirit of service you’ve demonstrated will not go unnoticed.

“For those of you who won your seats, we will be a strong and dedicated Opposition. And to those of you who didn’t, you can expect me to call on you as we continue our journey to build a bigger and better OBA and a stronger Bermuda.”

Mr Richardson said that the hard work and commitment of volunteers had been “the backbone of this campaign”.

He said: “We may not have won today, but your voices were heard, and we will continue to be a strong force in Bermuda’s political landscape.”

Mr Richardson thanked his family. With his wife, Tiffany, standing by his side, he said: “Your love, patience and unwavering support have been my anchor throughout this journey.

“The sacrifices you have made, the late nights, the missed moments and the steadfast encouragement have given me the strength to keep pushing forward.

“Public service is never a solo effort — it demands the support of those closest to us.”