Dr Ronnie Yearwood reelected DLP President

Dr Ronnie Yearwood has retained the presidency of the Democratic Labour Party.

Just after 9 p.m. on Saturday, the results were officially announced after two days of voting, where Dr Yearwood easily retained his position as leader of the party, amassing a total of 422 votes.

Dr Yearwood, who was immediately flanked by his supporters after the voting results were announced, told media personnel that it was a moment for him to cherish.

“It’s a moment to savour; I’m so proud of the people who have been supporting me and the work that we are doing. It’s a time that we just go forward in unity, as a party we have to put aside whatever differences and disputes [we have], and unify.

“Yesterday I spoke about that need for unity, about that need for coming together and remembering that we were and that we are a great party. That we are a party of progressiveness … where women, young people, elderly, everyone, George Street was a beacon, a place where you can find refuge. We want it to be that place again.”

Meanwhile, former minister of housing Michael Lashley KC thanked supporters for having confidence in him, as they cast 497 votes in his favour to help him attain the 1st Vice President position.

He also added that the party must be ready going forward in tackling the needs of the population, as well as selecting competent candidates for future elections.

“Yes, in any elections you have various factions, so I think now after this process now, I am confident that the party will coalesce and be a force to be reckoned with. I think the party now will have to take a look at going to the streets, touching people, canvassing, selection of candidates, [and] the establishment of policy committees.

“Candidate selection is very important … we need to have candidates that we know. That not only starts with some community based work, but indeed if they have some national recognition, that would be an added plus.” (SB)