I am not retiring from politics, just as NDP leader
Premier Dr D Orlando Smith. (BVI News photo)
Premier Dr D Orlando Smith said he will remain in representational politics despite his intention to not seek re-election as the leader of the National Democratic Party come Saturday, June 23.
Dr Smith made the statement at a press conference on Thursday.
“I am not retiring, I am [just] not seeking the leadership,” he said.
According to Dr Smith, the time was ripe for a fresh NDP leader; noting he has been leading the party for the past 20 years.
The 73-year-old said he opted out of the race for NDP leader after ‘much thought and prayer’ and after discussions with family and colleagues.
All contenders are qualified
While he did not openly endorse any of the two publicly named contenders – Health Minister Ronnie Skelton and Education Minister Walwyn Walwyn – Dr Smith said both are qualified for the job.
“I think all of those vying for the leadership – those you mentioned (Skelton and Walwyn) and maybe more because the nomination will take place on the floor – I think they are all qualified and they have been with the party for a long time.”
Meanwhile, residents will have to wait a bit longer to see whether Premier Smith will be contesting the 2019 General Election, which he said may be called sooner than anticipated.
“The upcoming general election is a distance away and I am not sure when that will be.”
“And, right now, we are focusing on having this process of having a new leader selected for the party. And my mind will be focused on the continued development of the country particularly on the recovery,” the Premier said
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Please leave us altogether do not remain in politics you have somehow managed to fudge it for an unbelievably long time due to your connections not your ability….you should have been removed years ago due to your failure to lead and also your ineptness at not even issuing one audited annual account a very poor legacy of failure. You seem a decent man but were way way out of your depth
Dr Smith will run at-large again and he will win a seat next elections. Watch. And. See.
Why are our people so disrespectful! Dr. Smith has served our country faithfully over the years, he may not have been perfect but he has always had the interest of the people at heart.
He should be applauded for his service to his country.
Them did ralph the same thing
I recommend keeping a position which will give you immunity. Or you could become a sports ambassador to China or a central African country – I’m told.
If you run,you will have my vote.
Dr. Smith needs to retire PERIOD!!! Him the Chief Minster and Wife in Charge of Finance surely has been a MAJOR ——– of interest and huge p——— for this Territory!!
BVI News really need to allow a thumb’s down button as they do on international and other sites so you can see the true level of dislikes vs likes.
Idk why they remove it, it really showed, who disagree with the nonsense ppl comment here.
Walwyn for leadership
You are either hot or cold in or out no lukewarmness
I change my mind.After all the underhandedness That went on Saturday night from him and his,he better retire and the sooner the better.