If Bermuda squanders opportunities to move the Island forward with never-ending political warfare that has created bitter exchanges between elected officials, with potential consequences to our image of stability and productive unity in dealing with problems, we the people will have no one to blame but ourselves.

Political leaders, both in Government and the Opposition, have been elected to serve the people in every way possible to bring about not only a more successful economic environment, but to be guardians of behavioural standards that promote the highest levels of decency and respect towards one another.

Whenever there is any indication of straying from these ideals, the public have every right to demand better conduct from those in office, no matter how sensitive an issue may be.

In other words, no matter how contentious the situation, the people expect professional dignity throughout any proceedings, even if any resolution would be forthcoming in a court of law. If such a course became necessary, one would hope that truth would be the winner. What many voters find troublesome is that as Bermuda struggles through a nightmare of economic woes with job losses and day-to-day challenges to stay afloat, our leaders seem more absorbed in political warfare, which obviously prevents a more co-operative approach that is so vital in tackling numerous problems.

Most observers are aware that when any political party is removed from power after a lengthy spell in office, the waters are seldom calm as the new Government attempts to move the Island in a new direction. This is just a natural part of politics in just about any democratic jurisdiction.

This is not to say that matters of concern should not be probed fully in the interest of keeping transparency on the top shelf when it comes to the business of the people.

This, of course, works both ways. The electorate, who are the ones to support or reject various policies, usually keep their cards close to their chest over highly sensitive matters.

In a small society such as ours, that approach is understandable, but it could at times give the impression that no one really cares.

The Bermudian people do care and they should not hesitate to let their representatives know that party politics is one thing, but serving the people — and that means all of the people, with honour and dignity — should be the central focus of every elected official.

That is always easier said than done.

While the America’s Cup may not be the be-all and end-all regarding our economic plight, the upcoming activity and the potential upswing in jobs through several projects connected to the international event, and worldwide exposure, presents an opportunity that Bermuda must grab by the horns. The road ahead is going to be rough, but with better transparency at all times from those in authority, the public will be better informed on matters and thus able to make better judgments on whether this or that policy is working in their best interest.

The people must always be first in discussions on crucial issues that affect their everyday life. It is a tough job for the Government public relations department, but that is required 24/7 to avoid confusion and potential loss of trust, which no government wants.

Over the Cup Match holiday, one can only hope that tempers will cool among our leaders and perhaps provide an opening for a fresh look at whatever issue needs to be dealt with and that they would be more concerned about the success of Bermuda, rather than a particular political party.

That will not be easy, since both sides have unwavering supporters who place allegiance to party above the welfare of the populace — at least that is the way it comes across. Those in the centre find themselves yearning for a meeting of the minds with common sense and focus mainly for what is best for the Bermudian people.

Despite problems, there are many positive events taking place on our Island that show dedicated commitment to making Bermuda a better place. The Island must continue to build on positives that also encourage young people towards a more constructive role in our communities.

The power really is in the hands of the people, and if we fail to take advantage of this golden opportunity, we would truly have only ourselves to blame.