Few would dispute that the challenging times Bermuda is facing demand quality leadership.

With rising crime, a declining economy, education and health care on the minds of many, speculation is rife over what can be expected with a change of leadership in the PLP Government, as Premier Dr. Ewart Brown steps away from the political arena later this month.

No government anywhere gets it right every time. What's worrying is when the negatives outweigh the positives, even if only as a matter of perception. When this happens, questions over leadership begin to be asked, since the direction of any ship is usually the Captain's responsibility. Large and small countries around the world constantly run into this problem.

In smaller jurisdictions like Bermuda, keeping emotions from clouding the air on sensitive issues in order to allow reason and common sense to prevail can be a challenge. And when it comes to politics, the rules of fair play seem to change.

Instead of an honest open approach, the political way is to promote what sounds and looks good, to impress as much of the electorate as possible, with future votes in mind.

Although the selection of a new PLP leader is technically an inside job, with Party delegates making the choice, the outcome will one way or the other affect everyone.

So what qualities are people really looking for in their leader with so many challenges ahead? In talking to a number of people on the question of leadership there were plenty of diverse opinions depending on political persuasions, but generally there was concern about leadership quality. Here then, is the consensus:

Bermuda needs a fresh clear thinking leader, who will be able to connect with the people in a way that leaves no doubt that everyone, regardless of race, creed, or ethnic group is important to the growth of this Country.

Bermuda needs a leader who not only listens to opposing viewpoints, but encourages such participation to demonstrate an open healthy transparent Government. Bermuda needs a leader whom the people feel connected to and trust, to have their concerns on the front burner at all times. Well crafted and honey laced press statements are not enough when the public is seeking answers on important matters.

Bermuda needs a leader who will stand firm on proven principles no matter how politically painful they might be. Bermuda needs a leader who will place the people of Bermuda above party politics, and will move away from negative racial tones which serve no purpose in moving the Country forward while recognising that despite great progress over the years, racial attitudes continue to exist throughout the world.

As a society we must continue to build on that, without allowing ourselves to be locked away in dark shadows of the past. Any new leader, or for that matter any new Government, will be facing a mountain of challenges and success could depend on public support.

A good leader must be focused and committed to serving and upholding principles that strengthen unity, and trust throughout the community. It may be asking a lot, but that is what good leadership is about. It is very easy to criticise and find fault, which is a healthy part of democracy, but it is better to offer sound suggestions to improve things in a spirit of building a better country.

Most Bermudians who love their Country would like to turn the page on gang violence, and crime, that continues to disturb the balance of our social infrastructure. Working close together is the only way Bermuda can move to the high ground community peace. That should be the quest of any leader of this beautiful Country.