A weak Opposition is not only dangerous, but it also deprives the many voices who prefer a different approach in the arena of politics, where democracy is supposed to be the principle quality in the quest for justice and freedom for all.

The United Bermuda Party at the moment appears to be scrambling for a foothold, in trying to recover from a third defeat at the polls, after having enjoyed some 30 years in the power seat. It must have been the most unkindest cut of all.

The pre-election atmosphere last year, was charged with political blood letting on both sides, which left a massive mopping up job, which to some degree is still taking place. The voting public were put through the wringer in dealing with a mountain of allegations and counter allegations between the two political groups, vying for the right to govern.

In the middle of this was the fact that racism, which has always been a part of Bermuda's history, was swirling like an undercurrent that is not always seen, but is capable of making things difficult for those caught in it.

When the dust finally settled, the Progressive Labour Party emerged victorious and the post election scene began to unfold. The political wounds were deep, and everyone knew any quick healing was out of the question. For many Bermudians on both sides there was relief from the daily attacks and counter attacks. What most people wanted, was a sign that in the end, politicians would be willing to pool their strengths, for the benefit of the country, rather than the ongoing political posturing.

That was not to be. Even at this stage there is an uneasy atmosphere with issue after issue causing both sides to dig in to defend their positions, making any healing process an uphill struggle.

The United Bermuda Party has been so shattered by their recent defeat, that there has been talk of name changing ,and reinventing their political machine. That seems nothing short of a panic move.

Just as many Bermudians are now questioning the performance of the current Government, and they have every right to do so, they are also questioning the performance of the Opposition, who at times appear to be reactionary, instead of leading a charge to uphold principles they claim are best for the country.

The biggest challenge the UBP faces is probably shaking off the deeply rooted concept that they mainly represent the white segment of our society, while promoting themselves as champions of fair play and justice for all. Even unfair perceptions in politics can be damaging. It would be inaccurate to say there has been no progress under the banner of the UBP. The problem is that some of that progress was probably the result of a strong Opposition.

Both political groups have people devoted to truth, dignity and a country without racism being a factor at every turn. If the United Bermuda Party hope to regain a foot hold throughout the community, they must stand firm on their party principles, in order to convince the electorate, that they are not simply searching for a new suit to look good.

A good example, is how Tylenol bounced back with the same name, after a bad period due to product tampering that hurt their business. It was reported that they actually contemplated a name change, but decided against it. Instead they took steps to convince their customers a new design would prevent a repeat of that practice. It worked.

NASA never shut its space programme down after the Challenger accident, and people never stopped cruising because of the Titanic incident. No one can move to the high ground without acknowledging mistakes from the past, but neither can that be achieved, without the courage to accept unchangeable history, and move on, armed with knowledge from those errors.

In a democracy there will always be voices of dissent, and that can only be healthy. These voices not only need to be heard, but any Government of the day should not brush them off, as disgruntled objectors to anything they do.

Meanwhile the Opposition must get its act together, not just for the sake of keeping Government on their toes, so to speak, but to represent with a more authoritative voice, those who feel left out of the dining room where the economic pie is being shared. Apart from that, Bermudians black and white want a more forceful stand from their leaders against any type of corruption, racism, crime, illegal drugs, and diminishing values that threaten our future.

In short, people want an end to political games that could keep the community from enjoying a more harmonious atmosphere, where the focus could be better aimed at solving problems of the day and creating more hope for a better tomorrow.