They've gone from breakaway rebels to the fledgling party everyone seems to wish well — now the Bermuda Democratic Alliance has to convince people it's a serious organisation that can run the Country.

So far, the BDA has eluded the kind of attacks which have become par for the course for the Progressive Labour Party and United Bermuda Party, as a curious population awaits the unveiling of the new group's platform.

But 2010 is not going to be a walk in the park for the Alliance made up mainly of former UBP members and characters new to the political arena.

February will be a monumental month, when the BDA's first conference will see the election of the party's first leader, deputy and confirmation of other key roles within the party.

The party must also iron out and present its platforms on areas including education, the economy and health to go with the plan on crime it announced late last year; while continuing its series of roadshow presentations to build on its 200-plus membership so far.

If that's not enough, the search is on for 36 good candidates to stand at an election, which leaders know could be called at any time.

But founding member Michael Fahy described the biggest challenge of all: "It's making sure that people recognise that this is not just some breakaway group. That this is a viable political party.

"Changing the mindset of people is difficult. You have to be consistent. Get in people's minds about who you are. We are not out to be a spoiler. Support us — we will make the changes that people are begging to see.

"What would mark a good year? That we retain and gain seats. That would be a measure of success."

The BDA's three seats in the House of Assembly seem safe enough for now, with the group, like many, predicting no snap election while crime is so high, Premier Ewart Brown's popularity so low and the economy in such trouble.

But with Dr. Brown so difficult to call, they have to be prepared.

MP Shawn Crockwell said: "That would be the most difficult challenge: if there was an election called.

"We have been riding momentum. We have to do that based on being honest about who we are and caring about the people.

"I don't think we are fearful of an election being called under the current administration at all. Certainly we are prepared to run against the record of this Premier and run against the popularity of this Premier."

Mr. Crockwell is one of four likely leadership candidates, along with fellow MP Mark Pettingill, former PLP candidate Myron Piper and businessman Craig Cannonier.

Mr. Fahy and MP Donte Hunt have both stated they will stand as candidates in the next election, while founding members Sean Pitcher and Wayne Scott both previously ran for the UBP and are expected to try again for the Alliance.