Black and white, young and old, they stood side by side on Parliament Hill.

The right to freedom of expression attracted a diverse crowd but the purpose was one of unity.

Banners aloft, the peaceful gathering was punctuated by cheers and applause as speakers reinforced the principles of democracy at the heart of the Constitution.

Despite protest against the Premier's alleged "lack of proper leadership", Bermudians wanted to make their voices heard on Government's accountability to serve them, the people.

Janice Battersbee, co-organiser of the demonstration, told the crowd: "Our civil responsibility does not cease after we have cast our vote.

"To the Government of Bermuda, take note. Your electorate is no longer the electorate of yesterday, who tolerated the misbehaviour of previous governments.

"We will hold you accountable, we will question and we will demand answers.

"We must commit today to teach our children and learn ourselves about the democratic system of this country, about our laws and our Constitution.

"We must commit to support our brothers and sisters regardless of race or political affiliation.

"We must learn that we have every right to lawfully and respectfully stand up and express our displeasure without fear of reprisal."

Prayers were said, people held hands, hugged, and bowed their heads in a moment of silence.

The rain held off just long enough. The downpour petered out at noon and only resumed as the crowd dispersed, shortly before 1 p.m. a quirk of the weather that was not lost on the organisers.

"Look at that, we're just finished and it's starting to rain. That's a sign," said Gilbert Pitcher.

It was a blustery day not only in terms of the weather but also the history of Bermudian politics.