A Voters’ Bill of Rights is being drawn up by an independent group aiming to give more power to Bermuda’s people.

The newly-formed Independent Voters Association is vowing to push for urgent parliamentary and constitutional reform to give everyone a bigger say in decision-making.

Its founders claim the Westminster political party system has hardened divisions within Bermuda.

Interim co-chairmen — former Independent MP Stuart Hayward and Geoff Parker Sr. — have released a joint statement outlining the group’s fears for the modern political system and vision for the future.

“Currently the Bermuda voter is allowed to participate in a General Election every five years at the whim of the ruling political party,” said the statement.

“One day every five years, Bermudians practise their single democratic right to vote. In the interim, a half-dozen Cabinet members, some not even elected, dictate and rule the people without any real accountability, sometimes following their own personal agendas and ignoring the needs of the people.

“It is time to bring the people of Bermuda together to go forward together to solve our problems together and not continue as an Island kept separate by partisan divisiveness and run by just a few individuals.

“The Independent Voters Association intends to be a catalyst to help bring this country together. We invite the people of Bermuda to open their minds to what can be achieved beyond the chains of political parties. We invite you to stand up and get involved for the good of every Bermudian.”

The pair said the Voters’ Bill of Rights has been drafted and would be released shortly.

“The intention of a Voters’ Bill of Rights is to elevate the status and power of voters and create the avenues for greater grass-roots input and involvement in the decision-making process. The Association looks forward to the people’s response and acceptance.”

For more information about the project or to get involved, send an e-mail to ivabermuda[AT]yahoo.com.