Opposition MP Jamahl Simmons announced he would not contest the next election hours before a vote deciding his political future.

A faction of the United Bermuda Party Pembroke West branch wants to replace Mr. Simmons with former MP Erwin Adderley.

The pro-Adderley camp has accused Mr. Simmons of neglecting constituency duties and canvassing with family members who support the PLP. Mr. Simmons has denied these allegations.

Last night about 20 people filed into the UBP?s central offices for a meeting, fewer than was expected. A source said that pro-Simmons supporters had been informed about his decision and chose to stay away.

At the meeting the branch chairman, deputy chairman and committee members were due to be elected. Neither Mr. Simmons nor Mr. Adderley were at the meeting.

Opposition Leader Wayne Furbert released a written statement shortly after the meeting began stating that Mr. Simmons would not be running in the next election. He said: ?I am saddened by this decision. We had great hopes for Jamahl. He has lots to offer this country as a smart, young Bermudian interested in public affairs.

Mr. Furbert said the Mr. Simmons did not explain why he was stepping down but said the two would meet during the next week to discuss it. He added that Mr. Simmons would continue as the representative for Constituency 19 until the next election.

He said: ?I know Jamahl will serve out his term and fulfil his duties to his constituents, both on the ground and in the House of Assembly with distinction and integrity.?

Mr. Simmons was not available for comment last night but in an interview with in August, 2006, he indicated that he never expected to be in politics for long.

He said: ?When I first got involved in politics I always believed you should have a point where you stop and reassess. I had a self-imposed term limit of two general elections and my second one is coming up.? Mr. Simmons, 35, is the youngest member of the House of Assembly. He served as the UBP?s spokesman for race relations and helped draft the party?s economic empowerment legislation. He has represented the Pembroke West constituency since 2002.