Opinion was divided among members of the public over who should be the next Premier of Bermuda.

After Tourism and Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown announced he had resigned from Cabinet to mount a leadership challenge against Premier Alex Scott, The Royal Gazette asked members of the public for their views on who they thought should be the country's next leader.

Kimberly Todd and Chris Merritt, 57, supported Dr. Brown because they said he had strong leadership qualities, while Joanne Correira, 50, and Raymond Busby, 56, said Alex Scott should continue to serve as Premier because he was doing a good job.

Gerald Swan, 42, and 40-year-old Bonnie Langille were undecided and felt both men would do excellent jobs as leaders of the country.

"All I would say is that challenge is good," said Mr. Swan.

"Our next leader needs to be someone who takes control of things. That's what's needed in this little island. They both bring good leadership qualities to the table. They are both good leaders." Ms Todd stated: "I think Dr. Brown would make a better leader. Just for what he has brought to Tourism and I think he has a lot of vision and I think he is a lot more visible. He is more in touch with what is going on. Alex Scott is not in touch with the people and is a bit wishy washy."

"I think it is good for the leader of a country to be challenged," said Ms Langille. "Leaders need to be challenged from time to time. I don't know which of them would make a better leader."

Mr. Busby said: "I like Ewart and I like Alex Scott too. Ewart doesn't listen. I would prefer to see Alex remain as Premier."

Ms Correira is in favour of Alex Scott remaining as Premier.

"I think it is a good thing for Ewart to challenge the Premier," she said. "Premier Scott is doing a good job and I would like to see him remain there for now."

But Mr. Merritt said Dr. Brown clearly has an edge.

"Ewart Brown would definitely be the stronger leader," he said. "He is young thinking and I feel he is more forward-thinking, which is what we need in the leader of this country."