The United Bermuda Party is pushing through a change in the way it selects its leader as the contest between Kim Swan and Bob Richards gets closer.

Currently, only MPs can vote in UBP leadership battles — but at a special general meeting tomorrow night the constitution is expected to be amended so Senators and grass roots representatives from across the Island can have a say as well.

If the UBP rubber-stamps that amendment, a date will be fixed for contests for both the leader and deputy positions.

Mr. Richards has previously declared he wants to replace leader Mr. Swan as soon as possible, saying he has a plan to show people how the UBP can restore the Country. Mr. Swan yesterday reiterated that he would welcome such a challenge for the good of the party. Deputy leader Trevor Moniz, who has publicly criticised Mr. Swan for failing to push through reform, has previously said his own opinions are not viewed favourably by many of his remaining colleagues.

According to the amendments, the selection of the leader and deputy will be made by the central council, which is made up of MPs, Senators, the central executive, regional chairmen and delegates from each constituency branch.

Party chairman Jeff Sousa said in a statement yesterday: "The United Bermuda Party parliamentary group is committed to a programme of internal reform to open and broaden participation in the party at all levels.

"It is generally accepted within the party that a leadership contest will be held if the special general meeting approves the constitutional amendments."

Mr. Swan stated yesterday: "A leadership contest is a fundamentally healthy exercise. When it is done respectfully and properly it can only make an organisation stronger and cause everyone to raise their game.

"Competition, choice and fair play are hallmarks of a healthy democracy and this is what will come clear about the United Bermuda Party."

Mr. Sousa said a date for the leadership contest would be announced shortly after tomorrow's meeting, but would not speculate how soon that would be.

Mr. Richards, who says he initiated the move to change the way leaders are selected, said last week that the likelihood was fading of a leadership challenge before the House of Assembly reconvenes in early November.