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Leaked document reveals OBA’s inclusive aspirations

New political party One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) has vowed to “represent all Bermudians from all walks of life” regardless of race and class.The United Bermuda Party and the Bermuda Democratic Alliance will merge next week with the new party’s draft constitution paper vowing to “put Bermuda first.”The 12-page draft constitution outlining the new party’s objectives has been leaked.It states the new party has been founded on the principles of opportunity, responsibility, integrity, transparency, fairness, inclusiveness and service.The new party is expected to formerly be announced at a press conference tomorrow. The OBA which will be known as The Alliance looks set to be initially headed up by UBP veteran John Barritt.It will operate as “a broad church” as it will be open to all those with the country’s best interests at heart.The draft constitution states: “Members of the One Bermuda Alliance understand that our community is tired of politics as usual and putting political parties first at the expense of what is best for Bermuda.“We will enhance our democracy by making our parliamentary system more inclusive, more transparent and more collaborative for the public and parliamentarians.”MPs will be selected from the “widest possible membership” then “lead by example” while holding themselves to high ethical and moral standards.The party’s objectives include:lAddressing crime, violence, gangs and drugs with a modern justice system.lRenewing fiscal prudence to ensure Government lives within its means.lEnhancing international business and rejuvenating tourism.lAn education system to help our children compete in 21st century.lA more affordable and accessible healthcare.lAn inclusive society that embraces diversity, equal opportunity and protects human rights.lEnsuring environmental sustainability for present and future generations.The constitution is understood to have been drawn up by a small team including BDA chairman and former UBP Senator Michael Fahy.Behind-the-scenes talks between the two parties started before Christmas. Then the 47-year-old UBP voted to disband earlier this week with the BDA also confirming it would disband.One source said: “The constitution shows this is a new day. It’s all about taking a new approach.“Coming up with this constitution has been a lengthy process but we’re confident we have it right, it’s a testament to the hard work we have put in.“It’s not a reforming of the UBP, it’s not simply UBP, it’s combining the strengths of both the UBP and BDA.“This shows the country what is needed, it shows the country we are moving forward,”The new party’s executive committee will be made up of a chairperson, two deputy chairpersons, a treasurer, a secretary, the leader, deputy leader and two others elected as regional officers.In order to stand for election of leader of the Alliance the candidate must be an MP and have the support of at least three sitting MPs and seven non-parliamentary Alliance members.The deputy leader does not need to be an MP, and if s/he is not a sitting MP the person will immediately be appointed to the Senate.