Opposition leader Marc Bean has urged the people of Bermuda to empower themselves by learning “the value of self-love”.

Mr Bean was speaking to The Royal Gazette on the fifth day of protests against the Bermuda Government’s proposed Pathways to Status legislation that would see Bermudian status granted to long-term residents.

“My concern is with the upliftment of my people and assisting and strengthening the people of this country to learn the value of self-love and let that translate into social and economic empowerment. That is my focus,” he said.

Asked whether he believed the One Bermuda Alliance was in touch with the black community protesting against immigration reform without bipartisan collaboration, Mr Bean said: “It is not for me to say — they should look in the mirror and ask themselves that question.

“I know what the focus is of the Progressive Labour Party — that is to strengthen and empower black Bermudians at the same time ensuring it raises the standard of living of all Bermudians.”

Mr Bean, who has said he is prepared to lead the country in the event of a change of government, added: “In my mind the Bill has to be withdrawn. Everything else is secondary.

“This is real life. Real separation that is occurring in the country.”