Jason Hayward, the economy and labour minister vying for the leadership of the Progressive Labour Party, has insisted that his fellow contender Curtis Dickinson is not a rival or enemy.

Mr Hayward did not mention any news organisation by name but a headline that appeared on a story in The Royal Gazette introducing two in depth profiles pieces on each contestant spoke of “rivals”.

Mr Hayward said: “I want to say make it abundantly clear that we are not rivals or enemies.

“We are both members of the PLP. We may have different views and different ideas about the direction of our party, but we need not tear one man down to boost the other.”

The comments came during a tense time within the ruling party. Mr Dickinson has taken the party to court over changes it intended to make to party rules on membership eligibility.

Mr Hayward continued: “Yes, this has been a difficult period. There are strong feelings on all sides. But I am asking every member — do not allow this leadership contest to turn the PLP against ourselves.

“Support the person you believe in. Speak up for the direction you want our party to take. Cast your vote according to your conscience. Remember we have far more that unites us than divides us.

“Our shared purpose is bigger than this election — fighting for workers, creating opportunities for our young people, reducing inequality and building a Bermuda where everyone has a genuine opportunity to succeed.”

Mr Hayward said he had put himself forward because he believed he could serve and lead the party, and said that he trusts and respects party members in whatever decision they make.

He added: “So I ask you — don't let anyone convince you that we have to tear each other down to choose a leader.

“Let us show Bermuda what the PLP looks like when its members put purpose over personalities.

“When this contest ends, there should be no Team Hayward and no Team Dickinson.

“There must be one team — Team PLP.

“One party. One movement. And together, we move forward.”