Former Barbados High Commissioner to London, Reverend Guy Hewitt says he will be challenging Verla De Peiza for the post of president of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP).
Hewitt ended weeks of speculation about his challenge on Wednesday, when he confirmed his decision in a WhatsApp audio message.
“Following the speculation in the media that I may be contesting the presidency of the DLP, this is to confirm that fact,” he said.
“I have made contact with the branches, and I have advised them that I will be seeking their nomination for the position of president.”
When Hewitt arrived in Barbados a few weeks ago from an overseas trip, he said challenging De Peiza was not in the best interest of the DLP, nor the country at this time because it would be a distraction and embolden the ruling Barbados Labour Party administration.
He said, however, he had a change of heart after hearing from a number of concerned members and non-members of the party.
“As I said when I arrived in Barbados a couple of weeks ago, I had no desire to contest the leadership of the DLP, but persons both inside and outside of the party made it clear to me that the time had come for new leadership not just in the DLP, but also in Barbados,” he said.
“We need to renew confidence in the party of the Right Excellent Errol Walton Barrow, and we need to restore democracy, social cohesion and a sound economic footing going forward.”
De Peiza was elected president of the DLP three years ago, after the party suffered its most devastating defeat in general elections in Barbados, losing all seats they contested for the House of Assembly.
