Wanderers urged to ‘come back home’

By Linda Straker

Newly elected political leader of National Democratic Congress (NDC) wants supporters and advocates of the Party who have wandered away to “come back home”.

Former Finance Minister Nazim Burke is of the opinion that they have a positive contribution to make towards the rebuilding of the organisation, which lost the February 19, 2013 General Elections without winning one seat to the House of Representatives.

Burke was elected the new leader on Sunday at the Party’s convention, as former leader Tillman Thomas had indicated he was not seeking re-election.

In the lead-up to the convention, one of the NDC’s main strategists William Joseph resigned from the party as he openly expressed his disapproval about Burke becoming leader.

Joseph felt that Burke was not the best person to lead the party. However, on Sunday during its closed-door session the almost 400 delegates voted for Burke to lead the party from the next year.

In his inaugural speech as political leader, Burke told supporters during a rally that the NDC of 2008 is now a different party, with different persons who are prepared to rebuild and strengthen the organisation.

“I must apologise to those who have had distressful moments,” he said, as he issued a call for former supporters and close associates to have discussions with a view to resolving issues.

“I am willing to meet and discuss whatever were your complaints,” he stated, as he promised to listen and find solutions.

“There are always differences in a family, but we can come together and work things out,” he assured.

The other executive members are: George Vincent as Chairman; Glen Noel as Deputy Chairman; Joseph Andall as Deputy Leader; Patrick Simmons as General Secretary; while the Assistant General Secretaries are Shane Ross; Raphael Paul and Phillip Alexander; Merle Byer as Treasurer; Franka Bernardine as Public Relations Officer; Assistant PRO Randall Robinson; Vincent Roberts as Recording Secretary; and Velma Hamilton as Assistant Recording Secretary. The Labour Relations Officer is Elliot Bishop while the floor members are Anne Peters; Petra Williams and Elwin McQuilkin.