Sir Louis ends run as Deputy Political Leader of ULP

Sir Louis Straker has officially called it quits as Deputy Political Leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) and has expressed that he was no longer interested in being considered for any position.{{more}}

He made the announcement last Sunday, February 13, at the ULP’s Convention.

Straker served as the Member of Parliament for Central Leeward from 1994 to 2010.

From 2001 to May 2005, he held the portfolio of Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Trade Minister before he was transferred to the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing, during a Cabinet reshuffle. He was reinstated as Minister of Foreign Affairs in December 2005.

He became the ULP’s Deputy Political Leader in 2000, when he replaced Ken Boyea.

“It is only fair that I should give way, since I am no longer in Parliament, to someone else,” Straker said, while delivering remarks at Sunday’s Convention.

“I have been at the forefront of the most exciting, the most exhilarating period in the history of this Party and this country,” he continued.

Straker thanked his supporters for the support that they gave to him throughout the years, adding that it had been a great honour and privilege to serve.

“We have accomplished much, but the work is not complete,” Straker said.

And although he is officially retired, Straker said that he is not going to “rust out in a corner some place.”

“We have fought tremendously in the past; the struggle must continue today.”

He promised that he will continue to stand with the people during the next five years to ensure that Government fulfilled its mandate. (DD)