DLP's 69th Annual General Conference Sees Chaos and Police Intervention on Day Two

The Democratic Labour Party’s 69th Annual General Conference took a chaotic turn on its second day, leading to police intervention to restore order.

The Errol Barrow auditorium was filled with party members shortly after 10:00 a.m., but the gathering soon descended into confusion.

According to Assistant Secretary of the Young Democrats, Stefan Newton, three motions were presented, including one to overturn the General Council’s decision to expel Ronnie Yearwood and Steve Blackett from the party.

Newton reported that the majority of members voted in favour of reinstating Yearwood and Blackett.

Newton also revealed that Walter Maloney, the 2nd Vice President, was elected as chair of the annual conference, replacing Andre Worrell.

However, these developments sparked heated debate among members, with some arguing that the meeting was never officially convened, rendering the motions invalid.

Around 11:50 a.m., Steve Blackett arrived at George Street, surrounded by supporters who warmly embraced him. Speaking to the media, Blackett expressed his joy, saying, “I am over the moon… I am elated… my faith in this party has been renewed.”

Despite these events, DLP General Secretary Pedro Shepherd dismissed the claims, stating, “As we attempted to commence the session, a group of individuals sought to disrupt our meeting, claiming to have raised some motion.”

Shepherd confirmed that Andre Worrell remains the acting president of the party and added, “Once we get clearance from the police that those persons are removed from the compound, we shall resume our conference today.” (AL)