Opposition leader Ralph Thorne in Talks with Democratic Labour Party Leadership; Progress Towards Membership Decision

Another step has been taken towards Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne becoming a member of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP).

Twenty-four hours after the executive council of the DLP voted to defer Thorne’s request for membership pending consultations with the party’s leadership, he confirmed that a sit-down was had yesterday with president Dr Ronnie Yearwood, general secretary Steve Blackett and party stalwart Robert “Bobby” Morris.

Last night Thorne, in a surprise appearance, mounted the DLP’s St Michael North West platform where he received hearty applause and warm embraces from a large gathering at The Ellerslie School. In response to the high-energy reception, the Christ Church South Member of Parliament thanked the crowd for welcoming him “home”.

Speaking to the media afterwards, during which he was asked about the tone of discussions earlier in the day, Thorne would only state: “We did not quarrel.”

Throughout the day, Yearwood posted photos on his Instagram page of himself and Thorne sitting together. It is unclear whether this development will satisfy the mandate for consultations by the executive committee, allowing for the final decision to be made. (CLM)