By Marvin Cato
Amid mounting criticism and a bruising election defeat, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has reaffirmed its support for Leader Aubrey Norton, signaling he will remain at the helm of the party.
The PNCR’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), meeting for the first time since the September 1 elections, issued a statement Wednesday confirming Norton’s leadership despite calls from some members for him to step aside.
The coalition led by the PNCR managed to secure only 12 of the 65 seats in the National Assembly—its worst showing in decades—falling behind both the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and newcomer We Invest in Nationhood (WIN).
Norton, while not absolving himself of responsibility for the defeat, argued that limited campaign financing compared to WIN and the PPP/C had significantly undermined the PNCR’s performance.
In the wake of several high-profile resignations—including those of party stalwart Mervyn Williams and Chairman Sherwyn Holder—the PNCR confirmed that two new members have been identified for elevation to the CEC. However, the party has not yet disclosed the names, nor have the individuals formally accepted the roles.
The announcement underscores ongoing internal turbulence for the PNCR, which continues to grapple with leadership questions and a redefined role as the third-largest parliamentary bloc.
