U.D.P. chooses two more standard bearers

The United Democratic Party held two more nominating conventions over the weekend. In Stann Creek West, former area rep and Minister of Works Melvin Hulse came out of political retirement to regain his party’s nomination in impressive fashion. Hulse left no doubt about his popularity, garnering one thousand, one hundred and nineteen votes. His nearest competitor, Johnny Chee, received one hundred and ninety-nine, while Rudolph Williams mustered only twenty-seven.

In Lake Independence, a far smaller convention saw two political newcomers battling for the nomination. When all the votes were tallied, it was Vandley Jenkins defeating Mark King, three hundred and twenty-seven to two hundred and ninety. The Lake I general election contest may turn into a three-way race, depending on whether incumbent P.U.P. representative Cordel Hyde remains within his party’s fold or chooses to join a third party or coalition of independent candidates. The next general election does not have to be held until 2008. Nationwide municipal elections will be contested in March 2006.