Justice Hondora has ruled that the purported United Democratic Party (UDP) National Convention held on October 20, 2024, was invalid and its resolutions non-binding on the party’s membership.
Delivering his judgment with emphasis on procedural integrity, Justice Hondora stated that any National Convention of the UDP must be “called, organised and held in compliance with the contractually agreed terms and processes set out in the UDP’s constitution.” He noted that any grievances regarding the refusal by the party chairperson, Central Executive Committee, or National Party Council to convene such a convention should have been pursued through the constitutionally prescribed mechanisms—or failing that, through legal proceedings in court.
Turning to the contested October meeting, the Court found that it did not meet the constitutional requirements to constitute a legitimate National Convention. As such, Justice Hondora declared that “the 20 October 2024 meeting was not a valid UDP National Convention and the decisions and resolutions adopted at that meeting are not binding on members of the UDP in their capacity as members of the party.” He added that while such resolutions may carry weight for those who attended, they hold no force within the broader UDP membership.
The Court also addressed the August 2024 expulsion of Tracy Panton from the party, finding the decision “unlawful” due to procedural breaches. “The August 2024 decision expelling Mrs. Panton from the UDP was adopted in breach of the UDP’s constitution,” Justice Hondora ruled.
On the issue of legal costs, the judge directed that if the parties fail to reach an agreement within 14 days, written submissions will be required, and case management orders will follow.