Dean Samuels Apologises for Withdrawal, Cites Financial and Health Concerns

Dean Samuels issued a public apology last night regarding his absence from the UDP nomination event on Nomination Day. He began by apologising to the United Democratic Party, its supporters, and key members, including Shyne Barrow and Tracy Panton. He also expressed regret to the constituents of the Port Loyola division and acknowledged that his decision deprived them of the opportunity to voice their discontent with the government.

Samuels was among four party members who failed to appear for nomination today. Three other UDP candidates—Dennis Williams (Toledo East), Melvin Hewlett (Fort George), and Norman Usher (Dangriga)—also failed to show up for nomination.

Samuels admitted that his last-minute decision was a difficult one, influenced by financial realities in politics. He noted that the candidate he was up against was one of the most financially powerful ministers in government, and the UDP leadership had agreed to allocate funds to constituencies with a stronger chance of victory. “In every sense of the word. You know, I met with them, and they explained that to them. They don’t believe it’s basically financially viable or even for them, or even for me to continue contesting for them to continue financing me in my bid under the current situation where we are as a party and the division.”

After consulting with his financial backers—friends, family, and supporters—he was told that continuing his campaign was not viable given the party’s current situation. This led to his withdrawal.