Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton reaffirms commitment to democracy and UDP’s constitution

Published by [email protected] at May 19, 2025

Posted: Monday, May 19, 2025. 10:59 am CST.

By Aaron Humes: Addressing supporters and constituents, Tracy Taegar Panton, the Leader of the Opposition and Representative for Albert, underscored her decades-long dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy.

Panton emphasized her resolve to resist the daily challenges posed by systemic misogyny and political intimidation. “No attempt to bully, intimidate, or embarrass me will force me to yield,” she declared, reinforcing her stance against any attempts to undermine her authority or the integrity of the party.

She was particularly critical of current leadership dynamics within the UDP, pointing out a perceived failure to adhere to the party’s Constitution. Panton stated, “The Vice Chairman, in the capacity of acting Chair, has one obligation: to defend the Constitution of the Party, not to disregard it,” highlighting her belief that the party is at a crossroads and needs decisive action to restore its foundational values.

Panton lamented that the ongoing power struggle within the UDP threatens to derail its mission and expressed concern over leaders who prioritize self-preservation over the needs of the people. “They do not care about the Party. And they most certainly do not care about the well-being of our democracy,” she stated emphatically.

She implored party supporters to reclaim their principles. “Power lies in the hands of the people—people who are not afraid to stand up, speak out, to act,” she said, urging members to unite for the party’s future.

Panton affirmed her commitment to serving as the Leader of the Opposition as well as representing the interests of Albert’s residents in the National Assembly. She concluded by expressing hope that a Leadership Convention would be called soon to address the needs of the party and the people, asserting that it is essential for rebuilding trust and integrity within the UDP.

The statement responds to the recent Central Executive Committee meeting setting out a path toward an October National Convention for the Party, maintaining the current leadership as well as demanding apologies from those expelled from the party including Taegar-Panton herself last August, which the courts recently found went against the party’s Constitutional procedure.

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