PNC/R executive Mervyn Williams quits party during live broadcast

Veteran political figure Mervyn Williams resigned from the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) on Sunday night, announcing the decision during a live broadcast of his talk show Nation Watch.

Williams, a longtime party member, said a series of “unfortunate occurrences” made it impossible for him to continue, though he gave no details. “It was a difficult decision, but the circumstances dictate that I take this decision,” he told viewers.

His resignation follows the PNC/R’s poor performance in the Sept. 1 General and Regional Elections and ongoing leadership disputes.

Williams, who was not named among A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) new parliamentarians, noted his strong support within the PNC/R, reminding viewers he secured the second highest number of votes at the last Congress.

Thanking members and supporters, he said: “I’ve had a good run, and I thank every member of this party.”

Political observers said the move highlighted dissatisfaction in the party’s decision to promote newcomers over veterans.