High Court Reverses UDP Expulsions—But Party Says Not So Fast

A courtroom curveball is shaking up the political scene and it’s got many in the United Democratic Party talking. Today, the High Court delivered a firm and clear ruling in a case brought by Albert Area Representative Tracy Panton, one that could have big implications for the U.D.P. The Court ruled that the expulsions of four senior U.D.P. members, including Panton herself, were unlawful from the start, meaning they were never actually expelled at all. That’s right, Senator Patrick Faber, Beverly Williams, John Saldivar, and Opposition Leader Panton are officially back in the fold, with all their rights and privileges intact. It’s a strong message from the bench that the Constitution matters, and no one, not even a political party, can act above the law. But the Shyne Barrow faction issued a statement shortly after the ruling. While the court did review the matter, the U.D.P. insists that the outcome doesn’t change anything. According to the party, the judge made it clear that decisions about Panton’s membership are still up to the U.D.P., not the court. But here’s where it gets interesting: the judge also acknowledged serious allegations against Panton, saying it would be “inappropriate” for the court to force the party to take her back. So, while the court didn’t order her reinstatement, it didn’t exactly close the door either. Now, the U.D.P. says it will hold internal meetings to decide whether Panton, and others, should be welcomed back. They say it’s all part of an effort to unite the party ahead of their National Convention.