UDP Infighting Continues as Peyrefitte Faces Resistance

Just days after his return as Chairman of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Michael Peyrefitte is facing internal resistance.

Reports reaching News 5 are that resistance has emerged from the Tracy Panton camp, particularly over the terms of Panton’s reinstatement into the party.

In an internal communication obtained by our newsroom, Peyrefitte reportedly expressed frustration over a breakdown in what he believed was a negotiated agreement among key party figures. Writing to Panton directly, he stated, “I came back as Chairman on the assurance … that you, Shyne, Hugo and Alberto had agreed on a path forward.” He continued, “Hugo and Shyne and Alberto are understandably upset because they thought a deal was on the table that would enable the party to end the fighting, with each of those three making serious personal concessions.”

Peyrefitte, who had previously resigned from the post, hinted that the situation has not improved since his return. “We are at a crossroads again and it seems that I have un-resigned only to come back to a situation that is exactly what I didn’t want to come back to,” he wrote.

The reported clash comes amid expectations from Panton and her supporters that she would be automatically reinstated into the UDP, following a recent High Court ruling that challenged the legitimacy of her expulsion. However, Peyrefitte made clear that such a move would require a formal decision by the National Party Council.

Last week, Panton was asked for her thoughts on Peyrefitte returning as chairman. She said, “I support a genuine attempt to bring all relevant parties to the table so we can discuss and come up with a consensual position on a way forward for the United Democratic Party,” she said. “Whatever that configuration is to help us to move past the impasse, I support.”

The UDP is expected to hold a meeting on Wednesday to address the growing discord and determine the next steps in its internal reconciliation process.