Candidate opts out of election after ganja arrest

HAMILTON (CMC):

Following his arrest for the possession of marijuana, a candidate from the ruling Progressive Labour Party (PLP) has pulled out of the race for next month's general election.

Late Wednesday, the PLP said a new candidate to replace Makai Dickerson would be unveiled yesterday morning.

Dickerson, described as a rising star by the PLP, was due to challenge Opposition Leader Craig Cannonier in Devonshire South Central in the December 17 election.

Dickerson's resignation followed his admission earlier this week that police found him in possession of a "very small" amount of marijuana in September before he was rolled out as a PLP candidate.

"After much reflection, I have decided to step down as a candidate. I do this because this election is too important and my personal shortcomings shouldn't cause any further distractions for my party and the voters of Bermuda during this important time," he said in a statement.