James, 66, was elected to the top post at the party’s 22^nd Delegates Convention on Sunday, replacing Ron Green, who held the position over the past three years. Green was elected as a trustee of the party.

“I have decided to give up on this function as political leader but you have enthusiastically invited me to serve once more. There is no reluctance on my part to put everything that I have into implementing these functions,” said James a founding member of the party that once held office here between1995-2000.

“I want to thank the immediate past leader for the work he has done in leading us over the last several years. I want also to say that it was my privilege to serve as president of your party,” he said.

James said he is also “totally” committed to the cause to bring about the change that is necessary for Dominica’s forward movement.

“Our country must move from a position in which we have been made to be beggars. We welcome aid but we must put greater emphasis on self reliance,” he said brushing aside remarks in some quarters that he had long past the age of being effective in politics.

“They said that I am like a ripe banana. But I say to those people that in your happiness, this brain in here might be sixty eight years old, but the waist is strong. Don’t test me,” he added.

Former Opposition Leader Hector John has been elected as the new UWP deputy leader, with the new president of the party being Ezekiel Bazil with Lambert Charles, treasurer.