St. George’s, May 4, 2012 – The Deputy Leader of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has broken his silence on the public squabbling in the party and government.

Nazim Burke, who is also Minister of Finance, briefly commented on the situation in an TV news interview, saying he is “saddened’’ by the developments.

A recent videotape recording, in which Information Minister Glen Noel alleged that there has been a “conspiracy’’ to remove Prime Minister Tillman Thomas as leader, were cited by MP Peter David as one of the main reasons for his resignation as Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture Minister.

David said the allegations, made at a meeting that was attended by Burke and Prime Minister Thomas, would appear to have had their tacit approval.

“That state of affairs made my continuation as a member of the cabinet untenable,’’ David said in announcing his resignation on Monday. “It is clear that this entire matter is becoming too much of a distraction; and this gathering cloud of uncertainty is hampering the economic and social development of Grenada.’’

Earlier this week, Sports Minister Patrick Simmons said he felt “a great sense of betrayal’’ over the division and infighting in the NDC and government.

For his part, Burke says he would like the situation to be “resolved as soon as possible.’’

He expressed confidence the NDC would overcome its problems, emerge as a “strong, unified’’ force and win a second government term.

The NDC won 11 of 15 seats in general elections in 2008. The next national poll is due by 2013.