Tensions flared in Golden Isles following the conclusion of advance polling yesterday, as supporters of the Free National Movement (FNM) and the Coalition of Independents (COI) blocked the removal of ballot boxes. The dispute arose over allegations that election officials violated a prior agreement regarding the transportation of voting materials. FNM candidate Brian Brown asserted that presiding officers failed to honor a Wednesday agreement, which stipulated that party representatives should accompany the boxes to the Parliamentary Registrar. The standoff was resolved only after agents were permitted to escort the boxes, which were reportedly taken to the Parliamentary Registrar instead of police headquarters. FNM leader Michael Pintard expressed broader concerns about the election’s integrity, questioning the impartiality of the returning officer, whom he claimed had ties to the prime minister’s campaign. Pintard also alleged that Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) supporters interfered with voters entering the polling station, though he emphasized the FNM’s commitment to avoiding confrontation in the interest of maintaining peace. The PLP dismissed the FNM’s accusations, labeling them as an attempt to create ‘organized chaos’ and distract from internal weaknesses. Earlier in the day, the polling station was a hub of activity, with political tents, chanting supporters, and over 200 registered early voters. A minor dispute over FNM campaign music near the polling entrance was quickly resolved. Voters offered mixed reviews of the process, with some praising its efficiency and others expressing frustration over long waits and pressing local issues, such as flooding and healthcare. Bahamas Kidney Association president Tamika Roberts emphasized the need for actionable leadership, citing the country’s high rates of kidney disease as a critical concern.
FNM and COI block removal of ballot box claiming breach of agreement on how it should be transported
