Veteran Bahamian politician Fred Mitchell, chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and Member of Parliament for Fox Hill, has announced he likely will not seek reelection for the party’s chairmanship, signaling what may be the final chapter of his extensive political career. Mitchell revealed to The Tribune that he anticipates having “one campaign left” focused solely on securing reelection in his Fox Hill constituency.
The declaration comes amid intensified pre-election preparations by both major political parties. The PLP faces internal deliberations about whether to conduct a full-scale convention ahead of the upcoming general election, while the opposition Free National Movement (FNM) is organizing a non-voting convention to solidify its campaign strategy.
Mitchell, who faced a contested chairmanship race in 2023 with backing from Prime Minister Philip Davis, characterized that bid as potentially the “penultimate” campaign of his career. When questioned about definitive plans, Mitchell maintained characteristic political pragmatism: “The only reason I’m not saying it definitively is because you never say never in politics.”
Within PLP ranks, deputy national election coordinator Valentine Grimes expressed reservations about holding a divisive internal convention immediately before a general election. “The internal fight is sometimes more vicious than the external fight,” Grimes noted, emphasizing concerns that such contests could prove counterproductive despite recognizing the value of unifying party members.
Meanwhile, FNM leader Michael Pintard confirmed plans for a business-focused convention without internal elections. Chairman Duane Sands indicated this gathering would address constitutional adjustments and recognize party contributors while maintaining election readiness. Sands issued a challenge to the governing party: “Let him ring the bell. Let him fool around and find out,” referencing uncertainty about when Prime Minister Davis might call the election.
Both parties acknowledge the competitive landscape ahead, with Grimes conceding victory wouldn’t be guaranteed despite confidence in the Davis administration’s performance. The political environment remains dynamic as Bahamian parties position themselves for an election whose timing remains uncertain.