Carib Scope

标签： Bahamas

巴哈马

  • Berry Islanders call for standalone seat as boundaries report expected to be tabled today

    Berry Islanders call for standalone seat as boundaries report expected to be tabled today

    Residents of the Berry Islands are mounting a vigorous campaign for autonomous parliamentary representation as the Boundaries Commission prepares to present its electoral reform report to Parliament. The archipelago, currently paired with North Andros, faces potential reunification with Bimini under proposed constituency revisions—a move locals fear would perpetuate their political marginalization.

    Multiple residents expressed profound frustration to The Tribune regarding historical neglect under combined constituencies. Erica Knowles revealed her astonishment at learning about proposed boundary changes through media channels rather than official consultation. ‘They consistently implement changes without engaging constituents,’ she noted, emphasizing that past administrative partnerships have yielded minimal benefits for island development.

    Infrastructure deficiencies form a central pillar of resident grievances. Telecommunications services remain virtually nonexistent since BTC’s closure over two years ago due to mold infestation, with unreliable connections disrupting daily communications. Banking services are restricted to a single credit union facing operational challenges due to low transaction volume.

    Road construction projects have languished for three years with intermittent progress, while educational institutions suffer teacher shortages and inadequate facilities. Alexandria Moss highlighted disproportionate revenue contribution from Great Harbour Cay compared to infrastructure investment, stating: ‘We require entirely new educational facilities rather than temporary patches.’

    Despite these challenges, economic development continues through cruise industry investments. Great Stirrup Cay is nearing completion of its ‘Pleasure Island’ project, which will establish dual cruise ports alongside Little Stirrup Cay’s existing Coco Cay facility.

    Emergency services present additional concerns. VJ Reckley described telecommunications as ‘deplorable’ and noted the absence of public ambulance services, forcing medical transports via private vehicles. Social services are similarly constrained, with a shared social worker visiting quarterly from North Andros.

    Residents unanimously contend that independent parliamentary representation would ensure dedicated advocacy for their unique needs. As boundary decisions undergo parliamentary review, Berry Islanders emphasize that geographic isolation and distinct developmental requirements justify autonomous political representation.

  • Roberts beats Watson in ‘opinion poll’ as concerns raised over its relevance

    Roberts beats Watson in ‘opinion poll’ as concerns raised over its relevance

    A contentious internal meeting within the Progressive Liberal Party’s Southern Shores branch has ignited significant debate regarding procedural legitimacy and factional influence. Deputy Chairman Obie Roberts secured a decisive 40-0 victory over contender Clint Watson, the ZNS General Manager, in what was termed an ‘opinion poll’ conducted on Monday evening. Despite the numerical outcome, party insiders emphasize this vote holds no formal authority, as the ultimate selection of constituency candidates rests solely with the party’s candidate committee.

    The meeting, held at PLP headquarters, grew increasingly tense, with reports indicating that the situation nearly escalated into physical confrontations following its conclusion. Serious allegations have emerged regarding the conduct of the branch, including claims of ‘ineligible’ or ‘fake’ members being present and accusations that the branch election was organized outside its proper constituency. Numerous attendees were reportedly turned away for not appearing on the official registry, leading critics to denounce the group as an unrepresentative ‘kangaroo branch.’

    Further compounding the controversy, many participants stated they had been informed the gathering was a routine branch meeting intended for discussion, not a predetermined vote. The surprise nature of the poll and the stipulation that only ‘financial’ members could participate were cited as particularly unfair, especially given historical branch disputes and a recent exodus of members. Supporters of Mr. Watson largely abstained or walked out, protesting what they perceived as a rigged and fundamentally flawed process designed to disenfranchise legitimate constituency voters. The incident has exposed deeper competing factions within the PLP leadership, highlighting a struggle between those backing Mr. Roberts and allies of Mr. Watson.

  • Fire truck donation honours two North Abaco boys

    Fire truck donation honours two North Abaco boys

    A bittersweet milestone has been reached in North Abaco as the community receives a critically needed fire truck, a donation catalyzed by the tragic deaths of two local teenagers. The Eagles’ Wings Foundation and its Pathfinders taskforce provided the emergency vehicle, which will serve the underserved Little Abaco communities. The truck bears the names of 12-year-old Montana Ferguson, who perished in a house fire in August 2025, and 13-year-old Terrance Williams, who died in a November car accident.

    The Ferguson family expressed profound mixed emotions, acknowledging the necessity of the donation while lamenting that it required unimaginable loss to prompt action. Jacqueline Duncombe, Montana’s aunt, stated in an interview with The Tribune that while grateful for the enhanced community safety, the pain remains acute. She revealed residents had petitioned for additional fire resources for years, highlighting systemic preparedness failures.

    The fatal incident unfolded when a fire erupted at a friend’s home where Montana was staying. Despite desperate rescue attempts by neighbors, the single-storey wooden structure was fully engulfed by the time firefighters arrived from Cooper’s Town—nearly an hour away. The home’s owner, Ocianna Scott, and her three children escaped physically unharmed but lost all possessions.

    Local political candidate Terrece Bootle detailed the rapid mobilization following the tragedy, citing a decisive conversation with Scott P Lewis of Eagles’ Wings that activated collaborations with local administrators, the North Abaco Pastors Association, and volunteer firefighter expertise. The newly acquired truck, currently awaiting shipment from Florida, represents the organization’s second such donation to North Abaco, following a previously established fire station in Cooper’s Town.

    Gary Smith, Deputy Chief of the North Abaco Volunteer Fire Department, confirmed the new engine is fully equipped with bunker gear, hoses, and external pumps, promising significantly improved response capabilities. Meanwhile, the community continues to honor the departed youths, with Sherlin C Bootle Secondary School creating memorial tributes symbolizing the enduring impact of their presence and laughter.

  • ‘Mom cried for help – but no one came’

    ‘Mom cried for help – but no one came’

    The Bahamas healthcare system faces intense scrutiny following the controversial death of 36-year-old Clanesha Adderley at Princess Margaret Hospital, prompting national outrage and official investigations. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville has pledged comprehensive action, vowing his ministry would exhaust all resources to determine the circumstances surrounding the November 14 tragedy.

    The case gained momentum after Adderley’s teenage daughter, Shamyah, provided harrowing testimony about discovering her mother’s lifeless body. The distraught 16-year-old recounted finding her mother cold and unresponsive with a dislodged oxygen mask and tear-streaked face—suggesting the patient might have been desperately calling for assistance that never arrived. ‘Dried tears on her face,’ the emotional teenager stated during a press conference with her grandparents. ‘It shows she probably was trying to call for help, but no one came.’

    According to family accounts, the situation escalated when medical staff allegedly responded inadequately, with one nurse appearing frightened and addressing the deceased by her first name before clearing the ward of visitors. These allegations have ignited serious concerns about patient monitoring protocols and staff responsiveness at the public healthcare facility.

    Minister Darville extended official condolences while emphasizing transparency, confirming that medical documentation related to the case is now under ministerial review. ‘A lot of investigations are ongoing,’ he acknowledged. ‘It is premature to discuss specifics, but I assure the family and Bahamian people we take these allegations seriously and will do everything to establish the facts.’

    The tragedy unfolded over a two-week period beginning November 1 when Adderley was admitted to the Female Medical-Surgical East ward experiencing persistent pain that medication failed to alleviate. Family members reported her condition progressively deteriorated without clear diagnosis, culminating in desperate voice messages where the patient begged relatives to secure legal representation and transfer her to another facility. Adderley specifically expressed concerns about unauthorized medication administration during her final days.

    Public Hospitals Authority Managing Director Dr. Aubynette Rolle confirmed the institution would not obstruct potential legal action while conducting its own transparent investigation. ‘What is in the notes cannot be changed,’ Dr. Rolle asserted. ‘Everything is recorded sequentially, and those notes along with our findings will be provided. If the family pursues litigation, the PHA will be prepared.’

    The case has triggered three emergency meetings among health officials and sparked widespread public debate about healthcare standards in the Bahamas. Adderley, remembered as vibrant and full of life, was anticipating her daughter’s upcoming 17th birthday and high school graduation later this year.

  • Tensions boil over at PLP meeting for Southern Shores

    Tensions boil over at PLP meeting for Southern Shores

    Political tensions reached a boiling point outside the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) headquarters as members of the Southern Shores branch convened for a contentious meeting to evaluate potential election candidates Clint Watson and Obie Roberts. The gathering, which excluded media representatives, nearly descended into physical confrontation upon its conclusion, requiring repeated intervention to prevent violent outbreaks among supporters.

    The atmosphere grew increasingly volatile as attendees exited the building, with heated verbal exchanges quickly replacing what had initially been complaints about meeting procedures. Despite the visible division, multiple voices called for party unity, emphasizing their shared affiliation with the PLP.

    According to participants, both candidates presented their visions for the constituency during the meeting, though the absence of a question-and-answer session drew criticism. Merbin Darling, a Watson supporter, praised Watson’s ‘effective living agenda’ focused on aiding disadvantaged communities, establishing homework centers, and addressing crime and security issues. However, Darling alleged significant irregularities within the branch, including the presence of ineligible members and branch elections conducted outside the constituency boundaries.

    These claims were vehemently disputed by Roberts supporters. Wellington Porter emphasized that only financially current members were eligible to participate, while Tevin Ferguson highlighted Roberts’ extensive track record within the party structure and his adherence to constitutional procedures.

    Notable figures including professional boxer Tureano Johnson expressed concerns about the ethical implications of the selection process, noting that proper protocol adherence reflects a political party’s morality. Both candidates declined to comment following the event, and PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell did not respond to media inquiries.

  • 90 percent of Port Lucaya merchants ‘struggle to survive’

    90 percent of Port Lucaya merchants ‘struggle to survive’

    The Port Lucaya Marketplace in Freeport is confronting a severe economic crisis, with approximately 90% of its merchants struggling to maintain operations amid drastically reduced foot traffic and stalled redevelopment plans. According to Never Smith, president of the newly established Port Lucaya Marketplace Association, numerous businesses have already ceased operations, including Tropical Gyro, Luxe Deli, and Island Divas, while others are barely surviving.

    The crisis stems primarily from the closure of the adjacent Grand Lucayan Resort in 2016 following Hurricane Matthew, which historically served as the primary generator of customer traffic. Merchants report that non-food retail establishments, including souvenir, jewelry, and clothing stores, have been disproportionately affected, though food and beverage outlets have also experienced declining sales.

    In response to the deteriorating conditions, the association representing approximately 170 tenants has formally requested property owner Peter Hunt to implement temporary rent reductions and engage in direct dialogue regarding redevelopment timelines. Despite outreach efforts spanning several months, merchants report frustration over Hunt’s unwillingness to meet directly with tenants, though he has communicated with other community stakeholders.

    The Grand Bahama Port Authority has provided some relief through discounted business license fees, but merchants emphasize that more substantial support from property ownership is urgently needed. The association continues to seek intervention through community leaders, including the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce and GBPA co-chairman Rupert Hayward, to facilitate crucial discussions about the property’s future.

  • Family finds mom dead in PMH ward

    Family finds mom dead in PMH ward

    A Bahamian family is pursuing accountability and systemic reform following the tragic death of 36-year-old Clanesha Adderley at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) in November. Her parents and teenage daughter allege that medical negligence and inadequate care directly contributed to her passing, which occurred just two weeks before her 37th birthday.

    The ordeal began on October 27th when Adderley sought treatment for severe pain. After initial clinic visits provided minimal relief, she was taken to PMH where tests revealed critically elevated white blood cell counts. Despite being deemed urgent for hospitalization, she waited nearly three days before formal admission.

    Once admitted to the Female Medical-Surgical East ward on November 1st, her condition deteriorated rapidly. Family members describe atrocious nursing care, with patients allegedly having to intervene to summon staff. Critical incidents included a severe reaction to a blood transfusion followed by a two-hour period without medical checks.

    In audio recordings obtained by The Tribune, Adderley repeatedly pleaded for legal representation and transfer to another facility. She expressed concerns about unauthorized medication administration and described deteriorating conditions.

    The final tragedy unfolded on November 14th when relatives discovered Adderley unresponsive near arguing nurses. Despite resuscitation attempts, she was declared dead. Subsequent blood tests revealed acute lymphoblastic leukemia—a diagnosis communicated without family presence days earlier.

    This incident marks the family’s second traumatic experience with PMH, following a near-fatal surgical complication suffered by Adderley’s mother in 2008. The Public Hospital Authority has confirmed an investigation into the allegations is underway.

  • Consumer watchdog recovers $203k for consumers in 2025

    Consumer watchdog recovers $203k for consumers in 2025

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) has announced the successful recovery of $203,676.51 for Bahamian consumers through its dispute resolution services in 2025. The government agency handled 271 formal complaints throughout the year, achieving a 55 percent financial recovery rate that marks a 2 percentage point improvement over 2024’s performance.

    According to the Commission’s annual report, 191 cases were conclusively resolved through direct intervention, while 35 matters remain under active investigation. An additional 19 complaints were referred to specialized agencies for further action, and 26 cases were settled through advisory services and consumer guidance without requiring formal proceedings.

    The data reveals a notable shift in complaint patterns, with claim amounts increasing by 20 percent year-over-year while recovery amounts grew by 18 percent. This occurred alongside a significant reduction in total complaint volume, which dropped by 39 percent compared to 2024’s 444 cases.

    CPC Executive Chairman Randy Rolle attributed these developments to growing consumer awareness and confidence in the protection system. “These results demonstrate that consumers are becoming more informed, more confident, and more willing to come forward with their concerns,” Mr. Rolle stated. “Our work has not only assisted individual consumers but has strengthened accountability across the broader marketplace, ensuring fairness remains central to our economic framework.”

    Despite the lower absolute recovery amount compared to 2024’s $240,426, the Commission highlighted improved operational metrics across multiple dimensions. The agency reported higher case closure rates, reduced pending investigations, and fewer referrals to external organizations, indicating enhanced resolution efficiency.

    Looking toward 2026, the CPC announced plans to digitize its complaint submission process through a dedicated mobile application, upgrade data analytics capabilities, expand public education initiatives, and strengthen collaborative enforcement mechanisms with partner agencies.

  • Bahamas government advises against Venezuela travel amid US operation

    Bahamas government advises against Venezuela travel amid US operation

    The Bahamian government has formally cautioned its citizens against all travel to Venezuela in the wake of a controversial U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. This development has triggered significant international repercussions throughout the Caribbean region.

    In an official statement, The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs aligned itself with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) position, emphasizing the critical importance of adhering to established international legal frameworks. The government specifically referenced security concerns as the primary motivation behind its travel advisory, urging Bahamian nationals to avoid Venezuela entirely during the current period of instability.

    The extraordinary operation saw U.S. forces detain President Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores at their Caracas residence, subsequently transporting them to the United States to face federal charges. While President Donald Trump initially suggested the U.S. would administer Venezuela during a transitional period, Secretary of State Marco Rubio later clarified that American involvement would primarily focus on enforcing existing oil sanctions rather than direct governance.

    CARICOM’s unified statement, endorsed by The Bahamas, reaffirmed the region’s steadfast commitment to fundamental principles of international law, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity as enshrined in the UN Charter. The regional body emphasized diplomatic solutions, reiterating calls for peaceful dialogue to restore stability, democratic governance, and prosperity for the Venezuelan people.

    The geopolitical shockwaves have manifested practically across the Caribbean, with Barbados reporting flight disruptions attributable to the military intervention. However, Bahamian authorities confirmed that Lynden Pindling International Airport operations remained unaffected. Aviation and tourism executive Robert Sands noted that travel impacts appeared concentrated in southern Caribbean nations, with services largely returning to normalcy following initial disruptions.

  • Candlelight vigil honours life of drowned boat captain Jayden Pinder

    Candlelight vigil honours life of drowned boat captain Jayden Pinder

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Junkanoo Beach shoreline glowed with a somber luminosity on Saturday evening as a community united in grief to honor Jayden Pinder, a 19-year-old boat captain whose life was tragically cut short in a drowning incident on December 26th.

    The vigil, organized by his close friends and former baseball teammates, drew hundreds of family members, colleagues, and loved ones who gathered to create a poignant maritime memorial. Participants launched illuminated paper lanterns that ascended into the nocturnal sky while floating candles drifted across the ocean’s surface—a dual tribute reflecting Pinder’s profound connection to the sea.

    Isadora Blyden, the young man’s grand-aunt, characterized the gathering as a profoundly appropriate farewell. ‘This was fitting for us as a family, to be here together with people whose lives he touched,’ she expressed. ‘We know him to be someone who always wore a smile, who was always helpful, respectful, and polite.’

    The tragic sequence unfolded on Boxing Day when Pinder and another individual were riding a jet ski off West Bay Street. According to eyewitness accounts, a substantial wave displaced both riders into the water approximately at 6 PM. While bystanders successfully assisted both individuals to shore, Pinder had become unresponsive.

    Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation was administered until Emergency Medical Services personnel arrived on scene. He was rapidly transported to a nearby medical facility but was subsequently pronounced dead, sending shockwaves through his family and the broader community.

    The loss has been particularly devastating for his mother, Janeile, who dedicated her life to nurturing her only child’s ambitions. ‘She’s been able to laugh, but she’s had a lot of tears,’ Ms. Blyden disclosed. ‘Every interest that he had, Janeile has supported 110 percent, and so as a family, we feel her pain.’

    Pinder, who served as captain aboard The Allegra, nurtured ambitious maritime aspirations. Relatives confirmed he dreamed of establishing his own charter company to share his passion for oceanic exploration. ‘He wanted people to be able to explore and enjoy the waters as much as he loved to,’ a family member noted.

    Devera Pinder, the young captain’s aunt, described processing the loss as among life’s most challenging experiences. She recalled her nephew as a ‘kind, loving and gentle giant’ who stood over six feet tall and consistently served as protector and leader among his cousins. ‘Although we can’t understand in this moment,’ she reflected, ‘we’re still grateful we had him in our lives.’