标签： Bahamas

Former NBA star Rick Fox has expressed his willingness to fully commit to Bahamian politics, even if it means relinquishing his Canadian citizenship. Born in Canada to a Bahamian father and an Italian mother, Fox has recently sparked public curiosity about his political eligibility after hinting at a potential run for office on Facebook. In an interview with The Tribune, Fox clarified his stance, stating that while he does not need to renounce his dual citizenship to vote, he would adhere to Bahamian laws if he entered frontline politics. He emphasized his pride in being a Bahamian, holding only a Bahamian passport. Fox also addressed criticisms about his national identity, asserting that he would never apologize for being born abroad, a result of his parents’ love and marriage. He recounted his family’s journey, from his mother’s Italian-Canadian roots to his father’s early struggles in Massachusetts before returning to The Bahamas to establish a successful business. Fox shared personal memories of growing up in The Bahamas, including his participation in the 1973 Independence celebrations. Since returning to his homeland in 2021, Fox has registered to vote and encourages all Bahamians to view voting as a civic duty. Beyond his basketball fame, Fox has taken on roles as a sports ambassador and CEO of Partanna, a climate technology company, focusing on national development and addressing challenges while identifying opportunities for growth.

A wave of enthusiasm swept through the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) headquarters as supporters from the MICAL constituency rallied behind Robert Dupuch-Carron, a prominent figure in Bahamian media and aviation. The founder of Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Networks Ltd (BACSWN) and president of The Tribune Media Group, Dupuch-Carron, was interviewed by the PLP’s candidates committee, sparking fervent chants of “We want Robert!” from his loyal backers. Residents from Mayaguana, Acklins, Inagua, and Crooked Island gathered early, waving placards and donning PLP gold, to express their support for the potential candidate. In an unusual gesture, some supporters were even permitted inside the headquarters during the interviews. The MICAL seat has become a focal point since incumbent MP Basil McIntosh announced he would not seek re-election, creating a vacancy that has ignited significant interest within the governing party. Dupuch-Carron, who described his interview as straightforward, positioned himself as a “change candidate,” emphasizing the importance of free speech, democratic choice, and addressing infrastructure deficiencies in the southern islands. He outlined ambitious plans to enhance airports, transportation, food stores, banks, ATMs, pharmacies, and street lighting, while also advocating for youth opportunities and regional trade. Dupuch-Carron also highlighted his deep family ties to the constituency, with ancestors like Sir Etienne Dupuch playing pivotal roles in the region’s history. He vowed to continue this legacy if selected. Other contenders for the PLP nomination include Angela Michelle Cox-Lockhart and Laverne Bertrum “Dyie” Ingraham, both of whom have presented their visions for the constituency. Cox-Lockhart emphasized her commitment to strong representation, while Ingraham cited political neglect as his motivation for running. The PLP’s Candidates Committee also interviewed several other candidates for various constituencies, signaling a dynamic and competitive nomination process.

The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is poised to finalize its roster of candidates for the forthcoming general election, with a significant focus on the Golden Isles constituency, where a by-election is anticipated. Senator Darren Pickstock is expected to be ratified as the candidate for Golden Isles, following the recent passing of area MP Vaughn Miller. House Speaker Patricia Deveaux has officially notified the Governor General of the vacancy, triggering the constitutional requirement for a by-election within 60 days of the vacancy, with the vote to follow within 21 to 30 days after the writ is issued. Golden Isles, a pivotal swing constituency, has seen voter dissatisfaction due to inconsistent representation in recent years. PLP insiders revealed that several incumbents, including Seabreeze MP Leslia Miller-Brice, Garden Hills MP Mario Bowleg, and Golden Gates MP Pia Glover-Rolle, are also set to be confirmed. These decisions follow thorough interviews conducted by the PLP’s Candidates Committee, which has endorsed several hopefuls. Videos circulating on social media last week depicted Mrs. Miller-Brice, Mr. Bowleg, and South Beach MP Bacchus Rolle celebrating their re-nominations with supporters. Mrs. Miller-Brice expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving her constituents. Additionally, broadcaster and former government press secretary Clint Watson, the frontrunner for the Southern Shores seat, is expected to face the committee this week. PLP officials emphasized that the final approval lies with the party’s National General Council, which convenes on Thursday to formalize nominations. PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell urged reporters to await the outcome, while Deputy Chairman Obie Roberts highlighted the dual process of recommendation and ratification. The Candidates Committee may endorse nominees, but the council, comprising stalwart councillors and senior members, must approve each candidate by vote. Branch chairman Henrico Ellis expressed high anticipation for Thursday’s meeting, noting that a candidate has already been identified but stressing that the final decision rests with the council. “It’s going to be an exciting night,” he remarked.

Maurice Moore, a founding member of the Free National Movement (FNM), has emphasized the importance of the opposition party contesting the upcoming Golden Isles by-election. Speaking to The Tribune, Moore warned that allowing the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) to run uncontested would be a strategic misstep. He argued that the FNM must remain in the political fray, even if the odds are stacked against them. While some believe the FNM could leverage the late Vaughn Miller’s limited popularity in the area, Moore acknowledged the PLP’s significant financial and organizational advantages, describing the race as challenging but not unwinnable. ‘We’re one of the two major parties, so we have to contest it,’ Moore stated. ‘Even if we win by a narrow margin, it demonstrates the FNM’s potential to secure victory in a general election.’ Moore also stressed that the party’s success will hinge on its candidate selection process. The FNM has yet to confirm whether it will field a candidate for the by-election, with party insiders divided on the issue. Some advocate for conserving resources for the national campaign, while others view the by-election as an opportunity to rally supporters and attract new funding. FNM leader Michael Pintard has remained noncommittal, reiterating his call for Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis to call an early general election instead. The party’s hesitation follows a recent defeat in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini by-election, where the FNM ignored advice from former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham to avoid the race. Despite the setback, Moore insists that the FNM must not signal retreat. ‘If we don’t run, it gives the impression that we’ve given up,’ he said. ‘The FNM must always be in the fight.’

Residents from the MICAL constituency have made a significant journey to New Providence to rally behind Robert Dupuch-Carron, founder of the Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Networks Ltd (BACSWN), as he prepares to appear before the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) Candidates Committee. This surge of support comes in the wake of MICAL MP Basil McIntosh’s announcement that he will not seek re-election, a decision that has sparked criticism from some PLP supporters who feel let down by his performance. Dupuch-Carron, who has expressed his honor at being considered for the role, represents a lineage of political service, with his grandfather, great-uncle, and uncle all having served parts of the southern Bahamas. Timothy Thompson Sr, a Crooked Island resident and member of the PLP’s National General Council, has voiced his belief that Dupuch-Carron is the ideal candidate to bring true representation to MICAL, a constituency he claims has been neglected for years. Thompson has called for investments, airport development, and projects to showcase Crooked Island’s potential. Constituents from Mayaguana, Acklins, Inagua, and Crooked Island have flown in to support Dupuch-Carron, who is expected to meet with the PLP’s Candidates Committee for an interview. Thompson has warned of a potential protest vote against the PLP if Dupuch-Carron is not selected, emphasizing the urgency of effective representation. Henry Rolle, PLP branch chairman for Acklins, has highlighted the dire need for basic necessities like potable water and proper hurricane shelters, pointing to longstanding issues on Acklins. Father James Palacious, an Inagua native, has praised Dupuch-Carron’s innovative ideas, particularly his BACSWN project, which includes aviation-grade ambulances, enhanced search-and-rescue capabilities, and upgrades to radar and meteorological services. Palacious believes this project could significantly benefit Inagua. As the PLP’s nomination process unfolds, at least two other candidates, Angela Michelle Cox-Lockhart and Laverne Bertrum “Dyie” Ingraham, have also declared their intentions to represent the governing party in the vast constituency, which includes Mayaguana, Inagua, Crooked Island, Acklins, and Long Cay. Cox-Lockhart has outlined a “7-Pillar Development Plan” focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, economic empowerment, education, culture, climate readiness, and inter-island connectivity, while Ingraham has cited long-standing political neglect and unfulfilled promises as his motivation for running.

The Bahamas is contemplating abstaining from the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) pivotal vote on the proposed Net Zero Framework, following threats of retaliation from the United States. Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell revealed that the Bahamian government has formally requested the IMO to postpone the vote, signaling that the nation may withhold its support if the vote proceeds as scheduled. This decision comes in response to a stern warning from the Trump administration, communicated via the US Department of State, which outlined five retaliatory measures against countries endorsing the framework. The US has criticized the plan, claiming it imposes ‘unduly or unfairly burdens’ on American citizens and could harm the nation’s shipping and commercial interests by enforcing stricter emissions standards. As one of the world’s largest ship registries and a longstanding IMO member, The Bahamas holds significant sway in global maritime regulation. The IMO’s Net Zero Framework aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping, targeting carbon neutrality by 2050. While proponents argue the framework is essential for achieving global climate goals, opponents, particularly US conservatives, contend it could escalate shipping costs and disadvantage maritime economies dependent on fossil fuel transport.