标签： Bahamas

Two Bahamian nationals have been indicted in separate US federal districts on charges related to passport fraud and false claims of American citizenship, according to statements from prosecutors in Pennsylvania and Florida. The cases are part of the US Department of Justice’s initiative, Operation Take Back America, which targets immigration-related offenses and transnational criminal activity. In the Middle District of Pennsylvania, 79-year-old Victor Charles Gibson was indicted on November 18 for passport fraud and falsely claiming US citizenship. Prosecutors allege that Gibson knowingly made false statements in a US passport application on March 29 in Carbon County, Pennsylvania. The US Department of State investigated the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Tatum Wilson. If convicted, Gibson faces up to 13 years in federal prison. In a separate case in the Middle District of Florida, 65-year-old Rochelle Deborah Johnson was indicted for illegal voting, passport fraud, and falsely claiming US citizenship to obtain state benefits. Johnson allegedly used a fraudulently obtained passport for international travel in 2016 and attempted to renew it in 2018 by falsely claiming US citizenship. She is also accused of unlawfully voting in the 2020 presidential election and falsely claiming citizenship to renew her Florida driver’s license. Johnson faces up to 35 years in federal prison if convicted. The US Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service investigated the case, which is being prosecuted by Special Assistant US Attorney Joseph Wheeler III.

In a significant political development, Darron Pickstock of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) emerged victorious in the Golden Isles by-election, defeating Brian Brown of the Free National Movement (FNM). The election, seen by many as a litmus test for the Davis administration’s performance nearing the end of its term, was characterized by intense campaigning but disappointingly low voter turnout. Unofficial results revealed that only 3,873 out of nearly 8,000 registered voters cast their ballots. Pickstock secured a comfortable win with 1,873 votes, while Brown trailed with 1,636 votes. The Coalition of Independents’ Brian Rolle garnered 348 votes, and Independent candidate Karen Butler received 16. Despite the victory, PLP members privately expressed concerns over the low turnout and the unexpected performance of the Coalition of Independents, sparking discussions about strategies for the upcoming general election. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis hailed the win as a pivotal moment for Golden Isles, emphasizing the importance of unity and continued effort. He acknowledged the challenges faced during the campaign and pledged to address the economic disparities felt by some residents. Davis also extended his gratitude to Brown for his participation in the democratic process. In his victory speech, Pickstock expressed his gratitude to his constituents and vowed to earn their trust through consistent and diligent work. He paid tribute to the late Vaughn Miller, whose passing created the vacancy in the House of Assembly. This marks the second by-election victory for the PLP since it assumed office.

The atmosphere at the Free National Movement’s (FNM) Golden Isles constituency office was somber and disheartened last night as supporters grappled with the realization that their candidate, Brian Brown, had lost the by-election. The mood stood in stark contrast to the jubilant celebrations at the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) office nearby, where Darron Pickstock was officially declared the winner. Despite the defeat, Mr. Brown was met with cheers and remained resolute, vowing to continue his community efforts. He emphasized his commitment to serving the constituency, announcing plans to feed 500 residents for Thanksgiving and visit supporters to express gratitude. FNM Leader Michael Pintard acknowledged the narrow margin of the loss, praising Mr. Brown’s dedication and integrity while addressing concerns about low voter turnout. He reaffirmed the party’s determination to regroup and prepare for future elections. Mr. Pickstock secured 1,873 votes (48.36%), while Mr. Brown garnered 1,636 votes (42.24%). Independent candidates Brian Rolle and Karen Butler received 348 and 16 votes, respectively. Throughout the evening, FNM supporters held onto hope, with some attributing Mr. Pickstock’s victory to government resources. Despite the loss, many FNMs expressed optimism about their chances in the upcoming general election, viewing the close race as a sign of potential success.

The recent Golden Isles by-election has cast a spotlight on the Coalition of Independents (COI), revealing its inability to emerge as a viable national alternative to the dominant Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and Free National Movement (FNM). Despite widespread public discontent with the two major parties, the COI’s performance in the by-election demonstrated minimal electoral progress, securing only 348 votes, or 8.99 percent of the total ballots cast. This result mirrors the party’s 2021 General Election performance, where it garnered approximately 6 percent of the vote, highlighting its stagnant growth in voter support. Established in 2020 as a response to decades of PLP–FNM dominance, the COI initially promised to disrupt the political landscape. Over the years, it has expanded its organizational structure, ratified numerous candidates, and even gained its first sitting Member of Parliament earlier this year. However, the Golden Isles outcome underscores that these efforts have not translated into widespread voter acceptance. The constituency remained a two-party contest, with COI support concentrated in a few polling divisions—14.23 percent in Division 4 and 15.46 percent in Division 6B—while remaining significantly lower elsewhere. This pattern of isolated enthusiasm without sustained momentum suggests that the COI has yet to pose a credible challenge to the established political order. As of press time, The Tribune was unable to obtain comments from COI officials.

Former NBA player and ambassador-at-large Rick Fox has officially declared his intention to run in the upcoming Bahamas general election, putting an end to weeks of speculation about his political aspirations. In a heartfelt social media announcement, Fox emphasized his deep commitment to the nation, stating that the Bahamas he envisions can no longer remain a distant dream. He highlighted the urgent need for transparency, a modernized economy, and equitable opportunities for all citizens. Fox’s decision to enter politics stems from months of listening to the concerns and aspirations of Bahamians, who have expressed frustration with the current state of affairs. While he has not yet revealed whether he will run independently or align with a political party, Fox disclosed that he has engaged in discussions with both major parties. He noted that Free National Movement (FNM) leader Michael Pintard had been particularly persistent in courting his candidacy. Fox underscored the critical importance of addressing pressing issues such as youth empowerment, healthcare, housing, and public safety, warning that the country is running out of time to act. He pledged to champion transparency, integrity, and excellence in leadership, framing his campaign as a fight for the Bahamas on the global stage. Fox’s announcement comes amid criticism of politicians for their perceived inaction and opportunism, which he recently mocked in a Halloween-themed post. His candidacy has already sparked controversy, with some questioning the appropriateness of his diplomatic role in light of his political ambitions. Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell issued a veiled rebuke, reminding ambassadors of their duty to serve the government that appointed them. Despite the backlash, Fox remains steadfast in his mission to transform the Bahamas into a nation where every citizen feels secure, empowered, and proud.

Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has forecasted that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) may call for an early general election if they secure victory in today’s Golden Isles by-election. Speaking at a Free National Movement (FNM) rally on Friday, Ingraham emphasized the high stakes surrounding the by-election, which both major parties view as a critical political litmus test. “If they win on Monday, they’ll push for an early election by March. If they lose, they’ll stagnate,” he remarked. The by-election, necessitated by the passing of Vaughn Miller, features PLP’s Darron Pickstock and FNM’s Brian Brown as the leading contenders, alongside Brian Rolle of the Coalition of Independents and independent candidate Karen Butler. Historically, by-elections have favored the ruling party, and political analysts are closely monitoring the outcome to gauge public sentiment ahead of the general election, which must occur before October next year. Voter turnout is expected to play a pivotal role, intensifying recent campaign efforts. Results are anticipated by early evening. Ingraham revealed he initially advised Brown against running, citing historical trends favoring the PLP in by-elections. However, Brown’s determination to represent the community prevailed. Ingraham framed the contest as both a referendum on the Davis administration and an opportunity for the FNM to reclaim influence in a constituency he believes has been neglected. He praised Brown as a grounded candidate with deep community ties, likening him to former Adelaide MP Frank Watson. Ingraham expressed surprise at Brown’s 2021 loss, given his strong local support, and highlighted Brown’s integrity, stating he seeks no personal gain from the position. “Brian Brown isn’t looking for anything; he’s here to serve,” Ingraham concluded.

In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham publicly supported the retention of Returning Officer Neil Campbell for the Golden Isles by-election, despite objections from his own party, the Free National Movement (FNM). This endorsement came just a day before Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson confirmed his decision to keep Mr. Campbell in his role, expressing confidence in the election’s transparency and impartiality.

The FNM, led by Chairman Dr. Duane Sands, had raised concerns about Mr. Campbell’s suitability, citing alleged conflicts of interest. These concerns were amplified when Mr. Campbell referred to Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis as his ‘adopted father’ during a press conference. However, Mr. Thompson defended Mr. Campbell, highlighting his voluntary disclosure of personal connections and his long-standing reputation as a respected public officer.

Mr. Thompson emphasized the challenges of finding individuals in The Bahamas who are entirely disconnected from political figures, given the country’s small size and interconnected society. He stated, ‘I do believe that Mr. Campbell will execute his public duties as Returning Officer without fear or favor.’

Meanwhile, Mr. Ingraham acknowledged Mr. Campbell’s inexperience but dismissed claims of wrongdoing. He attributed the FNM’s suspicions to procedural missteps during the advance poll, such as Mr. Campbell’s initial reluctance to place ballots in the designated box. However, Mr. Ingraham expressed confidence that Mr. Campbell had learned from these mistakes and would ensure a smooth election process.

Addressing FNM supporters at a rally, Mr. Ingraham urged them to focus on voter turnout rather than concerns about Mr. Campbell’s impartiality. He reassured the public that The Bahamas’ electoral system is robust, with sufficient safeguards to prevent election fraud. ‘Whoever wins on Election Day will win,’ he declared, emphasizing the country’s history of fair elections under various governing parties.

Mr. Campbell, who has extensive experience in overseeing elections both domestically and internationally, remains at the center of the debate as the Golden Isles by-election approaches.