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标签： Bahamas

巴哈马

  • PLP to launch election campaign February 16

    PLP to launch election campaign February 16

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Prime Minister Philip Davis has officially announced the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) will commence its general election campaign on February 16, following the completion of candidate ratifications. The declaration came during a rally at party headquarters on Farrington Road, where Davis signaled the transition from internal preparations to full public campaigning.

    In a sharply worded address, Davis framed the upcoming election as a critical choice between continued progress or regression, directly targeting Opposition leader Michael Pintard as ‘Petty Pintard’ – a characterization that drew enthusiastic applause from supporters. ‘My mummy used to tell me – there’s nothing worse than a petty man,’ Davis stated, invoking personal wisdom to criticize his political opponent.

    The Prime Minister warned that opposition leadership would jeopardize economic recovery achievements, specifically citing concerns about public service restructuring and potential employment reductions. Davis contrasted what he termed ‘petty leadership’ focused on ‘grudges instead of progress’ with his administration’s record of economic stabilization post-pandemic.

    Davis accused opposition forces of consistently criticizing government policies without presenting substantive alternatives. ‘We can’t afford leaders who are more interested in settling scores than solving problems,’ he emphasized, urging supporters to actively campaign rather than assume victory.

    The Prime Minister made direct appeals to key constituencies, promising organized labor continued representation in policy discussions and pledging sustained support for healthcare workers. ‘Working people deserve fairness, unions deserve respect, healthcare workers deserve support,’ Davis declared.

    Newly ratified PLP candidates joined in presenting the party’s accomplishments since 2021, highlighting infrastructure investments, VAT reductions on essential food items, minimum wage increases, and labor agreement signings. Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper characterized the ratification process as ‘a deployment order’ signaling the party’s transition from economic recovery to promoting Bahamian ownership and sustained development.

    Davis concluded by positioning the election as a referendum on whether recent reforms would be maintained or reversed, emphasizing his administration’s investments in social programs and infrastructure across the archipelago.

  • Mystery over couple’s deaths

    Mystery over couple’s deaths

    Authorities are investigating the mysterious deaths of an elderly couple discovered in their Carmichael Road residence four days after their last confirmed contact with relatives. Theresa Edwards, 68, and William Pearce, 78, were found deceased in what family members describe as a traumatic discovery that unfolded like a cinematic tragedy.

    The sequence of events began when concerned relatives initiated welfare checks after failed communication attempts throughout the week. Granddaughter Yasmen Darling recounted the growing unease that culminated in Saturday’s grim discovery. “Initially, we attributed the silence to their daily routines,” she explained. “But as days passed without returned calls, our concern intensified dramatically.”

    Upon arriving at the property, Darling encountered locked gates, secured entrances, and an unsettling stillness. After scaling the gate, she detected a distinct odor of decomposition and observed flies near the windows—prompting her to summon additional family members for assistance. The group ultimately breached the home through a front window.

    Inside, the couple was located in separate areas: Edwards in bed beneath a blanket, severely decomposed, and Pearce slumped over a bathroom toilet. Emergency services confirmed no evidence of gas leaks or environmental hazards, while detectives preliminarily ruled out criminal involvement.

    The couple, married in 2018, had resided independently for approximately a decade despite significant health challenges. Pearce battled stage four cancer and diabetes, while Edwards managed type two diabetes and had survived a stroke within the past two years. Remarkably, relatives emphasized Edwards remained actively engaged in community support until the end, regularly transporting her husband to medical appointments and coordinating grocery distribution through her church.

    “Her vitality masked any indication of impending decline,” Darling noted. “She maintained her helping nature until the very end—this complete unexpectedness compounds our grief.”

    Autopsies are pending to determine official causes of death. Meanwhile, the family derives slight comfort from believing the couple departed together peacefully. “In their togetherness, we find solace,” Darling reflected. “Perhaps they’ve found freedom from suffering.”

  • Tributes pour in for ‘fearless attorney’ Ramona Farquharson

    Tributes pour in for ‘fearless attorney’ Ramona Farquharson

    The Bahamas legal and political spheres are grappling with the unexpected demise of distinguished attorney Ramona Farquharson-Seymour, whose passing yesterday prompted an outpouring of tributes honoring her formidable career and unwavering advocacy. While specific circumstances surrounding her death remain undisclosed, reports indicate she was discovered unresponsive and subsequently transported to Doctors Hospital, where legal colleagues and family members convened upon learning the tragic news.

    Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard expressed profound shock at the loss, characterizing Farquharson-Seymour as universally respected for her “sharp wit, formidable legal acumen, and fearless advocacy.” Pintard emphasized her significant contributions to the party’s Executive Council, noting: “She was direct and did not mince words when sharing her views. We benefitted from her tough questions and strong positions on subjects most would avoid.”

    Prime Minister Philip Davis issued an emotional statement acknowledging the profound impact of her passing: “There are some losses that land heavy, because they take away someone who was still in the middle of giving. Ramona was in her late 40s, yet her name already carried weight in our legal community, built on hard work, sharp ability, and the courage to take on difficult matters.”

    Admitted to the Bar in December 2001, Farquharson-Seymour maintained an active practice for over two decades, handling numerous high-profile cases. Her recent legal representation included former Prison Commissioner Charles Murphy in his ongoing litigation against the government following his 2021 administrative leave. She additionally served on the defense team for Long Island MP Adrian Gibson during initial investigations into his tenure at the Water and Sewerage Corporation in 2022.

    Demonstrating her commitment to legal professional development, Farquharson-Seymour had expressed intentions to campaign for the Bahamas Bar Association presidency in 2023, advocating for organizational renewal and fresh leadership vision. Although ultimately unsuccessful in her bid against incumbent Khalil Parker, her aspiration reflected deep engagement with the legal community’s evolution.

    The Tribune confirms the attorney had previously explored political candidacy through the Free National Movement before withdrawing her application. Prime Minister Davis extended condolences to her husband, attorney Calvin Seymour, their two daughters, and extended family, recognizing the immeasurable void left in both professional circles and personal relationships.

  • China hits back at US criticism over Nassau hospital financing

    China hits back at US criticism over Nassau hospital financing

    A significant diplomatic confrontation has emerged between the United States and China regarding the financing of Nassau’s new medical facility, with both nations presenting contrasting views on the project’s implications for Bahamian sovereignty. The Chinese embassy in New Providence issued a formal rebuttal to criticism from US Ambassador Herschel Walker, characterizing the $195 million financing arrangement as a “livelihood project” developed through mutual consultation and respect.

    The hospital project, which represents a substantial portion of the $278 million total financing, is being funded through preferential loan terms from China Export-Import Bank. Chinese officials emphasized that their cooperation with The Bahamas contains no hidden strategic objectives or third-party targeting, stating that the arrangement strictly addresses critical healthcare infrastructure needs while respecting the nation’s autonomous decision-making capabilities.

    Ambassador Walker had previously raised concerns about the financing terms, particularly noting that Chinese law and jurisdiction would govern the loan agreement. He advocated for alternative funding options that align with international norms and confirmed that China Railway Construction Corporation, the project’s primary contractor, appears on a US restricted investment list due to its connections to China’s military-industrial apparatus.

    The Bahamian government has defended its decision, explaining that the agreement underwent comprehensive technical, legal, and financial review before approval. Officials highlighted that urgent healthcare requirements—including tertiary care, maternal health services, and addressing systemic capacity shortages—outweighed other considerations. The administration also revealed that despite engaging with US financial institutions, including the US Export-Import Bank, no alternative financing package matching China’s offer in scale, timing, and certainty materialized.

    Financial feasibility studies presented to Parliament indicate the facility will operate at a financial deficit, generating only 3.7% of its annual operating costs internally while requiring approximately $66 million in additional annual subsidies. However, government ministers stress that the project’s primary objective is social rather than commercial, aiming to alleviate critical healthcare shortages and improve national health outcomes despite the anticipated financial challenges.

  • Tremors felt in Inagua after 5.8-magnitude Cuba quake

    Tremors felt in Inagua after 5.8-magnitude Cuba quake

    Residents across the southern Bahamas islands experienced mild seismic activity early Sunday morning following a significant earthquake near eastern Cuba. The 5.8-magnitude tremor, which struck at approximately 7:00 AM local time, originated just 49 kilometers southeast of Baracoa in Cuba’s Guantánamo Province at a shallow depth of 15 kilometers.

    According to the Bahamas Department of Meteorology, which coordinated with both the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the United States Geological Survey, the seismic event posed no tsunami threat to the Bahamian archipelago. Preliminary assessments indicated that light to moderate shaking was potentially felt in the southern islands, including Inagua and Acklins, as well as in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

    Inagua Island Administrator Quenna Gibson, though absent from the district during the incident, received multiple accounts from residents who reported distinct vibrations. Assistant Superintendent of Police Kelly Kemp described experiencing bed shaking and residential vibrations, with similar reports from Chief Councillor Palacious and other community members. Despite the widespread sensations, no injuries or significant structural damage were officially documented.

    Local resident and district council member George O. Harris recounted being alerted by neighbors moments after the tremors began. One neighbor dramatically described being jolted awake by moving furniture, initially mistaking the phenomenon for ‘evilness’ before recognizing it as seismic activity. Harris noted the appearance of new cracks around doorframes in older buildings but confirmed no serious damage to government facilities or local infrastructure, including his Coast FM radio station compound.

    Meteorological officials have advised residents to maintain normal activities while remaining alert for potential aftershocks, though none are expected to be significant. The public is encouraged to report any unusual observations through official channels for ongoing monitoring.

  • Services restored after dialysis delays at PMH

    Services restored after dialysis delays at PMH

    Princess Margaret Hospital experienced a temporary suspension of its dialysis services early Monday morning, resulting in treatment delays for numerous patients. The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) officially confirmed the incident, attributing the disruption to unexpected staff absences rather than any form of industrial labor action.

    In an official communiqué, the PHA characterized the staff shortages as ‘legitimate’ absences, swiftly moving to dispel rumors of coordinated strike activity. The authority extended sincere apologies to affected patients and their families for the resultant inconvenience and emotional distress caused by the unforeseen interruption to critical healthcare services.

    Medical operations have now been completely reinstated following the morning’s procedural delays. The PHA has guaranteed that all patients originally scheduled for treatment will receive their necessary dialysis care throughout the remainder of the day. Reaffirming its institutional commitment, the authority emphasized its continued dedication to delivering secure, punctual, and empathetic healthcare services to the community despite these operational challenges.

  • Davis backs Sebas Bastian despite FBI file allegations

    Davis backs Sebas Bastian despite FBI file allegations

    Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis has publicly affirmed his support for Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) candidate Sebas Bastian, despite unverified allegations appearing in FBI documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. The documents, dated September 30, 2021, name both Bastian and Island Luck co-founder Adrian Fox in connection with claims made by an informant alleging Epstein’s influence over Bahamian and U.S. governments.

    Speaking to reporters on Friday, Prime Minister Davis dismissed the significance of these allegations, stating he had heard Bastian’s response and found the claims unpersuasive. ‘I don’t know as much about what is in those files and what those files mean,’ Davis remarked. ‘All I know is that he’s indicated that he doesn’t know foolishness. He don’t know what they’re talking about.’ When questioned whether the issue would impact the PLP’s election campaign, the Prime Minister responded confidently: ‘I don’t think so.’

    Both Bastian and Fox have issued separate denials through Tribune Business, asserting they never met Epstein nor engaged in any illegal activities. Bastian, campaigning in Fort Charlotte, quipped: ‘The closest I come to Epstein, Jepstein or any Stein is the stain on my shirt,’ emphasizing his focus on national development. Fox categorically denied any personal interaction with Epstein or involvement in firearms or human trafficking.

    The same FBI document also references Craig Flowers of FML Group of Companies and former national security minister Marvin Dames (misspelled as ‘Marvin James’), though without linking them to trafficking allegations. Dames confirmed facilitating an informant’s visit to the U.S. Embassy but questioned the document’s overall authenticity. Flowers did not respond to requests for comment prior to publication.

  • Fox: This election will be my first time voting

    Fox: This election will be my first time voting

    In a remarkable political development, former NBA champion Rick Fox has revealed that the upcoming general election will mark his first-ever vote cast in The Bahamas. The Free National Movement’s candidate for Garden Hills disclosed this significant personal milestone during a recent appearance on Our TV’s ‘On the Record’ with host Jerome Sawyer.

    Fox explained that he obtained his voter registration card approximately five years ago while anticipating his permanent return to The Bahamas following his daughter’s college graduation. ‘No, this is going to be the first time,’ Fox responded when questioned about his voting history. ‘Yes, and I can’t wait. So it’s the first time for a lot of people, for me, and for a lot of people that need to get out and register to vote—that’s how we protect our sovereignty.’

    His candidacy has generated considerable attention within political circles, particularly as his ratification surprised some party supporters who had expected longtime aspirant D’Angelo Ferguson to secure the nomination after months of campaigning. Fox described a Thursday morning meeting at IHOP with both Ferguson and the party leader, emphasizing their discussions focused on unity and constituency development plans. He praised Ferguson’s professional accomplishments and suggested he has ‘a bright political future if he chooses.’

    Addressing his basketball career, Fox clarified his international representation, denying that he played for Canada’s Olympic basketball team despite FIBA records indicating his participation in the 1990 and 1994 World Championships. He stated that he declined Olympic opportunities and instead led The Bahamas’ national basketball program while maintaining his NBA career.

    Regardless of the election outcome, Fox affirmed his commitment to remain in The Bahamas, signaling a permanent dedication to his home nation’s development.

  • Father killed in Wulff Road crash years after losing son

    Father killed in Wulff Road crash years after losing son

    A devastating multi-vehicle collision on Wulff Road Thursday evening claimed the life of 33-year-old Jarad Miller, a man whose family says was finally rebuilding his life after the tragic loss of his toddler son nearly three years prior.

    According to police reports, the fatal incident occurred approximately at 7pm near the Kemp Road intersection. The chain of events began when a silver Acura attempted to overtake a Toyota Corolla while traveling eastbound. During this maneuver, the Acura collided head-on with a westbound Yamaha XTZ motorcycle operated by Miller, then subsequently struck the Corolla while attempting to re-enter the traffic lane.

    Miller sustained catastrophic injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead after being transported to a medical facility. His passing marks the second profound tragedy for his family within three years, following the death of his approximately two-year-old son from illness in 2021.

    Family members residing in Texas received the heartbreaking news through Miller’s mother. Ricardo Miller, the victim’s uncle, described the impact as striking the family at its ‘very core,’ noting that Miller’s mother was particularly devastated by the loss.

    Known affectionately as ‘JR’ among relatives, the deceased had been demonstrating remarkable resilience following his son’s passing. Those close to him reported he had been focusing on stable employment, personal accountability, and entrepreneurial aspirations that included establishing a car wash business. After working extensively in Abaco, Miller had recently returned to New Providence, where family characterized him as intellectually gifted and diligently industrious.

    The Thursday evening fatality was one of two separate traffic incidents resulting in deaths that day. In a concurrent Abaco accident, police reported a white Honda Pilot carrying two adult males veered off the roadway and collided with a tree, resulting in one fatality at the scene and the transportation of the second injured individual to a local medical clinic.

  • Long Island FNM rift over candidate

    Long Island FNM rift over candidate

    A significant political schism has emerged within the Free National Movement (FNM) on Long Island, where senior constituency association members are openly advocating for sitting MP Adrian Gibson to run as an independent candidate. This development follows the party leadership’s controversial decision to deny Gibson ratification in favor of Dr. Andre Rollins as their official candidate for the upcoming general election.

    Maurice Minnis, a council representative for the Long Island Constituency Association, revealed that local supporters are actively encouraging Gibson to contest the election outside the party structure. They argue the leadership’s decision disregarded both their unanimous endorsement of Gibson and established party protocols that allow constituency groups to submit preferred candidates.

    The constituency association had formally endorsed Gibson months earlier through a letter signed by numerous senior officers and prominent party figures, including former Director of Education Iris Pinder and former MPs Lawrence Cartwright and Sylvia Scriven. The signatories cited Gibson’s record of advocacy and representation as justification for their support.

    Ms. Pinder, who served as Gibson’s campaign manager in two previous elections, characterized the ratification process as fundamentally flawed and potentially predetermined. She noted that during candidate presentations, Rollins failed to specifically mention Long Island in his remarks, while other prospective candidates presented detailed plans for the constituency.

    The controversy is further complicated by Gibson’s ongoing legal situation. He has faced criminal charges since 2022, with the case remaining unresolved in the courts. While party leadership appears to view this as an electoral liability, Gibson’s supporters maintain the principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ should prevail, especially given the four-year duration without resolution.

    Contrasting perspectives emerged regarding local support. While Minnis claimed overwhelming backing for Gibson at public meetings, Long Island Chief Councillor Ian Knowles suggested many residents actually support Dr. Rollins. Knowles acknowledged Gibson’s past performance but emphasized the unresolved court case presents a significant obstacle to his candidacy.

    The deepening rift threatens to split the FNM vote on Long Island, potentially altering the electoral dynamics in the constituency. Both factions appear entrenched in their positions, setting the stage for a potentially divisive political battle that could have implications beyond this single constituency.