标签： Bahamas

In a dramatic public confrontation outside Parliament on Wednesday, Free National Movement (FNM) Leader Michael Pintard and Coalition of Independents Leader Lincoln Bain engaged in a heated exchange that quickly escalated into a verbal altercation. The incident, captured on video and widely circulated online, occurred as dozens of public servants protested over pay adjustments. During the confrontation, Bain hurled unsubstantiated accusations at Pintard, including claims of drug abuse and mental illness, prompting widespread criticism.

Following the backlash, Bain issued an apology to Pintard during a Baptist Convention service, acknowledging that his behavior was ‘inappropriate.’ However, Pintard expressed concern over the lack of a clear retraction of the false claims, stating that such actions are deeply troubling. ‘To consistently make false claims intended to harm others’ reputations without clearly retracting them is unfortunate,’ Pintard remarked. He added that he would provide a more detailed response in due course.

This is not the first time the two leaders have clashed publicly. Last November, Bain labeled Pintard as ‘weak’ during an FNM press conference, following a US indictment that alleged Bahamian officials were involved in cocaine smuggling. The ongoing tension between the two political figures highlights the volatile nature of Bahamian politics and the challenges of maintaining civility in public discourse.

North Eleuthera Member of Parliament Sylvanus Petty has announced his intention to seek re-nomination for his seat, a decision that has sparked mixed reactions within the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). Petty, who previously declared his departure from frontline politics to focus on family, confirmed his change of heart during a press briefing, stating he has the full backing of Prime Minister Philip Davis. ‘I just spoke to the Prime Minister about 20 minutes ago, so I’m good to go,’ Petty told reporters. However, his decision has left some PLP aspirants feeling ‘disrespected,’ particularly Oscar McPhee, a hopeful candidate who criticized Petty’s performance and accused him of neglecting constituents. McPhee argued that Petty’s return undermines the efforts of other aspirants and fails to address the community’s dissatisfaction. Residents of North Eleuthera have also voiced frustration over ongoing issues such as water, electricity, and internet disruptions, with some expressing reluctance to see Petty return. Despite these concerns, Petty remains confident in his re-election prospects, citing recent government initiatives to improve infrastructure and living conditions. ‘We’re gonna have the same support as we did in the last election,’ he said. ‘So I’m confident that we’re gonna win it.’ Prime Minister Davis is expected to meet with other hopefuls for the constituency soon, as the PLP navigates internal tensions ahead of the upcoming election.

In a significant move to address migrant smuggling, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe presented the Smuggling of Migrants Bill, 2025, in the House of Assembly. This legislation aims to strengthen The Bahamas’ ability to prosecute traffickers involved in moving people into or out of the country, particularly when Bahamian nationals or interests are implicated. The bill extends jurisdiction to cases occurring both within and outside The Bahamas, covering scenarios where the country serves as a point of origin, transit, or destination for smuggled migrants. Minister Munroe emphasized that the expanded scope ensures local authorities can act against offenders regardless of the location of the crime, provided it involves Bahamian interests. The legislation also enhances enforcement powers at sea, including search, seizure, and arrest, while safeguarding migrant safety and human rights. The bill outlines various human smuggling offenses, such as using fraudulent documents, arranging illegal entry, concealing migrants, and coordinating smuggling operations. Penalties include fines up to $300,000 and imprisonment for up to 15 years, with harsher punishments for cases involving exploitation, violence, or harm to vulnerable groups. The bill also penalizes owners of vehicles, vessels, or aircraft used in smuggling and criminalizes harboring smuggled migrants for financial gain. Additionally, the legislation protects migrants’ rights, ensuring access to basic amenities, consular services, and asylum procedures. Minister Munroe highlighted that this legislation fills a critical gap in national law, aligning with international treaties to combat migrant smuggling effectively.

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.