Authorities in West Grand Bahama are conducting active investigations into two separate residential fires that occurred on Wednesday, both suspected to be criminally motivated incidents that left multiple residents homeless. The first blaze erupted approximately at 3:00 AM in Hepburn Town, Eight Mile Rock, followed by a second destructive fire around 10:00 PM that completely devastated an eight-room structure in West End. Superintendent Nicholas Johnson confirmed that fortunately no fatalities resulted from either incident, though police are treating both cases as potential arson. Survivor Okino Kareem Burrows recounted waking to discover flames emerging from an unoccupied bedroom in the Hepburn Town residence. Despite attempting to contain the fire, the inferno rapidly consumed the entire structure. ‘I have nothing—no documents, no clothes. Everything burned,’ Burrows emotionally stated during a televised ZNS interview, asserting his belief that someone intentionally ignited a mattress to start the fire. The tragedy has left Burrows, who works aboard a fishing vessel, without possessions or critical documentation. His grandmother, Enid, who raised him as her own son, expressed profound grief during a Tribune interview, noting that divine protection had spared his life as he had departed to sea following the incident. Burrows has publicly appealed for community support and building materials to facilitate reconstruction of his destroyed home. Investigators continue to examine both fire scenes for evidence while displaced residents face the challenging process of rebuilding their lives.
标签： Bahamas
巴哈马
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Pair of siblings charged over vulgar shanty demolition clash
Two property owners from Eleuthera have been formally charged following a contentious confrontation with government officials during a demolition exercise in Spanish Wells earlier this month. The incident, which gained national attention through viral social media footage, culminated in court proceedings yesterday.
Blake and Dominique Pinder appeared before Acting Magistrate Gwendolyn Patram where they entered not guilty pleas to multiple charges including disorderly behavior and using obscene and abusive language. Blake Pinder faces an additional count of obstruction for allegedly interfering with official government operations.
The charges stem from a heated encounter between the siblings and members of the Unregulated Community Action Task Force during the dismantling of condemned structures in what authorities classified as a shantytown area. Prosecutors asserted that the defendants engaged in shouting racial epithets and physically obstructed officials during the demolition process—allegations both parties vigorously contested in court proceedings.
As part of their release conditions, judicial authorities imposed strict restrictions prohibiting the defendants from discussing the case or posting related content on social media platforms. The case has been adjourned until February 4 for further proceedings.
This legal confrontation follows a broader government initiative targeting unregulated structures deemed unsafe or unlawful throughout the Bahamas. The operation in Spanish Wells generated significant public discourse after video evidence circulated widely showing intense exchanges between the Pinders and task force personnel.
Prior to the legal charges, Blake Pinder had publicly contested the government’s actions, claiming officials unlawfully demolished family property that had been owned for decades. He maintained that despite efforts to regularize the development—including providing housing with established utility connections—authorities failed to properly engage with him before proceeding with demolition. Pinder further disputed the government’s classification of the property as part of a shantytown, noting his late father’s longstanding ownership and the structures’ established nature.
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Fred’s last dance
Veteran Bahamian politician Fred Mitchell, chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and Member of Parliament for Fox Hill, has announced he likely will not seek reelection for the party’s chairmanship, signaling what may be the final chapter of his extensive political career. Mitchell revealed to The Tribune that he anticipates having “one campaign left” focused solely on securing reelection in his Fox Hill constituency.
The declaration comes amid intensified pre-election preparations by both major political parties. The PLP faces internal deliberations about whether to conduct a full-scale convention ahead of the upcoming general election, while the opposition Free National Movement (FNM) is organizing a non-voting convention to solidify its campaign strategy.
Mitchell, who faced a contested chairmanship race in 2023 with backing from Prime Minister Philip Davis, characterized that bid as potentially the “penultimate” campaign of his career. When questioned about definitive plans, Mitchell maintained characteristic political pragmatism: “The only reason I’m not saying it definitively is because you never say never in politics.”
Within PLP ranks, deputy national election coordinator Valentine Grimes expressed reservations about holding a divisive internal convention immediately before a general election. “The internal fight is sometimes more vicious than the external fight,” Grimes noted, emphasizing concerns that such contests could prove counterproductive despite recognizing the value of unifying party members.
Meanwhile, FNM leader Michael Pintard confirmed plans for a business-focused convention without internal elections. Chairman Duane Sands indicated this gathering would address constitutional adjustments and recognize party contributors while maintaining election readiness. Sands issued a challenge to the governing party: “Let him ring the bell. Let him fool around and find out,” referencing uncertainty about when Prime Minister Davis might call the election.
Both parties acknowledge the competitive landscape ahead, with Grimes conceding victory wouldn’t be guaranteed despite confidence in the Davis administration’s performance. The political environment remains dynamic as Bahamian parties position themselves for an election whose timing remains uncertain.
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‘Pockets of The Bahamas set for best year in history’
Prominent Bahamian business leader Sir Franklyn Wilson has projected that selective regions within The Bahamas will witness unprecedented economic prosperity in 2026, while simultaneously addressing the persistent challenge of unequal wealth distribution across the archipelago. The chairman of Arawak Homes and Sunshine Holdings specifically highlighted south Eleuthera as a prime beneficiary, attributing its anticipated growth to major developments including the Jack’s Bay project which he chairs, Disney’s Lighthouse Point cruise port, and the Ritz-Carlton Reserve development led by Colombian billionaire Luis Carlos Sarmiento.
Grand Bahama also emerged as another focal point in Wilson’s economic forecast, with ‘very significant developments’ anticipated in early 2026. These are expected to include resolutions concerning the Grand Lucayan property and Grand Bahama International Airport, alongside potential settlements in the $357 million arbitration dispute with the Grand Bahama Port Authority.
Despite his optimistic regional projections, Sir Franklyn acknowledged the prevailing sentiment among many Bahamians who feel excluded from economic gains. He identified problematic personal financial behaviors—including excessive consumer debt accumulation and gambling expenditures—as significant barriers to individual economic advancement.
The business magnate issued a compelling appeal to skilled Bahamians living abroad to reverse the brain drain by returning home. He emphasized that numerous opportunities exist within The Bahamas that may surpass their current overseas prospects, urging them to overcome any hesitation about returning and contribute their expertise to national development.
Wilson cautioned that south Eleuthera’s rapid growth would inevitably create new challenges, including housing shortages and potential over-employment situations. He stressed that resolving longstanding land title issues would be crucial for addressing affordable housing needs in the developing region.
Regarding national energy policies, Sir Franklyn indicated that meaningful impacts from renewable energy reforms and potential electricity price reductions would likely materialize in 2027 rather than 2026. His company, FOCOL Holdings, plays a significant role in these developments as New Providence’s baseload generation provider.
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Leroy Major hints at possible run as indpendent – ‘Nothing is off the table’
Member of Parliament for Southern Shores Leroy Major has publicly suggested the possibility of running as an independent candidate in Bahamas’ upcoming general election, creating uncertainty about his future with the ruling Progressive Liberal Party. When pressed about rumors regarding an independent bid, Major remained deliberately ambiguous, stating only that “nothing is off the table” and that “time will tell,” while repeatedly urging observers to “watch the road.”
The political speculation intensified following Major’s conspicuous absence from recent PLP candidate interviews for Southern Shores aspirants at the party headquarters. When questioned about whether he had been advised to step aside, the MP again declined to provide clear answers, maintaining his cryptic “watch the road” response.
Major first garnered national attention last year after publicly criticizing what he characterized as unequal resource distribution and expressing frustration with the treatment of backbenchers in an interview with The Tribune. Although he subsequently attempted to retract these statements in the House of Assembly, claiming his comments had been misrepresented, the newspaper maintained the accuracy of its reporting.
As the PLP moves closer to selecting its candidate for Southern Shores, interest in the constituency has significantly intensified. Deputy chairman Obie Roberts and ZNS General Manager Clint Watson have both expressed interest in the nomination and were recently interviewed by the party’s Candidates Committee.
When asked about his preferred candidate for the nomination, Major avoided direct engagement, instead questioning whether he had ever made formal public statements regarding Southern Shores. Regarding growing tensions between supporters of Roberts and Watson, Major dismissed the issue as being “beyond my pay grade,” emphasizing that his focus remains on serving his constituents.
The MP concluded by stating his intention to meet with constituents to inform them “what time it is,” adding a challenge to any potential candidate: “Whoever they put in Southern Shores, tell them go bring their boss.”
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‘How much will Bahamians save from VAT cut on food?’
The House of Assembly witnessed escalating tensions as opposition lawmakers confronted the Davis administration regarding its recently implemented VAT reduction policy. Shanendon Cartwright, deputy leader of the FREE National Movement, spearheaded the challenge by demanding precise clarification on the actual financial benefits Bahamian households should anticipate from the value-added tax removal on unprepared food items.
During heated parliamentary debates, Cartwright emphasized the government’s apparent failure to communicate concrete details about the policy’s practical implications for citizens experiencing economic pressures. The discourse centered on whether the measure would generate substantial relief for families grappling with persistent financial constraints.
Cartwright referenced a Nassau Guardian analysis projecting approximate monthly savings of $11 per household, translating to roughly $127 annually. This calculation derived from distributing the government’s estimated $15 million revenue shortfall across the national household count—a methodology subsequently disputed by the Office of the Prime Minister.
The St. Barnabas representative characterized these projected savings as ‘shameful,’ particularly questioning the significance of such an amount for a typical four-person family unit.
Government MP Zane Lightbourne countered these assertions, arguing that quantifying savings with a universal figure fundamentally misrepresents the VAT relief mechanism. Lightbourne stressed that individual savings would inherently vary based on income disparities and distinct consumption patterns, making standardized estimates impractical.
Prime Minister Philip Davis defended the policy’s timing, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and asserting that international financial institutions had previously advised against premature tax reductions. Davis indicated that current economic conditions finally permitted the implementation of this relief measure.
Opposition members, including East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson, maintained that the policy lacked transparency, thorough analysis, and accountability. Thompson noted that despite growing dependence on non-profit assistance organizations, the government’s approach seemed more focused on headline-driven announcements than evidence-based policy-making.
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Girl who saw dad killed finds comfort in senior officer’s visit
In a heartrending display of compassion amid tragedy, five-year-old Quay’liah Arnett celebrated her birthday this week under the protective wing of Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings, who has become an unexpected pillar of support since the child witnessed her father’s brutal murder nearly one year ago.
The February 2023 shooting of 24-year-old Quintero Arnett sent shockwaves through the nation, with CCTV footage capturing the horrific moment when gunmen opened fire as his young daughter fled for safety. The disturbing visual evidence sparked national outrage and demands for justice, though no charges have been filed against the perpetrators to date.
Against this backdrop of unresolved violence, CSP Skippings has quietly integrated herself into the child’s recovery journey. On Tuesday, the senior officer organized a special birthday surprise at the police station with permission from Quay’liah’s grandfather, presenting the child with a new doll and headphones. The celebration evoked powerful parallels to photographs taken shortly after the murder, showing the same embrace between officer and child, both moments marked by Quay’liah’s resilient smile.
‘These seemingly small gestures of kindness create profound impacts,’ CSP Skippings told The Tribune. ‘This represents how policing evolves—building trust with younger generations through consistent demonstrations of care, concern, and genuine human connection.’
The relationship extends far beyond symbolic gestures. CSP Skippings maintains regular contact with the family and has committed to mentoring Quay’liah throughout her childhood. ‘We maintain active interest in her wellbeing to ensure she receives the love she deserves,’ she explained, praising the family’s ongoing care while emphasizing law enforcement’s role as a permanent support system.
Family members remember Quintero as a dedicated father and hardworker with no criminal affiliations, believing he was not the intended target. His father, Quinton Arnett, expressed gratitude for CSP Skippings’ sustained involvement, noting that while his granddaughter frequently asks about her father, she remains too young to comprehend the permanence of her loss.
‘I navigate this grief day by day,’ Mr. Arnett shared. ‘The pain persists, particularly knowing those responsible remain at large.’ He hopes Quay’liah will eventually understand the depth of her father’s love, evidenced by his final act of opening the car door to facilitate her escape during the attack.
CSP Skippings, who had met Quintero just one day before his death, recalled him as a ‘positive young man with a promising future’ seen playing basketball with his daughter at the police station. She now carries a ‘sense of obligation’ to honor his memory through supporting Quay’liah’s journey toward becoming a ‘joyful, responsible citizen.’
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Bowe plans to protest Freetown nomination
The Progressive Liberal Party’s internal nomination contest for the Freetown constituency intensified dramatically on Thursday as challenger Ormanique Bowe publicly declared her intention to protest the anticipated ratification of incumbent MP Wayne Munroe. The political confrontation has evolved into a deeply personal exchange between the two party members, revealing significant tensions within the ruling party’s candidate selection process.
Ms. Bowe, who previously contested the nomination in the last election cycle, launched pointed criticisms against Minister Munroe, who currently holds both the National Security portfolio and the Freetown parliamentary seat. She characterized his recent remarks about her candidacy as ‘petty and selective’ while asserting her strong grassroots support and qualifications to represent the constituency effectively.
‘Freetown’s residents deserve leadership that’s present and accountable,’ Bowe stated, directly addressing the incumbent minister. ‘This I have been displaying, and reaching out to you to follow suit.’ She emphasized the need for genuine engagement despite their shared party affiliation, noting that ‘we can speak many words, and in many ways but they must be coming genuinely from the heart.’
Minister Munroe, when questioned earlier about Bowe’s renewed nomination bid, maintained a diplomatic stance regarding the internal challenge. He acknowledged their previous political history and highlighted his professional cooperation with Bowe following the last election, including sponsoring her application to become a justice of the peace and appointing her to the Rehabilitation Offenders Committee within his ministry.
‘I work with whoever I have to work with. That’s just the nature of the business,’ Munroe remarked, downplaying the personal dimensions of the competition. ‘It is not something that you should get personal over.’ He characterized such internal challenges as a normal aspect of party politics.
Bowe, however, rejected any implications of ingratitude regarding these appointments while questioning their substantive value. She particularly noted that the Rehabilitation of Offender Board stipend amounted to merely $300 monthly, suggesting this demonstrated insufficient commitment to meaningful community engagement.
‘The people’s support and the skills to make a difference remain with me,’ Bowe asserted, reinforcing her credibility as a viable alternative to the incumbent.
The unfolding drama occurs alongside the planned ratification of approximately fourteen PLP candidates scheduled for Thursday evening. The extensive list includes Kirk Cornish (North Abaco), Bradley Fox (Central and South Abaco), Leonardo Lightbourne (North Andros), Wayde Watson (Bain and Grants Town), Patricia Deveaux (Bamboo Town), Sylvanus Petty (North Eleuthera), Clay Sweeting (Central and South Eleuthera), Lisa Rahming (Marathon), Ronell Armbrister (MICAL), Michael Halkitis (St. Barnabas), Owen Wells (St. James), Dr. Michael Darville (Tall Pines), and Zane Lightbourne (Yamacraw). This broad ratification indicates significant party mobilization ahead of upcoming electoral contests, though the Freetown situation reveals underlying tensions that may affect party unity.
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Tributes for ‘kind hearted and loving’ teen car crash victim
A profound sense of grief has enveloped the local community following the tragic death of 18-year-old Chanell Adderley, who lost her life in a devastating vehicular accident earlier this week. The incident occurred during the early hours of Monday morning when the car she was traveling in collided with a stationary wooden pole along Prince Charles Drive.
According to official police reports, two male occupants sustained injuries in the collision and were promptly transported to a medical facility for treatment. Their current medical status remains undisclosed to the public.
The sudden passing of the young woman has generated an outpouring of emotional tributes across social media platforms, with friends and family members collectively remembering her as an exceptionally compassionate and affectionate individual. Darvinette Hanna, a close friend, expressed her profound shock and disbelief, recalling their recent outing to watch the Avatar film together as a cherished final memory.
Lothario Adderley, the young woman’s uncle, emotionally described the tragedy as resembling a nightmare, addressing his niece directly in his online memorial: “SIP baby. Uncle love you so much.”
Another friend, identified only as Katara, provided an especially moving testimony, characterizing Adderley as both a sisterly figure and personal sanctuary. She credited the deceased with providing unwavering emotional support during challenging times, noting: “You never let me give up on myself, even when I wanted to. You encouraged me, pushed me, and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.” Katara concluded her tribute with a solemn pledge to persevere in her personal endeavors as a testament to their friendship.
This tragic incident represents the sixth recorded traffic fatality within the nation this year, according to official documentation maintained by The Tribune.
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Several PLP nomination races are heating up
The Progressive Liberal Party’s candidate selection process entered a vigorous phase yesterday as eleven aspirants presented their cases before the party’s Candidates Committee, signaling intense internal competition ahead of the upcoming general election. The PLP headquarters transformed into a vibrant political arena with dozens of supporters creating a festive atmosphere through music, Junkanoo rushes, and enthusiastic chanting while adorned in party regalia.
In the Freetown constituency, a notable contest emerged between incumbent MP Wayne Munroe and long-time party member Ormanique Bowe, who arrived with substantial supporter presence. Ms. Bowe, a local business owner, emphasized her role as a maternal figure for the constituency, expressing strong confidence in her nomination prospects. Mr. Munroe responded to the challenge with philosophical acceptance, acknowledging competition as a sign of party strength while maintaining his belief in being the optimal candidate.
The St. Anne’s constituency witnessed three contenders—Keno Wong, Latorna McPhee, and Chris Saunders—vying for nomination. Mr. Wong, former chairman of the National Neighbourhood Watch Council, cited community encouragement as his motivation, while Mr. Saunders, a veteran journalist, referenced the unexpected political shift in Georgia as inspiration for potential change despite previous electoral setbacks.
Former Senator Robyn Lynes adopted a strategic approach by expressing openness to any available constituency rather than challenging sitting MPs, emphasizing her decision emerged from financial stability, family preparedness, and spiritual guidance rather than personal ambition. Meanwhile, Tasha Bullard-Hamilton presented her vision for Bimini and The Berry Islands, highlighting ancestral connections and presenting comprehensive development plans addressing healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Several incumbent MPs including Wayde Watson (Bain and Grants Town), Zane Lightbourne (Yamacraw), Patricia Deveaux (Bamboo Town), and Lisa Rahming (Marathon) also underwent the committee review process. The party announced intentions to ratify its second candidate batch on Thursday, expected to include Sylvanus Petty, Kirk Cornish, Clay Sweeting, and Bradley Fox Jr.