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.
标签： Bahamas
巴哈马
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Bahamian woman called to bar in called to bar in England and Whales
In a remarkable achievement, Bahamian national Bianca Smith has officially become a barrister after being called to the Bar in London. At the young age of 23, Smith was formally admitted to the Bar of England and Wales on November 20 at Gray’s Inn, in a ceremony presided over by the Rt Honorable Justice Lady Geraldine Andrews.
Reflecting on her accomplishment, Smith expressed immense pride and gratitude. ‘It was an immense reward after all of my hard work, and I am incredibly proud,’ she stated. ‘I could not have done it without all of the support I have received. Thank you to everyone that has been a part of this journey. I am honoured to be a Barrister.’
Smith’s academic journey is equally impressive. She earned her Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours from Goldsmiths University of London, where her dissertation focused on Bahamian women and the systemic inequality in legislation concerning women’s rights, particularly citizenship transference and the lack of recognition of women’s issues. She further pursued Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) at City, University of London, graduating with a postgraduate diploma with merit.
This milestone not only highlights Smith’s dedication and intellectual prowess but also underscores her commitment to addressing systemic inequalities, particularly in the context of women’s rights in The Bahamas.
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Classmates carry memory of Camille on graduation stage
The Mitchell family, who tragically lost their 19-year-old daughter Camille to ovarian cancer in November 2023, found solace in a heartfelt tribute by her classmates during Benedict College’s 2024 graduation ceremony. Camille, a former Anatol Rodgers High School prefect captain and a Presidential Cup scholar with a perfect 4.0 GPA, had been pursuing a degree in Cyber Security. Despite her illness, she attended classes via Zoom from her hospital bed, determined to complete her education. Her untimely death came just months before she could walk the stage. Ahead of the Spring commencement, one of Camille’s friends informed the family that students planned to honor her memory by carrying her legacy across the stage. Many graduates wore funeral pins and stoles adorned with her name and photograph, creating a poignant moment for the Mitchells, who watched the ceremony via livestream. Kemel Mitchell, Camille’s brother, shared that the tribute was particularly emotional for their mother, who had been struggling to cope with reminders of her daughter’s passing at home. To help the family heal, Kemel created a shrine with Camille’s belongings, which has become a source of comfort. Camille’s classmates revealed that her determination and spirit had inspired them to persevere in their studies, with several crediting her as their motivation. Diagnosed in December 2022, Camille’s academic achievements and leadership roles, including her position as vice president of the Key Club, left a lasting impact on her community. Kemel, now studying education in the United States, reflected on how Camille’s illness influenced his youngest sister’s decision to pursue cellular and molecular biology. He emphasized that her passing has taught the family to cherish their time together and strengthened their faith. The graduation tribute, coupled with messages and photos shared by Camille’s friends, brought comfort to her mother, who had treated many of them like her own children.
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Ex-PM: ‘March election’ if PLP wins
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.
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US driver ‘forgot’ road rules in head-on crash that killed two
A pre-dawn journey to school in North Abaco turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy on Friday, claiming the lives of Monique Williams, a seasoned pre-school teacher, and her 13-year-old nephew, Terrance Williams. The fatal head-on collision occurred on SC Bootle Highway, leaving a close-knit family shattered and the Treasure Cay community in mourning. Ms Williams, 53, was driving Terrance and another teenager to school when her vehicle collided with a Ford Excursion carrying an American couple en route to a bone-fishing trip. According to Abaco journalist and pastor Silbert Mills, the visitors had missed their turn and mistakenly drove on the wrong side of the road, marking their first visit to The Bahamas. Terrance, an eighth-grade student at SC Bootle High School, and Ms Williams, who had dedicated nearly 30 years to teaching, were both deeply cherished in their community. The third passenger, Calsey Rolle, remains hospitalized. The Williams family, already tightly bonded, is grappling with the immense loss. Emmise Bootle, Ms Williams’ niece and Terrance’s cousin, described the duo as inseparable, with Ms Williams treating Terrance as her own son. Terrance, a quiet and thoughtful boy, was beginning to explore life’s deeper questions, while Ms Williams was eagerly anticipating retirement. The Ministry of Education and SC Bootle High School have paid heartfelt tributes to the victims, celebrating Terrance’s promise and Ms Williams’ unwavering dedication to education. The tragedy has left parents and former students reflecting on the profound impact Ms Williams had on their lives, even as they seek solace in faith.
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Arnold’s Department Store demolished as Cooper looks to remedy ‘dead after five-O-clock’ downtown
The Davis administration took a significant step in its downtown revitalization efforts by demolishing the historic Arnold’s Department Store on Elizabeth Avenue last Friday. The move is part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate Bay Street, Nassau’s main thoroughfare, following the devastating fire at Victoria Court in May. Tourism Minister Chester Cooper emphasized that the demolition aligns with the government’s vision to transform the area into a vibrant hub for business, tourism, and community life. ‘We’ve already demolished over a dozen buildings and are making steady progress,’ Cooper stated during a press briefing at the site. ‘This is about planning for the future and creating something magnificent for this space.’ The minister highlighted the government’s long-term goals, which include attracting investment, enhancing the tourist experience, and improving the area’s aesthetic appeal. Cooper also expressed optimism about fostering a lively atmosphere on Bay Street, which currently ‘goes dead at five o’clock.’ He encouraged Bahamians to seize the emerging business opportunities and envisioned mixed-use developments, including residential spaces, hotels, and innovative rooftop areas. The demolition, he noted, is intended to spark public interest and engagement in the revitalization project.
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Ingraham breaks with FNM over Returning Officer row
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.
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Jobless numbers fall: Rate down to 9.3% as nearly 4,000 find work
The Bahamas has witnessed a notable decline in its unemployment rate, which fell to 9.3 percent in the second quarter of 2025, as revealed by preliminary data from the Bahamas National Statistical Institute (BNSI). This marks a significant improvement from the first quarter’s 10.8 percent, driven by a surge in employment figures between April and June. Total employment rose to 218,620, an increase of 3,895 jobs, while the number of unemployed individuals dropped to 22,470, reflecting a reduction of 3,455. Both genders benefited from this positive trend, with male unemployment decreasing from 12,630 to 10,690 and female unemployment declining from 13,295 to 11,780. Youth unemployment also saw a slight improvement, falling to 20.3 percent, a 0.6 percentage point decrease from the previous quarter. The labour force expanded modestly to 241,090, with the participation rate climbing to 76.7 percent. Male participation rose to 80.7 percent, while female participation reached 72.4 percent. Key sectors such as construction, wholesale and retail, and community services experienced significant employment gains, with construction leading the way at a 17 percent increase. The number of discouraged workers, those who have stopped seeking employment due to perceived lack of opportunities, plummeted by 64 percent to 2,270. Educational qualifications among the workforce varied, with 27 percent reporting no formal examinations as their highest qualification, while 26 percent held a Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education.
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‘Long journey to healing’ for boy who spent eighth birthday in ICU after dog mauling
An eight-year-old boy, Dylan Durham, is battling severe injuries after a vicious pit bull attack behind his father’s restaurant earlier this month. The third grader, who remains hospitalized in serious condition, has undergone two surgeries and is unable to use his right hand. A GoFundMe campaign, launched to raise $5,000 for his medical expenses, has shared harrowing images of Dylan’s injuries, highlighting the extent of the trauma. The incident occurred on November 8, when three dogs, two of which turned aggressive, attacked Dylan on Rosetta Street. Emergency Medical Services rushed him to Princes Margaret Hospital, where he has since been treated in the Children’s Ward and intensive care unit. Tony Morris, the organizer of the fundraising page, described Dylan as brave and resilient but emphasized the emotional and financial toll on his family. Dylan’s parents have been forced to miss work to stay by his side, compounding their stress. The GoFundMe campaign, shared by Dylan’s school, Jordan Prince Williams Baptist, has raised over $2,000 so far. Animal Control officers have removed one dog from the property, while the other two were euthanized on November 11. Authorities confirmed that Dylan’s condition, though serious, is not life-threatening. His recovery will require additional surgeries, specialized care, and rehabilitation.
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Two Texas men planned to capture a small Haitian island and enslave women and children as sex slaves
Two young men from Texas, Gavin Rivers Weisenburg, 21, and Tanner Christopher Thomas, 20, have been indicted by US federal prosecutors for allegedly conspiring to invade a small Haitian island with an army of homeless individuals. The shocking plot, described as one of the most bizarre criminal cases in recent memory, aimed to kill local men and enslave women and children as “sex slaves.” The men were also charged with producing child pornography, having allegedly persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct.