标签： Bahamas

Political interest is intensifying around the recently established Bimini and Berry Islands electoral constituency, with early speculation centering on two prominent figures as potential contenders. Senator Randy Rolle of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), whose family has deep ancestral connections to Bimini, and former Free National Movement (FNM) Member of Parliament Carlton Bowleg are emerging as frontrunners in the developing political race.

Local Bimini resident Natasha Bullard Hamilton is also under consideration as a potential PLP candidate, adding further dimension to the emerging electoral landscape. The PLP’s Bimini branch chairperson Kitty Saunders has publicly endorsed Senator Rolle, characterizing him as the most qualified representative for the island community. Saunders emphasized Bimini’s longstanding advocacy for independent constituency status and stressed the necessity for leadership that comprehends the unique cultural fabric and developmental trajectory of the islands.

“Senator Randy Rolle Jr embodies the authentic spirit of our community,” Saunders stated. “He has demonstrated courageous leadership, genuine humility, and an unwavering dedication to public service.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Bowleg, who has already received official ratification for North Andros and the Berry Islands, indicated he would continue his work within the constituency while seeking divine guidance regarding his political future. The former MP revealed he maintains strong connections with residents across both Bimini and the Berry Islands, communities he considers home after years of service.

Reflecting on his tenure as a customs officer, Bowleg highlighted his history of community engagement: “The people of Bimini embraced me as one of their own, and I’ve consistently worked to give back to the island. I’ve maintained the same commitment in North Andros.” Regarding the Berry Islands, he described residents as resilient and authentic people whom he considers extended family.

The newly formed constituency, which features 2,253 registered voters, was established following recommendations from the Constituency Boundaries Commission, signaling a significant restructuring of electoral representation in the region.

A significant political confrontation is emerging in the Bahamas as both major parties position themselves to contest the newly established St James constituency in western New Providence. The electoral battleground, formally recommended by the Constituency Boundaries Commission and presented to the House of Assembly, has already attracted attention from prominent political figures.

On the governing Progressive Liberal Party side, legal professional Owen Wells has emerged as a potential candidate. The accomplished attorney, partner at McKinney, Turner & Co and chairman of Bahamix Limited, resides within the proposed constituency boundaries and recently participated in the PLP’s aspirants’ training module. Wells brings substantial legal credentials, having earned his LLB with Upper Second Class honours from England’s University of Buckingham and subsequent qualifications from the College of Law in Bloomsbury.

Opposing him will likely be Free National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright, the current MP for St Barnabas. Notably, Cartwright served on the very Boundaries Commission that recommended creating the St James seat. Tribune sources indicate the FNM is expected to ratify Cartwright for this new constituency.

The political maneuvering occurs amid background concerns from some St Barnabas constituents who have expressed dissatisfaction with Cartwright’s perceived reduced visibility following his elevation within the FNM leadership. Critics have cited decreased constituency meetings and difficulties in securing appointments, though Cartwright has vigorously denied allegations of neglect, pointing to ongoing community initiatives including feeding programs, agricultural projects, and seasonal outreach events.

This early jockeying for position signals both parties recognize the strategic importance of the newly drawn constituency as the next general election approaches.

In a powerful address marking the commencement of the legislative year, Bishop Delton Fernander delivered a stirring challenge to Bahamian lawmakers during the annual Parliamentary Church Service at the Church of God on East Street. The ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Philip Davis, cabinet members, parliamentarians, and opposition figures, traditionally sets the tone for the upcoming parliamentary session.

Bishop Fernander issued a direct ultimatum to elected officials, stating that those incapable of envisioning an improved Bahamas should reconsider their positions. ‘If you cannot see a better Bahamas, maybe this should be your last run,’ he declared before the assembled leadership. The clergyman emphasized that public office demands clear vision and accountability, reminding attendees that they operate within a parliamentary tradition spanning nearly three centuries with profound moral responsibilities.

Reflecting on historical leadership, the Bishop contrasted distinguished predecessors with those who faded into obscurity despite holding similar positions of power. He described the nation’s forefathers as architects of change who demonstrated courage, strategy, character, and purpose in transforming the Bahamas from a fishing community to a premier tourism destination. ‘What will we do with our time?’ he challenged current leaders.

Amid global uncertainties, economic pressures, and conflicts, Bishop Fernander stressed that citizens rely on their representatives to prioritize national interests over personal gain. ‘The Bahamian people are counting on you to have their best interest at heart and not your own,’ he emphasized, calling for decisions that benefit all citizens and create opportunities for future generations.

Addressing the approaching election cycle, the religious leader cautioned against treating this period as the ‘silly season,’ insisting instead on its seriousness. He urged the nation to attract its best talent, noting that many skilled Bahamians abroad contribute to other countries’ development due to feeling unwelcomed at home.

The Bishop also delivered a remarkable apology on behalf of religious institutions for their historical silence driven by desires for political contracts and board appointments. ‘I want to apologise for the silence,’ he stated, encouraging faith leaders to speak truth even at personal cost. He concluded by reminding lawmakers of their roots in faith and sacrifice, emphasizing that ultimate guidance comes from divine rather than human sources.

The Constituency Boundaries Commission has unveiled a comprehensive proposal to reshape the electoral landscape of The Bahamas, responding to significant demographic changes and aiming to ensure voter parity across the nation. Central to these recommendations is the establishment of a new parliamentary constituency in western New Providence, to be designated as St James, which will incorporate communities spanning Golden Isles, Killarney, and Southern Shores. A separate, standalone constituency for Bimini and the Berry Islands is also proposed, addressing long-standing calls for dedicated representation for these island communities. The commission’s report, formally presented in the House of Assembly by Speaker Patricia Deveaux, maintains the national total of 501 polling divisions while realigning boundaries and reassigning voter bases to reflect population data from the latest census and recent election results. The proposed adjustments impact numerous constituencies, including Bain and Grants Town, Centreville, and several in Grand Bahama and Abaco. The restructuring involves the transfer of specific polling divisions between constituencies to balance voter numbers, with the new St James constituency projected to host 5,149 registered voters. The commission’s methodology relied on historical boundaries reports, electoral data, and the 2022 census. The governing Progressive Liberal Party has endorsed the report, characterizing the redistribution as a normal and essential process for a healthy democracy that strengthens local representation.

Residents of the Berry Islands are mounting a vigorous campaign for autonomous parliamentary representation as the Boundaries Commission prepares to present its electoral reform report to Parliament. The archipelago, currently paired with North Andros, faces potential reunification with Bimini under proposed constituency revisions—a move locals fear would perpetuate their political marginalization.

Multiple residents expressed profound frustration to The Tribune regarding historical neglect under combined constituencies. Erica Knowles revealed her astonishment at learning about proposed boundary changes through media channels rather than official consultation. ‘They consistently implement changes without engaging constituents,’ she noted, emphasizing that past administrative partnerships have yielded minimal benefits for island development.

Infrastructure deficiencies form a central pillar of resident grievances. Telecommunications services remain virtually nonexistent since BTC’s closure over two years ago due to mold infestation, with unreliable connections disrupting daily communications. Banking services are restricted to a single credit union facing operational challenges due to low transaction volume.

Road construction projects have languished for three years with intermittent progress, while educational institutions suffer teacher shortages and inadequate facilities. Alexandria Moss highlighted disproportionate revenue contribution from Great Harbour Cay compared to infrastructure investment, stating: ‘We require entirely new educational facilities rather than temporary patches.’

Despite these challenges, economic development continues through cruise industry investments. Great Stirrup Cay is nearing completion of its ‘Pleasure Island’ project, which will establish dual cruise ports alongside Little Stirrup Cay’s existing Coco Cay facility.

Emergency services present additional concerns. VJ Reckley described telecommunications as ‘deplorable’ and noted the absence of public ambulance services, forcing medical transports via private vehicles. Social services are similarly constrained, with a shared social worker visiting quarterly from North Andros.

Residents unanimously contend that independent parliamentary representation would ensure dedicated advocacy for their unique needs. As boundary decisions undergo parliamentary review, Berry Islanders emphasize that geographic isolation and distinct developmental requirements justify autonomous political representation.

A contentious internal meeting within the Progressive Liberal Party’s Southern Shores branch has ignited significant debate regarding procedural legitimacy and factional influence. Deputy Chairman Obie Roberts secured a decisive 40-0 victory over contender Clint Watson, the ZNS General Manager, in what was termed an ‘opinion poll’ conducted on Monday evening. Despite the numerical outcome, party insiders emphasize this vote holds no formal authority, as the ultimate selection of constituency candidates rests solely with the party’s candidate committee.

The meeting, held at PLP headquarters, grew increasingly tense, with reports indicating that the situation nearly escalated into physical confrontations following its conclusion. Serious allegations have emerged regarding the conduct of the branch, including claims of ‘ineligible’ or ‘fake’ members being present and accusations that the branch election was organized outside its proper constituency. Numerous attendees were reportedly turned away for not appearing on the official registry, leading critics to denounce the group as an unrepresentative ‘kangaroo branch.’

Further compounding the controversy, many participants stated they had been informed the gathering was a routine branch meeting intended for discussion, not a predetermined vote. The surprise nature of the poll and the stipulation that only ‘financial’ members could participate were cited as particularly unfair, especially given historical branch disputes and a recent exodus of members. Supporters of Mr. Watson largely abstained or walked out, protesting what they perceived as a rigged and fundamentally flawed process designed to disenfranchise legitimate constituency voters. The incident has exposed deeper competing factions within the PLP leadership, highlighting a struggle between those backing Mr. Roberts and allies of Mr. Watson.