标签： Bahamas

Archbishop Drexel Gomez, a revered figure in the Anglican Church and former Archbishop of the West Indies, has passed away. Serving from 1996 to 2009, Archbishop Gomez was a pivotal leader whose influence transcended The Bahamas, shaping theological discourse across the Caribbean and the global Anglican Communion. Earlier this year, he was hospitalized while battling cancer, prompting widespread calls for prayers. Prime Minister Philip Davis described him as a ‘guiding light’ and ‘steadfast shepherd,’ praising his wisdom, faith, and love for the nation. Michael Pintard, Leader of the FNM, highlighted his unifying role within the Anglican Community and his lifelong devotion to God. Long Island MP Adrian Gibson, informed by the archbishop’s son, Damian Gomez QC, mourned his passing, calling him ‘a voice of conviction and unity’ and a shepherd to many. Archbishop Gomez’s journey from Bishop of Barbados to Archbishop and Primate of the Church in the Province of the West Indies marked a legacy of leadership during pivotal moments in the Anglican Church’s history. Arinthia Komolafe, former DNA leader and FNM candidate, expressed deep sorrow, describing him as ‘a true servant of the Lord’ and a loss to the Bahamian soul. The nation mourns his passing, celebrating his contributions and extending sympathies to the Gomez family. Updates will follow.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis paid tribute to this year’s National Heroes Day honorees, describing them as the living embodiment of the Bahamian spirit. Speaking at a ceremony at Government House, where over 500 individuals were awarded national honors, Mr. Davis highlighted their quiet, selfless service rooted in faith, compassion, and community. Among the honorees was Pompey Rolle, who was posthumously awarded the Order of National Hero for leading the 1830 slave rebellion in Exuma. Reflecting on his own humble beginnings in Cat Island, the Prime Minister emphasized that his journey to leadership mirrors the broader Bahamian narrative of resilience and service. He praised the honorees for choosing “service over self” and for strengthening the nation through their contributions. Mr. Davis urged Bahamians, especially the youth, to draw inspiration from the honorees’ lives and to act with purpose and love for their country. He stressed that true success is measured not by wealth or status but by the positive impact one has on others. The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of leadership as a responsibility to uplift others and to persevere through challenges. He concluded by affirming that the honorees’ stories of hope, humility, and faith are integral to the Bahamian identity and serve as a reminder of the nation’s enduring strength.

Hundreds of high school students from across The Bahamas convened at the British Colonial Hotel on Friday for the Future Energy Leaders Forum, an event dedicated to fostering innovation, dialogue, and discovery in the realm of sustainable energy. Organized by INTI Corporation Ltd in collaboration with local, regional, and international partners, the forum aimed to inspire the next generation to play a pivotal role in building a sustainable future for the nation. Attendees included government officials, industry leaders, and students, all united in addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, energy security, and environmental resilience. INTI President and CEO Owen Bethel emphasized the event’s goal of sparking curiosity among students about renewable energy and environmental action. Energy and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis highlighted the government’s progress on renewable energy projects, including the transition to cleaner fuels like LNG and solar power with battery storage, many of which are slated for completion by 2026 or early 2027. She also noted the ongoing utility-scale solar project at Blue Hills Power Station, led by INTI, and the imminent start of dredging for the LNG project. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis underscored the importance of sustainability, reliability, and local empowerment in the government’s energy strategy, which includes solar microgrids across the Family Islands, large-scale solar installations in New Providence, and private sector investment opportunities. He stressed the critical role of workforce development, with the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute launching a national training program in renewable energy technology. The forum concluded with a powerful call to action, urging students to become advocates for sustainability and innovation, as their generation will be instrumental in shaping The Bahamas’ clean energy future.

In a joyous celebration of love and unity, Kimberly Furnish, the US Chargé d’Affaires to the Bahamas, tied the knot with her partner Michael Dowgiewicz at her official residence in Nassau on Saturday. The event was graced by notable figures, including Ann-Marie Davis, wife of the Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper along with his wife Cecilia. The ceremony was officiated by Pastor TG Morrison of Zion Baptist Church, with the bride being escorted by her children Samantha, Veronica, and Calvin Furnish. The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band provided enchanting music, while Chef Wayne Moncur and his team ensured a delightful culinary experience for the guests. The highlight of the celebration was the traditional cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the couple’s new journey together.

The Cricket Club Restaurant and Pub, a long-standing establishment in Nassau, has experienced a ten percent decline in business following a wave of unverified social media allegations accusing the venue of mistreating its staff. Manager Dominique Smith expressed concern over the damage to the restaurant’s reputation, despite an influx of curious customers drawn by the controversy. The allegations, which spread rapidly last week, claimed that staff were underpaid, overworked, and subjected to unsanitary conditions, including reports of rats, leaks, and dirty bathrooms. The posts also accused Ms. Smith, her sister Tammy, and their mother and owner, Connie Robinson, of fostering a ‘toxic’ workplace. In response, the Department of Labour conducted an inspection at the West Bay Street restaurant. Senior Deputy Director of Labour Patrenda Russell-Brice stated that while the investigation is ongoing, no evidence of egregious violations or breaches of labour laws has been found. Ms. Smith defended the establishment, asserting that all payroll documents were provided and staff were interviewed, confirming the restaurant’s compliance with labour standards. She emphasized the restaurant’s professionalism over its nearly 30 years in operation and expressed frustration over the anonymous nature of the allegations, which made it impossible to publicly refute the claims. The final report from the Department of Labour is expected in the coming weeks.

As Pride Week approaches in The Bahamas, tensions are escalating with the announcement of a counter-protest by a church group on the same day as the planned “Human Rights March.” The LGBTQ community and allied organizations have organized the march to promote equality and visibility, emphasizing that it is not about sexual expression but about human rights. However, Churches United in Christ, led by Prophetess Pastor Dr. Patrice Smith, has vowed to protest, citing the need to uphold biblical principles. “It’s time for the church to come out of the four walls,” she stated. “We’ve been silent too long.” This clash highlights the ongoing societal divide in The Bahamas, where LGBTQ visibility often faces strong opposition from religious groups. Activists argue that such intolerance underscores the importance of Pride Week. Victor Rollins, founder of SASH Bahamas, clarified that the event is a Human Rights March, not a “gay pride march,” and will include diverse groups advocating for women’s rights, child protection, and more. Gennaro Bullard, executive director of the Bahamas Organisation of LGBTI Affairs, noted the evolution of Pride, which began in 2001 with small social events and has grown into a significant annual event since 2020. He emphasized the need for education and inclusion, particularly in the face of rising far-right movements globally. Both Rollins and Bullard stressed the personal significance of Pride, with Bullard recalling his struggles with identity and mental health growing up. Despite the lack of formal political endorsement, government agencies have supported initiatives like HIV prevention. Organizers remain committed to fostering dialogue and visibility, even as they brace for the planned counter-protest.