标签： Bahamas

Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis has officially declared a by-election for the Golden Isles constituency, following the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) ratification of 14 candidates for the upcoming general election. The ratified candidates include all incumbents except for prominent businessman Sebas Bastian and Senator Darron Pickstock, who is vying to succeed the late Vaughn Miller in Golden Isles. While a specific date for the by-election remains undisclosed, Davis assured it would be announced ‘in due course.’

The announcement was made during a vibrant rally at the PLP headquarters, where supporters, adorned in party colors and paraphernalia, created an electrifying atmosphere. The event featured Junkanoo rhythms, coordinated chants, and fireworks, culminating in a high-energy celebration of the party’s unity and readiness for the upcoming electoral battles.

Among the ratified candidates are Cabinet ministers Pia Glover-Rolle, Mario Bowleg, Fred Mitchell, Jobeth Coleby-Davis, Jomo Campbell, Myles Laroda, Keith Bell, and Leon Lundy. Additionally, Leslia Miller-Brice, Jamahl Strachan, Mckell Bonaby, and Bacchus Rolle were also ratified. Notably, Sebas Bastian, the sole newcomer to frontline politics, was ratified as the candidate for Fort Charlotte, replacing outgoing MP Alfred Sears. Bastian emphasized his commitment to problem-solving and implementing a vision for progress.

Prime Minister Davis also addressed the ongoing salary dispute with Bahamas Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson, defending his government’s labor record. He highlighted achievements such as raising the minimum wage, restoring increments, and increasing teachers’ salaries by over $3,000 annually. Davis warned union leaders against being used as political pawns, urging caution in their alliances.

The Golden Isles by-election, the PLP’s second since 2021, is expected to be a critical indicator of the party’s political strength as it prepares for the next general election.

The Free National Movement (FNM) is undergoing significant internal adjustments as it prepares for upcoming elections, with key figures reportedly shifting their focus to new constituencies. Dr. Duane Sands, the FNM Chairman, is rumored to be seeking the party’s nomination for Bamboo Town, a departure from Elizabeth, where he previously ran unsuccessfully twice. While Dr. Sands neither confirmed nor denied these claims, he emphasized the importance of awaiting official ratification from the party’s council and candidate election committee. ‘I would not want to pre-judge their deliberation,’ he stated. This move follows internal discord after former MP Renward Wells was denied a nomination. Additionally, St. Barnabas MP Shanendon Cartwright is reportedly eyeing a seat in western New Providence, with party vice chairman Jamal Moss emerging as the likely successor. The FNM is set to ratify additional candidates by the end of the month, having already confirmed 24 earlier this year. Party leader Michael Pintard highlighted the need for strategic planning, citing the pending boundaries report as a critical factor. Pintard also remained noncommittal about contesting a potential Golden Isles by-election, praising local candidate Brian Brown for his decade-long dedication to the constituency.

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.

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.