标签： Bahamas

Patricia Deveaux, the current House Speaker and Member of Parliament for Bamboo Town, has officially declared her intention to seek re-election in the upcoming parliamentary race. Despite previous uncertainty about her political future, Deveaux expressed strong confidence in securing renomination from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), while simultaneously pledging unwavering loyalty to the party regardless of the outcome.

The announcement comes following months of speculation about her political ambitions, which Deveaux previously dismissed as ‘political mischief.’ In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, the Bamboo Town representative asserted her deep connections to the constituency, stating: ‘I was born here. I live here. I’m still here and I ain’t going nowhere.’

Addressing criticisms from some constituents regarding her representation, Deveaux acknowledged room for improvement while highlighting several accomplishments during her term. Infrastructure developments featured prominently in her defense, with completed road paving projects in multiple neighborhoods and park renovations at Kennedy Park and Zion Boulevard Park. The MP also emphasized the establishment of Bamboo Town’s first Urban Renewal Center on East Street South, which she credits with significantly reducing crime rates, particularly petty theft and housebreaking incidents that had previously plagued the area.

Despite these advancements, Deveaux identified flooding as the most pressing ongoing challenge, declaring flood zone mitigation her top priority. Responding to complaints about her visibility within the constituency, she maintained that her office remains consistently accessible except during illness or official absences, describing her approach as ‘personal’ and centered on ‘servantry’ rather than photo opportunities.

The electoral landscape in Bamboo Town appears increasingly competitive. The Free National Movement has nominated party chairman Dr. Duane Sands as their candidate, while former MP Reward Wells has also announced his candidacy, setting the stage for a closely contested battle. Deveaux remains optimistic about her prospects, citing strong relationships with local schools and community members, and asserting she has ‘done more than what I’ve seen some sitting MPs do in ten years’ despite lacking a formal ministerial portfolio.

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.

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.

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.