Blog Feed: Political Bahamas Blog

The proposed government mortgage relief program is now a very important national issue ...and it is imperative that we devise a national solution which is reasoned and considered... ...As corporate citizens, we at Circle Vision Financial Planning (CF

Published on 2012-05-23 10:07:00

Economic View CFAL’s recommendations to the government on the mortgage relief programCFAL Economic View We have read with interest varying responses to leading international credit agency Moody’s warning to The Bahamas government on its proposed mortgage relief program.Readers would recall in this column on April 3, 2012, we at CFAL expressed our concern with the then Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) proposal, as we had difficulty understanding the feasibility of the plan. > read more

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) support permitting oil exploration in Bahamian waters ...once regulatory safeguards were in place... ...potential earnings could "eliminate The Bahamas' National Debt in five years"

Published on 2012-05-20 10:40:00

Chamber Backs Oil ExplorationBy NEIL HARTNELL#Tribune Business EditorTHE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) yesterday backed permitting oil exploration in this nation's waters once regulatory safeguards were in place, telling Tribune Business potential earnings could "eliminate the National Debt in five years".I Chester Cooper, the BCCEC's chairman, effectively told this newspaper that the Bahamas - and its economy - could not afford the 'opportunity cost' of passing [..] > read more

The children of Bahamian independence need to stand and prove that they too possess the skills to govern The Bahamas in the 21st century and beyond... ...We know that the prime ministers past and present can do it, but where is our future? ...It lie

Published on 2012-05-19 12:04:00

Democracy, independence and complacencythenassauguardian editorial The images and news stories of the Arab Spring that have dominated the international news media for more than a year are a telling story on the importance of the basic concept of democracy, a concept that is spoken about often, but a concept often not fully appreciated. The benefits that are gained from a properly functioning democracy are too often taken for granted.The beauty of a democracy is that we, the people, get to elec [..] > read more

...many individuals continue to weigh in on the possible causes of the Free National Movement’s (FNM) defeat... the victory of Perry G. Christie and the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)... and the Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) impact on the

Published on 2012-05-18 09:50:00

Why the FNM lost and the PLP wonBy Arinthia S. Komolafe Although the general election is over, arguably the election season is yet to come to a close. > read more

The Moody's credit rating agency warned that the Progressive Liberal Party’s election-promised mortgage plans created a “moral hazard” that “could increase Bahamian mortgage delinquencies ...and cost the Bahamas Government a sum equivalent to

Published on 2012-05-17 12:45:00

A Reckless Promise That Might Foundertribune242 editorial. TUESDAY’S first cabinet meeting of the newly-elected PLP government, marked Day One of its first 100 days of governing, Prime Minister Perry Christie announced. Day One was also marked with a warning salvo from Moody’s Investment Services, one of three major credit rating agencies.One could say that the new government entered its second term with a bang, but the bang did not bring good news. The credit agency warned that the PLP’s [..] > read more

And so the torch has been passed once again... and Perry Christie has been given a second chance to rectify some of the missteps of his last term... ...We are confident that he is aware that there is a very thin line between love and hate... that th

Published on 2012-05-14 09:43:00

The voice of the peopleBy Philip C. Galanis “The voice of the people is the voice of God.” – Sir Lynden Pindling What a difference a day makes. > read more

One thing that should be understood... is that the Free National Movement (FNM) is not a dead horse... ...After the 1997 general election – when Hubert Ingraham and the FNM won 57.6 per cent of the vote with a turnout of 92 per cent – commentato

Published on 2012-05-13 07:38:00

Looking To A Future After IngrahamTOUGH CALLBy Larry SmithSO Hubert Alexander Ingraham has been forced to exit, stage left – and just as his personality cult was kicking in big time.A few days ago, a documentary “chronicling the life, upbringing, and achievements of the prime minister” began airing on television. The film focuses on “Ingraham’s inspirational journey from humble beginnings to the highest public office in service of the people”.We hear that the impetus for this project [..] > read more

Loretta Butler-Turner is now the closest woman to the highest seat of power in the nation... ...In Mrs Butler-Turner's favour, all around the world, women are assuming power... and that energy will have a powerful pull just the same... ...Prime Min

Published on 2012-05-12 06:09:00

Loretta Butler-Turner For 2017?TALKING SENSEBy KHALILA NICOLLSEVER since May 7 when the mighty Free National Movement (FNM) came tumbling down, the name Hubert Minnis, former Minister of Health, has been floated as the inevitable next leader of the Free National Movement (FNM).The final tally left the FNM with only three members of parliament with parliamentary experience: the dinosaur Edison Key, who, safe to say, health challenges aside, has no shot at leadership, and probably no desire; Dr Mi [..] > read more

Setting the record straight on oil exploration in The Bahamas

Published on 2012-05-11 10:03:00

Setting the record straight on oil explorationBy Dr. Paul Crevello Politicizing is common in election years, especially when the initiator is feeling pressure to undermine his opponent. > read more

The peaceful election of May 7 ...and the quick and orderly selection of a new opposition leader ...demonstrate that the Bahamian democracy, despite our many problems as a country ...is in decent shape

Published on 2012-05-11 09:01:00

The new opposition leaderthenassauguardian editorial The 2012 general election was a moment of change. > read more

Preliminary autopsy report on the May 07, 2012 general election

Published on 2012-05-10 14:24:00

By Dennis Dames:The following in my preliminary autopsy report on the May 07, 2012 general election - which resulted in the crushing defeat of the Free National Movement (FNM) party and its now deflated leader, Hubert Alexander Ingraham.Firstly, it was a people’s victory - more than a Progressive Liberal Party’s. The last five years was financially exhaustive for many of us; and scores of Bahamians – including me, have expressed how it was the worst time economically that we have faced in [..] > read more

The 2012 general election is behind us now... and nation building requires all of us to join Team Bahamas ...and put our full support behind Prime Minister Perry Christie... as we move this country forward, onward, upward, together

Published on 2012-05-10 08:01:00

Beyond Election 2012CFAL Economic View On Monday past The Bahamas held its eight election; an event which is best described as perhaps the most pivotal election since independence and the manner in which it was conducted took the process to a new level. > read more

There is no wound so painful as man's ingratitude... ...We fully understand, but deeply regret Mr. Hubert Ingraham's decision to say to his people -- thank you, but no thank you, I have served you well, I can take no more

Published on 2012-05-09 08:18:00

Bahamas Has Lost A Great Leadertribune242 editorial > read more

The return of Perry Christie as prime minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas

Published on 2012-05-08 13:34:00

The return of Perry Christiethenassauguardian editorial The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has defeated Hubert Ingraham and his Free National Movement (FNM) in a landslide victory, returning Perry Christie to the post of prime minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.Christie became the first one-term prime minister of an independent Bahamas in 2007 when Hubert Ingraham and the FNM defeated his party. > read more

Let us Bahamians work together... PLPs, FNMs, DNAs and INDEPENDENTS alike... ...to keep The Bahamas moving forward, upward, onward TOGETHER!

Published on 2012-05-08 13:14:00

To the residents of the great constituency of Killarney: I am humbled and grateful for the overwhelming show of support in returning me as your Member of Parliament. Please be assured, that I will continue to represent you and serve with the same diligence and vigor as I have always done.I congratulate The Commonwealth's new Prime Minister elect, The Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie, the PLP, and the thousands of supporters across this nation on the victory that you have achieved, I pray that G [..] > read more

Bahamians Decide Their Future On Monday May 07, 2012... ...We will choose between a decisive leader, who will achieve much for the country... or an indecisive leader who will let others take the lead... ...The Bahamian people hold their destiny in th

Published on 2012-05-05 08:17:00

Bahamians Decide Their Future On Mondaytribune242 > read more

2012 general election constituency breakdown... ...possible winners and losers on May 07, 2012

Published on 2012-05-04 10:12:00

Constituency BreakdownBy ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comTHE 2012 general election is shaping up to be one of the most sulfurously partisan polls in recent years. This election, the Bahamian electorate must choose only the most progressive and visionary of a fluid field of hopefuls seeking their votes, whilst shedding certain current MPs like a septuagenarian sheds hair and teeth.As the clock ticks away and May 7 is clearly on the horizon, any person who underestimates the impact of the DNA in [..] > read more

The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) statements on oil drilling in The Bahamas appear to be more equivocal than the Free National Movement (FNM) government... ...Comments from former Cabinet minister Leslie Miller have not added clarity to the opposit

Published on 2012-05-03 21:51:00

The question of oil drillingthenassauguardian editorial Whether or not to drill for oil in The Bahamas is a complex and multifaceted issue requiring extensive study and an open and transparent public debate. > read more

Profile: Professor John T. McCartney... ...November 2, 1938 - March 28, 2012

Published on 2012-04-30 20:57:00

Profile: John T. McCartneythenassauguardian When professor John McCartney lectured to his students about the political struggles of The Bahamas he was not simply relaying facts from textbooks. He had played a part in the history that he taught. McCartney knew first-hand what he was teaching.McCartney, who passed away last month in Easton, Pennsylvania, was in the trenches of government reform after The Bahamas gained its independence from Great Britain in 1973.He helped form the Vanguard Natio [..] > read more

Oil drilling in The Bahamas... Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC)... Perry Christie, Philip "Brave" Davis, The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), and their dirty conflicting ways...

Published on 2012-04-29 07:21:00

By Dennis Dames:The response of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) deputy leader; Mr. Philip “Brave” Davis - to the question of conflict of interest in relations to his law firm’s connection to the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC), instigates more questions than answers.Mr. Davis was quoted as saying the following in an article by one Dana Smith in The Tribune of April 27, 2012 entitled – DNA Demand Christie’s Resignation: "How does it become a conflict? I'm not in government. When I'm [..] > read more

Resignations sought for the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader; Perry Christie ...and Deputy; Philip "Brave" Davis ...over their connections to the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC)... ...The company wants to drill for oil in The Bahamas - in the

Published on 2012-04-28 09:30:00

DNA Demand Christie's ResignationBy DANA SMITHdsmith@tribunemedia.netTHE DNA is calling for the resignation of PLP leader Perry Christie over his connection to the Bahamas Petroleum Company.DNA deputy leader Chris Mortimer, Montagu candidate Ben Albury and a group of party supporters staged a demonstration yesterday morning outside the Office of the Opposition on Parliament Street.They were protesting recent media reports that quote Mr Christie as stating the law firm representing BPC had consul [..] > read more

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham accuses Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader Perry Christie of being a lobbyist for the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC)... which wants to drill for oil in Bahamian waters

Published on 2012-04-27 07:11:00

Ingraham: Christie is an oil lobbyistIngraham attacks PLP’s ‘Bahamians first’ pledgeBy Candia DamesGuardian News Editorcandia@nasguard.com Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham last night turned up the heat on Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader Perry Christie, accusing him of being a lobbyist for the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC), which wants to drill for oil in Bahamian waters.Christie has acknowledged that the oil company has benefited from legal advice he has given as a consultant for Da [..] > read more

Will the Drilling For Oil Issue Decide This 2012 General Election?

Published on 2012-04-26 07:05:00

Will Drilling For Oil Decide This Election?tribune242 editorial > read more

...if the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is re-elected ...its leaders’ ‘relationship’ with the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC) would impact whatever decision they make in relation to the company’s bid to drill for oil in Bahamian waters ...s

Published on 2012-04-25 07:25:00

FNM fears conflict in any PLP oil drilling decisionBy Candia DamesGuardian News Editorcandia@nasguard.com The Free National Movement (FNM) said yesterday that if the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is re-elected, its leaders’ ‘relationship’ with the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC) would impact whatever decision they make in relation to the company’s bid to drill for oil in Bahamian waters.PLP Leader Perry Christie last week confirmed that BPC benefited from advice he gave as a consultan [..] > read more

If we want to encourage the best and the brightest citizens to enter into the elective political arena... we should seek to eliminate the observation of U.S. Representative Lee Hamilton that: “Elections are more often bought than won”

Published on 2012-04-24 07:55:00

Campaign financing: A better wayConsider thisBy Philip C. Galanis “We need real campaign finance reform to loosen the grip of special interests on politics." - Tom Daschle > read more

The most pressing issue in The Bahamas today is crime and the fear of crime... highlighted by the fact that the murder rate is going in the wrong direction - up

Published on 2012-04-23 13:28:00

Party By Party: Where The Candidates Stand On Crime > read more

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham says: ...Bain and Grants Town MP Dr. Bernard Nottage failed to use more than half of the $100,000 allowance Members of Parliament were given access to for constituency projects... ...In Centreville and Farm Road, duri

Published on 2012-04-22 07:49:00

Ingraham says Nottage failed to access full constituency allowanceBy Krystel RolleGuardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasguard.comBain and Grants Town MP Dr. Bernard Nottage failed to use more than half of the $100,000 allowance members of Parliament were given access to for constituency projects, according to Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.Ingraham previously made a similar revelation about Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader Perry Christie.The prime minister reiterated that claim at a Free Nat [..] > read more

The very same Perry Christie who failed to fulfill his first duty as Prime Minister in 2002 ...can't condemn violence by his supporters ...or even get out his party's election platform in 2012," says Hubert Ingraham

Published on 2012-04-20 17:03:00

'Late-Again Plp Criticised For Lacking A ManifestoBy CELESTE NIXON#Tribune Staff Reporter#cnixon@tribunemedia.net#DESPITE continuing to talk and make promises, opposition leader Perry Christie has still not released his five-year platform, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham pointed out.DESPITE continuing to talk and make promises, opposition leader Perry Christie has still not released his five-year platform, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham pointed out.The FNM, by contrast, has already produced a hef [..] > read more

The Bahamian electorate ought to be mindful of the following words of President Thomas Jefferson: ...“To preserve our independence, we must not let our rulers load us with perpetual debt ...We must make our election between economy and liberty ...

Published on 2012-04-19 15:18:00

Economic and fiscal prudence: Ingraham vs. ChristieBy Arinthia S. KomolafeThere is ongoing debate on the leadership attributes of the prime minister and leader of the Free National Movement (FNM), Hubert A. Ingraham, and the leader of the official opposition and Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Perry G. Christie. > read more

In the 50th year of women's suffrage in The Bahamas, Bahamian women will hold the power at the polls in this 2012 general election season ...as There are 20,000 more of them registered to vote than men

Published on 2012-04-18 08:05:00

Woman Power At The PollsBy NOELLE NICOLLS and JEFFARAH GIBSONTribune FeaturesIN THE 50th year of women's suffrage, Bahamian women will hold the power at the polls."There are 20,000 more women registered to vote than men. Women are going to decide this election," said Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham at the 'Red Splash' Free National Movement rally on Easter weekend.The right political pitch could make the difference, according to some observers, who claim women voters tend to have community-based [..] > read more

...two big stories from the Free National Movement's (FNM’s) first mass rally of the 2012 general election season

Published on 2012-04-17 12:55:00

A Broader Vision for Over-the-HillFront PorchBy SimonThere were two big stories coming out of the FNM’s first mass rally of the 2012 general election. > read more

Let civility reign in this 2012 general election season...

Published on 2012-04-16 12:22:00

Remaining civil during the electionthenassauguardian editorialPassions are rising in anticipation of the general election. > read more

Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) goons and idiots defacing and destroying the Free National Movement's (FNM's) signs and posters

Published on 2012-04-13 09:42:00

By Dennis DamesThe defacement and destruction of FNM posters and signs could be noticed throughout the island of New Providence. On my way out of my community of Mt. Pleasant Village today, I have noticed that the sign and posters of the FNM leader, and candidate have been knocked totally out of the ground and smashed.This is a reflection of the high levels of stupidity and wrong acts that plague our nation today. One must ask the question: Do we really want to elect a party of goons and idiots [..] > read more

In our current political system, where party politics takes precedence over true representational politics ...where there are few benchmarks to truly differentiate candidates or parties ...we are confronted with several negative side effects: namely,

Published on 2012-04-12 13:54:00

Overcoming The Party Allegiance. TALKING SENSEBy KHALILA NICOLLSkhalilanicolls@gmail.comtribune242I STARTED this campaign cycle annoyed by the fact that Perry Christie and Hubert Ingraham's faces were plastered all over my constituency, considering I live far from North Abaco and far from Centreville, where these men, both leaders of their respective political parties, are offering themselves as candidates in the May 7 general election.I was fighting hard to hold on to the principled view that p [..] > read more

To those who did not register to vote in the upcoming general election: ...It is clear that you never really wanted to... The politicians, public officials, the media and everybody else, urged you to register... Yet, you did not... The ability to v

Published on 2012-04-10 15:08:00

It is now voting timethenassauguardian editorialPrime Minister Hubert Ingraham announced yesterday at his party’s beach event that he will inform the country today of the election date.Ingraham said he will first meet with his Cabinet this morning and a statement will be made by 1 p.m. regarding the next election. > read more

CircleVision Financial Planning (CFAL) on the Progressive Liberal Party's (PLP’s) plan to tackle the mortgage ‘crisis’ in The Bahamas

Published on 2012-04-06 15:35:00

On the PLP’s plan to tackle the mortgage ‘crisis’CFAL Economic viewAt the center of the 2008 global crisis was the mortgage debacle. The U.S. government funded mortgage agencies that provided funding for residential mortgages, which in most cases, the mortgagee was not able to afford. The end results were foreclosures and a depressed housing market — now headed into its fifth year.As we all know, in the absence of a holistic economic plan The Bahamas continues to depend on the success � [..] > read more

Dr. Victor Cooper of New Bethany Baptist Cathedral urged the nation’s leaders to put the issue of gambling to a referendum ...and determine ways to tax the dozens of numbers houses that are in business throughout The Bahamas

Published on 2012-04-05 12:58:00

Pastors urge action on gamblingNumbers houses come under fireBy Taneka ThompsonGuardian Senior Reportertaneka@nasguard.comA Baptist pastor yesterday urged the nation’s leaders to put the issue of gambling to a referendum and determine ways to tax the dozens of numbers houses that are in business.Dr. Victor Cooper of New Bethany Baptist Cathedral made the call at a press conference with other religious leaders held to discuss crime.“Let the people make a decision because the reality is, and s [..] > read more

EVERY time I hear of the latest escapade of John Bercow, Speaker of the House of Commons in London... I think of dear old Alvin Braynen, the political enigma elevated to the Speaker’s chair by Lynden Pindling ...45 years ago

Published on 2012-04-04 22:14:00

Disdain For Mr 'Squeaker'MARQUIS at LARGEBy JOHN MARQUIStribune242WHAT is it about Speakers of the House that makes them so pompous? First, there was Alvin Braynen of the Bahamas House of Assembly. Now there is John Bercow of the British House of Commons. JOHN MARQUIS reports...EVERY time I hear of the latest escapade of John Bercow, Speaker of the House of Commons in London, I think of dear old Alvin Braynen, the political enigma elevated to the Speaker’s chair by Lynden Pindling 45 years ago [..] > read more

Many of the progressive dreams of Edmund Moxey and others were interwoven with the struggle for majority rule and became synonymous with the early Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)... It is telling, therefore, that the majority of those elected in 1967

Published on 2012-04-03 22:15:00

Jumbey Village – Montage of a Dream DeferredFront PorchBy SimonEdmund Moxey’s contribution to the social, cultural, economic and political advancement of Bahamians found magnificent expression in Jumbey Village. > read more

...in the face of a general election — I have decided to rate the Free National Movement's (FNM’s) best and worst Cabinet Ministers from 2007 to 2012... in Hubert Ingraham's Cabinet

Published on 2012-04-02 21:45:00

Best of the FNM CabinetBy ADRIAN GIBSON > read more

...the six worst Cabinet Ministers who have served in Hubert Ingraham's Cabinet at some point in the last five years... 2007 - 2012

Published on 2012-04-01 10:00:00

By ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.com > read more

It is likely that Mr. Branville McCartney’s electoral prospects will be doused at the polls... and, following the 2012 general election, he would be relegated to the political dustbin... having been set on the treadmill to political oblivion

Published on 2012-04-01 09:32:00

The Enigma of BranvilleMcCartneyBy ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.com > read more

...the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has tried to gain political mileage by stirring up a controversy over oil exploration in The Bahamas

Published on 2012-04-01 03:20:00

Oil drilling in the Bahamas - the facts behind the scares > read more

We evaluate a few areas of the Free National Movement's (FNM's) Manifesto 2007

Published on 2012-03-31 10:37:00

FNM Manifesto 2007: Delivered or not?By Arinthia S. KomolafeRather than take political parties’ slogans at face value, it would be prudent for voters to revisit the contents of these parties’ manifestos and thoroughly scrutinize them to ascertain whether they have made good on their promises. > read more

Edmund Moxey's tortured heart and soul over the New Jumbey village planned for Fort Charlotte

Published on 2012-03-30 11:49:00

How PLP colleagues stole Ed Moxey's ideas tribune242 editorial IN LEAFING through the Ed Moxey files in The Tribune's archives last night, we were not surprised to find that the Coconut Grove MP's own colleagues were trying to take credit for his cultural concept - Jumbey Village. In other words, they were trying to steal Mr Moxey's own brainchild from him. We say not surprised because the PLP came to power with a strange personality quirk -- call it what you will, some at the time referred to i [..] > read more

This 2012 general election, you should vote... so that whatever historic result is announced that night (or in the days after), you can say, “I helped do that”

Published on 2012-03-27 17:18:00

Let's just voteIt’s time for Bahamians to make their decision on the next government of The BahamasBy Brent DeanGuardian Associate Editorbrentldean@nasguard.comWhen I left St. Anne’s School in 2007 after voting in the St. Anne’s constituency election, I knew how I would vote at the next general election, whenever it would be called, if a certain scenario persisted. > read more

Mr. Edmund Moxey says that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) government's efforts to "suppress" Jumbey Village resulted from petty jealousies of individuals ...who believed that only they should be involved in certain activities of national importa

Published on 2012-03-26 14:18:00

The destruction of Jumbey village tribune242 editorial"NO, I can't believe it - that can't be true!" This was Coconut Grove MP's Ed Moxey's shocked reply in May 1974 when a news reporter called to ask what he thought of a report that government had planned to build a replica of his Jumbey Village at Fort Charlotte. If true, this meant that the tourist dollar would remain on Bay Street and not flow to little businessmen Over the Hill where it was sorely needed. Mr Moxey knew that any development [..] > read more

A reflection on the political retirees' class of 2012... following the 2012 general election

Published on 2012-03-25 11:02:00

A reflection on political retirementthenassauguardian editorialThe early months of 2012 have been dominated by the general election. > read more

The birth and death of Jumbey Village: ...the story of what might have been, and what in fact turned out to be Edmund Spencer Moxey's greatest triumph as well as his biggest disappointment... the creation of a place called Jumbey Village, and his str

Published on 2012-03-24 17:23:00

Backbenchers disillusioned by govt - Moxeytribune242 editorialTHERE are those today who are convinced that if Ed Moxey's dream of a cultural community centre in the heartland of the Grove had been allowed to grow, the shipwrecked state over which we mourn today would not have had a chance to develop.Jumbey Village was conceived by Mr Moxey as a cultural centre to unite a people as they struggled to improve their lot -- socially, culturally and economically. It was envisioned as a centre to be bu [..] > read more

In all honesty, the idea of urban renewal cannot be claimed as being the brainchild of either the Christie or Ingraham administrations... It preceded both by many years... In fact, Urban Renewal in the broadest sense of the word was the brainchild o

Published on 2012-03-24 09:33:00

A people betrayed, says Ed Moxey, of the Pindling yearstribune242 editorialTHE PANACEA to all this country's social problems is Urban Renewal, PLP-style. The constant cry of the PLP is that the FNM came along, stole the PLP's idea, destroyed it and, in so doing, opened a Pandora's box of destruction for these islands. Everything, including escalating crime, both in the streets and in the schools, can be blamed on the elimination of the PLP's novel idea -- Urban Renewal.For their part, the FNM ma [..] > read more

The Bahamian relationship with the Haitians who migrate here is complicated... Haitians have come to The Bahamas since the creation of the Republic of Haiti in 1804... With the collapse of Jean Claude Duvalier’s regime in the mid-1980s, however, th

Published on 2012-03-23 17:23:00

Embracing multiculturalismthenassauguardian editorialThe comments of Haitian President Michel Martelly to Haitian-Bahamians when he recently visited The Bahamas led to much debate. > read more

We remember when Mr. Dennis Dames first started writing letters for publication in The Tribune... and so we guess that he is too young to remember the elections of the sixties and the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) "goon squads" where election viole

Published on 2012-03-21 22:33:00

Protect our Constitutional rightstribune242 editorialOUR CONSTITUTION guarantees every resident of this country the right of free speech, conscience and assembly. No one - election or no election - has the right to interfere with these basic freedoms. Those who do should be severely punished.Freedom of conscience assures each and everyone of us the right to our beliefs, regardless of how others might disagree. Freedom of expression gives us the right to express those beliefs as we see fit, as lo [..] > read more

...delighted today to have read the message of peace in this election season and beyond ...by the Free National Movement’s candidate for Killarney; the Hon. Hubert Minnis

Published on 2012-03-20 09:35:00

By Dennis DamesI was delighted today to have read the message of peace by the Free National Movement’s candidate for Killarney; the Hon. Hubert Minnis. He wrote about allowing calm heads to prevail this election season and beyond.It’s a point worth repeating by all responsible politicians in the land, as the temperature is truly rising among the people across the political divide. I have never experienced such touchiness, itchiness, and angriness among Bahamians of different political pers [..] > read more

As Bahamians, let’s continue to build a better Bahamas; a nation where at the end of this upcoming electoral process - FNMs, PLPs, DNAs and Independents would work together to forge a brighter future for our young people

Published on 2012-03-19 14:36:00

Let Calm Heads Prevailby Hon. Dr. Hubert A. MinnisThe Bahamas is approaching the election season, with numerous events, rallies and even family gatherings. I implore you, to let calm heads prevail during this season. We must remember, that we are all Bahamians and when the election is over, we must all still live together in this Bahamaland. It is not unusual for one home to have individuals who support different political parties but what is unusual for us, is for family members not to supp [..] > read more

In light of the challenges that our economy faces and the general consensus that we must revisit our economic model... it is disturbing to see that little is being said about the proposed fiscal policies of political parties as we enter the heart of

Published on 2012-03-18 10:23:00

Confronting the debt crisis pt. 2by Arinthia S. KomolafeLast week we explored the effects that monetary policy at the turn of the millennium may have had upon the current mortgage and overall debt crisis. > read more

The Bahamas has had four murder records in five years... ...Our politicians need not add hostility through public discourse in a nation that already has a violence problem

Published on 2012-03-13 06:49:00

The tone of political rhetoricthenassauguardian editorialOver the last few weeks some very aggressive rhetoric has been exchanged between the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and the Free National Movement (FNM). During elections, debates should be fierce, but they should also be decent.Former PLP Cabinet Minister Leslie Miller has called for a ‘truce’ between the PLP and FNM during the remainder of the election season. Miller has made public jokes about State Minister for Social Developmen [..] > read more

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham: ..."I can't comprehend why a married woman is discriminated against ...and a single woman is not when it comes to the passing of their nationality... ...and for as long as I am in public life, I will ensure The B

Published on 2012-03-11 11:30:00

PM: 'It is our duty to ensure equality'By SANCHESKA BROWNTribune Staff Reportersbrown@tribunemedia.netPRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham said it is the government's honour and duty to ensure all women in the Bahamas have the same opportunities as men.Speaking at his luncheon with the nine FNM females candidates to mark International Women's Day (IWD), Mr Ingraham said while the Bahamas has come a long way in terms of women's rights, there is still a long way to go."I have always believed that women [..] > read more

There is nothing wrong with religious figures speaking at political events... ...They are citizens too ...and thus have the right to voice their concerns about the direction of their country

Published on 2012-03-10 13:23:00

Reasonableness, family and politicsthenassauguardianRetired Archbishop Drexel Gomez’s appearance at a Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) rally on Friday in North Andros has caused some controversy. He is the former head of the Anglican Church in the West Indies.Bishop Gomez appeared at the rally and spoke in support of his brother Dr. Perry Gomez, the PLP’s candidate for North Andros and the Berry Islands. Dr. Gomez has led the fight in The Bahamas against HIV/AIDS as long-time director of th [..] > read more

...four years after the ‘Great Recession’ commenced, the Bahamian economy continues to struggle... ...the government is challenged with reduced revenues, soaring energy and food prices, high unemployment, rising crime levels and social ills... ..

Published on 2012-03-09 11:11:00

Confronting the Bahamian debt crisis pt. 1By Arinthia S. KomolafeIn the aftermath of the worst recession since the Great Depression, the government is challenged with reduced revenues, soaring energy and food prices, high unemployment, rising crime levels and social ills. In response to these challenges and in order to stay afloat, the government has resorted to borrowing. The reality is that imprudent borrowing practices prior to and during the economic downtown have exacerbated the economic [..] > read more

A National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme would only work efficiently if, and only if, there are proper checks and balances in place ...especially to ensure that the pool of money goes in to a segregated fund for health and health alone...

Published on 2012-03-08 07:17:00

The National Health Insurance debateCFAL Economic viewWe read recently in a local daily that Dr. Perry Gomez, the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) candidate for North Andros and the Berry Islands said that under a PLP government National Health Insurance (NHI) would be implemented within the first year of coming to office. While we are in the so-called ‘silly season’ and everyone and their brother are making promises, we would hope that some of the promises would be well reasoned outlining t [..] > read more

Bahamian voters expect more from the mainline press in terms of the key issues in this election... ...Will the national press rise to the occasion in terms of better political journalism and creative reporting of the 2012 general election?

Published on 2012-03-06 12:31:00

Press coverage of election 2012Front PorchBy SimonSo far, much of the coverage of the lead-up to the 2012 general election has been formulaic and insipid. Most of the coverage has focused on the speeches at the opening of various constituency headquarters.The speeches contain the typical red meat and thrust and parry one expects to hear at political rallies. The press dutifully report the back and forth inclusive of the main points of the speeches particularly those of the prime minister and t [..] > read more

Money in Bahamian politics: ...There is no campaign finance legislation in The Bahamas ...and we submit that the time has come to consider changing this...

Published on 2012-03-05 10:10:00

Financing political campaignsConsider thisBy Philip C. GalanisElections are more often bought than won.– U.S. Rep. Lee Hamilton As the general election in The Bahamas approaches, there has been considerable discussion about the sources of political campaign finance. One of the local tabloids has suggested that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is being funded by “unsavory characters”. At one of the Free National Movement (FNM) rallies, the prime minister is quoted as saying: “The [..] > read more

Bahamas Agriculture News: ...The number of Bahamian farmers decreased by 90 per cent over the last 40 years... ...While Bahamians seem to become more supportive of locally grown products

Published on 2012-03-03 21:59:00

BAHAMAS SUFFERS 90% FARMER DROP OVER 40 YEARSBy NATARIO McKENZIETribune Business Reporternmckenzie@tribunemedia.netTHERE has been a 90 per cent decrease in Bahamian farmer numbers over the last 40 years, it was disclosed yesterday, with insurance said to be one of the "major concerns" for the industry locally.Sekani Nash, production manager at Lucayan Tropical, in an interview with Tribune Business yesterday, said the Bahamas was often impacted by hurricanes and, while farmers spend a lot of mon [..] > read more

The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) seeks all Bahamian votes in the 2012 general election

Published on 2012-03-01 12:34:00

by The Official Democratic National AllianceToday’s headline by the Tribune, “Now DNA Seeks Haitian Votes” is very misleading to the Bahamian public, as it suggests an erroneous statement that the Party is underhandedly courting “the Haitian vote.” It would be wise to note that Haitians can only vote in Haiti. Bahamians vote in the Bahamas.The Democratic National Alliance (DNA), with no other political party present, met with some Bahamian leaders of Haitian descent recently and we dis [..] > read more

The most likely result of the 2012 general election, is that either the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) or the Free National Movement (FNM) will win and form the next government of The Bahamas... ...and the other major party will be the official oppo

Published on 2012-02-28 21:15:00

The reaction of the election loserthenassauguardian editorialThere are two ‘unconventional’ scenarios that could result in the next general election if the third party – the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) – wins a few seats. There could be a minority government if no party wins a majority, but one is able to convince the governor general that it could govern. The other option is a coalition government could result. We say unconventional because those types of governments do not oc [..] > read more

On February 27, 2002 — exactly 10 years ago today — Bahamians went to the polls in the country’s first referendum... ...A decade after that vote, The Bahamas is still behind many in the so-called civilized world in some respects... ...By voting

Published on 2012-02-27 11:12:00

A cause for changeBahamas should revisit issues in failed 2002 referendumBy Candia DamesGuardian News Editorcandia@nasguard.comThere’s an interesting saying in the tropical Southeastern Asian country of Burma: A woman can be equal to a man in all ways, but she must first die and come back as a man. In the 21st century, it would appear that this very saying could be applied right here in The Bahamas.On February 27, 2002 — exactly 10 years ago today — Bahamians went to the polls in the count [..] > read more

The Bahamas Lottery says: It's time to legalise lottery betting in The Bahamas

Published on 2012-02-26 08:30:00

ONE would have to be a hermit in a cave not to be aware of the fact that wagering on the numbers is a national pastime. It's widely available throughout almost all parts of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.Tickets for the lotteries in the USA are also widely available. I understand that a wager on the numbers can be made online. Anyway I suspect that most of the readers of this column probably know more about the subject than I do.The question that therefore arises is why have not these activitie [..] > read more

Youth unemployment, which is pegged at 34 percent in The Bahamas, is especially a cause for concern if only because many of the young people have not yet had the opportunity to join the labor force... and as such, are being denied access to gainful e

Published on 2012-02-25 11:17:00

Youth unemploymentthenassauguardian editorialThe most recent Labour Force Survey, which was released by the Department of Statistics, contained some insightful but at the same time alarming information on the current state of unemployment in The Bahamas.Apart from the distressingly high unemployment rate of nearly 16 percent overall and the continuing challenges to the Grand Bahamian economy, with an unemployment rate of 21.2 percent, the data on youth unemployment is perhaps the most disturbing [..] > read more

...when the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) talk about projects stalled for review by the Free National Movement (FNM) government, the voter has to carefully examine the facts to find out exactly why they did not go ahead... ...They will soon learn t

Published on 2012-02-24 17:15:00

PLP's projects had to be completed by FNMtribune242 editorialTHE PLP are singing their old refrain again to lull voters back to sleep.If it's not crime increasing because police officers have been removed from the school yard, and Urban Renewal PLP-style has been revamped, then it's the collapsing economy. Apparently, the Bahamas' economy has gone into recession, not because international banks have collapsed and poor old Greece can't meet its debts, threatening to drag an already nervous world [..] > read more

In a country like The Bahamas that is lax in enforcing its laws against illegal immigration, it is easy to see how this issue has spiraled out of control... ...In addition to enforcing its laws regarding deportation, the government must also implemen

Published on 2012-02-23 21:35:00

The immigration fiasco pt. 2By By Arinthia S. KomolafeThe Latin phrase “Vox Populi, vox dei” when translated to English means that “the voice of the people is the voice of God”. This phrase is commonly attributed to voting and was most notably used by Sir Lynden Pindling after conceding the Progressive Liberal Party’s defeat of the 1992 general election. Today, the same holds true; however, Bahamians ought to realize that their voices carry power not only during election time every fi [..] > read more

Fred Mitchell's Blood libel paints the Bahamian political scene and the 2012 general election in The Bahamas Red

Published on 2012-02-22 07:49:00

An outrageous and bizarre statementthenassauguardian editorialLast week Leader of Government Business in the Senate Dion Foulkes disclosed in the Senate a secret cable from the U.S. Embassy in Nassau appearing on the WikiLeaks website.The cable included allegations from a public officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs alleging that then Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell was involved in a scheme to sell visas to Chinese nationals.Foulkes tabled the cable after being asked to do so by L [..] > read more

In The Bahamas, it seems, if the police have "strong reasons" to believe you are guilty of trespassing, or noise pollution, or vagrancy, you are sure to be placed under arrest... ...But if you perpetrate an illegal scheme that has immense d

Published on 2012-02-21 10:52:00

THE REWARDS OF CORRUPTIONBy PACO NUNEZTribune News EditorTHE big story last week was obviously the back-and-forth claims of visa fraud between the two major parties.First, FNM Senator Dion Foulkes told of a Foreign Affairs officer who claimed her former boss, Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell, tried to pressure staff into granting entry visas to 30 ineligible Chinese nationals. Denying the claims, Mr Mitchell produced a police report showing his accuser was herself suspected of issuing visas in return f [..] > read more

The Bahamas and the illegal immigration debate: ...as a matter of urgency, The Bahamian government must ascertain the number of undocumented immigrants that exist in The Islands...

Published on 2012-02-19 08:56:00

The immigration fiasco pt. 1By Arinthia S. KomolafeMany Bahamians were offended and outraged by the remarks made by President Michel Martelly of the Republic of Haiti during his recent visit to The Bahamas. During his time here, Martelly paid courtesy calls on the governor general, the prime minister, the leader of the opposition and individuals of Haitian heritage, albeit not in that order.Martelly’s visit came as a shock to the majority of Bahamians who had been unaware of his impending vis [..] > read more

Wikileaks and Bahamian Politics: ...former Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell is accused of being ‘complicit in visa fraud’ and ‘pressuring’ staff at the ministry to issue visas to ‘ineligible’ Chinese applicants during his term in

Published on 2012-02-17 07:00:00

Mitchell accused of corruptionBy Taneka ThompsonGuardian Senior Reportertaneka@nasguard.comA senior Ministry of Foreign Affairs official accused former Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell of being ‘complicit in visa fraud’ and ‘pressuring’ staff at the ministry to issue visas to ‘ineligible’ Chinese applicants during his term in office, according to a secret U.S. Embassy cable tabled in the Senate yesterday.Bahamian Consular Affairs Chief Dorothea Lafleur also told an Embassy offi [..] > read more

Who will win the 2012 general election? ...Based on a review of the candidates and the reconstituted constituencies, as of today, we believe that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) will win 13 seats... the Free National Movement (FNM) will win 13 s

Published on 2012-02-16 07:21:00

Who will win the next general election?By Philip C. Galanis(Author’s note: The general content of this column was presented by the author in an address to the Rotary Club of West Nassau at Graycliff Restaurant on Thursday, February 9, 2012.) This week, as we rapidly approach the general election, we would like to Consider This...who will win the next general election?Our comments are framed in the context of where we presently stand and our election forecasts will be amended before the general [..] > read more

Bahamians of Haitian descent did not see anything wrong with Haitian President Michel Martelly’s message to Haitian-Bahamians and Haitians on his recent visit to The Bahamas

Published on 2012-02-15 13:31:00

Young Haitian-Bahamians weigh in on Martelly controversyBy Krystel RolleGuardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasgaurd.comTwo Bahamians of Haitian descent have weighed in on the raging debate over Haitian President Michel Martelly’s recent controversial statements, saying that his comments were “blown out of proportion” and “misunderstood”.During an interview on the Star 106.5 FM radio program ‘Jeffrey’ on Monday evening, Manishka Desinor, 26, who was naturalized three years ago, and Alli [..] > read more

The facts of Haitian President Michel Martelly visit to The Bahamas have been twisted out of all proportion... not only by the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader - Bran McCartney... but by Opposition leader Perry Christie and his Progressive L

Published on 2012-02-14 07:12:00

The Haitian president not invited - just passing throughtribune242 editorialDNA LEADER Bran McCartney has called for the immediate resignation of Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, accusing him of committing treason for allowing Haitian President Michel Martelly not only to overnight in the Bahamas, but to meet with his nationals while here."We are calling for the immediate resignation of Hubert Alexander Ingraham," DNA leader Bran McCartney told the press. "He has shamelessly disgraced our nation, [..] > read more

The Bahamian government must be dedicated to ongoing funding of education at all levels... ...Further, a corresponding factor is the need for our leaders to actively pursue the diversification of our economy... ...The lack of diversity within our eco

Published on 2012-02-13 07:20:00

Where do we go from here? Pt. 2By Arinthia S. Komolafe:A major obstacle that youth and our emerging leaders face is the lack of adequate education and/or opportunities to pursue higher education. During 2009-2010, a major topic of discussion was subsidies provided to learning institutions. The government announced that it was decreasing its subsidy to independent schools by 20 percent. Many were outraged by this move; not least the parents themselves who were already faced with rising educati [..] > read more

Haitian President Michel “Sweet Micky” Martelly's visit to The Bahamas and the politics of Bahamian Politicians in regards to it

Published on 2012-02-11 10:09:00

By Dennis Dames:The recent visit by the president of Haiti, Michel “Sweet Micky” Martelly to The Bahamas - has created the perfect non-issue for political parties that are grasping at straws. The Haitian President advised Bahamian voters of Haitian descent to simply vote for the party and candidates that best suit their interests – in the upcoming general election. It’s something that we all should do; it’s the essence of politics and elections in a democracy in my view.So what’s [..] > read more

Michael Telairin, Coordinator of the United Haitian Bahamian Association of The Bahamas says that Haitian President Michel Martelly’s visit to The Bahamas this week was positive, but his message was misunderstood... ...Martelly said that those Hait

Published on 2012-02-11 06:34:00

Haitian-Bahamian group says Martelly was misunderstoodBy Royston Jones JrGuardian Staff Reporterroyston@nasguard.comUnited Haitian Bahamian Association of The Bahamas Coordinator, Michael Telairin, said yesterday Haitian President Michel Martelly’s visit to The Bahamas this week was positive, but his message was misunderstood.Telairin also said Martelly’s timing was “unfortunate due to the political climate” which has escalated the negative reaction to his message to members of the Haiti [..] > read more

Haitian Ambassador to The Bahamas Antonio Rodrigue says Haiti's president Michel Martelly did not intend to interfere in Bahamian politics when he told Haitian-Bahamians to identify "who is on their side" in the upcoming general election ..

Published on 2012-02-10 14:27:00

Haiti denies FNM 'vote ploy'By DANA SMITHdsmith@tribunemedia.netHAITI'S president Michel Martelly did not intend to interfere in Bahamian politics when he told Haitian-Bahamians to identify "who is on their side" in the upcoming general elections, Haitian Ambassador Antonio Rodrigue said.The ambassador spoke yesterday as political rivals of the FNM expressed concern over Mr Martelly's comments - which they claimed were the result of a "political ploy" by the governing party.On Wednesday, Mr Mart [..] > read more

Visiting Haitian President Michel Martelly urged his countrymen to form a voting bloc in The Bahamas and align themselves with the political party that will best serve their interests

Published on 2012-02-09 15:09:00

Haitians told ‘form voting bloc’by Taneka ThompsonGuardian Senior Reportertaneka@nasguard.comHaitian President Michel Martelly yesterday urged his countrymen to form a voting bloc in The Bahamas and align themselves with the political party that will best serve their interests.“I told them to organize themselves and identify in the upcoming elections who is on their side. That way they can become a force. By being [unified] in the elections they might have people taking care of them. . .t [..] > read more

...youth unemployment is up by more than 30 per cent in The Bahamas

Published on 2012-02-09 08:06:00

Jobless youth up by a thirdBy SANCHESKA BROWNTribune Staff Reportersbrown@tribunemedia.netTHE NATIONAL unemployment rate has risen 2.2 per cent in five months and youth unemployment is up by more than 30 per cent, according to the latest labour survey released by the Department of Statistics yesterday.The survey, which was conducted in November of last year, shows increases in both New Providence and Grand Bahama, pushing the country's unemployment rate to 15.9 per cent.In the case of New Provid [..] > read more

WikiLeaks documents: An “alarming” number of children are being born to Haitian women at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH)

Published on 2011-07-05 07:03:00

Cables: ‘Alarming’ Haitian birth rateBy CANDIA DAMES Guardian News Editorthenassauguardian candia@nasguard.com A U.S. diplomatic cable points to what many Bahamians have known for decades through anecdotal information: An “alarming” number of > read more

Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation's (BCCEC) chairman Winston Rolle says: ...any increase in pump gasoline prices could not be coming at a worse time, since it could further depress prospects for a Bahamian economic recovery

Published on 2011-07-04 14:51:00

Chamber chief: Gas mark-up increase 'very concerning'By NEIL HARTNELLTribune Business Editortribune242The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation's (BCCEC) newly-elected chairman has described as "very concerning" the impending mark-u > read more

WikiLeaks: U.S. Embassy in Nassau cable on the 2004 Mohammed Harajchi controversy and the issue of money in politics in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-07-03 08:24:00

Cable examined '04 Harajchi affairCANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comThe repeated call by some MPs this week for a law to address money in politics appears to be coming too late before the next general election to be taken > read more

I would caution the young leader of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), Branville McCartney - to be very careful as he attempts to tap into the spiritual realm in moving forward. If you make a claim that “God is guiding”, the assumption will

Published on 2011-07-03 07:45:00

McCartney "playing games with God"?By Edward HutchesonIn the “theology of life” it must be understood that God is in control of all outcomes, based on what He allows, what He hinders or what He causes. Many Bahamian politicians and political part > read more

The Bahamas cannot and should not follow the UN suggestion to not repatriate undocumented Haitians for now due to the current state of Haiti... If The Bahamas stopped repatriating Haitians, those in Haiti who want to leave that island would conside

Published on 2011-07-02 06:29:00

UN Haitian request should be ignoredthenassauguardian editorialThe United Nations is asking countries in the region not to repatriate undocumented Haitians for now due to the current state of their country. Haiti, the poorest country in the Western H > read more

We do not know whether Bahamians who complain about Americans informing Washington about our "dirty linen" really understand the functions of an embassy in a foreign country

Published on 2011-07-01 07:59:00

US diplomacy in the Bahamas not understoodtribune242 editorialWE RECALL seeing during the Second World War a most effective poster of Uncle Sam, top hat and all, with a cautionary finger to his silent lips and the warning: "Lose lips costs lives."The > read more

WikiLeaks - 2003 confidential U.S. Embassy in Nassau cable: “Challenges of Illegal Migration; Can The Bahamas Manage?”

Published on 2011-06-30 07:59:00

Heavy Haitian burdenU.S. cables question The Bahamas' capacity to manage illegal immigrationBY ERICA WELLSNG Managing Editorthenassauguardianerica@nasguard.comWhen the United Nations last week urged countries with high Haitian refugee populations to > read more

The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has denied former Member of Parliament, Whitney Bastian a nomination to run in South Andros as its candidate in the upcoming general election

Published on 2011-06-29 14:47:00

'Liability' Bastian dropped by DNABy PAUL G TURNQUESTChief Reportertribune242 pturnquest@tribunemedia.netFORMER Member of Parliament for South Andros, Whitney Bastian has been denied a nomination to run for the Democratic National Alliance in the upc > read more

The social vision of Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham and the Catholic social tradition

Published on 2011-06-29 05:46:00

Hubert Ingraham’s inclusive social visionFRONT PORCHBY SIMONTo compare the social vision of Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham with that of the Catholic social tradition is not to suggest that they are identical. But they do bear a resemblance which l > read more

Every time an issue with Haitians comes up, it reminds us all how lackadaisical we've been over the years with finding a permanent solution to the illegal Haitian situation in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-06-28 08:24:00

UN ASKS THE BAHAMAS TO HALT HAITIAN DEPORTATION FOR A WHILEBY RICK LOWECONDITIONS reportedly remain so bad in Haiti that the UN asked several countries, The Bahamas included, if they would stop sending illegal Haitian immigrants back home for a while > read more

WikiLeaks U.S. Embassy cables Nassau: Brent Symonette - Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs had encouraged “informal back-channel communication” with U.S. Embassy personnel, apparently because he had little faith in civil serva

Published on 2011-06-27 17:34:00

Cables: FNM had 'hostile takeover' of civil serviceBY CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comWhen it came to office in 2007, the Ingraham administration was greeted by a recalcitrant civil service that was so bureaucratic and i > read more

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham seems more concerned about women's rights in The Bahamas than many Bahamian women, who appear quite content to continue to walk a few paces behind their men

Published on 2011-06-27 17:18:00

tribune242 editorialPRIME Minister Ingraham resurrected the issue of women's rights at a luncheon given last week to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of the opening of the Bureau of Women's Affairs.Mr Ingraham seems more concerned about women's ri > read more

Ruth Bowe-Darville - President of the Bahamas Bar Association says: Bahamians who suggest abandoning the Privy Council as a final court of appeal are “treading in very dangerous water.”

Published on 2011-06-26 08:51:00

Bar Council chief says Privy Council still neededJUAN McCARTNEYNG Senior Reporterthenassauguardianjuan@nasguard.comPresident of the Bahamas Bar Association Ruth Bowe-Darville has expressed concern over recent calls for the country to move away from t > read more

Perry Christie - the Opposition leader says: ...while he recognises the sensitive plight of the Haitian people, the Bahamas' predicament as a transit point between Haiti and the United States should be taken into consideration when discussing deport

Published on 2011-06-25 10:05:00

Christie: The UN needs to understand Bahamas' 'burdensome' Haiti problemBy CELESTE NIXONTribune Staff Reportertribune242cnixon@tribunemedia.netOPPOSITION leader Perry Christie said the global community needs to be made aware of the Bahamas' unique an > read more

WikiLeaks: ...U.S. Embassy cables document the unsuccessful diplomatic maneuvers made over two administrations to get a go-ahead for liquefied natural gas (LNG) pipelines from Florida to The Bahamas

Published on 2011-06-24 22:11:00

Failed diplomacy in LNG bidBy CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comA series of U.S. Embassy cables document the unsuccessful diplomatic maneuvers made over two administrations to get a go-ahead for liquefied natural gas (LNG) > read more

Brent Symonette - Immigration Minister: ...repatriation of illegal Haitian immigrants will continue as normal, unless extremely dire conditions were highlighted in Haiti

Published on 2011-06-23 17:13:00

UN urges halt to Haitian deportationBy TANEKA THOMPSONDeputy Chief Reportertribune242tthompson@tribunemedia.netTHE United Nations has issued a plea to the Bahamas not to deport Haitians due to the conditions which remain 18 months after the deadly ea > read more

WikiLeaks: A U.S. diplomatic cable described Bahamian culture as one that “celebrates heterosexual prowess”, while still proclaiming its “overt religiosity.”

Published on 2011-06-22 17:36:00

Cables examine Bahamian views on gay rightsBY JUAN McCARTNEYNG Senior Reporterthenassauguardianjuan@nasguard.comAs many Bahamians remain divided on the issue of gay rights in light of a recent United Nations Human Rights Council vote, some of them ma > read more

WikiLeaks: 2007 U.S. Embassy diplomatic cables on the 2007 general election in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-06-21 05:37:00

Cables examined 2007 PLP lossCANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comAs politicians in The Bahamas craft their strategies ahead of the next general election, an examination of U.S. diplomatic cables on the 2007 poll may prove in > read more

WikiLeaks: Perry Christie, the United States Embassy in Nassau diplomatic cables on The Bahamas and the Leadership issue

Published on 2011-06-21 05:20:00

Christie, the Cables and the Leadership issueBY BRENT DEANNG Deputy News Editorthenassauguardianbrentldean@nasguard.comA journey through the files in the archives of The Nassau Guardian on Perry Christie confronts the investigator with the privileged > read more

Perry Christie's response to a US Embassy cable obtained by whistleblower Wikileaks: ...he (Christie) never considered resigning as PLP chief over Kenyatta Gibson's departure from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)

Published on 2011-06-20 07:09:00

Christie: I never considered quitting over Gibson departure By TANEKA THOMPSON Deputy Chief Reporter tribune242 tthompson@tribunemedia.net KENYATTA Gibson's departure from the Progressive Liberal Party "meant nothing" to Opposition leader Perry > read more

Perry Christie's response to a US Embassy cable obtained by whistleblower Wikileaks: ...he (Christie) never considered resigning as PLP chief over Kenyatta Gibson's departure from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)

Published on 2011-06-20 07:09:00

Christie: I never considered quitting over Gibson departureBy TANEKA THOMPSON Deputy Chief Reportertribune242tthompson@tribunemedia.netKENYATTA Gibson's departure from the Progressive Liberal Party "meant nothing" to Opposition leader Perry Christie > read more

WikiLeaks cables: Perry Christie, the opposition leader planned to resign from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) if it was unsuccessful in its Election Court challenges that followed the 2007 general election - according to a U.S. Embassy diplomat

Published on 2011-06-19 06:58:00

Cable: Christie considered resigningBY CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comU.S. Embassy official says 'backstabbing' plagued PLP govtOpposition Leader Perry Christie told a U.S. Embassy official that he planned to resign fro > read more

WikiLeaks cables: Perry Christie, the opposition leader planned to resign from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) if it was unsuccessful in its Election Court challenges that followed the 2007 general election - according to a U.S. Embassy diplomat

Published on 2011-06-19 06:58:00

Cable: Christie considered resigning BY CANDIA DAMES NG News Editor thenassauguardian candia@nasguard.com U.S. Embassy official says 'backstabbing' plagued PLP govt Opposition Leader Perry Christie told a U.S. Embassy official that he planned t > read more

Crime, punishment, lost faith in the judicial system and vigilante justice

Published on 2011-06-18 06:20:00

What should be the punishment for crime?tribune242A FATHER, grieving over his dead daughter, yesterday condemned this country's highest court for restoring hope of a full life to the man who had brutally murdered her nine years earlier.On Wednesday L > read more

Crime, punishment, lost faith in the judicial system and vigilante justice

Published on 2011-06-18 06:20:00

What should be the punishment for crime? tribune242 A FATHER, grieving over his dead daughter, yesterday condemned this country's highest court for restoring hope of a full life to the man who had brutally murdered her nine years earlier. On Wed > read more

WikiLeaks United States Embassy cables: Embassy officials viewed the cozy relationship between Foreign Affairs Minister Brent Symonette and then Charge d'affaires Brent Hardt as a major plus in convincing The Bahamas to be more supportive of U.S. po

Published on 2011-06-17 07:10:00

Cables reveal DPM's close U.S. tiesCANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comUnited States Embassy officials viewed the cozy relationship between Foreign Affairs Minister Brent Symonette and then Charge d'affaires Brent Hardt as a > read more

WikiLeaks United States Embassy cables: Embassy officials viewed the cozy relationship between Foreign Affairs Minister Brent Symonette and then Charge d'affaires Brent Hardt as a major plus in convincing The Bahamas to be more supportive of U.S. po

Published on 2011-06-17 07:10:00

Cables reveal DPM's close U.S. ties CANDIA DAMES NG News Editor thenassauguardian candia@nasguard.com United States Embassy officials viewed the cozy relationship between Foreign Affairs Minister Brent Symonette and then Charge d'affaires Brent H > read more

Standard & Poor's (S&P) latest assessment of the Bahamas' public finances: ...hinted strongly that it was not overwhelmed by the Government's fiscal plans and that the Ingraham administration could do more to set the national debt and defici

Published on 2011-06-17 02:44:00

S&P: Bahamas needs 'proactive' debt policyBy NEIL HARTNELLTribune Business Editortribune242A major Wall Street credit rating agency would raise the Bahamas' sovereign credit rating if the Government initiates "a more proactive policy response" to red > read more

Standard & Poor's (S&P) latest assessment of the Bahamas' public finances: ...hinted strongly that it was not overwhelmed by the Government's fiscal plans and that the Ingraham administration could do more to set the national debt and defici

Published on 2011-06-17 02:44:00

S&P: Bahamas needs 'proactive' debt policy By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor tribune242 A major Wall Street credit rating agency would raise the Bahamas' sovereign credit rating if the Government initiates "a more proactive policy response > read more

Perry Christie - Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) leader was wise and measured in his response to the United States Embassy cables being published by The Nassau Guardian via WikiLeaks

Published on 2011-06-16 08:58:00

Christie's WikiLeaks remarks appropriatethenassauguardian Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) leader Perry Christie was wise and measured in his response to the United States Embassy cables being published by The Nassau Guardian via WikiLeaks.In an inter > read more

Perry Christie - Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) leader was wise and measured in his response to the United States Embassy cables being published by The Nassau Guardian via WikiLeaks

Published on 2011-06-16 08:58:00

Christie's WikiLeaks remarks appropriate thenassauguardian Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) leader Perry Christie was wise and measured in his response to the United States Embassy cables being published by The Nassau Guardian via WikiLeaks. In > read more

The Privy Council and the death penalty in The Bahamas... Tommy Turnquest on the issue of capital punishment

Published on 2011-06-16 08:01:00

Turnquest defends the role of the Privy CouncilBy LAMECH JOHNSONtribune242THE London-based Privy Council has been portrayed as an obstacle to the Bahamas carrying out the death penalty, but this is not the case, according to a senior cabinet minister > read more

The Privy Council and the death penalty in The Bahamas... Tommy Turnquest on the issue of capital punishment

Published on 2011-06-16 08:01:00

Turnquest defends the role of the Privy Council By LAMECH JOHNSON tribune242 THE London-based Privy Council has been portrayed as an obstacle to the Bahamas carrying out the death penalty, but this is not the case, according to a senior cabinet m > read more

WikiLeaks classified diplomatic cable: Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham placed Freeport’s economy in “jeopardy” and possibly stalled several major projects planned for Grand Bahama by not renewing the work permit of former Grand Bahama Port Autho

Published on 2011-06-15 09:05:00

Cable: PM put GB economy in jeopardyBy JUAN McCARTNEYNG Senior Reporterthenassauguardianjuan@nasguard.comPrime Minister Hubert Ingraham’s decision not to renew the work permit of former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) Chairman Hannes Babak at th > read more

WikiLeaks classified diplomatic cable: Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham placed Freeport’s economy in “jeopardy” and possibly stalled several major projects planned for Grand Bahama by not renewing the work permit of former Grand Bahama Port Autho

Published on 2011-06-15 09:05:00

Cable: PM put GB economy in jeopardy By JUAN McCARTNEY NG Senior Reporter thenassauguardian juan@nasguard.com Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham’s decision not to renew the work permit of former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) Chairman Hannes Ba > read more

It was in 2002 that [then MP for the Kennedy constituency] Dr. Bernard Nottage's Coalition for Democratic Reform (CDR) tried to do what Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney and his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) is now trying

Published on 2011-06-15 05:36:00

DNA must remember the CDRthenassauguardian editorialIt was in 2002 that a sitting Member of Parliament last tried to do what Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney is now trying to do. Dr. Bernard Nottage broke away from Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) > read more

It was in 2002 that [then MP for the Kennedy constituency] Dr. Bernard Nottage's Coalition for Democratic Reform (CDR) tried to do what Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney and his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) is now trying

Published on 2011-06-15 05:36:00

DNA must remember the CDR thenassauguardian editorial It was in 2002 that a sitting Member of Parliament last tried to do what Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney is now trying to do. Dr. Bernard Nottage broke away from Progressive Liberal Party > read more

The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party has grave concerns over the most recent visit by the Deputy Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) Central Committee, Wang Lequan on the Prime Min

Published on 2011-06-14 10:25:00

Chinese Visit:From the DNA party on FacebookThe Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) have grave concerns, among other things, over the most recent visit by officials of the Communist Party of China on the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, t > read more

The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party has grave concerns over the most recent visit by the Deputy Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) Central Committee, Wang Lequan on the Prime Min

Published on 2011-06-14 10:25:00

Chinese Visit: From the DNA party on Facebook The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) have grave concerns, among other things, over the most recent visit by officials of the Communist Party of China on the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minis > read more

The WikiLeaks cables should be viewed as a learning experience by public officials... and the release of the diplomatic documents have allowed Bahamians to see more clearly the actions of their leaders... says Former Prime Minister Perry Christie

Published on 2011-06-14 10:22:00

Christie: WikiLeaks a learning experienceCANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comFormer Prime Minister Perry Christie says public officials should view the WikiLeaks cables as a learning experience and added that the release of > read more

Philip ‘Brave’ Davis - Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) deputy leader: “I am committed to ensuring that Perry Gladstone Christie is the next prime minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and that the PLP is returned to power,”...

Published on 2011-06-13 07:22:00

Davis affirms commitment to ChristieBRENT DEANNG Deputy News Editorthenassauguardianbrentldean@nasguard.comProgressive Liberal Party (PLP) deputy leader Philip ‘Brave’ Davis yesterday publicly affirmed his commitment to assisting Leader of the Op > read more

Gangsterism and politics: Bahamian politicians take note of the deadly end result of politics and corruption

Published on 2011-06-12 09:35:00

Electronic fence needed between gangsterism and politicstribune242 editorialANYONE who has followed the rise and fall of Jamaica's drug kingpin, Christopher "Dudus" Coke, or read KC Samuels' account of Coke's meteoric rise and eventual fall into the > read more

Who is Wang Lequan?

Published on 2011-06-11 13:41:00

Bahamas - China relations in the spotlight with the high-level visit of the Deputy Secretary of Political and Legal Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) Central Committee, Wang LequanLoose Ends in Western Chinachina.notspecial > read more

Branville McCartney - the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader is risking his political career

Published on 2011-06-11 08:42:00

Third party supportthenassauguardian editorialSince the resignation of Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney from the Free National Movement (FNM), the national airwaves have been dominated by talk of a third political party to challenge the FNM and Pro > read more

Philip 'Brave' Davis told Free National Movement supporters that Progressive Liberal Party Chief Perry Christie is not his leader and is "dicey" during a trip to Cat Island, claimed Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham

Published on 2011-06-11 08:27:00

PM claims Philip Davis said Christie is not his leaderBy TANEKA THOMPSONTribune Staff Reportertribune242tthompson@tribunemedia.netPHILIP 'Brave' Davis told Free National Movement supporters that Progressive Liberal Party Chief Perry Christie is not h > read more

[WikiLeaks] U.S. Embassy official in a 2004 diplomatic cable: Franklyn Wilson argued that the U.S. should support Perry Christie’s hope to become a regional leader since the Bahamian prime minister was America’s “Tony Blair” inside CARICOM

Published on 2011-06-10 07:46:00

Cable: Wilson defended Christie to AmericansBY CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.com Diplomatic cables reveal detailed discussions American diplomats had with prominent Bahamian businessman Franklyn Wilson who repeatedly defe > read more

The less tolerant and accommodating we are of criminal enterprise and behaviour, the more effective will be our fight against crime...

Published on 2011-06-09 07:29:00

The corrupters of the judicial systemtribune242 editorialIN 1981 then Attorney General Paul Adderley considered a court system not in tune with the society in which it functioned, lawyers with neither a good nor high reputation, and corrupters of the > read more

Will the United States Embassy cables being published by The Nassau Guardian via WikiLeaks have an impact on how Bahamians vote in the upcoming general election?

Published on 2011-06-08 07:41:00

WikiLeaks: An election issue?thenassauguardian editorialWithin a year, Bahamians will again be voting for a government. The third non-consecutive term of the Free National Movement (FNM) in office is coming to an end. The general election campaign > read more

..."apathy and a weak public opinion have led to the present unhappy and undesirable state of affairs in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-06-07 23:01:00

Paul Adderley's view of court sentencestribune242 editorialINSTEAD OF assisting the police in crime solving, many Bahamians like to sit back and fingerpoint, blaming one or other political party for its cause.While crime and its root causes are compl > read more

WikiLeaks: Perry Christie had deep concerns about the Petrocaribe agreement with Venezuela while he was prime minister...and his worries about certain moves then Minister of Trade and Industry Leslie Miller was making, allegedly without Cabinet appro

Published on 2011-06-07 08:00:00

Christie hit out at MillerU.S. Cables reveal sharp Cabinet division over Petrocaribe in 2005BY CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.com Cables obtained by The Nassau Guardian through the whistleblower WikiLeaks reveal deep conce > read more

WikiLeaks: ...there might have been terrorist “support and financial cells in The Bahamas,” and “financing links”

Published on 2011-06-07 07:55:00

US: Local terror ties suspectedMuslim leaders claim they are being 'harassed' by embassy officialsBY JUAN McCARTNEYNG Senior Reporterthenassauguardianjuan@nasguard.comA United States Embassy assessment of possible terrorist activity in this country c > read more

WikiLeaks on Bishop Neil C. Ellis...and Bishop Neil C. Ellis on WikiLeaks

Published on 2011-06-06 21:12:00

CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comA U.S. Embassy official claimed in a cable penned in 2003 that Bishop Neil C. Ellis — who is repeatedly described in diplomatic documents as Perry Christie’s spiritual adviser — rema > read more

It is now time for Bahamian politicians to take note... Remember one is judged by the "friends" one keeps... Distance yourselves from known criminals in the run up to the 2012 general election

Published on 2011-06-06 13:42:00

Don't make the criminal your bedfellowtribune242 editorialLAST WEEK Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham gave politicians on all sides of the political divide sound advice: Distance yourselves from known criminals in the run up to the 2012 general election > read more

2007 WikiLeaks cable Bahamas: Hubert Ingraham the opposition leader pledged that, if elected, he would make improvements in the Bahamian judiciary to speed up trials and get more criminals off the streets...

Published on 2011-06-05 11:17:00

Ingraham: Many judges incompetentBY CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorthenassauguardiancandia@nasguard.comDuring a final courtesy call with then U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas John Rood days before the 2007 general election, Free National Movement (FNM) lead > read more

Craig Butler’s struggle to attain a nomination should be a cautionary tale for young people going into Bahamian politics... The past can be held against you

Published on 2011-06-04 08:12:00

Butler's candor is refreshingthenassauguardian editorialCraig Butler yesterday left the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). He was the party’s treasurer. Butler is the grandson of the first Bahamian Governor General, Sir Milo Butler. He is also the br > read more

Petulant, petty and vindictive Fred Mitchell in the House of Assembly on the Wikileaks publication of confidential US embassy cables on Bahamian political affairs

Published on 2011-06-03 10:39:00

Fred Mitchell and journalistic ethicstribune242 editorialIN THE House of Assembly on Tuesday Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell held forth as though he were an authority on journalistic ethics.At one time in his life he fancied himself as a journalist. Those > read more

Craig Butler - treasurer of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), resigned from his post and the opposition party

Published on 2011-06-02 11:02:00

PLP treasurer resignsBRENT DEANNG Deputy News Editorthenassauguardianbrentldean@nasguard.com Craig Butler, treasurer of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), resigned yesterday from his post and the opposition party and vowed to run as a candidate in > read more

Fred Mitchell - Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs critical of U.S. Embassy officials in Nassau on WikiLeaks diplomatic cables

Published on 2011-06-02 07:16:00

Mitchell critical of Americans over WikiLeaks cablesCHESTER ROBARDSGuardian Staff Reporterthenassauguardianchester@nasguard.comShadow Minister for Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell was critical yesterday of U.S. Embassy officials responsible for certain > read more

Dr. Ian Strachan on the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) and the strong support it has attracted on social media...

Published on 2011-06-01 14:28:00

Dr Ian Strachan: Support for DNA on Facebook may not equal votesBy LAMECH JOHNSONtribune242PROFESSOR and political analyst Dr Ian Strachan said the new Democratic National Alliance should not make too much of the strong support it has attracted on so > read more

To Mr. Fred Mitchell: [PLP Leader] Mr. Perry Christie's indecisiveness is not FNM propaganda

Published on 2011-06-01 12:28:00

Fred Mitchell talks of FNM propagandatribune242 editorialFRED MITCHELL has urged Bahamians to ignore the "biased opinion" of American diplomats who in their reports to Washington have characterised former prime minister Perry Christie as a procrastin > read more

Whitney Bastian - former South Andros MP predicts the newly formed Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party will become the next government of The Bahamas

Published on 2011-06-01 10:54:00

Bastian Predicts Sweeping DNA Election VictoryBy Macushla N. PinderjonesbahamasFormer parliamentarian Whitney Bastian may not have a crystal ball, but he is convinced he knows exactly how the next general election will play out.The former South Andro > read more

Rodney Moncur's Worker's Party dissolved... to join the newly formed Branville McCartney's Democratic National Alliance (DNA)

Published on 2011-05-31 13:50:00

The Worker's Party dissolves to join DNABy NOELLE NICOLLSTribune Staff Reporternnicolls@tribunemedia.netTHE Worker's Party dissolved its organisation yesterday after 35 years in politics, to join the newly formed Democratic National Alliance (DNA).Le > read more

[WikiLeaks] John Rood - United States Ambassador to The Bahamas: ...there seemed at times to be “two Fred Mitchells” — the polite and polished public Fred Mitchell and the more private, but more revealing Fred Mitchell

Published on 2011-05-31 08:08:00

The Mitchell Files: What the Americans really thoughtBy CANDIA DAMES NG News Editorthenassauguardian candia@nasguard.comTHE NATIONAL REVIEWIn 2005, United States Ambassador to The Bahamas John Rood remarked that there seemed at times to be “two Fre > read more

WikiLeaks, former Acting Commissioner of Police Reginald Ferguson, Politics and the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF)

Published on 2011-05-30 18:08:00

Ferguson wanted top cops dismissedBy BRENT DEAN NG Deputy News Editorthenassauguardian brentldean@nasguard.comCable reveals power struggle in police forceThen Acting Commissioner of Police Reginald Ferguson in early 2009 told United States Embassy of > read more

Fred Mitchell, opposition Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) spokesman on Foreign Affairs criticized The Nassau Guardian for reporting on the [WikiLeaks] United States Embassy in Nassau confidential cables

Published on 2011-05-29 09:30:00

U.S. was unimpressed with new oppositionBy BRENT DEAN NG Deputy News Editorthenassauguardian brentldean@nasguard.comCable says PLP was concerned by claim U.S. favored FNMThe Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) sought to project the image of an energized > read more

Branville McCartney - the self-appointed leader of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) credibility seems to erode the more he speaks

Published on 2011-05-28 15:43:00

Branville McCartney's vanity partyBy SIMONFRONT PORCHThe press pass many journalists have generally given Branville McCartney is best understood with regard to the media’s perpetual hunt for ratings and sales, boredom and hunger for headlines, as w > read more

Whitney Bastian will run on the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) ticket for the South Andros constituency in the next general election

Published on 2011-05-28 15:00:00

Whitney Bastian Joins DNABY KENDENO N. P. KNOWLESjonesbahamasA former independent candidate has announced that he will now join with the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) in its attempt to secure the government in the next general election.Whitney B > read more

...no end is in sight to high crime rates in The Bahamas, said a United States Embassy in Nassau February 2009 confidential cable titled “Bahamas: Crime concerns simmer as economy softens”

Published on 2011-05-26 07:41:00

'National anxiety' over crime travel advisoryBy BRENT DEAN Deputy News Editorthenassauguardian brentldean@nasguard.comThe United States Embassy in Nassau closely monitors the crime situation in The Bahamas, noting the potential for a “high-profile > read more

Cassius Stuart likened Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham to Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe and former Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide - when he met with a U.S. Embassy official in Nassau - according to diplomatic cables

Published on 2011-05-25 10:40:00

Stuart compared PM to dictatorBy CANDIA DAMES NG News Editorthenassauguardian candia@nasguard.comCables reveal former BDM leader's statements to AmericansWhen Cassius Stuart met with a U.S. Embassy official before the Elizabeth by-election last year, > read more

There are no campaign finance laws in The Bahamas, so Bahamian political parties do not have to disclose who finances their operations

Published on 2011-05-25 07:48:00

Cables reveal discussions of money in electionsBy BRENT DEAN NG Deputy News Editorthenassauguardian brentldean@nasguard.comA senior member of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) disclosed that his party spent around $7 million on the 2002 general ele > read more

Tommy Turnquest was “born with a silver spoon in his mouth” and was “uninspiring”, but had a “reputation for honesty”, says U.S. Embassy officials in Nassau

Published on 2011-05-24 23:42:00

Turnquest examined in cablesBy CANDIA DAMES NG News Editorthenassauguardian candia@nasguard.comFormer FNM leader viewed as uninspiringAs someone who went head to head with Perry Christie, a formidable opponent in 2002, Tommy Turnquest was closely ana > read more

Branville McCartney says: ...the PLP and FNM are working together, and they will try to work together to try and stop the DNA from becoming the next government of The Bahamas

Published on 2011-05-24 23:07:00

Bran: Documents show 'true democracy' denied to Bahamians for yearsBy PAUL G TURNQUESTTribune Staff Reportertribune242pturnquest@tribunemedia.netCITING the close working relationship between the leaders of the PLP and FNM in recently revealed Wikilea > read more

Hubert Ingraham is still the FNM’s most popular politician...

Published on 2011-05-24 08:22:00

Bahamas WikiLeaks cables revealedBy CANDIA DAMES NG News Editorthenassauguardian candia@nasgaurd.com Inside the mind of Hubert IngrahamWhen he sat down with a U.S. Embassy official at his law office on April 8, 2003, Hubert Ingraham outlined who he t > read more

Hubert Ingraham: “Supremely self-confident, unapologetic and, dare we say, arrogant as ever...", says a United States Embassy official in Nassau

Published on 2011-05-24 08:03:00

The Ingraham logs: An analysisBy ERICA WELLS NG Managing Editorthenassauguardian erica@nasguard.comAs a sitting opposition member of Parliament (MP) in April 2003, more than a year after he had stepped aside as leader of the Free National Movement, f > read more

The analysis of the United States Embassy in Nassau of the Bahamian political scene is comprehensive and insightful

Published on 2011-05-23 10:26:00

A U.S. view of Perry ChristieBy BRENT DEAN Deputy News Editorthenassauguardian brentldean@nasguard.comThe analysis by officials from the United States Embassy in Nassau of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and its leader Perry Christie after he ann > read more

Branville McCartney and his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party - are as much a threat to the governing Free National Movement (FNM) - as Perry Christie and his Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)

Published on 2011-05-22 10:05:00

Rallying the FNM's troopsthenassauguardian editorialWhen Branville McCartney launched his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) last week who was in attendance at the launch was as interesting as what was said by McCartney.The Free National Movement (FN > read more

Perry Christie - Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader says: Branville McCartney and his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party are not ready to fight in a "real political boxing match."

Published on 2011-05-21 12:25:00

“McCartney Not Ready”By Sasha L. LightbournejonesbahamasA lot has been said in the wake of the official launch of Branville McCartney’s Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party.But according to Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader, Perry Chri > read more

Picewell Forbes' friends and supporters claim that the PLP is "showing great disrespect" for him by allowing two candidates from his own party - Keod Smith and Charmaine Austin to openly campaign against him in the South Andros seat

Published on 2011-05-20 07:34:00

MP attacks PLP over candidatesBy PAUL G TURNQUESTTribune Staff Reporterpturnquest@tribunemedia.netFRIENDS and supporters of South Andros MP Picewell Forbes claim the PLP is "showing great disrespect" by allowing two candidates from his own party to o > read more

If Mr. Perry Christie was ever dumb enough to agree with Raynard Rigby, Philip Galanis, and George Smith to deny nominations to a number of his closest allies in the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) - he would in that same gesture prove that he is un

Published on 2011-05-19 07:35:00

Nixing Preemptive PLP PurgeThe Bahama Journal EditorialThere is a sense we are getting that tells us that there may be forces and elements currently at work in the precincts of the Progressive Liberal Party that would [if given their chance] help the > read more

George Smith - former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MP says that he hopes his party's supporters will see the wisdom in his words about the withdrawal of certain PLP candidates from the upcoming general election

Published on 2011-05-18 13:39:00

Ex-PLP MP defends controversial letter By PAUL G TURNQUESTTribune Staff Reporterpturnquest@tribunemedia.netDEFENDING the letter he co-penned calling for the withdrawal of certain PLP candidates from the upcoming general election, former PLP MP George > read more

Raynard Rigby - former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) chairman resigned from a crucial party election committee

Published on 2011-05-18 11:48:00

Rigby resigns from PLP committeeBy CANDIA DAMES Guardian News Editor candia@nasguard.comMany PLPs angered by letter to ChristieA day after The Nassau Guardian revealed that three influential members of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) were seeking > read more

Branville McCartney - Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader appears to be a "bigger dictator" than his former boss – Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham - according to the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)

Published on 2011-05-18 07:33:00

“McCartney A Dictator”By ROGAN SMITHjonesbahamasDemocratic National Alliance (DNA) Leader Branville McCartney appears to be a "bigger dictator" than his former boss – Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham – "who he could no longer work for," accordi > read more

Philip Galanis says: Branville McCartney did not offer concrete solutions on how his new political party will tackle the myriad problems facing The Bahamas in his recent Democratic National Alliance (DNA) launch speech

Published on 2011-05-17 07:43:00

McCartney's DNA offered no concrete solutions to country's problems By TANEKA THOMPSON Tribune Staff Reportertthompson@tribunemedia.net BRANVILLE McCartney did not offer concrete solutions on how his new political party will tackle the myriad problem > read more

Prominent Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) members want several PLP Members of Parliament to not receive nominations to run in the next general election

Published on 2011-05-16 17:49:00

PLPs move to block nominations... Christie asked to make ‘bold’ decisionsBy CANDIA DAMESGuardian News Editorcandia@nasguard.comThree prominent members of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) are appealing to party leader Perry Christie to ensure t > read more

The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) receives "mixed reviews" from the general public on its official launch

Published on 2011-05-15 08:36:00

'MIXED REVIEWS' AFTER DNA'S OFFICIAL LAUNCHtribune242AFTER its official launch on Thursday night at the Wyndham Crystal Palace Resort, the Democratic National Alliance is getting "mixed reviews" from the general public.According to numerous persons i > read more

Can Branville McCartney succeed where Dr. Bernard J. Nottage failed?

Published on 2011-05-14 20:39:00

As Third Parties EnterThe Bahama Journal EditorialThird parties are today all the rage.Some who now yearn to jump ship from this or that small third party’s helm are apparently concerned far more with burnishing their egos rather than with even try > read more

Branville McCartney's inaugural speech at the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party's launch - Thursday May 12, 2011

Published on 2011-05-14 11:23:00

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen, young women and young men.It would indeed be remiss of me to start without thanking all of you who are gathered here this evening. It is not by chance that we are here; this is no haphazard occurrence, but this is > read more

Craig Butler calls for Bahamian politicians to come clean about their drug use... insisting that every potential candidate undergo drug testing ahead of the upcoming general election

Published on 2011-05-14 10:58:00

MPs Challenged To Take Drug TestsBY KENDENO N. P. KNOWLESjonesbahamasThe 41 sitting Members of Parliament are being challenged by one political hopeful to undergo drug testing ahead of the upcoming general elections. But more than that, Progressive L > read more

Branville McCartney - Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader will have to get used to attacking Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham - if he hopes to survive in Bahamian politics

Published on 2011-05-13 12:40:00

The new party in Parliamentthenassauguardian editorialThe official launch of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) last night means that a third party will be represented in Parliament for the first time since Dr. Bernard Nottage represented the Coa > read more

Craig Butler will once again not run as a candidate for the PLP in the upcoming general election

Published on 2011-05-13 12:29:00

Butler will not run as PLP candidatetribune242AFTER being passed over in the Elizabeth by-election last year, attorney Craig Butler will once again not run as a candidate for the PLP in the upcoming general election, The Tribune has been informed.Wit > read more

It would be miraculous if Branville McCartney’s Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party won the next general election

Published on 2011-05-11 10:31:00

Third party political influencethenassauguardian editorialBranville McCartney is set to unveil his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party tomorrow night. McCartney is taking the leap and challenging the two main parties at the next general electio > read more

The National Development Party (NDP) is "still standing" and the movement is "alive and well." - says its Communications Director - Prince Smith

Published on 2011-05-10 08:25:00

“NDP Won’t Fall Apart”By ROGAN SMITHjonesbahamas If you think the departure of 10 of its executives would cripple the National Development Party (NDP), think again.NDP Communications Director Prince Smith says the party is "still standing" and > read more

So now the People's Government has decided that foreigners can invest in and own any restaurant or entertainment business in our beloved Commonwealth. How can The Bahamas Government justify such a decision?

Published on 2011-05-09 13:49:00

What’s left for us?By Philip C. GalanisThere has been considerable discussion lately about the changes that are taking place all around us in today's Bahamas. With the dismantling of public entities such as the Hotel Corporation, the privatization > read more

The Bahamian people can and should – with the help of appropriate labour – produce more of the food its people consume

Published on 2011-05-08 09:28:00

Price Inflation and Food ShockThe Bahama Journal EditorialToday some of what passes for new information has to do with the fact that the price for practically everything with the possible exception of labour is set to move upward.This is what the eco > read more

WORKERS' Party leader Rodney Moncur says: ...the memorandum of understanding signed between the National Development Party (NDP) and the Workers' Party (WP) late last year establishing an alliance for the next general election, had been broken

Published on 2011-05-06 04:33:00

Worker's party leader 'shocked' by NDP members move to the PLPBy TANEKA THOMPSONTribune Staff Reportertthompson@tribunemedia.netWORKERS' Party leader Rodney Moncur called an emergency party meeting last night after being "shocked" by news that ten ex > read more

Renward Wells - former National Development Party (NDP) leader says: Mr. Perry Christie is the gentlemen who is most able as a transitional leader to position The Bahamas and its economy to where we ought to go...

Published on 2011-05-06 04:14:00

NDP chiefs flock to PLPBy TANEKA THOMPSONTribune Staff Reportertthompson@tribunemedia.netTEN members of the executive council of the National Development Party, including party leader Renward Wells, have left the fledgling party and joined the Opposi > read more

Branville McCartney and his Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party will have a lot of competition this election season...

Published on 2011-05-05 07:41:00

Politicians Dismiss DNABy ROGAN SMITHjonesbahamas After Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney quit the Free National Movement (FNM) he had one goal in mind – forming a party to challenge both the FNM and the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), but accord > read more

Tommy Turnquest: ...the high level of violent crime in the country does not mean the governing Free National Movement (FNM) has failed in its anti-crime efforts

Published on 2011-05-04 07:53:00

Turnquest: Govt has not failed on crimeBy CANDIA DAMES NG News Editor candia@nasguard.com In the lead-up to the 2007 general election, concerns about the high level of violent crime were high on the Free National Movement (FNM) party’s list of talk > read more

The Free National Movement (FNM) would be foolish to try to run an election campaign without making crime its lead issue

Published on 2011-05-03 08:03:00

Reflections on the FNM yearsBy BRENT DEAN Deputy News Editorthenassauguardian brentldean@nasguard.comHubert Ingraham’s third mandate is nearing an end. Four years ago today he wrestled power away from his friend Perry Christie. Now, having chosen t > read more

Bahamian Students abroad expressed concerns about no absentee ballot voting system in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-05-03 07:45:00

Bahamian Students Raise Voting ConcernsBy Sasha L. LightbournejonesbahamasSeveral students who are studying law in the United Kingdom have voiced their concerns over the fact that there is no absentee ballot voting system in the country.The students, > read more

The Christian People Movement has joined forces with the Bahamas Constitution Party (BCP)

Published on 2011-05-01 08:17:00

BCP to take part in general electionBy CELESTE NIXONTribune Staff Reportercnixon@tribunemedia.netThe Bahamas Constitution Party announced that it will be participating in the next general election.Describing itself as a "social and fiscal conservativ > read more

Branville McCartney has reportedly turned down offers to join other political parties... instead opting to form his own – the Democratic National Alliance (DNA)

Published on 2011-04-29 19:34:00

PLP Stalled For McCartneyBy ROGAN SMITHjonesbahamasThe Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) was so determined to get Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney to join its ranks that it held off on appointing a candidate to run in the constituency against him, ac > read more

Should the government borrow money to pay public servants more or should it tax the rest of the country to pay this particular group?

Published on 2011-04-28 22:06:00

Govt should say no to public servantsthenassauguardian editorialHow much of the public purse should public servants be entitled to? Compensation to these workers is already around 55 to 60 percent of the national budget. Now the president of the Ba > read more

Renward Wells - National Development Party (NDP) leader says that his party is still in the "valley of decisions" as it pertains to joining Branville McCartney's Democratic National Alliance (DNA)

Published on 2011-04-27 14:14:00

NDP considers joining DNA partytribune242AN ANNOUNCEMENT is expected by the end of the week as to whether or not the National Development Party (NDP) will join with the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) or remain as a third party force going into th > read more

Mark Holowesko says that he played no role in the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) / Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) deal and is in no way connected to Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC)

Published on 2011-04-27 13:56:00

FNM calls PLP’s claims against Holowesko ‘bogus’By CANDIA DAMES Guardian News Editor candia@nasguard.com The Free National Movement (FNM) yesterday branded as ‘bogus’ the claims made by the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) that professional > read more

The People's Deliverance Party (PDP) has elected PLP leadership hopeful Paul Moss as its leader

Published on 2011-04-26 13:50:00

New political party elects Paul Moss as leaderBy ALISON LOWEBusiness Reporteralowe@tribunemedia.netTHE newly-formed People's Deliverance Party (PDP) has elected PLP leadership hopeful Paul Moss as its leader and intends to run a full slate of candida > read more

What role is Mark Holowesko playing in the BTC - Cable and Wireless marriage?

Published on 2011-04-26 13:35:00

Holowesko denies conflict claim...Responds to PLP’s claims about BTC board appointmentProfessional money manager Mark Holowesko has strongly denied claims made by the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) that his recent appointment to the board of the n > read more

It would be most appreciated if Honourable Members of the House of Assembly and the public become familiar with the terms of the Investment Policy of The Bahamas

Published on 2011-04-23 17:08:00

Communication byRt. Hon. Hubert A. IngrahamOn National Investment Policy andInvestment Promotional MaterialsMr. Speaker,I am pleased to table for the information of Honourable Members a copy of the new Bahamas Promotional Brochure “The Bahamas: A P > read more

Bahamian politics, politicians, pundits, pollsters, strange bedfellows and the next general election in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-04-22 14:59:00

Politicians, pundits and pollstersBy Philip C. GalanisWith slightly more than one year, at most, before the general election must be called, the political temperature is already rising. In February this year, Dr. Andre Rollins resigned from the NDP, > read more

We live in one of the most violent countries in the world

Published on 2011-04-21 07:56:00

‘A phenomenal burden’By CANDIA DAMES Guardian News Editor candia@nasguard.comA closer look at the impact of crime on PMHThe high level of violent crime is stretching resources all around, and officials at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) know tha > read more

Auditor general’s report: Widespread misuse of government funds in the Local Government offices on various Family Islands

Published on 2011-04-20 15:19:00

Report: Widespread misuse of public money in local govtBy KRYSTEL ROLLEGuardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasguard.comThe recently tabled auditor general’s report reveals the widespread misuse of government funds in the Local Government offices on vari > read more

The 2012 general election issues are: Jobs, Crime, and Leadership

Published on 2011-04-19 07:40:00

Leadership will be an issue in 2012 electiontribune242 editorialIN A crescendo of emotion during the debate last month on the sale of BTC to Cable & Wireless, a member of the Opposition on the floor of the House loudly declared that the 2012 election > read more

Cassius Stuart’s decision to join the governing Free National Movement (FNM) party demonstrates that he has the sense to know when a lost cause should be abandoned

Published on 2011-04-19 07:39:00

Is Cassius Stuart still credible?thenassauguardian editorialCassius Stuart spent much of the last decade raging against the political order as the leader of the Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM). The BDM argued that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP > read more

It appears that there will be political bloodletting in Bamboo Town where the governing Free National Movement (FNM) and Official Opposition - Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) plot to ambush Branville McCartney at the polls

Published on 2011-04-18 07:38:00

Branville McCartney and the 2012 electionBy ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comIN THE next general election, it appears that newly independent MP Branville McCartney and his purported new party are hoping that Bahamians are tired of playing musical cha > read more

Who is this man Fred Mitchell?

Published on 2011-04-17 07:27:00

Would the real Fred Mitchell please stand up?tribune242 edtorialAS SOON as he arrived at the office yesterday morning a Tribune staff member went to this newspaper's "morgue" in search of a certain file. The night before he had heard a comment over c > read more

Renward Wells - The National Development Party (NDP) leader wants to immediately merge his party with Branville McCartney’s Democratic National Alliance (DNA)

Published on 2011-04-16 08:53:00

NDP leader wants party to join DNABy JUAN McCARTNEY Guardian Senior Reporter juan@nasguard.comThe National Development Party (NDP) appears to have dissention in the ranks as its leader, Renward Wells, is reportedly trying to have the party immediatel > read more

Cassius Stuart's Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) merges with the governing Free National Movement (FNM) Party

Published on 2011-04-15 07:43:00

BDM dissolves and merges with FNMBy NOELLE NICOLLSTribune Staff Reporternnicolls@tribunemedia.netTHE Bahamas Democratic Movement has officially been dissolved after a 13-year political run, announced former party president Cassius Stuart. Party repre > read more

The Public Domain poll reveals that 47 percent of the people contacted were either somewhat dissatisfied of very dissatisfied with the Ingraham adminstration

Published on 2011-04-14 12:21:00

Poll: Nearly half of electorate uninterested in PLP and FNMBy KRYSTEL ROLLEGuardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasguard.comThe latest Public Domain poll has revealed that nearly half of Bahamians surveyed are not satisfied with the current government, nea > read more

With the country well on pace to set its fourth homicide record in five years, it would be useful if the political parties would published crime manifestos...

Published on 2011-04-14 07:17:00

Parties must elevate level of public debatethenassauguardian editorialAs we make the march towards the next general election the major political parties are engaging in the usual back and forth debates. One side attacks and the other responds with a > read more

Bahamians cannot have a crime free society while harbouring the criminal in the bosom of the family

Published on 2011-04-13 07:54:00

Bahamian society must make a decision on crimetribune242 editorialTHE hard working police force are today in the unenviable position of being "damned if you do, and damned if you don't."The public wants the criminal removed from the streets. However, > read more

Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) has found no friend in the Perry Gladstone Christie lead Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)

Published on 2011-04-12 08:15:00

Undoing the BTC dealBy CANDIA DAMESGuardian News Editorcandia@nasguard.comCould it be done?Officials of Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) appear to have their work cut out for them.In addition to delivering on all they and the government promis > read more

Branville McCartney says: ...move this, our beloved country, forward toward the future of empowerment that has been promised to us for almost 40 years

Published on 2011-04-11 18:49:00

Branville McCartney Press Release – 10th April, 2011 I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Right Honorable Prime Minister for his support and assistance over the years, particularly in support of me as the representative for Bamboo To > read more

...amend the Securities Industry Bill to provide more protection for minority investors in private companies...

Published on 2011-04-11 18:02:00

Top bankers back calls for greater investor protectionBy NEIL HARTNELLTribune Business EditorTOP Bahamian investment bankers have backed calls for enhanced protection for minority shareholders to be extended to all private companies who solicit inves > read more

Kirk Griffin's thoughts on the union between Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) and Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)

Published on 2011-04-10 10:47:00

Kirk Griffin on CWCIN YOUR OWN WORDSFormer Acting CEO of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and newly-appointed advisor to the company Kirk Griffin offered his thoughts on Cable and Wireless Communications.“I am fortunate to have been at BTC > read more

Two years of high unemployment and tepid economic growth means that Bahamian consumers are less able to absorb the spike in gas prices and its effects

Published on 2011-04-08 08:36:00

Conserving energythenassauguardian editorialIf you have had to fuel up at the gas pump over the last week or so, you have probably noticed that gasoline prices are rapidly on the rise.A gallon of gas is already over the $5.20 mark in New Providence a > read more

Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is now a private company... It's now time to put down the placards and help build a telecommunications network of which all Bahamians can be proud

Published on 2011-04-07 17:55:00

BTC has new owners. Time to move ontribune242 editorialAFTER 14 long years of starts, stops, demonstrations and a few hiccups, Bahamas Telecommunications Company is now a private company.The much disputed sale agreement was finally signed in the Cabi > read more

Political interference has resulted in "low operating efficiency" and "misuse" of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) - says Consultant's Report

Published on 2011-04-06 15:13:00

BEC 'misused' from political interferenceBy NEIL HARTNELLTribune Business EditorPolitical interference has resulted in "low operating efficiency" and "misuse" of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC), a consultant's report has confirmed, urging t > read more

Bahamians want to know what more can be done legally and constitutionally to address the bail crisis

Published on 2011-04-05 14:54:00

The bail crisisthenassauguardian editorialWith the release of the recent murder statistics showing alarming increases, Bahamians are growing increasingly frightened for themselves, their loved ones, their property — and our way of life.This must be > read more

Dr. Andre Rollins and double standards

Published on 2011-04-04 21:26:00

Dr. Andre Rollins and compromise. Or are we witnessing double standards?By Rick LoweI think I can refer to Dr. Rollins as an acquaintance. He used to visit Nassau Institute events where we would exchange thoughts/ideas.But as we pointed out in this p > read more

To Bahamians we say: Beware! This is silly season when the politicians seem to lose their mental balance...

Published on 2011-04-04 18:02:00

tribune242 editorialBAHAMAS Communications and Public Officers Union leader Bernard Evans might not have got his "little Egypt," or a last minute miracle to block the sale of BTC to Cable & Wireless, but he has a champion in Opposition Leader Perry C > read more

The likelihood of Branville McCartney surviving this political slaughter is slim...

Published on 2011-04-03 09:10:00

“McCartney’s New Party Unlikely”By ROGAN SMITHIt seems Branville McCartney is going to have a tough job convincing candidates to join the political party he’s trying to form as some of the people he’s attempting to court think of it as "a j > read more

What is Bahamianisation?

Published on 2011-04-02 13:02:00

What does Bahamianisation really mean?tribune242 editorialIN THE Senate this week Senator Dion Foulkes, leader of government business in the Senate, asked the question: What is Bahamianisation?And answered: "Bahamianisation is a policy that promotes > read more

Voting is an important part of the democratic process... However, voting should not be confused with democracy

Published on 2011-04-01 07:51:00

Does it matter if you vote?thenassauguardian editorialInteresting debates always emerge when the question is posed as to whether or not citizens living in democracies should feel obligated to vote.Most democracies were fought for. People who campaign > read more

Renward Wells - National Development Party (NDP) leader: ...now is the time for a third party to really make a difference in the political landscape of The Bahamas

Published on 2011-03-31 07:51:00

NDP leader: it's time for a third party in BahamasBy PAUL G. TURNQUESTTribune Staff Reporterpturnquest@tribunemedia.netHEADING into their discussions last night with Independent MP Branville McCartney, NDP leader Renward Wells said that he feels now > read more

Our education system is failing... It is particularly failing our boys

Published on 2011-03-30 10:22:00

Education system failing our boysthenassauguardian editorialLast week new College of The Bahamas (COB) President Dr. Betsy Vogel-Boze told the Zonta Club that only 14 percent of COB graduates are male.“It is not a problem that happens once they get > read more

Bahamians are registering to vote in greater numbers for the next general election...

Published on 2011-03-29 22:10:00

Bahamian Voters EagerBy IANTHIA SMITHIt seemed to be just what the parliamentary registration needed; something to boost the low registration numbers in the country and according to Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Parliamentary Registration Departm > read more

To the Ingraham government: ...lay the whole Bluewater Ventures Ltd / BaTelCo transaction on the table of the House of Assembly so that it will be available for public scrutiny

Published on 2011-03-28 13:57:00

What is the whole truth behind Bluewater?tribune242 editorialAFTER a 14-year search for a suitable strategic partner and a lengthy, often acrimonious debate over the past few days, BTC opens its doors today as a privately owned company. Cable & Wirel > read more

Exactly what do we know about Mr. Branville McCartney so far?

Published on 2011-03-28 12:27:00

The enigma known as Branville McCartneyBy Rick LoweMr. McCartney recently resigned from the government, (as he should have), remaining in Parliament as an independent MP, and rumour has it he will start a new political party to contest the next gener > read more

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham will close the current voters' register sometime after June 2011... only those on the new register will be eligible to vote in the next general election

Published on 2011-03-27 07:25:00

PM will close voters' register in June or JulyBy TANEKA THOMPSON Tribune Staff Reportertthompson@tribunemedia.netPRIME Minister Ingraham will close the current voters' register in June or July of this year - meaning that only those on the new registe > read more

The House of Assembly Passed the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) Privatization Resolutions

Published on 2011-03-26 03:24:00

House approves BTC saleBy KRYSTEL ROLLEGuardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasguard.com PM accidentally voted against sale, then changed voteThe Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) privatization resolutions were passed in the House of Assembly yester > read more

Free National Movement (FNM) Bamboo Town Constituency Association on Branville McCartney’s Resignation

Published on 2011-03-25 08:37:00

Bamboo Town Association Blasts McCartney Over ResignationBy IANTHIA SMITHFor months tensions boiled within the governing Free National Movement (FNM) party and after remaining silent on the issue for quite sometime now, representatives of the FNM Bam > read more

If Branville McCartney takes the third party course, he could be committing political suicide

Published on 2011-03-24 07:52:00

Would you vote for a third party?thenassauguardian editorialSince the resignation of Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney from the Free National Movement (FNM) Monday, the national airwaves have been dominated by talk of the formation of a third politi > read more

To Opposition Leader Perry Christie: Get your "political operatives" under control

Published on 2011-03-24 07:40:00

Christie urged to control party's 'political operatives'tribune242 ediorialIN THIS column yesterday we briefly discussed the dangers of politicians using "persons known to the police" to participate in public demonstrations and civil unrest. We wrote > read more

The "evil role" of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) in the Privatisation Process of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC)

Published on 2011-03-24 05:56:00

Maynard: BTC/CWC Issue Damaging Bahamians’ PsycheBy IANTHIA SMITHGolden Isles Member of Parliament Charles Maynard said he believes Bahamians have been brainwashed into thinking that the deal between the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and > read more

W. A. Branville McCartney - M.P. for Bamboo Town - Contribution on the Bahamas Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) / Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC) Debate - 23rd, March 2011

Published on 2011-03-23 12:30:00

Mr. Speaker, my aim is not to lecture, chastise, or insult the intelligence of any person in this Honourable House, and whereas, I may have only been a sitting member for a short time, I came in to this great place either knowing of and/or admiring > read more

The Perry Christie camp is certainly desperate to win an election

Published on 2011-03-23 08:34:00

Election tactics to fool Bahamians in full swingtribune242 editorialDURING yesterday's rally Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union president Bernard Evans expressed the hope that "between now and the vote something will happen to derail th > read more

The national spotlight is now on Branville McCartney

Published on 2011-03-22 14:04:00

The next step for Branville McCartneythenassauguardian editorialBranville McCartney is no longer a member of the Free National Movement (FNM) and he will remain outside the FNM as long as Hubert Ingraham is in control of the party.On the day Ingraham > read more

Economic nationalism and crony capitalism in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-03-22 08:41:00

Lessons for BTC from Bahamas Airwaysby SimonA recent editorial cartoon of MPs bearing a coffin labelled Bahamianization was cute as a caricature but unconvincing as commentary. The cartoon represents a polar extreme from the left. From the right is > read more

Branville McCartney - Member of Parliament for the Bamboo Town Constituency Resigns from the Governing Free National Movement (FNM) Party

Published on 2011-03-21 10:10:00

Branville McCartney's facebook RESIGNATION NOTE: Due to personal convictions, today I have resigned from the Free National Movement. I remain your representative for the Bamboo Town Constituency and be assured that the level of true representation th > read more

The Bluewater Ventures Limited / Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) Privatization deal that came close to reality

Published on 2011-03-21 10:09:00

Bluewater UnveiledBy CANDIA DAMESNG News Editorcandia@nasguard.comA look at the BTC deal that almost wasThe veil of secrecy surrounding the group that almost purchased 49 percent of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) under the Christie admi > read more

2012 General Election Predictions (Part 2) - Bahamas

Published on 2011-03-20 23:57:00

Election predictions - part 2By ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comTHE odds are stacked against Zhivargo Laing in Marco City in the next general election.Frankly, the race in this constituency appears to be between two unpopular candidates. Mr Laing, w > read more

2012 General Election Predictions - Bahamas

Published on 2011-03-20 23:34:00

Election predictions - part 1By ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comAS ELECTION draweth nigh, it is anticipated that drama will surely accompany the impending showdown. Indeed, as ham/turkey/dryer/washer season rolls around once more, I'm hopeful that a > read more

The threat of excessive public sector debt in The Bahamas...

Published on 2011-03-20 09:38:00

The national debtthenassauguardian editorialGovernments, international agencies, rating agencies and most businessmen regard the level of national debt to the size of the economy (GDP) as one of the most important economic indicators in assessing the > read more

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham: I would not be late in calling the next general election

Published on 2011-03-18 07:57:00

PM Laments Election CostsBy Macushla N. PinderIf Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham had his way, he would reform the way general elections play out in The Bahamas.This he said would include shaving down the amount of money spent on the process."In order > read more

How can so-called responsible persons encourage the "criminally-minded" to create social unrest in our beloved Bahamas

Published on 2011-03-17 08:33:00

'Political operatives' and the 'criminally-minded'tribune242 editorialPOLICE Staff Association president Dwight Smith during an interview with the press after the February 23 demonstration on Bay Street urged politicians to stop politicising issues.H > read more

We recommend that Rodney Moncur and Company forget about the "10,000 strong" demonstration against the sale of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)

Published on 2011-03-16 09:09:00

Large or small -- paid demonstrations prove nothingtribune242 editorialTHERE are those -- mainly BTC unionists and opposition politicians-- who maintain that the majority of Bahamians are against the sale of BTC to Cable and Wireless.In today's Tribu > read more

Chinese loans are cheap... and The Bahamas is borrowing... What's the catch?

Published on 2011-03-15 13:58:00

The limitations of the Chinese love affairthenassauguardian editorialThe Bahamas has fallen fully into the embrace of China. And the rising empire has been kind with its “gifts.”The $2.6 billion Baha Mar project and the $70 million airport highw > read more

Kendal Isaacs: ...a reasonable, and responsible man

Published on 2011-03-14 21:07:00

Why Sir Kendal refused to lead a demonstrationtribune242 editorialSEVERAL years ago the late Sir Kendal Isaacs, then leader of the FNM, resisted the urging of his members to lead a peaceful protest outside the House of Assembly. We do not recall the > read more

Branville McCartney’s decision to leave Prime Minister Ingraham’s cabinet is still unfathomable to many Bahamians

Published on 2011-03-13 08:54:00

Branville McCartney’s Follyby SimonFormer junior minister Branville McCartney’s decision to leave Prime Minister Ingraham’s cabinet under three years is still unfathomable to many Bahamians. Just as his statements since his return to the backb > read more

The agenda to derail the privatisation of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) for political gain and to protect vested interests

Published on 2011-03-12 09:05:00

Propaganda and the pending BTC privatisationBy LARRY SMITHAND now class, today we are going to talk about propaganda. Does anyone know what the word means?It derives from the Latin for propagate, which means to multiply, reproduce or transmit. In thi > read more

The Bahamas lacks legislation criminalizing participation in an organized criminal group

Published on 2011-03-11 07:39:00

Adopting laws against organized crimethenassauguardian editorialThe annual drug report prepared by the United States government usually provides interesting commentary on the state of drug trafficking to and through The Bahamas.In the 2011 report, wh > read more

Capital punishment serves no useful purpose

Published on 2011-03-10 07:42:00

Ending the death penaltythenassauguardian editorialExecution remains the most severe punishment prescribed by the state for the crimes of murder and treason. The punishment of death is regularly issued in The Bahamas against those who commit murder. > read more

This is no time for the unions to create further instability...

Published on 2011-03-09 08:40:00

Not the time for union unresttribune242 editorialONE WOULD have thought that unions -- especially the hotel union in Freeport -- would have learned its lesson by now with the closure in 2004 of the Royal Oasis Golf Resort and Casino, putting more tha > read more

Cassius Stuart - Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) leader: The Bahamas is in "desperate need" of new leadership in order for significant progress to be made

Published on 2011-03-08 11:56:00

BDM Leader: Country Needs New LeadershipBy Sasha L. LightbourneAs far as the Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) leader sees things, the country is in "desperate need" of new leadership in order for significant progress to be made.In an interview with > read more

To Ryan Pinder: Put some policies on the table rather than simply objecting in Parliament

Published on 2011-03-07 14:41:00

Ryan Pinder, MP on the Bahamas Government's Mid-Year BudgetBy Rick Lowe:If no one else in the PLP offers food for thought, Mr. Ryan Pinder does.In fact it looks as if he's one of the few PLP's that offer reasoned comment in Parliament. At least he's > read more

Bahamas' shantytown problem

Published on 2011-03-06 08:31:00

Courting catastrophe with shantytown problemthenassauguardian editorialHaiti is in a state of crisis. It is an occupied country that was devastated by a massive earthquake last year. This calamity added to the misery of a people who are from the poo > read more

It's high time we do away with the pompous, fatuous, and self-serving Bahamas Christian Council

Published on 2011-03-05 13:29:00

Time to 'do away with' the Christian CouncilBy PACO NUNEZTribune News EditorThe audacity of the Christian Council's demand that it be placed in charge of blessing the airport's new US departures terminal on Friday is a perfect example of why it's hig > read more

The Bluewater story will be told, and it’s a wonderful story for the people of The Bahamas to know and to have

Published on 2011-03-04 20:15:00

PM responds to Bluewater threatBy CANDIA DAMESGuardian News Editor candia@nasguard.comPrime Minister Hubert Ingraham last night responded to a threat recently issued by Bluewater Ventures Limited, saying he will not be intimidated by the “shell com > read more

Violent criminals involved with Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) protest... anti-BTC sale

Published on 2011-03-04 14:10:00

'Violent criminals' in BTC protest crowdBy PACO NUNEZTribune News EditorMINISTER of National Security Tommy Turnquest revealed that according to police, several violent criminals were among the crowd that protested outside Parliament last week.Speaki > read more

The Gun Court is still a pie in the sky

Published on 2011-03-03 08:10:00

When will the gun court be ready?thenassauguardian editorialLate in January of this year, the government made a big announcement that in conjunction with the judiciary it had set up a gun court in a move to ensure that those found in possession of il > read more

The Odd Protest against the Sale of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)

Published on 2011-03-02 08:45:00

Protest against the sale of the BTC is odd By RICK LOWEACCORDING to news reports, 800 to 1,000 people blocked Bay Street last week to protest the sale of BTC to Cable and Wireless/LIME and it all seems odd.Some people were saying that rights are bein > read more

A Message From Branville McCartney - MP - Bamboo Town

Published on 2011-03-01 14:35:00

A Message From MP McCartney...That all elected officials may respond to the needs of their community and serve the common good – we pray to the Lord – Lord hear our prayer.We are so very fortunate to be blessed by God with such a beautiful countr > read more

Leon Williams: Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) missed out on opportunities that would have made it even more competitive and valuable

Published on 2011-03-01 11:18:00

“BTC Missed Out On Opportunities,” Says WilliamsBy Scieska Adderley Former Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) President and CEO Leon Williams believes that the country’s telecommunications provider is the most profitable government entity > read more

Loretta Butler-Turner: ...much work to do in The Bahamas to increase women and girls participation in the field of education, training, science and technology

Published on 2011-02-28 21:03:00

The Bahamas reaffirms commitment to gender equality and advancement of womentribune242EVEN while lauding progress on gender equity in education and employment opportunities, Minister of State for Social Development Loretta Butler-Turner said that wit > read more

ZNS, while still having advantages over other news outlets, has been failing in its mandate to “inform, educate and entertain” the public

Published on 2011-02-27 10:36:00

Does ZNS deserve a dime?thenassauguardianCorporation’s restructuring yet to bear fruitThree months after the government released 80 people from the ZNS Network in a controversial restructuring exercise, ads running on the Parliamentary Channel decl > read more

Teen pregnancy appears to have gone wild in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-26 17:18:00

The effects of teenage pregnancyBy ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comTHE social issues we now face in the Bahamas are due, in part, to the large number of children who are having children. Teenage pregnancy appears to have gone wild!Teenage pregnancy > read more

Continuing budget deficits and the national debt... Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-25 14:13:00

The mid-term budgetthenassauguardian editorialThe prime minister and minister of finance has presented to Parliament a statement on the fiscal affairs of the country for the six month period ending 31st December, 2010. It seems clear that the country > read more

...is there any hope of revolution in The Bahamas?

Published on 2011-02-24 10:47:00

What can we learn from Haiti and Egypt?By NOELLE NICOLLSTribune Staff Reporternnicolls@tribunemedia.net"Politics: A strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The conduct of public affairs for private advantage."- Ambrose Bierce, Am > read more

We are Bahamians first whether we're black or white

Published on 2011-02-23 18:06:00

Mrs. Nicki Kelly on the "dilemma for PLP's racist factionRick LoweMrs. Kelly had a very thought provoking piece in her column for The Punch, Between The Lines, yesterday as usual.She raised the valid point that the PLP now have two "white" candidates > read more

The political silly season has begun

Published on 2011-02-22 12:11:00

The political silly seasonthenassauguardian editorialIt appears that the political ‘silly season’ has already begun. A general election must be called by May 2012, which is well over a year away, but in political campaign terms the election migh > read more

A lot of what Mr. Errington Watkins had to say in defence of Mr. Branville McCartney makes sense

Published on 2011-02-21 11:17:00

Mr. Errington Watkins on Mr. Branville McCartneyBy Rick LoweA lot of what Mr. Errington Watkins had to say in this Letter to the Editor in defence of Mr. Branville McCartney makes sense.For example, he rightly claims; (a) it's Mr. McCartney's Constit > read more

Defining the Concept of National Youth Service (NYS) in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-20 16:59:00

National youth servicethenassauguardian editorialThere are some ideas many claim to understand but which few actually do, such as national youth service (NYS), which the country should better define before moving ahead with any new initiatives that b > read more

In every way and in every segment of life the Bahamian's value system has certainly changed

Published on 2011-02-18 17:42:00

The Bahamas' changing value systemtribune242 editorial WE HAVE had several calls about our editorial of February 11, which for the first time revealed the name of an anonymous letter writer, whose identity excited political circles in 1962, but for 4 > read more

Dr. Andre Rollins: I have decided to act now to follow my convictions and to proudly join the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)

Published on 2011-02-17 13:41:00

Former NDP chief Andre Rollins joins the PLPBy LAMECH JOHNSON:ORTHODONTIST and would-be parliamentarian Andre Rollins has joined the Progressive Liberal Party after tendering his resignation to the National Development Party.The former NDP chairman s > read more

The opposition Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) cries shame on The Bahamas government for accepting an offer that is clearly below market value for the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)

Published on 2011-02-16 15:42:00

BTC political row worsensBy CANDIA DAMES The Nassau Guardian News Editorcandia@nasguard.com Parties hit out over $210M dealThe sparring over the government’s decision to sell 51 percent of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and W > read more

The opposition Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) cries shame on The Bahamas government for accepting an offer that is clearly below market value for the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)

Published on 2011-02-16 15:42:00

BTC political row worsens By CANDIA DAMES The Nassau Guardian News Editor candia@nasguard.com Parties hit out over $210M deal The sparring over the government’s decision to sell 51 percent of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Ca > read more

BTC unions lose court battle to block the sale of 51 % stake in Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC)... [Ordered to pay costs]

Published on 2011-02-15 22:01:00

BTC unions lose court battle By KEVA LIGHTBOURNE Guardian Senior Reporter kdl@nasguard.com Supreme Court Justice Neville Adderley yesterday threw out a court action filed by Bahamas Telecommunications Company unions seeking to block the sale of a > read more

BTC unions lose court battle to block the sale of 51 % stake in Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC)... [Ordered to pay costs]

Published on 2011-02-15 22:01:00

BTC unions lose court battleBy KEVA LIGHTBOURNEGuardian Senior Reporterkdl@nasguard.comSupreme Court Justice Neville Adderley yesterday threw out a court action filed by Bahamas Telecommunications Company unions seeking to block the sale of a 51 perc > read more

The majority of Bahamians approve the sale of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and Wireless Communications (C&W)

Published on 2011-02-14 13:44:00

Competition toughened Cable & Wireless tribune242 editorial YESTERDAY'S Gleaner reported that Cable & Wireless Jamaica, trading as LIME Jamaica, "continued its financial haemorrhaging in the December quarter, posting a $1.3 billion loss for the t > read more

The majority of Bahamians approve the sale of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and Wireless Communications (C&W)

Published on 2011-02-14 13:44:00

Competition toughened Cable & Wirelesstribune242 editorialYESTERDAY'S Gleaner reported that Cable & Wireless Jamaica, trading as LIME Jamaica, "continued its financial haemorrhaging in the December quarter, posting a $1.3 billion loss for the three-m > read more

We remind the government of its specific pledge made in 2007, as it relates to establishing a Freedom of Information Act

Published on 2011-02-13 11:07:00

Freedom and access to information thenassauguardian editorial Within weeks of coming to office in 2007, a new FNM Administration led by Hubert Ingraham and guided by a Trust Agenda committed itself to greater democratic governance. The tabling of > read more

We remind the government of its specific pledge made in 2007, as it relates to establishing a Freedom of Information Act

Published on 2011-02-13 11:07:00

Freedom and access to informationthenassauguardian editorialWithin weeks of coming to office in 2007, a new FNM Administration led by Hubert Ingraham and guided by a Trust Agenda committed itself to greater democratic governance.The tabling of the Ba > read more

We are absolutely convinced that the Bahamian people [private and public] should have been allowed to retain majority control of BTC

Published on 2011-02-12 12:42:00

Those In Opposition to a Deal The Bahama Journal Editorial There are times in life when principle kicks in and when you do what you must do based on what conscience dictates. Today we reiterate our opposition to what seems a deal well on its way t > read more

We are absolutely convinced that the Bahamian people [private and public] should have been allowed to retain majority control of BTC

Published on 2011-02-12 12:42:00

Those In Opposition to a DealThe Bahama Journal EditorialThere are times in life when principle kicks in and when you do what you must do based on what conscience dictates.Today we reiterate our opposition to what seems a deal well on its way toward > read more

What's the exact amount (net) that represents the proceeds of the sale of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)?

Published on 2011-02-11 11:49:00

What are we getting and what were we paid for BTC? thenassauguardian editorial The deal is done. It is finished. The Bahamas Telecommunications Company or at least the majority of BTC, 51 percent, has been sold to Cable & Wireless Communications a > read more

What's the exact amount (net) that represents the proceeds of the sale of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC)?

Published on 2011-02-11 11:49:00

What are we getting and what were we paid for BTC?thenassauguardian editorialThe deal is done. It is finished. The Bahamas Telecommunications Company or at least the majority of BTC, 51 percent, has been sold to Cable & Wireless Communications and Th > read more

I'm delighted that Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) will be out of the government's hands and looking forward to great things to come

Published on 2011-02-10 14:41:00

I'm just delighted that BTC is sold By Rick Lowe If there is one policy I agree with the FNM on is their intention to divest the public corporations. I am also glad that there does not appear to be any cronyism in their decision. The comments li > read more

I'm delighted that Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) will be out of the government's hands and looking forward to great things to come

Published on 2011-02-10 14:41:00

I'm just delighted that BTC is soldBy Rick LoweIf there is one policy I agree with the FNM on is their intention to divest the public corporations.I am also glad that there does not appear to be any cronyism in their decision.The comments like we're > read more

Dion Foulkes - Minister of Labour accuses BCPOU President Bernard Evans of promoting social unrest and seeking to destabilize the government and the economy of The Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-10 14:12:00

Unions promoting 'social unrest' By KEVA LIGHTBOURNE Guardian Senior Reporter kdl@nasguard.com Labour minister hits out over 'small Egypt' comment Minister of Labour Dion Foulkes has accused Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union (BCPOU > read more

Dion Foulkes - Minister of Labour accuses BCPOU President Bernard Evans of promoting social unrest and seeking to destabilize the government and the economy of The Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-10 14:12:00

Unions promoting 'social unrest'By KEVA LIGHTBOURNEGuardian Senior Reporterkdl@nasguard.comLabour minister hits out over 'small Egypt' commentMinister of Labour Dion Foulkes has accused Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union (BCPOU) Preside > read more

Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) business plan outlines 36% reduction in per-minute phone rates within three years

Published on 2011-02-09 22:44:00

Lower phone rates for BTC customers By STEWART MILLER Guardian Business Reporter stewart@nasguard.com CWC business plan outlines 36% reduction in three years BTC customers can expect to see a 36 percent reduction in per-minute phone rates within > read more

Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) business plan outlines 36% reduction in per-minute phone rates within three years

Published on 2011-02-09 22:44:00

Lower phone rates for BTC customersBy STEWART MILLERGuardian Business Reporter stewart@nasguard.com CWC business plan outlines 36% reduction in three yearsBTC customers can expect to see a 36 percent reduction in per-minute phone rates within three y > read more

After Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union (BCPOU) president Bernard Evans would have destroyed The Bahamas, what does he plan to salvage from the ruins to pass on to his children?

Published on 2011-02-09 22:25:00

Union leader promises a 'small Egypt' tribune242 editorial YESTERDAY the Government laid on the table of the House the much anticipated agreement to sell 51 per cent of Bahamas Telecommunications Company to Cable and Wireless Communications. The t > read more

After Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union (BCPOU) president Bernard Evans would have destroyed The Bahamas, what does he plan to salvage from the ruins to pass on to his children?

Published on 2011-02-09 22:25:00

Union leader promises a 'small Egypt'tribune242 editorialYESTERDAY the Government laid on the table of the House the much anticipated agreement to sell 51 per cent of Bahamas Telecommunications Company to Cable and Wireless Communications. The transa > read more

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is simply fed up with the double standard being exhibited by the Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority (URCA) in its dealing with BTC vis-à-vis Cable Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-08 13:43:00

BTC blasts URCA 'double standards'By NEIL HARTNELLTribune Business EditorThe Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday accused the industry regulator of employing "double standards" in its approach to product unbundling, telling Tribune Busi > read more

We need a new paradigm in The Bahamas to govern our relationship with Haiti and Haitians

Published on 2011-02-07 17:44:00

What we resist will persist: The quiet Haitian revolutionBy NOELLE NICOLLSTribune Staff Reporternnicolls@tribunemedia.netPEOPLE say I am Haitian. They call me a Haitian sympathiser. They even question my patriotism. Their biggest mistake is they thin > read more

Branville McCartney support in the Free National Movement (FNM) has collapsed

Published on 2011-02-07 13:41:00

What was Branville McCartney thinking?thenassauguardian national reviewThe headline for this piece is the question that just about everyone has been asking since McCartney made the now famous statement — that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has no c > read more

Abortion should be legalized in The Bahamas... Bahamian women should have the right to choose

Published on 2011-02-06 09:16:00

I am pro-choice - but see abortion as a last resortBy ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comIN the 21st century, Bahamian women should have the right to choose (pro-choice), that is, open access to safe and legal abortions. Abortion, however, must be seen > read more

No number of raids or repatriations will solve The Bahamas' immigration problem

Published on 2011-02-05 14:12:00

The Bahamas and Haiti: Forty years of missed opportunitiesBy NOELLE NICOLLSTribune Staff Reporternnicolls@tribunemedia.netWhen the African world needed a sign that its certain fate would not be decided by the interests of slave masters and colonial r > read more

Majority in poll supports the privatisation of the Bahamas Telecommunications Corporation (BTC)

Published on 2011-02-04 13:32:00

Majority in poll back BTC privatisationtribune242THE majority of the persons polled in a recent exercise by Consumer Voices Bahamas said they are in support of the privatisation of the Bahamas Telecommunications Corporation.On January 28, CVB represe > read more

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has been condemned by one of his own... Branville McCartney

Published on 2011-02-03 11:20:00

FNM blasts ‘attack on PM’By KRYSTEL ROLLEGuardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasguard.comPLP says PM Ingraham was condemned by one of his ownBamboo Town MP Branville McCartney’s assertion that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham lacks compassion was desc > read more

Branville McCartney says he supports the FNM and its leadership... but its leader - Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham - lacks compassion in relation to the suffering, misfortune, and future of the Bahamian people

Published on 2011-02-03 08:09:00

MP McCartney: PM LACKS COMPASSIONBy KRYSTEL ROLLE Guardian Staff Reporterkrystel@nasguard.com Predicts FNM will face challenges in next electionBamboo Town MP Branville McCartney predicted yesterday that the Free National Movement (FNM) will be chall > read more

The Vanguard Party has been revived...

Published on 2011-02-02 13:47:00

Journalist and businesman revives the Vanguard Partytribune242THE socialist Vanguard Party has been revived under the interim leadership of journalist and businessman, Charles Fawkes.Mr Fawkes, who will serve as the party's first secretary, is also t > read more

Perry Christie’s remarks should scare Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC)

Published on 2011-02-01 12:02:00

The danger of doing deals with governmentsthenassauguardian editorialPerry Christie’s remarks on Friday regarding the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) deal were strong. He told supporters at a conclave at the Hilton Outten Conference Center > read more

Liberalizing the Telecommunications Market in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-02-01 08:48:00

Liberalizing Telecommunicationsby SimonIf those who don’t know history are condemned to repeat it, those who conveniently forget or pimp history for self-serving purposes are condemned to irrelevance and being made into a running joke.During the de > read more

Lots of gun crime in The Bahamas

Published on 2011-01-31 12:56:00

Driving down crimeThe Nassau Guardian EditorialThere are many parts to the overall strategy of driving down crime. Aggressive policing is a must. It helps as well if police officers work within neighborhoods to build relationships so residents are m > read more

The Bahamas Government is determined to make a full frontal assault on firearm offences

Published on 2011-01-30 09:26:00

New court to fight gun crime By TANEKA THOMPSON Tribune Staff Reportertthompson@tribunemedia.net THE Government last night announced a "full frontal assault" on gun crime, promising to bring those charged with firearm offences to trial in a matter of > read more

The Bahamian people want change

Published on 2011-01-29 18:09:00

Courage, Care and CapacityThe Bahama Journal EditorialThis Tuesday past, we did precisely what so very many other people around the world thought they had to do – this is to say, we tuned in as Barack Obama, president of the United States of Americ > read more

...this is the right time for Bahamians to do better

Published on 2011-01-28 07:43:00

Resolving to Do BetterThe Bahama Journal EditorialAs this opens on a truly bloody note, some of our people yet stand, pray and hope for the coming of a better day; and for sure, some of these people have made it their sworn resolve to do their part i > read more

Poaching by commercial fishermen from the Dominican Republic is the greatest single threat to Bahamian seafood resources

Published on 2011-01-26 13:32:00

'Greatest single threat' to Bahamas seafood resources By LARRY SMITHA RECENT report by a leading University of Miami marine scientist has confirmed that poaching by commercial fishermen from the Dominican Republic is the greatest single threat to Bah > read more

The culture of the Attorney General’s office needs to change

Published on 2011-01-25 07:04:00

Standing with the commissionerthenassauguardian editorialThe Bahamas has a crime problem. No reasonable person would question this statement.There have been three homicide records in four years. This month the killings have continued at the same reco > read more

Great frustration expressed at the Bahamian Government's delay in implementing reforms to The Bahamas' gaming regulations

Published on 2011-01-24 14:48:00

Atlantis: Get a move on with gaming reformsBy ALISON LOWE Business Reporteralowe@tribunemedia.netBranding announcements that Jamaica is set to grant three casino licenses this year as "a big problem" for Bahamian tourism, Kerzner International (Baham > read more

The Bahamas' economy ranked 46th in a listing of the world's freest economies

Published on 2011-01-23 12:29:00

Bahamas: 46th in list of world's freest economiestribune242A "poor trade regime" and "intrusive" bureaucracy prevented the Bahamas from ranking higher on this year's Index of Economic Freedom. The Bahamas' economy ranked 46th in a listing of the worl > read more

The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) seeks to resolve candidates dispute in the Kennedy and South Beach constituencies

Published on 2011-01-22 16:41:00

PLP seeks to resolve candidates disputeBy BRENT DEANthenassauguardianDeputy News Editor brentldean@nasguard.com The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has decided to appoint two 10-member committees to assist in bringing resolution to candidate disputes > read more

The Bahamian public is growing weary of the public relations exercises of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF)...

Published on 2011-01-21 15:27:00

Operation PR?thenassauguardian editorialNot long after ending a record-breaking year for murders, The Bahamas has started 2011 on the same sorrowful note.Criminals have continued their merciless assault. And while murders continue to grab headlines, > read more

Allow Bahamians To Buy 100% of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited (BTC) and Let Competition Reign!

Published on 2011-01-21 10:30:00

By Dennis DamesAbout eleven years ago, my wife, along with hundreds of BaTelCo employees, accepted the company’s severance package; the deal was, according to my understanding, to prepare the entity for privatization.That was sometime in 1999. This > read more

The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) has a credibility problem

Published on 2011-01-20 14:08:00

Concerning Police CredibilityThe Bahama Journal EditorialThere is ample evidence coming in to support a tentative conclusion that, a crime onslaught that has become endemic now threatens to undermine all efforts aimed at building today’s Bahamas on > read more

Policy makers are urged to produce a coherent national development strategy with opportunities for public input and debate... Urgently

Published on 2011-01-19 16:56:00

A Clash of Economic Models for the Bahamasby Larry Smithbahamapundit"As I watch these students and their families, all so proud of their accomplishments, I cannot help but feel sorry for them...How will they feel about themselves in this tourist indu > read more

A heavy focus is placed on stemming the flow of illegal drugs into The Bahamas... the same must be given to stopping the influx of illegal guns

Published on 2011-01-18 14:45:00

Gun trafficking and murder in The Bahamasthenassauguardian editorialOn Monday, The Nassau Guardian in its National Review section published some revealing figures on the homicide rate in the Caribbean.Out of 15 countries in the region, The Bahamas ha > read more

...wishes and desires for The Bahamas moving forward - 2011 and beyond

Published on 2011-01-17 19:04:00

My wish list for the Bahamas in 2011By ADRIAN GIBSONajbahama@hotmail.comWHILE 2010 was a roller coaster year, featuring a myriad of sleaze, an upsurge in violent crimes, mediocre national exam results and, in other instances, nationally recognized ac > read more

Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) Privatisation: 1999 to 2011

Published on 2011-01-16 11:50:00

Privatisation of BTC: from 1999 to 2011By LARRY SMITH "What I've found out about change is that when you propose itpeople don't want it, when you are doing it it's hell, and afterwardsthey think it's always been like that."- former British Prime Mini > read more

FNMs against the Free National Movement (FNM) Government's Policy on the Proposed Sale of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC)

Published on 2011-01-15 17:47:00

FNMs speaking out against party policythenassauguardian editorialIt was surprising to read published comments by two Free National Movement (FNM) members this week on the sale of the majority stake in the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to C > read more

Specify the nature of the national security threat or withdraw the remarks ‘Tommy’ Turnquest

Published on 2011-01-14 07:47:00

Please Specify the ThreatThe Bahama Journal Editorial Editorial Information reaching us notes that, this nation’s armed forces have been put on alert – with this alert being sounded because of some unspecified threat to the national security of t > read more

The love of foreigners over Bahamians by the PLP and FNM when it comes to the BTC privatization process...

Published on 2011-01-13 07:39:00

Selling BTC a threat to national developmentthenassauguardian editorialNational Security Minister Tommy Turnquest escalated the dispute between the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) unions and the government over the sale of the majority stake > read more

The BTC Bad Deal with Cable & Wireless

Published on 2011-01-12 11:07:00

In Adamant Opposition to a bad DealThe Bahama Journal EditorialThere are times in life when conscience demands that we set aside petty calculation and yield to its dictates; such a time has come for this Journal as we call on the current administrati > read more

Labor, Politics and Majority Rule

Published on 2011-01-11 09:55:00

The Bahama Journal EditorialAnother Majority Rule anniversary has come and has gone. And so, today we reference matters germane to labor, politics and Majority Rule in the Bahamas.And for sure – even as this one recedes into the mists that come wit > read more

Majority Rule is a concept that has long been lost in the everyday Bahamian way of life

Published on 2011-01-10 22:19:00

Who says the majority rules?thenassauguardian editorialToday is being observed as Majority Rule Day in The Bahamas.Historically, the day represents the emergence of a local, black Bahamian government, with the responsibility of helping Bahamians gove > read more

Will the BTC protests really turn into a mass public movement, a la 1958, and in turn - into a political jackpot for the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP)?

Published on 2011-01-10 11:14:00

The BTC protest - a political circusBy PACO NUNEZTribune News EditorAfter today, it will be even harder than before to keep a straight face when someone tries to tell me there's no political agenda at work in the protest against the sale of BTC.It mi > read more

Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is becoming a dinosaur with diminished capacity

Published on 2011-01-09 12:05:00

The BTC Dinosaurby SimonThe unmistakeable symptom which demonstrated that BTC was becoming a dinosaur with diminished capacity surfaced as the bottom fell out of its long distance market almost overnight. On the way to losing its outdated status as > read more

Dr Duane Sands intends to make Ryan Pinder the shortest sitting Member of Parliament in the history of The Bahamas when he defeats him in the 2012 general election

Published on 2011-01-08 16:48:00

Sands has Pinder in his election sightsBy PAUL G TURNQUESTTribune Staff Reporterpturnquest@tribunemedia.netFORMER FNM candidate for the Elizabeth constituency, Dr Duane Sands, said he intends to make Ryan Pinder the shortest sitting Member of Parliam > read more

Another Food Crisis Looms?

Published on 2011-01-07 22:01:00

The Bahama Journal EditorialSadly, this so-called ‘great little nation’ of ours is utterly dependent on outsiders for most of the goods it consumes, with the one saving grace that for more than half a century, it has been able – thanks to an ex > read more

Echoes of a General Strike

Published on 2011-01-06 17:34:00

The Bahama Journal EditorialFor better or worse, there are lessons that always come with the struggle for power; whether this battle has to do with who gets to determine how money is spent in a household, in an organization anywhere civil society, i > read more

The trade union leadership in The Bahamas is in shambles

Published on 2011-01-06 17:33:00

By Dennis DamesIt was sometime in December 2010 that I saw the big-time union-woman Ms. Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson on television hinting with a vengeance about the possibly of a general strike or massive demonstrations as a result of the government’s d > read more

From Austerity to Prosperity

Published on 2011-01-05 11:34:00

The Bahama Journal EditorialWhile we have no way of precisely forecasting the future, we are fairly certain that – in the absence of a decisive break with business as usual - things are set to get even harder for a broad swath of our people.This > read more

The Bahamas' ever-expanding national debt: "the biggest threat" to the Bahamian economy's recovery and medium to-long-term prospects...

Published on 2011-01-03 12:58:00

'Biggest threat' from $4.1bn national debt By NEIL HARTNELLTribune Business EditorThe ever-expanding national debt, which hit $4.139 billion at end-September 2010 after growing by 12.5 per cent or $460.5 million over the previous 12 months, represent > read more

Sarkis Izmirlian, Man of the Year

Published on 2010-12-31 07:52:00

Sarkis Izmirlian JCN Man of the YearThe Bahama JournalAs we here at JCN have done for the past ten years; so do we continue this year: we have decided to recognize certain deserving men and women for the contribution they have made [and continue to m > read more