By Dennis Dames
I have received a number of comments on my initial piece in relations to the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) election strategy - dated November 26, 2011, from a number of supporters of the party in question. The gist of their reactions was that if the DNA wins a few seats, they feel that they would have enough turncoats in the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), and Free National Movement (FNM) to form a Democratic National Alliance (DNA) government in The Bahamas.
Well what is this!?
How could a minor political party expect elected members of two major organizations to join them in mass to form an administration in The Bahamas? The DNA is obviously living a political fantasy in a castle in the sky; and so called intelligent Bahamians have bought in to the Democratic National Alliance con game on the nation.
They don’t expect to win outright, they don’t expect to pull any deals with the major parties to form a government - if the opportunity presents, and they are blindly confident of PLP and FNM elected traitors coming over to their side to form the next Bahamas government – if push comes to shove.
It is safe to assume that the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) is banking on political chaos after the results are confirmed following the 2012 general election. In this way, the spotlight and pressure could be on the respective leaders of the PLP and FNM; Messrs Christie and Ingraham. The Progressive liberal Party, and Free National Movement supporters could turned against their skippers in an atmosphere of political confusion and turmoil; and the Democratic National Alliance would relish irrationally in the uncertainty.
There must be a winner when the smoke clears though, even if it means a re-run of the election.
Here is where we the Bahamian people need to seriously consider who we are going to vote for, and our reasons for doing so. Are we going to vote for a DNA political stalemate and service Branville McCartney and Co’s ego or what?
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) is not ready to govern on day one, because they expect to fall well short of the new 20 (twenty) member majority needed for a decisive victory. They would tell anyone who would listen, that they do not expect to win the 2012 election. They are relying on FNM and PLP double agents to pull them through.
It’s a long shot, and a very unrepresentative diversion being played on the Bahamian electorate by the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) – in my humble opinion.
Caribbean Blog International
A political blog about Bahamian politics in The Bahamas, Bahamian Politicans - and the entire Bahamas political lot. Bahamian Blogger Dennis Dames keeps you updated on the political news and views throughout the islands of The Bahamas without fear or favor. Bahamian Politicians and the Bahamian Political Arena: Updates one Post at a time on Bahamas Politics and Bahamas Politicans; and their local, regional and international policies and perspectives.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Saturday, November 26, 2011
The Democratic National Alliance's (DNA) 2012 general election strategy
By Dennis Dames
As I travel throughout New Providence communities and listen to the various perspectives on the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), one view dominates the people’s opinions. That is that the DNA will win some seats, but it will be well short of a decisive election victory for them; but they could muster enough parliamentary representation to determine the ultimate general election winner.
Well, if the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) finds itself in the position of influencing the next government of The Bahamas through a coalition arrangement, how could it be possible for them to form an administration with the established Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) or free National Movement (FNM) when they consider both political organizations to be out of touch with the vision of a 21 century Bahamas and Bahamian people?
Herein lays the madness of the Democratic Alliance; as the general public – including many DNA supporters believe that the party could only play a spoiler’s role in the 2012 general election. The DNA game looks like a political con on the Bahamian people, because an outright victory for them appears remotely impossible, and it’s this writer’s view that they are not open to a partnership with any of the two major parties – if circumstances present them self.
When we look at New Providence where more than half of the political constituencies are concentrated and boundary changes and lines are becoming clear to all, one must ask oneself: which districts are winnable for the DNA? Eastern, western, northern, southern and central Nassau will be very unkind to the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) – in my view. The best that they could do is influence which PLP or FNM standard bearers will be victorious.
This reminds me of the 1977 general election where an intensely splintered opposition provided the ideal chemistry for the ruling party’s victory. This is something that Branville McCartney - the DNA leader should not be proud about in the end.
It will defeat the purpose of real political change in The Bahamas, and the Moral of the story would be: unite for victory, and divide and get beat.
The DNA is presently engaging in an all-out air political assault where they are busy sending e-mail updates on their activities to persons on their list, and using online platforms like Facebook and Twitter to connect with potential voters. They have yet to begin a well planned and organized ground blitz in the various constituencies. Apparently, they do not see the wisdom of getting a head-start in the field, or they simply don’t care.
One young voter remarked recently that he hasn’t seen anybody yet, despite the reality that a general election is just around the corner. I have been hearing a lot of similar sentiments lately. This is bad news for the DNA; they have not effectively capitalized on the momentum that followed their launch earlier this year, in my opinion. The ground is where they should be by now, instead of the political group orgies and partying among their converts. Stop making fellow DNAs feel good with street rallies, and Party Hardy; and hit the road Jack!
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has not convinced the Bahamian electorate to get on board their ship in prizewinning numbers to date, and with a general election on the horizon, they seem to be paralyzed about taking their campaign to the level of useful political charm and viability – in my humble view.
Caribbean Blog International
As I travel throughout New Providence communities and listen to the various perspectives on the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), one view dominates the people’s opinions. That is that the DNA will win some seats, but it will be well short of a decisive election victory for them; but they could muster enough parliamentary representation to determine the ultimate general election winner.
Well, if the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) finds itself in the position of influencing the next government of The Bahamas through a coalition arrangement, how could it be possible for them to form an administration with the established Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) or free National Movement (FNM) when they consider both political organizations to be out of touch with the vision of a 21 century Bahamas and Bahamian people?
Herein lays the madness of the Democratic Alliance; as the general public – including many DNA supporters believe that the party could only play a spoiler’s role in the 2012 general election. The DNA game looks like a political con on the Bahamian people, because an outright victory for them appears remotely impossible, and it’s this writer’s view that they are not open to a partnership with any of the two major parties – if circumstances present them self.
When we look at New Providence where more than half of the political constituencies are concentrated and boundary changes and lines are becoming clear to all, one must ask oneself: which districts are winnable for the DNA? Eastern, western, northern, southern and central Nassau will be very unkind to the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) – in my view. The best that they could do is influence which PLP or FNM standard bearers will be victorious.
This reminds me of the 1977 general election where an intensely splintered opposition provided the ideal chemistry for the ruling party’s victory. This is something that Branville McCartney - the DNA leader should not be proud about in the end.
It will defeat the purpose of real political change in The Bahamas, and the Moral of the story would be: unite for victory, and divide and get beat.
The DNA is presently engaging in an all-out air political assault where they are busy sending e-mail updates on their activities to persons on their list, and using online platforms like Facebook and Twitter to connect with potential voters. They have yet to begin a well planned and organized ground blitz in the various constituencies. Apparently, they do not see the wisdom of getting a head-start in the field, or they simply don’t care.
One young voter remarked recently that he hasn’t seen anybody yet, despite the reality that a general election is just around the corner. I have been hearing a lot of similar sentiments lately. This is bad news for the DNA; they have not effectively capitalized on the momentum that followed their launch earlier this year, in my opinion. The ground is where they should be by now, instead of the political group orgies and partying among their converts. Stop making fellow DNAs feel good with street rallies, and Party Hardy; and hit the road Jack!
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has not convinced the Bahamian electorate to get on board their ship in prizewinning numbers to date, and with a general election on the horizon, they seem to be paralyzed about taking their campaign to the level of useful political charm and viability – in my humble view.
Caribbean Blog International
Thursday, November 24, 2011
The current state of Bahamian politics ...and suggestions for what is required for the future political and socio-economic development of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people
Who’s looking in the mirror? Part I
By Raynard Rigby
(This is the first of a two-part series which examines the current state of Bahamian politics and makes suggestions for what is required for the future political and socio-economic development of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people.)
What is this about?
I sat in awe on Sunday, October 16, 2011 and watched the dedication of the Martin Luther King Memorial in Washington, DC. It was a moving event for me. As an enthusiastic fan of the sheer might and brilliance of the black diaspora, the image of King hails huge in my ethos. And in thinking of the pilgrimage of Martin Luther King, I began to think of the successes that we have achieved at home: strong black families; black leaders in all areas; some success and yet far too many shortcomings for a nation our size. I then focused on our future, of what lies ahead and whether it will be a promising one.
I also enthusiastically watched the events unfold in Jamaica, which led to the ascension of a 39- year-old, Andrew Holness, to the seat of prime minister after the voluntary departure of Bruce Golding from office. That led me to think of the lack of maturity of our political leaders.
Then, in my reflections I came to a place which made me question the current path that we are on and question whether we will have a bright and prosperous future if we remain on this path. And, then I froze when my mind fell upon my children and what will The Bahamas be like when they are adults. Will they be owners of the economy, be leaders of industry or will they be relegated to second-class citizenship? In my reflections, I searched deep, stripped of my political thinking, and was led to dream of a brighter future and a better tomorrow for them. But in the midst of this all, I knew that the road ahead will (and must) be paved by struggles and hard work to transform the gloom of the present into a bustling and promising future.
Whatever you might think, I suspect that we are all unified by the singular revelation that we are glued by an abiding respect for a future that always affords and accords to all of us a better, prosperous and bountiful hope of a glorious ‘promised land’ within these Bahama Islands.
Where are we today?
There is no denying the fact that the Bahamian economy has felt the impacts of the global recession. The unemployment rate is far too high. There is no denying the fact that overall household incomes have fallen over the past four years. The total number of tourist arrivals, whether cruise ship or stop over, has also been impacted by the economic downturn. Many small businesses have not been able to duck the severe and debilitating financial impacts. Many have closed and others that have survived have had to lay off staff and/or plan for reducing profits. The fact is that many homes have felt the effects of the crippling recession and whilst there remains an abundance of hope and prayer for a swift and strong recovery, there are no immediate signs on the horizon.
Many have criticized the present FNM administration for the manner in which they have managed the Bahamian economy, citing job losses and the rise of crime as the visible side effects of failed policies. Many of the criticisms have originated, at no surprise, from the lips of the opposition PLP. However, in a time of immediate news cycles on CNN, MSNBC and Fox News (yes, American stations), Bahamians have had the great advantage of following the events gripping Greece, Europe and even our most powerful nation to the north, the United States of America.
The ease by which information is now available has led to the reality that the Bahamian electorate is now more informed by the thousands. We have entered the age of information and this has had a tremendous influence on the thinking process of the traditional Bahamian voter.
The compelling question is whether those vying for political office recognize this new fascinating dispensation of the Bahamian voter and if so, have they made valuable adjustments to reflect the new era of politics.
The day of reckoning
The next elections must be called by May, 2012. Thus far the PLP has announced the majority of its candidates for the election cycle.
The Boundaries Commission was recently appointed, which is the first tangible step towards the elections. The FNM as the incumbent government appears to have decided to wait for the redistricting of the boundaries to launch its candidates. The fact that the PLP has named some new faces, with very little political experience, may be a part of its formula to say to voters that that party is preparing for future leadership. The fact is that when the PLP was in government from 2002 to 2007 there was no one in the cabinet of Prime Minister Perry Christie who was under the age of 45. The same is not true for Hubert Ingraham in his three terms as prime minister.
There is no denying that the upcoming campaign will be a referendum on Ingraham’s performance as prime minister. He has some tangible programs and initiatives that he can tout on the campaign trail. Nonetheless, the election is likely to be fought on the issue of leadership. Yes, leadership. Not vision. Not message. Not a plan for the future of The Bahamas. Yes, a simple visual and abstract thing as leadership.
The FNM’s guess is that Ingraham will win this battle hands down because Bahamians prefer a strong macho-like leader who can make decisions, no matter how silly or bad they may be. The FNM will say that the PLP and Christie are the same as in 2007. That Christie is weak and indecisive, because he could not transform his party by ridding it of the known ‘bad apples’. Christie too has the perception of being ‘late again’ and having a tendency to ‘over-speak’.
Both Ingraham and Christie are men over the age of 60 years. Christie turned 69 years in August. Bruce Golding, the former prime minister of Jamaica (as of Sunday, October 23, 2011) is 64 years. Golding decided to step down prior to the next election (in either December 2011 or in early 2012) to pave the way for a new dynamic young leadership in his Jamaica Labour Party. Many criticized former Prime Minister the late Sir Lynden Pindling for not stepping aside after the ‘terrible damage’ to his image brought on by the Commissions of Inquiry into drug trafficking and the Hotel Corporation. That would have been a path of honor and perhaps of restoring the dignity of his office and that of the party. Too, Pindling was seen as the PLP and many could not differentiate the two because in their eyes Pindling equals PLP. However, the same over-powering image that Pindling maintained and enjoyed, well he was our Moses, is not shared by either Christie or Ingraham. But, in the context of the FNM, no one else has been able to hand them victory; so, in some respects, Ingraham may be larger than Pindling in the context of FNM politics.
There is no denying the fact that many Bahamians, open-minded and independent thinking PLPs and FNMs, share the view that both Ingraham and Christie have had their time in frontline politics. They wish for them to drive off into the grand light of retirement. I am not sure that this is driven by age alone, or by the fact that they have been on the scene since 1977. But the view, shared by a growing segment of the populace, is that the two are bankrupt of new, fresh, progressive and transformative ideas.
For me, I suspect that these Bahamians are saying that more fundamentally Christie and Ingraham are dinosaurs of vision. That they grew up in an era in The Bahamas where they cannot or are incapable of fully understanding the new Bahamas that has unfolded; that the fight is less about black and white, about oppression or segregation, but more of poverty, expanding opportunities and of redesigning a system that caters to and places too much emphasis on the foreigner rather than the Bahamian potential.
Also, the public sees in Britain and the U.S.A., and now in Jamaica, dynamic new leaders in their 40s (or almost 40). Leaders who are articulate and smart, and who have charted the course of their nations in the worst of economic times, and who, with less experience in public life, have not caused the destruction of their national treasures. This is the door that Branville McCartney enters. But, some say that he is an ‘image-centric’ leader who has failed to engineer a political or national cause and who appears happy to have it all about him. The era of leader-worship is over and unfortunately McCartney’s timing is off badly. It is likely then that the DNA will be a non-starter.
There is no denying the truth that the Bahamian voter knows a ‘flakey’ leader when he sees one. We require and demand from our political leaders philosophical substance and a mature balanced-approach to nation building.
Raynard Rigby is a practicing attorney-at-law and he is a former national chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (Nov. 2002-Feb 2008). He is the author of “A Blueprint for the Future of The Bahamas” (July, 2008) and “The Urgency for Change in the PLP” (2009). He remains an avid commentator on matters of national interests and importance.
Nov 14, 2011
The current state of Bahamian politics and suggestions for what is required for the future political and socio-economic development of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people (Part-2)
thenassauguardian
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
As we all sit and evaluate the political parties and independent candidates who will offer for public office in the run-up to the 2012 general election... we should make every effort to determine if there is someone on the ballot good enough to vote for
Exercise your democratic power
Interesting 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 campaigned for freedom, self-governance and civil rights were jailed, some were murdered, some were beaten and many others were victimized. Some of these fights were actual wars.
In this context, we all should take the vote seriously. It is not a right, but a gift fought for by those who came before us.
As we all sit and evaluate the political parties and independent candidates who will offer for public office in the run-up to the next general election, we should make every effort to determine if there is someone on the ballot good enough to vote for.
Those who do not think there is anyone good enough to vote for should consider entering the race or the political process.
But if the ballot is filled with poor candidates, what should a voter do? Should voters feel compelled to vote?
No, they should not. Voting is an important part of the democratic process. However, voting should not be confused with democracy. Democracy is about self-governance. As citizens, we have a responsibility to do this everyday – not just every five years.
By working at a charity, providing assistance to the homeless, democracy is at work; by volunteering as a mentor at a school, democracy is at work; by raising an educated, hardworking law-abiding citizen, democracy is at work.
So for those who think there is no reasonable offering to vote for at the next general election, you should rest assured that there are many other ways to participate in the advancement and governance of The Bahamas.
A group of residents in a community can easily come together, approach their public school, and start an afterschool literacy program for the children falling behind, for example.
Simple initiatives such as these, if done by many individuals or by many groups, can do much to change the lives of the disadvantaged and the soon-to-be lost.
Elections are important; voting is important. But if you think the mainstream political parties are pathetic and the independents are incompetent, do not distress. You can exercise your democratic power everyday by doing something to help build the community.
Nov 22, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Likely Political Funeral Services after the 2012 general election
Likely Political Funeral Services
By ADRIAN GIBSON
ajbahama@hotmail.com
BY all accounts, the Boundary Commission’s leaked report reflects nearly surgical alterations to various constituency margins—eliminating a handful of constituencies (with a supposed reduction from 41 to 38 seats in the House of Assembly), extending others and carving out even newer voting blocs. As we enter the final furlong in the run-up to the 2012 general elections, one can already begin to envisage the possible political outcome for certain MPs. Today, based upon the redrawing of the boundaries of certain districts, I’ll look at the probable political fates of Bamboo Town MP and leader of the Democratic National Alliance Branville McCartney, Elizabeth MP Ryan Pinder, Golden Isles MP Charles Maynard and St. Thomas More MP Frank Smith.
Quite honestly, relative to the political survival of the aforementioned MPs, their respective constituency associations/parties should immediately seek-out the services of Fealy Demeritte or another undertaker and have them on standby as these gentlemen appear to all be facing political deaths/political burials. Barring any changes, the four MPs mentioned are likely to run into political buzz-saws as the escalation of the 2012 general election campaign gets in full swing.
That said, today we’re gathered here for the announcement of the official political home- going services of Branville McCartney, Ryan Pinder, Charles Maynard and Frank Smith. Whilst the official political obituaries could be written at a later date (post-election), officiating the impending ceremonies will be His Grace, the Right Honourable Hubert Ingraham, Arch-Bishop of the Bahamian Political Diocese—fully regalled in his party’s red vestments—assisted Suffragan-Bishop Brent Symonette (DPM), PLP leader and Farm Road MP Canon Perry Christie—who will administer last rites at the political graveside—and a large contingent of registered voters in the newly reconfigured Bamboo Town, Elizabeth, Golden Isles and St Thomas More constituencies. (I would have no problem with congratulating, publicly and privately—via personal congratulatory cards—those of the four MPs listed who survive this election cycle.)
The official political funeral services will be held at The People’s Electoral Chapel. Organist Melanie Griffin, Yamacraw MP, will lead the choir in opening and closing the ceremonies with a riveting rendition of the hymn ‘It is finished.’ Moreover, as election draweth nigh and the manifestation of this massive political burial ceremony bears down upon those MPs, the official pallbearers are PLP Deputy Leader Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, Carmichael MP Desmond Bannister, West End and Bimini MP Obie Wilchcombe, Killarney MP Dr Hubert Minnis, Englerston MP Glenys Hanna-Martin and Long Island MP Larry Cartwright.
Political interment will follow on the grounds of the soon-to-be demolished Cecil Wallace-Whitfield building, which presently houses the Office of the Prime Minister.
As it stands, no one from either major political party has volunteered to serve as political pallbearers for Bran McCartney as they have all decided to politically cremate him this election cycle. That said, Mr McCartney’s political ashes will be sprinkled by Rodney Moncur and Nicholas Jacques. In this instance, I would pay to hear either Mr Ingraham’s or Mr Christie’s eulogy!
The restructured Bamboo Town seat appears to be more PLP-leaning now, particularly since the Boundary Commission’s inclusion of several polling divisions from the traditionally PLP constituency of Kennedy (estimated at some 400-500 voters). Moreover, McCartney is further weakened as the FNM has seemingly strategized and moved traditionally FNM polling divisions to strengthen its candidate’s chances in a newly shaped constituency/South Beach. Although it appears that McCartney’s electoral prospects has been doused, either Mr McCartney is committing Hubert Ingraham-assisted political suicide or he’s enjoying the role of underdog with the expectation of beating the odds!
If Ryan Pinder is dispatched to the political bone yard as the boundaries report seems to suggest, I would miss the political energy of this affable chap, whose shrill, crackling voice and firebrand persona helped to reinvigorate political debates—both in and outside of the House of Assembly—since his election in the 2009 Elizabeth by-election.
Pinder’s political burial ceremony could be realized as his present constituency has seemingly taken on a new configuration and now encompasses traditionally FNM boroughs such as Treasure Cove and Port New Providence whilst traditionally PLP-inclined polling divisions have been stenciled out.
Frank Smith, who sometimes appears to be puffed-up and frothing-at-the-mouth, may have reached his political midnight. It appears that he has been given his political death as certain traditionally PLP districts have been removed from his constituency’s current layout only to be replaced with FNM-leaning areas such as Blair and Paradise Island.
Frankly, the last PLP of any prominence to run in Blair—A D Hanna—was beaten 5 to 1 in that traditionally UBP/FNM area. Including Blair, along with Paradise Island, in the new St Thomas More could be the political death knell for Frank Smith, especially as portions of PLP-inclined Kemp Road have been axed. No doubt, it appears that PM Ingraham has greased Smith’s skids, helping to hasten his skate out of Parliament!
Over the years, it appears that the run-up to a general election usually results in an increasing intake of spirits for the faint-hearted and MPs who fear well-deserved defeat. This election, considering the political funerals/wakes, fainting spells, embarrassing behavior and those privy to fall into drunken stupors, the electorate may need to call AA—Alcoholics Anonymous!
The new political map enlarges the inner city constituencies, creating a strong PLP bloc and extending Englerston as far west as Mount Moriah, whilst extending the Bain Town and Farm Road constituencies to include portions of St Cecilia. According to sources, there may or may not be a seat called St Cecilia as the seat could be completely repositioned.
So, Kenyatta Gibson could possibly win a seat after all—he’s set to challenge Frank Smith in St Thomas More!
Obie Wilchcombe will absorb four of twelve polling divisions from the eliminated Eight Mile Rock (EMR) seat. Apparently, the other polling divisions will be absorbed into the Lucaya seat. If EMR MP Verna Grant challenges Wilchcombe for his seat, she would take a spanking in Grand Bahama.
Moreover, I’m told that the Ragged seat could be detached from my hometown—Long Island—and be appended to the Exuma seat.
In Grand Bahama the PM has seemingly moved to strengthen the unpopular Zhivargo Laing in Marco City by appending traditionally FNM polling divisions to his seat—namely, two from Lucaya and one from High Rock. Further, it appears that Pineridge MP Kwasi Thompson, an easygoing and stellar first-time MP, will be sacrificed as his reconfigured seat now includes the traditionally PLP Hawksbill Subdivision. Additionally, he’s facing a formidable challenger—Dr Michael Darville.
No doubt, there are those who will refer to the new boundary cuts as gerrymandering and yet others who will view it as an electoral undertaking executed from time immemorial and one that perhaps, this time, was drawn up by a schematic, politically-savvy mastermind. The upcoming general election is setting up to be a soap opera……one that has me grinning from ear to ear as the plot thickens!
Published: November 19, 2011—The Tribune’s ‘The Big T’
Caribbean Blog International
By ADRIAN GIBSON
ajbahama@hotmail.com
BY all accounts, the Boundary Commission’s leaked report reflects nearly surgical alterations to various constituency margins—eliminating a handful of constituencies (with a supposed reduction from 41 to 38 seats in the House of Assembly), extending others and carving out even newer voting blocs. As we enter the final furlong in the run-up to the 2012 general elections, one can already begin to envisage the possible political outcome for certain MPs. Today, based upon the redrawing of the boundaries of certain districts, I’ll look at the probable political fates of Bamboo Town MP and leader of the Democratic National Alliance Branville McCartney, Elizabeth MP Ryan Pinder, Golden Isles MP Charles Maynard and St. Thomas More MP Frank Smith.
Quite honestly, relative to the political survival of the aforementioned MPs, their respective constituency associations/parties should immediately seek-out the services of Fealy Demeritte or another undertaker and have them on standby as these gentlemen appear to all be facing political deaths/political burials. Barring any changes, the four MPs mentioned are likely to run into political buzz-saws as the escalation of the 2012 general election campaign gets in full swing.
That said, today we’re gathered here for the announcement of the official political home- going services of Branville McCartney, Ryan Pinder, Charles Maynard and Frank Smith. Whilst the official political obituaries could be written at a later date (post-election), officiating the impending ceremonies will be His Grace, the Right Honourable Hubert Ingraham, Arch-Bishop of the Bahamian Political Diocese—fully regalled in his party’s red vestments—assisted Suffragan-Bishop Brent Symonette (DPM), PLP leader and Farm Road MP Canon Perry Christie—who will administer last rites at the political graveside—and a large contingent of registered voters in the newly reconfigured Bamboo Town, Elizabeth, Golden Isles and St Thomas More constituencies. (I would have no problem with congratulating, publicly and privately—via personal congratulatory cards—those of the four MPs listed who survive this election cycle.)
The official political funeral services will be held at The People’s Electoral Chapel. Organist Melanie Griffin, Yamacraw MP, will lead the choir in opening and closing the ceremonies with a riveting rendition of the hymn ‘It is finished.’ Moreover, as election draweth nigh and the manifestation of this massive political burial ceremony bears down upon those MPs, the official pallbearers are PLP Deputy Leader Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, Carmichael MP Desmond Bannister, West End and Bimini MP Obie Wilchcombe, Killarney MP Dr Hubert Minnis, Englerston MP Glenys Hanna-Martin and Long Island MP Larry Cartwright.
Political interment will follow on the grounds of the soon-to-be demolished Cecil Wallace-Whitfield building, which presently houses the Office of the Prime Minister.
As it stands, no one from either major political party has volunteered to serve as political pallbearers for Bran McCartney as they have all decided to politically cremate him this election cycle. That said, Mr McCartney’s political ashes will be sprinkled by Rodney Moncur and Nicholas Jacques. In this instance, I would pay to hear either Mr Ingraham’s or Mr Christie’s eulogy!
Back to reality
The restructured Bamboo Town seat appears to be more PLP-leaning now, particularly since the Boundary Commission’s inclusion of several polling divisions from the traditionally PLP constituency of Kennedy (estimated at some 400-500 voters). Moreover, McCartney is further weakened as the FNM has seemingly strategized and moved traditionally FNM polling divisions to strengthen its candidate’s chances in a newly shaped constituency/South Beach. Although it appears that McCartney’s electoral prospects has been doused, either Mr McCartney is committing Hubert Ingraham-assisted political suicide or he’s enjoying the role of underdog with the expectation of beating the odds!
If Ryan Pinder is dispatched to the political bone yard as the boundaries report seems to suggest, I would miss the political energy of this affable chap, whose shrill, crackling voice and firebrand persona helped to reinvigorate political debates—both in and outside of the House of Assembly—since his election in the 2009 Elizabeth by-election.
Pinder’s political burial ceremony could be realized as his present constituency has seemingly taken on a new configuration and now encompasses traditionally FNM boroughs such as Treasure Cove and Port New Providence whilst traditionally PLP-inclined polling divisions have been stenciled out.
Political Midnight
Frank Smith, who sometimes appears to be puffed-up and frothing-at-the-mouth, may have reached his political midnight. It appears that he has been given his political death as certain traditionally PLP districts have been removed from his constituency’s current layout only to be replaced with FNM-leaning areas such as Blair and Paradise Island.
Frankly, the last PLP of any prominence to run in Blair—A D Hanna—was beaten 5 to 1 in that traditionally UBP/FNM area. Including Blair, along with Paradise Island, in the new St Thomas More could be the political death knell for Frank Smith, especially as portions of PLP-inclined Kemp Road have been axed. No doubt, it appears that PM Ingraham has greased Smith’s skids, helping to hasten his skate out of Parliament!
Over the years, it appears that the run-up to a general election usually results in an increasing intake of spirits for the faint-hearted and MPs who fear well-deserved defeat. This election, considering the political funerals/wakes, fainting spells, embarrassing behavior and those privy to fall into drunken stupors, the electorate may need to call AA—Alcoholics Anonymous!
The new political map enlarges the inner city constituencies, creating a strong PLP bloc and extending Englerston as far west as Mount Moriah, whilst extending the Bain Town and Farm Road constituencies to include portions of St Cecilia. According to sources, there may or may not be a seat called St Cecilia as the seat could be completely repositioned.
So, Kenyatta Gibson could possibly win a seat after all—he’s set to challenge Frank Smith in St Thomas More!
Obie Wilchcombe will absorb four of twelve polling divisions from the eliminated Eight Mile Rock (EMR) seat. Apparently, the other polling divisions will be absorbed into the Lucaya seat. If EMR MP Verna Grant challenges Wilchcombe for his seat, she would take a spanking in Grand Bahama.
Moreover, I’m told that the Ragged seat could be detached from my hometown—Long Island—and be appended to the Exuma seat.
In Grand Bahama the PM has seemingly moved to strengthen the unpopular Zhivargo Laing in Marco City by appending traditionally FNM polling divisions to his seat—namely, two from Lucaya and one from High Rock. Further, it appears that Pineridge MP Kwasi Thompson, an easygoing and stellar first-time MP, will be sacrificed as his reconfigured seat now includes the traditionally PLP Hawksbill Subdivision. Additionally, he’s facing a formidable challenger—Dr Michael Darville.
No doubt, there are those who will refer to the new boundary cuts as gerrymandering and yet others who will view it as an electoral undertaking executed from time immemorial and one that perhaps, this time, was drawn up by a schematic, politically-savvy mastermind. The upcoming general election is setting up to be a soap opera……one that has me grinning from ear to ear as the plot thickens!
Published: November 19, 2011—The Tribune’s ‘The Big T’
Caribbean Blog International
Monday, November 21, 2011
A ban on smoking in public places in The Bahamas would save lives... and help reduce healthcare costs for Bahamians
Ban smoking in public places
thenassauguardian editorial
Smoking kills. The Bahamas needs to ban smoking inside public places to preserve the health of those who do not smoke.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says secondhand smoke exposure causes an estimated 3,400 lung cancer deaths annually among adult non-smokers in the U.S. The CDC also notes that secondhand smoke exposure causes an estimated 46,000 heart disease deaths annually among adult non-smokers in the US.
We live in a free society. Adults who choose to smoke, knowing the dangers of the practice, are free to face the consequences of their actions. Banning smoking inside enclosed restaurants, casinos, enclosed nightclubs and other public places will help save the lives of the employees who work there and those who regularly visit.
Many jurisdictions in developed countries have moved to ban smoking inside public places. On Wednesday, the New York City Council went further and voted to ban smoking in 1,700 city parks and along 14 miles of city beaches.
Here in The Bahamas some are afraid of a smoking ban ± especially those in the tourism sector. They argue that such a restriction would make The Bahamas less competitive, as people like to smoke in casinos and in restaurants.
Banning smoking in these places may actually bring in more customers ± such as those who do not want to socialize in smoky places.
But more importantly the ban would save lives. It would especially save the lives of workers. Casino workers and restaurant employees are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke.
A ban on smoking in public places would also help reduce healthcare costs. Fewer people would need to be treated for the lung maladies that result from breathing in the smoke exhaled by others.
Many of our visitors come from developed countries where indoor smoking bans already exist. The practice of going outside to smoke is becoming more and more the norm. The Bahamas would only be conforming to the emerging international standard.
Hotels could have designated smoking areas near exits for those who want to smoke. Restaurants could expand, if the space exists, to outdoor seating for smokers. The Bahamas is warm throughout the year.
Smokers should have no problem smoking outside.
Several years ago, the Ministry of Health spoke publicly about its consultations with stakeholders regarding an indoor smoking ban. There has been little public discussion of the issue for a while. The government should make the move. Non-smokers should be protected.
Those addicted to smoking should seek medical help. New treatments continue to become available for smokers. Nicotine addiction is one of the hardest addictions to break.
Nov 21, 2011
thenassauguardian editorial
thenassauguardian editorial
Smoking kills. The Bahamas needs to ban smoking inside public places to preserve the health of those who do not smoke.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says secondhand smoke exposure causes an estimated 3,400 lung cancer deaths annually among adult non-smokers in the U.S. The CDC also notes that secondhand smoke exposure causes an estimated 46,000 heart disease deaths annually among adult non-smokers in the US.
We live in a free society. Adults who choose to smoke, knowing the dangers of the practice, are free to face the consequences of their actions. Banning smoking inside enclosed restaurants, casinos, enclosed nightclubs and other public places will help save the lives of the employees who work there and those who regularly visit.
Many jurisdictions in developed countries have moved to ban smoking inside public places. On Wednesday, the New York City Council went further and voted to ban smoking in 1,700 city parks and along 14 miles of city beaches.
Here in The Bahamas some are afraid of a smoking ban ± especially those in the tourism sector. They argue that such a restriction would make The Bahamas less competitive, as people like to smoke in casinos and in restaurants.
Banning smoking in these places may actually bring in more customers ± such as those who do not want to socialize in smoky places.
But more importantly the ban would save lives. It would especially save the lives of workers. Casino workers and restaurant employees are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke.
A ban on smoking in public places would also help reduce healthcare costs. Fewer people would need to be treated for the lung maladies that result from breathing in the smoke exhaled by others.
Many of our visitors come from developed countries where indoor smoking bans already exist. The practice of going outside to smoke is becoming more and more the norm. The Bahamas would only be conforming to the emerging international standard.
Hotels could have designated smoking areas near exits for those who want to smoke. Restaurants could expand, if the space exists, to outdoor seating for smokers. The Bahamas is warm throughout the year.
Smokers should have no problem smoking outside.
Several years ago, the Ministry of Health spoke publicly about its consultations with stakeholders regarding an indoor smoking ban. There has been little public discussion of the issue for a while. The government should make the move. Non-smokers should be protected.
Those addicted to smoking should seek medical help. New treatments continue to become available for smokers. Nicotine addiction is one of the hardest addictions to break.
Nov 21, 2011
thenassauguardian editorial
Sunday, November 20, 2011
The state of the scrap metal industry in The Bahamas
SCRAP METAL EXPORTS ARE HALTED AGAIN
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Tribune Business Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net
THE SCRAP metal industry has been brought to a standstill once again, it was revealed yesterday, one leading operator telling Tribune Business that the Customs Department had its 'hands tied' because it had not received the new regulations that govern the sector.
Everette Rolle, proprietor of Caribbean Recycling and Trading Solutions, told Tribune Business: "We are somewhat at a standstill again. The extension to the ban expired, but the regulations that govern the new Act are not in place.
"Customs is at a standstill; they cannot process anything for us. They haven't been given the regulations in as much as they are responsible for the administrative side. It's crazy.
"The Government has not come to us and said anything because Customs is in a quandary, and in the absence of any clear-cut procedures they say they are going to wait on the Government. We would load the containers but Customs is not going to process the papers for the export. You can't blame them; they say they want to help us but their hands are tied."
The Cabinet Office issued a statement on November 1, stating that the 90-day temporary ban on the export of scrap metal, which was implemented on 27 July, would be extended by two weeks to November 11.
It was expected that by that time, the Pawnbrokers and Second-hand Dealers Act 2011, which aims to regulate the export of scrap metal, would have taken effect. Under the provisions of the Act, business owners or dealers engaged in the export of scrap metal will have to verify the identity of customers and maintain records of all transactions.
Scrap metal export businesses are also subject to monitoring by a police-designated administrator. The Government placed the temporary ban on the scrap metal trade, while imposing a permanent ban on all copper exports in an effort to curb the theft and destruction of property said to be linked with the industry.
Mr Rolle said: "The Government needs to come clean and continue to accommodate us until the regulations are in place. There's something fishy about the whole thing.
"I made some calls, and they said they were going to do something during the course of this week, but we haven't heard anything. It's just uncertainty right now."
He added: "We, in addition to providing employment, are providing service. The Department of Environmental Health can tell you that. It's too close to Christmas for this to be happening. This is a price sensitive business. You purchase stuff hoping to flip it immediately to capitalise on the price."
Attempts to reach Earl Deveaux, minister for the environmentm for comment on the matter proved unsuccessful up to press time. Calls placed by Tribune Business to Customs Comptroller Glen Gomez also proved unsuccessful.
November 18, 2011
tribune242
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Tribune Business Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net
THE SCRAP metal industry has been brought to a standstill once again, it was revealed yesterday, one leading operator telling Tribune Business that the Customs Department had its 'hands tied' because it had not received the new regulations that govern the sector.
Everette Rolle, proprietor of Caribbean Recycling and Trading Solutions, told Tribune Business: "We are somewhat at a standstill again. The extension to the ban expired, but the regulations that govern the new Act are not in place.
"Customs is at a standstill; they cannot process anything for us. They haven't been given the regulations in as much as they are responsible for the administrative side. It's crazy.
"The Government has not come to us and said anything because Customs is in a quandary, and in the absence of any clear-cut procedures they say they are going to wait on the Government. We would load the containers but Customs is not going to process the papers for the export. You can't blame them; they say they want to help us but their hands are tied."
The Cabinet Office issued a statement on November 1, stating that the 90-day temporary ban on the export of scrap metal, which was implemented on 27 July, would be extended by two weeks to November 11.
It was expected that by that time, the Pawnbrokers and Second-hand Dealers Act 2011, which aims to regulate the export of scrap metal, would have taken effect. Under the provisions of the Act, business owners or dealers engaged in the export of scrap metal will have to verify the identity of customers and maintain records of all transactions.
Scrap metal export businesses are also subject to monitoring by a police-designated administrator. The Government placed the temporary ban on the scrap metal trade, while imposing a permanent ban on all copper exports in an effort to curb the theft and destruction of property said to be linked with the industry.
Mr Rolle said: "The Government needs to come clean and continue to accommodate us until the regulations are in place. There's something fishy about the whole thing.
"I made some calls, and they said they were going to do something during the course of this week, but we haven't heard anything. It's just uncertainty right now."
He added: "We, in addition to providing employment, are providing service. The Department of Environmental Health can tell you that. It's too close to Christmas for this to be happening. This is a price sensitive business. You purchase stuff hoping to flip it immediately to capitalise on the price."
Attempts to reach Earl Deveaux, minister for the environmentm for comment on the matter proved unsuccessful up to press time. Calls placed by Tribune Business to Customs Comptroller Glen Gomez also proved unsuccessful.
November 18, 2011
tribune242
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)