Is Cassius Stuart still credible?
thenassauguardian editorial
Cassius 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) and the Free National Movement (FNM) were not good enough for The Bahamas.
Stuart and the BDM — a fringe party — were never successful building up the clout necessary to challenge for a seat in the House of Assembly.
So after a decade trying, Stuart and the BDM have gone to the FNM.
Can you blame them? At the February 2010 Elizabeth by-election, Stuart, a ‘party’ leader, was not even able to secure enough votes to get back his election deposit. That was clearly a sign that the BDM had gone nowhere.
We think third parties should dedicate the time necessary to build the brand. Stuart and the BDM did this and, over time, there was no meaningful connection between the organization and the people.
It is expected that at least Stuart — out of the BDM executives who joined the FNM — will be named an FNM candidate at the next general election.
His decision, and that of the other BDM members, was pragmatic. It merely demonstrates what all should know: Politics is not about ideals, but about power. To achieve the goal of being able to exercise power, the BDM realized that it needed to join one of the mainstream parties.
The BDM members should not be criticized for losing the childlike idealism they had. In fact, they should be commended for offering themselves as candidates over the years rather than merely complaining about the state of the country from the sidelines.
Stuart’s decision demonstrates that he has the sense to know when a lost cause should be abandoned.
“Today, the same message that guided us in the wilderness over this past decade is the message that has been embraced by the Free National Movement — a message we believe will touch the lives of every man, woman and child in our archipelago,” said Stuart last week when he was welcomed to the party at FNM headquarters.
Dr. Andre Rollins did the same thing. He abandoned the fledgling National Development Party (NDP) and is now a candidate for the PLP in a winnable seat (Ft. Charlotte).
What young politicians must learn is that they should not let youthful zeal lead them to make statements in the public sphere they will later regret when powerful political leaders offer them ‘things’ and they then abandoned all they once claimed to believe and support.
Stuart and Dr. Rollins are now in the mainstream. They both will now likely have good chances at winning a seat at the election. The things they said about the FNM and PLP in the past were merely words aimed at a goal. They now have what they wanted. The words and deeds worked.
4/17/2011
thenassauguardian editorial
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.
Showing posts with label Bahamas Democratic Movement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bahamas Democratic Movement. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Friday, April 15, 2011
Cassius Stuart's Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) merges with the governing Free National Movement (FNM) Party
BDM dissolves and merges with FNM
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas Democratic Movement has officially been dissolved after a 13-year political run, announced former party president Cassius Stuart. Party representatives joined members of the Free National Movement yesterday to announce the merger of the two organisations.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, FNM leader, presented Mr Stuart with a membership card and welcomed the new members of the party. He said months of deliberation had led to this decision.
Mr Ingraham said he admired how "tenacious and focused" the BDM has been over the years. He said the party had a "consistent message" and was "doggard and determined."
He took delight in the fact that during the Elizabeth by-election, a BDM canvaser approached him in a barber shop on the campaign trail and tried to convince him to support the party.
The BDM was the most prominent third party in recent times. It contested 12 of the 40 parliamentary seats in the 2002 election. Mr Stuart was one of the founders in 1998. He was the BDM's candidate in the Elizabeth by-election last year.
Mr Stuart said the by-election was a "wake up call" that seriously challenged his views on the viability of a third party. He said the party decided it had to be "practical and pragmatic." He said the party has always wanted to make a contribution and decided to stop sitting on the sidelines.
"We have joined the FNM because we believe that this organization is willing to embrace new leadership, new vision and new energy. While we know that this decision may be troubling for some of our supporters, we want to assure you that we believe this decision is in the best interest of our membership and our country," said Mr Stuart.
Mr Stuart said the BDM was no longer interested in "talking about the problems." They wanted to engage in "solving the problems," the members of the party believed the FNM was the best party to accomplish that task.
There were "extensive" discussions with the FNM and PLP, said Mr Stuart; however, he said the FNM were more "timely" and presented "better opportunities" to fulfil the vision of the BDM and to "maximise the potential" of its members.
Some ten executive members of the BDM joined Mr Stuart at the FNM headquarters last night to make the announcement. Mr Stuart said all of the BDM, except one member, supported the party's decision.
"The discussions leading up to this decision have in no way been easy for us. After many months of discussions and deliberations and with much prayer and fasting, we find ourselves here today. We believe that the decision to join the FNM is the right one at the right time," said Mr Stuart.
"My message over the past decade has been adding value to the lives of every Bahamian. Moving forward, the Prime Minister has assured us that the next five years will be just that, building lives. Today as we embark on a new horizon, we are confident that this union will bring brighter days for every Bahamian. As a result, we know that The Bahamas will be a safer, cleaner, and better place to live in," he said.
Mr Stuart said the BDM and the FNM have become one organisation with the same vision, purpose and objective.
Under Mr Stuart's leadership, the BDM was a harsh critic of Prime Minister Ingraham and the FNM and former Prime Minister Perry Christie, leader of the Progressive Liberal Party, during successive terms of government.
The party's position on education states that both the FNM and PLP are "clear failures."
"It is safe to conclude that both the PLP and the FNM are major failures. The same problems that afflicted the FNM in education are the PLP's worst nightmare. The question is when will we get it right? From all indications neither Mr Ingraham nor Mr Christie has the answers. These two men must be judge based on their performance record not their political foolishness and the hand writing is clearly on the wall, they both have failed," states the BDM on the issue of education.
The party has similar critiques of the performance of the FNM and PLP on crime, defence, immigration, and the environment.
In 2001, Stuart and then deputy leader Omar Smith handcuffed themselves to the Mace in the House of Assembly in protest against the "unfair gerrymandering of the constituency boundaries by the FNM administration."
They were jailed for almost two days, although no charges were brought against them, according to the party's historical account of its formation.
Over the past 11 years, Mr Stuart said his efforts were guided by a message that is entrenched in the BDM constitution: "No man, woman or child shall ever be slave or bondsman to anyone or their labour exploited or their lives frustrated by deprivation". He said this message has been "embraced" by the FNM.
In the coming days, Mr Stuart said he would file a formal application to the FNM to be nominated as a candidate in the next general election. He said no promises were made for future candidacy, but assurances were given that the former BDM members would be a part of making sure the Bahamas is a better place.
April 14, 2011
tribune242
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas Democratic Movement has officially been dissolved after a 13-year political run, announced former party president Cassius Stuart. Party representatives joined members of the Free National Movement yesterday to announce the merger of the two organisations.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, FNM leader, presented Mr Stuart with a membership card and welcomed the new members of the party. He said months of deliberation had led to this decision.
Mr Ingraham said he admired how "tenacious and focused" the BDM has been over the years. He said the party had a "consistent message" and was "doggard and determined."
He took delight in the fact that during the Elizabeth by-election, a BDM canvaser approached him in a barber shop on the campaign trail and tried to convince him to support the party.
The BDM was the most prominent third party in recent times. It contested 12 of the 40 parliamentary seats in the 2002 election. Mr Stuart was one of the founders in 1998. He was the BDM's candidate in the Elizabeth by-election last year.
Mr Stuart said the by-election was a "wake up call" that seriously challenged his views on the viability of a third party. He said the party decided it had to be "practical and pragmatic." He said the party has always wanted to make a contribution and decided to stop sitting on the sidelines.
"We have joined the FNM because we believe that this organization is willing to embrace new leadership, new vision and new energy. While we know that this decision may be troubling for some of our supporters, we want to assure you that we believe this decision is in the best interest of our membership and our country," said Mr Stuart.
Mr Stuart said the BDM was no longer interested in "talking about the problems." They wanted to engage in "solving the problems," the members of the party believed the FNM was the best party to accomplish that task.
There were "extensive" discussions with the FNM and PLP, said Mr Stuart; however, he said the FNM were more "timely" and presented "better opportunities" to fulfil the vision of the BDM and to "maximise the potential" of its members.
Some ten executive members of the BDM joined Mr Stuart at the FNM headquarters last night to make the announcement. Mr Stuart said all of the BDM, except one member, supported the party's decision.
"The discussions leading up to this decision have in no way been easy for us. After many months of discussions and deliberations and with much prayer and fasting, we find ourselves here today. We believe that the decision to join the FNM is the right one at the right time," said Mr Stuart.
"My message over the past decade has been adding value to the lives of every Bahamian. Moving forward, the Prime Minister has assured us that the next five years will be just that, building lives. Today as we embark on a new horizon, we are confident that this union will bring brighter days for every Bahamian. As a result, we know that The Bahamas will be a safer, cleaner, and better place to live in," he said.
Mr Stuart said the BDM and the FNM have become one organisation with the same vision, purpose and objective.
Under Mr Stuart's leadership, the BDM was a harsh critic of Prime Minister Ingraham and the FNM and former Prime Minister Perry Christie, leader of the Progressive Liberal Party, during successive terms of government.
The party's position on education states that both the FNM and PLP are "clear failures."
"It is safe to conclude that both the PLP and the FNM are major failures. The same problems that afflicted the FNM in education are the PLP's worst nightmare. The question is when will we get it right? From all indications neither Mr Ingraham nor Mr Christie has the answers. These two men must be judge based on their performance record not their political foolishness and the hand writing is clearly on the wall, they both have failed," states the BDM on the issue of education.
The party has similar critiques of the performance of the FNM and PLP on crime, defence, immigration, and the environment.
In 2001, Stuart and then deputy leader Omar Smith handcuffed themselves to the Mace in the House of Assembly in protest against the "unfair gerrymandering of the constituency boundaries by the FNM administration."
They were jailed for almost two days, although no charges were brought against them, according to the party's historical account of its formation.
Over the past 11 years, Mr Stuart said his efforts were guided by a message that is entrenched in the BDM constitution: "No man, woman or child shall ever be slave or bondsman to anyone or their labour exploited or their lives frustrated by deprivation". He said this message has been "embraced" by the FNM.
In the coming days, Mr Stuart said he would file a formal application to the FNM to be nominated as a candidate in the next general election. He said no promises were made for future candidacy, but assurances were given that the former BDM members would be a part of making sure the Bahamas is a better place.
April 14, 2011
tribune242
Thursday, March 31, 2011
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
NDP leader: it's time for a third party in Bahamas
By PAUL G. TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net
HEADING into their discussions last night with Independent MP Branville McCartney, NDP leader Renward Wells said that he feels now is the time for a third party to really make a difference in the political landscape of the Bahamas.
Hoping to either court the Bamboo Town MP into joining the NDP or have their party make some type of alliance with whatever movement Mr McCartney will form, Mr Wells said they hope to be "the alternative" to both the PLP and the FNM at the polls.
"We believe that it is high time for another party, other than the PLP or the FNM. It is absolutely the right time to do it," he said.
At the meeting, which was scheduled to be held at Mr McCartney's home on John F Kennedy Drive, Mr Wells said that the NDP will have 14 persons present, including himself, as representative from the Bahamas Democratic Movement. Other notable young politicians are reported to be attending.
Mr Wells said that his party has decided to send such a large contingent because they represent the heads of a number of their internal committees and must relate what transpired with first hand knowledge.
"Actually I am taking a lot of people who support Mr McCartney so they can hear from him as to what is what, and then they can make up their minds based on what they currently believe and are willing to accept. Because at the end of the day, the others have made their position quite known, this is what it is, he must come to the NDP and they are not changing from that at all.
"And they have said they don't want to go. This is our position and we are not changing that," he said.
Mr Wells said that based on what happens at the meeting last night he may have to "work" on these party members if the NDP intends to move in the direction of aligning itself with Mr McCartney.
If the Bamboo Town MP were to join with the NDP and lead the organization, Mr Wells said that they will hold a convention within 30 days so that this decision can be made by their entire organization.
"There are even people in the NDP already who would want him (Mr McCartney) for leadership; most certainly. I believe that at the end of the day, those persons not only support Bran being the leader of the party, they support it being done the right way.
"I don't want people to believe that Renward Wells is a megalomaniac. I am willing of Bran being the leader in the House of Assembly because he is the only one there. Undoubtedly I can tell you that if I run against him (for the leadership) he will more than likely win. But this isn't about me. This is about the Bahamian people. If they believe that Bran is the best man to make that change, I will grab my shield and follow him into battle," he said.
As a relatively new political organization, Mr Wells said that the NDP has already faced its share of challenges - namely the departure of its former national chairman Dr Andre Rollins. However, he said that because their party is grounded in its message and "principles", they have survived.
"A political party must not be about a man, it must be about the message. It can't be about the person, it must be about the principle. You cannot have an idol, you must have an ideology. Men and women will come and go, but the truth and the message will remain. When you create parties around men, they fail; look at the CDR (Coalition for Democratic Reform). The NDP will and cannot join any institution that is built around a man," he said.
March 30, 2011
tribune242
By PAUL G. TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net
HEADING into their discussions last night with Independent MP Branville McCartney, NDP leader Renward Wells said that he feels now is the time for a third party to really make a difference in the political landscape of the Bahamas.
Hoping to either court the Bamboo Town MP into joining the NDP or have their party make some type of alliance with whatever movement Mr McCartney will form, Mr Wells said they hope to be "the alternative" to both the PLP and the FNM at the polls.
"We believe that it is high time for another party, other than the PLP or the FNM. It is absolutely the right time to do it," he said.
At the meeting, which was scheduled to be held at Mr McCartney's home on John F Kennedy Drive, Mr Wells said that the NDP will have 14 persons present, including himself, as representative from the Bahamas Democratic Movement. Other notable young politicians are reported to be attending.
Mr Wells said that his party has decided to send such a large contingent because they represent the heads of a number of their internal committees and must relate what transpired with first hand knowledge.
"Actually I am taking a lot of people who support Mr McCartney so they can hear from him as to what is what, and then they can make up their minds based on what they currently believe and are willing to accept. Because at the end of the day, the others have made their position quite known, this is what it is, he must come to the NDP and they are not changing from that at all.
"And they have said they don't want to go. This is our position and we are not changing that," he said.
Mr Wells said that based on what happens at the meeting last night he may have to "work" on these party members if the NDP intends to move in the direction of aligning itself with Mr McCartney.
If the Bamboo Town MP were to join with the NDP and lead the organization, Mr Wells said that they will hold a convention within 30 days so that this decision can be made by their entire organization.
"There are even people in the NDP already who would want him (Mr McCartney) for leadership; most certainly. I believe that at the end of the day, those persons not only support Bran being the leader of the party, they support it being done the right way.
"I don't want people to believe that Renward Wells is a megalomaniac. I am willing of Bran being the leader in the House of Assembly because he is the only one there. Undoubtedly I can tell you that if I run against him (for the leadership) he will more than likely win. But this isn't about me. This is about the Bahamian people. If they believe that Bran is the best man to make that change, I will grab my shield and follow him into battle," he said.
As a relatively new political organization, Mr Wells said that the NDP has already faced its share of challenges - namely the departure of its former national chairman Dr Andre Rollins. However, he said that because their party is grounded in its message and "principles", they have survived.
"A political party must not be about a man, it must be about the message. It can't be about the person, it must be about the principle. You cannot have an idol, you must have an ideology. Men and women will come and go, but the truth and the message will remain. When you create parties around men, they fail; look at the CDR (Coalition for Democratic Reform). The NDP will and cannot join any institution that is built around a man," he said.
March 30, 2011
tribune242
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
The national spotlight is now on Branville McCartney
The next step for Branville McCartney
thenassauguardian editorial
Branville 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 made his statement to the House of Assembly in the debate on the sale of 51 percent of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), McCartney upstaged the prime minister and the governing party by resigning.
McCartney must now consider his steps carefully, or he will be remembered as someone who had potential.
His options are to run as an independent; to join the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP); to form a political party; to join a coalition of candidates; or to retire and leave politics.
Clearly McCartney wants to continue in politics, so retirement won’t happen.
If McCartney joined the PLP, he would be at the end of a long line of people who want to be leader after Perry Christie. Those men and women would let him know right away that he could not jump that line.
Running as an independent, forming a party or joining a coalition of independents all appear more likely options for the Bamboo Town MP.
If McCartney wants to form a party, he needs to get to work on that right away. He needs to find candidates and money. To run a serious campaign, McCartney would need millions. He would also need to find serious people to stand with him.
The problem small parties such as the Workers Party, the National Development Party and the Bahamas Democratic Party have is that they are not comprised of enough people capable of governing a country.
Standing as an independent, or with a group of independents, would be simpler. The key here would be for McCartney to try and win his seat, challenged by both the PLP and FNM. He should not assume that Christie and the PLP would cut a deal with him. The PLP needs every seat it can get in what looks like another close election.
McCartney has repeatedly said his move away from the Ingraham Cabinet and the Ingraham-led party was based on conscience. If he is to be an enduring force in Bahamian politics he must now prove to his constituency and the country that he has a vision for The Bahamas and that he has the intelligence and will to execute that vision.
So, the Bamboo Town MP needs to start talking. And he needs to talk often. His constituents and the country want to know if he has what it takes.
The national spotlight is now on “Bran.” We’ll shall all see if he can harness the mass dissatisfaction with the old political order, transforming that raw energy into results at the next general election.
3/22/2011
thenassauguardian editorial
thenassauguardian editorial
Branville 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 made his statement to the House of Assembly in the debate on the sale of 51 percent of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), McCartney upstaged the prime minister and the governing party by resigning.
McCartney must now consider his steps carefully, or he will be remembered as someone who had potential.
His options are to run as an independent; to join the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP); to form a political party; to join a coalition of candidates; or to retire and leave politics.
Clearly McCartney wants to continue in politics, so retirement won’t happen.
If McCartney joined the PLP, he would be at the end of a long line of people who want to be leader after Perry Christie. Those men and women would let him know right away that he could not jump that line.
Running as an independent, forming a party or joining a coalition of independents all appear more likely options for the Bamboo Town MP.
If McCartney wants to form a party, he needs to get to work on that right away. He needs to find candidates and money. To run a serious campaign, McCartney would need millions. He would also need to find serious people to stand with him.
The problem small parties such as the Workers Party, the National Development Party and the Bahamas Democratic Party have is that they are not comprised of enough people capable of governing a country.
Standing as an independent, or with a group of independents, would be simpler. The key here would be for McCartney to try and win his seat, challenged by both the PLP and FNM. He should not assume that Christie and the PLP would cut a deal with him. The PLP needs every seat it can get in what looks like another close election.
McCartney has repeatedly said his move away from the Ingraham Cabinet and the Ingraham-led party was based on conscience. If he is to be an enduring force in Bahamian politics he must now prove to his constituency and the country that he has a vision for The Bahamas and that he has the intelligence and will to execute that vision.
So, the Bamboo Town MP needs to start talking. And he needs to talk often. His constituents and the country want to know if he has what it takes.
The national spotlight is now on “Bran.” We’ll shall all see if he can harness the mass dissatisfaction with the old political order, transforming that raw energy into results at the next general election.
3/22/2011
thenassauguardian editorial
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Bahamas 2010/2011 Budget Under Fire
Budget Backlash
jonesbahamas:
The widely unpopular 2010/2011 Budget came under fire Monday from one of the nation’s most prominent contractors and a political party leader, who both unleashed a perfect storm of criticism against the fiscal plan.
For a nation desperate for an economic lifeline, President of the Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) President Stephen Wrinkle said this budget offered little solace.
He argued that the proposed budgetary initiatives would in fact send more workers to a growing unemployment line.
"I’m a builder and a developer and in my company, like every other company in The Bahamas today, I think everybody took pencil to paper in this last week and looked at what they can do without and who they can do without and we’re making our cuts," he said.
"The people that we were keeping because they were good staff, maybe we have to let them go now because we don’t have the workload to sustain it. We’ve been sustaining it for a year to a year-and-a-half in our industry anyway and most contractors have reached the point where unless they’ve got work in hand they are cutting back because they just can’t handle those carrying charges any longer."
Perhaps more importantly, Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) Leader Cassius Stuart, who is also a business consultant, said the budget had more to do with infrastructure than investing in human capital.
Both men were guests on the Love 97 weekly talk show, On Point, with hosts Rogan Smith and Tosheena Robinson-Blair.
"We are borrowing for capital development. What is frightening, though, is that we are putting the education of our people, the development of our human capital on the altar. We are sacrificing it on the altar of capital development," he said.
"How could we, on the one hand, cut expenditure for education . . . but increase capital developments for roads and other projects? It doesn’t make any sense because the number one engine in an economy is its people. People earn revenue. If the people are not being invested in or developed we’ll find ourselves fighting in the public and private sectors for more productivity from people."
He continued: "The government cut subsidies for the private schools by 20 per cent, which means that private schools will be forced to increase school fees. So now those who have children in private schools who can’t meet those [fee payments] will have to pull their kids out and put them in public schools. The public schools are already overcrowded, so where you currently have 30 or 40 students in a class in the public school, that will be increased to about 50 students."
Mr. Wrinkle said the "ugliest part of this budget" is the fact that the tax burden will continue to be placed on the only economic engine that the country has – the business community.
"We cannot continue to place the yolk of the burden on the business community without providing some incentive for growth," he said. "Our GDP is projected to shrink this year. The entire economy is in a recessionary mode, yet there’s been an increased tax burden on all aspects of business, whether it be an increase in stamp duty on legal transactions or NIB contributions for payrolls or business licence fees."
"The Industries Act was a real incentive that I think most Bahamians assumed would be a continuing incentive that would be available for manufacturing and when that was literally pulled out from underneath us with the stroke of a pen by one individual I think it sent a clear indication of how our country is governed."
Mr. Wrinkle said the business community now finds itself in a very difficult situation in very trying times.
"We’re now going to have to look at ways in which we can change our approach to not only make ends meet, but to make progress. With a shrinking economy, shrinking productivity, a shrinking market, we’ve got to offer some more growth incentive. Otherwise, all we’re doing is putting more plough on the horses and pulling it and at some point the horse is going to get tired and fall down," he said.
"I appreciate that there are only so many revenue streams that we have at the moment from which to draw. But, I am deeply disturbed that we are digging deeply at the crucial aspects of survival for our economic engine – the tourism sector: the room taxes have been increased; the departure taxes have been increased."
Mr. Wrinkle also expressed disappointment that the government does not consult the private industry.
"I think that is a tremendous loss, because you have experts in virtually every field of the budget readily available and willing to contribute to the management of the government, but we’ve got a government that holds its cards closer than Kenny Rogers did in Five Card Stud and they just don’t share information; they don’t share responsibilities or anything that they don’t have to share," he said.
Mr. Stuart agreed. He said the government should have consulted more with the relevant stakeholders.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, during his budget communication, announced a number of budget cuts and tax hikes. He immediately raised the duty rates on car imports – a move that immediately sparked backlash from car dealers in the country. Many feared that their businesses would go belly up in the coming months.
A week later, after consulting with the dealers, the prime minister made several adjustments to the tax rates.
"The prime minister now finds himself, after the fact, coming to the car dealers after he discovers exactly what they are experiencing. Then he makes decisions based on what he finds. He should have just consulted with them in the first place, and by extension consulted with the mail boat operators and all of the stakeholders in society to find out what shortfalls they are experiencing" Mr. Stuart said.
The BDM leader called the budget "scary" and said for years he has been calling on the government to tighten up on spending.
"In the good times our government refused to do that. We have to be fiscally responsible and economically prudent. When things were good we were spending a lot, almost as if we were never going to reach this day. Now that we’re here the government has been forced to cut back on a lot of things and it’s needed. We now find ourselves in a place where we’re trying to figure out how we’re going to cover our costs and cover the overhead that the government has," he said.
Mr. Stuart said The Bahamas has not experienced any new growth in its industries, but has experienced a "significant" decline.
"Many small businesses, particularly in the manufacturing sector, have either shut down or downsized due to overhead costs. One of the many overhead costs that small businesses have been affected by is the increase in BEC (Bahamas Electricity Corporation) utility rates. It’s killing them," he said.
"There is a plan on the table to again increase that rate. On top of that we’re saying we want to increase National Insurance contribution rates by one per cent. Most companies are now looking through their books to see who they can let go because of the increase in overhead."
Mr. Wrinkle agreed.
He said the government has again "missed an opportunity to provide incentives for growth because without growth in the business sector, we’re not really going to climb out of this; we’re just making more demands."
"When you take away the concessions that manufacturers have, like the people that make the windows, the doors, the hurricane shutters and a myriad of consumable items, we’ve got chemical companies that make soaps – all of these things that are consumed here that save us from exporting our U.S. dollars and employ people keep people employed – it affects them," he said.
"It isn’t like the construction sector where I may have 130 employees this month, but next month I may have 50 because when our job is finished I have to let them go. When you’re building a manufacturing company and you start off with four employees, next year you’ve got six and then eight and then 12 and it’s long term. I really think this one is going to come back to bite [the government] because you can’t tell people that you want to produce Bahamian entrepreneurs and businessmen and then in a stroke of a pen you pull the rug out underneath them."
Mr. Wrinkle said he believes there is a serious disconnect between the politicians and businessmen in the country. He said while incentives for growth d not necessarily have to be tied to a budget, they should have been included.
"The fact that we don’t have adequate incentives in place is reflected in the way they address the budget. They have not looked outside the envelope of revenue stream. It appears that they had a list of the revenues and they went down with a pencil and ticked off which ones they thought they could increase and generate more revenue stream from the taxes," he said.
June 9, 2010
jonesbahamas
jonesbahamas:
The widely unpopular 2010/2011 Budget came under fire Monday from one of the nation’s most prominent contractors and a political party leader, who both unleashed a perfect storm of criticism against the fiscal plan.
For a nation desperate for an economic lifeline, President of the Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) President Stephen Wrinkle said this budget offered little solace.
He argued that the proposed budgetary initiatives would in fact send more workers to a growing unemployment line.
"I’m a builder and a developer and in my company, like every other company in The Bahamas today, I think everybody took pencil to paper in this last week and looked at what they can do without and who they can do without and we’re making our cuts," he said.
"The people that we were keeping because they were good staff, maybe we have to let them go now because we don’t have the workload to sustain it. We’ve been sustaining it for a year to a year-and-a-half in our industry anyway and most contractors have reached the point where unless they’ve got work in hand they are cutting back because they just can’t handle those carrying charges any longer."
Perhaps more importantly, Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) Leader Cassius Stuart, who is also a business consultant, said the budget had more to do with infrastructure than investing in human capital.
Both men were guests on the Love 97 weekly talk show, On Point, with hosts Rogan Smith and Tosheena Robinson-Blair.
"We are borrowing for capital development. What is frightening, though, is that we are putting the education of our people, the development of our human capital on the altar. We are sacrificing it on the altar of capital development," he said.
"How could we, on the one hand, cut expenditure for education . . . but increase capital developments for roads and other projects? It doesn’t make any sense because the number one engine in an economy is its people. People earn revenue. If the people are not being invested in or developed we’ll find ourselves fighting in the public and private sectors for more productivity from people."
He continued: "The government cut subsidies for the private schools by 20 per cent, which means that private schools will be forced to increase school fees. So now those who have children in private schools who can’t meet those [fee payments] will have to pull their kids out and put them in public schools. The public schools are already overcrowded, so where you currently have 30 or 40 students in a class in the public school, that will be increased to about 50 students."
Mr. Wrinkle said the "ugliest part of this budget" is the fact that the tax burden will continue to be placed on the only economic engine that the country has – the business community.
"We cannot continue to place the yolk of the burden on the business community without providing some incentive for growth," he said. "Our GDP is projected to shrink this year. The entire economy is in a recessionary mode, yet there’s been an increased tax burden on all aspects of business, whether it be an increase in stamp duty on legal transactions or NIB contributions for payrolls or business licence fees."
"The Industries Act was a real incentive that I think most Bahamians assumed would be a continuing incentive that would be available for manufacturing and when that was literally pulled out from underneath us with the stroke of a pen by one individual I think it sent a clear indication of how our country is governed."
Mr. Wrinkle said the business community now finds itself in a very difficult situation in very trying times.
"We’re now going to have to look at ways in which we can change our approach to not only make ends meet, but to make progress. With a shrinking economy, shrinking productivity, a shrinking market, we’ve got to offer some more growth incentive. Otherwise, all we’re doing is putting more plough on the horses and pulling it and at some point the horse is going to get tired and fall down," he said.
"I appreciate that there are only so many revenue streams that we have at the moment from which to draw. But, I am deeply disturbed that we are digging deeply at the crucial aspects of survival for our economic engine – the tourism sector: the room taxes have been increased; the departure taxes have been increased."
Mr. Wrinkle also expressed disappointment that the government does not consult the private industry.
"I think that is a tremendous loss, because you have experts in virtually every field of the budget readily available and willing to contribute to the management of the government, but we’ve got a government that holds its cards closer than Kenny Rogers did in Five Card Stud and they just don’t share information; they don’t share responsibilities or anything that they don’t have to share," he said.
Mr. Stuart agreed. He said the government should have consulted more with the relevant stakeholders.
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, during his budget communication, announced a number of budget cuts and tax hikes. He immediately raised the duty rates on car imports – a move that immediately sparked backlash from car dealers in the country. Many feared that their businesses would go belly up in the coming months.
A week later, after consulting with the dealers, the prime minister made several adjustments to the tax rates.
"The prime minister now finds himself, after the fact, coming to the car dealers after he discovers exactly what they are experiencing. Then he makes decisions based on what he finds. He should have just consulted with them in the first place, and by extension consulted with the mail boat operators and all of the stakeholders in society to find out what shortfalls they are experiencing" Mr. Stuart said.
The BDM leader called the budget "scary" and said for years he has been calling on the government to tighten up on spending.
"In the good times our government refused to do that. We have to be fiscally responsible and economically prudent. When things were good we were spending a lot, almost as if we were never going to reach this day. Now that we’re here the government has been forced to cut back on a lot of things and it’s needed. We now find ourselves in a place where we’re trying to figure out how we’re going to cover our costs and cover the overhead that the government has," he said.
Mr. Stuart said The Bahamas has not experienced any new growth in its industries, but has experienced a "significant" decline.
"Many small businesses, particularly in the manufacturing sector, have either shut down or downsized due to overhead costs. One of the many overhead costs that small businesses have been affected by is the increase in BEC (Bahamas Electricity Corporation) utility rates. It’s killing them," he said.
"There is a plan on the table to again increase that rate. On top of that we’re saying we want to increase National Insurance contribution rates by one per cent. Most companies are now looking through their books to see who they can let go because of the increase in overhead."
Mr. Wrinkle agreed.
He said the government has again "missed an opportunity to provide incentives for growth because without growth in the business sector, we’re not really going to climb out of this; we’re just making more demands."
"When you take away the concessions that manufacturers have, like the people that make the windows, the doors, the hurricane shutters and a myriad of consumable items, we’ve got chemical companies that make soaps – all of these things that are consumed here that save us from exporting our U.S. dollars and employ people keep people employed – it affects them," he said.
"It isn’t like the construction sector where I may have 130 employees this month, but next month I may have 50 because when our job is finished I have to let them go. When you’re building a manufacturing company and you start off with four employees, next year you’ve got six and then eight and then 12 and it’s long term. I really think this one is going to come back to bite [the government] because you can’t tell people that you want to produce Bahamian entrepreneurs and businessmen and then in a stroke of a pen you pull the rug out underneath them."
Mr. Wrinkle said he believes there is a serious disconnect between the politicians and businessmen in the country. He said while incentives for growth d not necessarily have to be tied to a budget, they should have been included.
"The fact that we don’t have adequate incentives in place is reflected in the way they address the budget. They have not looked outside the envelope of revenue stream. It appears that they had a list of the revenues and they went down with a pencil and ticked off which ones they thought they could increase and generate more revenue stream from the taxes," he said.
June 9, 2010
jonesbahamas
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Elizabeth by-election: 1,700 voters a no-show
By Krystel Rolle ~ Guardian Staff Reporter ~ krystel@nasguard.com:
More than 1,700 people registered to vote in yesterday's historic by-election were a no-show.
There are 4,943 people on the register. However, according to the unofficial figures only 3,210 people cast their votes yesterday.
In addition to the Progressive Liberal Party's Ryan Pinder and the Free National Movement's Dr. Duane Sands, candidates in the by-election included Bahamas Democratic Movement leader Cassius Stuart, Workers Party leader Rodney Moncur and National Development Party chairman Dr. Andre Rollins.
The unofficial results show that Sands received 1,501 votes, Pinder got 1,500 votes, Stuart got 115 votes, Rollins received 73 votes and Moncur got 21 votes.
The Elizabeth seat became vacant last month when former PLP MP Malcolm Adderley resigned from the House of Assembly. He also resigned from the party.
In polling division number one, Sands received 108 votes; Pinder got 91 votes; Stuart got nine votes; Rollins received four votes and Moncur got two votes.
In polling division number two, Pinder received 145 votes; Sands got 111 votes; Stuart received five votes; Rollins got three votes while Moncur did not get any votes.
In polling division number three, Pinder got 141 votes; Sands received 134 votes; Stuart got 14 votes; Rollins got eight votes and Moncur got three votes.
In polling division number four, Sands received 188 votes; Pinder got 164 votes; Rollins got nine votes; Stuart got six votes, and Moncur received three votes.
In polling division number five, Sands got 106 votes; Pinder received 62 votes; Stuart received 16 votes; Rollins received six votes and Moncur got one vote.
In polling division number six, Sands got 157 votes; Pinder received 121 votes; Rollins got 11 votes; Stuart got nine votes and Moncur received one vote.
In polling division number seven, Pinder received 129 votes; Sands got 123 votes; Stuart and Rollins got two votes each, and Moncur got one vote.
In polling division number eight, Sands got 129 votes; Pinder received 106 votes; Stuart got nine votes; Rollins got five votes and Moncur got three votes.
In polling division number nine, Pinder got 86 votes; Sands got 85 votes; Stuart received 11 votes; Rollins received six votes and Moncur got two votes.
In polling division number 10, Pinder got 168 votes; Sands got 130 votes; Rollins got 12 votes; Stuart received 10 votes and Moncur got four votes.
In polling division number 11, Pinder got 164 votes; Sands received 122 votes; Stuart got 13 votes; Rollins got six votes while Moncur didn't get any votes.
In polling division number 12, Pinder received 123 votes; Sands got 108 votes; Stuart got 11 votes and Moncur and Rollins got one vote each.
Returning Officer Jack Thompson said five of Pinder's votes were challenged and were not counted last night.
Thompson added that one of Stuart's votes was also challenged.
Election officials will recount the ballots today.
February 17, 2010
thenassauguardian
More than 1,700 people registered to vote in yesterday's historic by-election were a no-show.
There are 4,943 people on the register. However, according to the unofficial figures only 3,210 people cast their votes yesterday.
In addition to the Progressive Liberal Party's Ryan Pinder and the Free National Movement's Dr. Duane Sands, candidates in the by-election included Bahamas Democratic Movement leader Cassius Stuart, Workers Party leader Rodney Moncur and National Development Party chairman Dr. Andre Rollins.
The unofficial results show that Sands received 1,501 votes, Pinder got 1,500 votes, Stuart got 115 votes, Rollins received 73 votes and Moncur got 21 votes.
The Elizabeth seat became vacant last month when former PLP MP Malcolm Adderley resigned from the House of Assembly. He also resigned from the party.
In polling division number one, Sands received 108 votes; Pinder got 91 votes; Stuart got nine votes; Rollins received four votes and Moncur got two votes.
In polling division number two, Pinder received 145 votes; Sands got 111 votes; Stuart received five votes; Rollins got three votes while Moncur did not get any votes.
In polling division number three, Pinder got 141 votes; Sands received 134 votes; Stuart got 14 votes; Rollins got eight votes and Moncur got three votes.
In polling division number four, Sands received 188 votes; Pinder got 164 votes; Rollins got nine votes; Stuart got six votes, and Moncur received three votes.
In polling division number five, Sands got 106 votes; Pinder received 62 votes; Stuart received 16 votes; Rollins received six votes and Moncur got one vote.
In polling division number six, Sands got 157 votes; Pinder received 121 votes; Rollins got 11 votes; Stuart got nine votes and Moncur received one vote.
In polling division number seven, Pinder received 129 votes; Sands got 123 votes; Stuart and Rollins got two votes each, and Moncur got one vote.
In polling division number eight, Sands got 129 votes; Pinder received 106 votes; Stuart got nine votes; Rollins got five votes and Moncur got three votes.
In polling division number nine, Pinder got 86 votes; Sands got 85 votes; Stuart received 11 votes; Rollins received six votes and Moncur got two votes.
In polling division number 10, Pinder got 168 votes; Sands got 130 votes; Rollins got 12 votes; Stuart received 10 votes and Moncur got four votes.
In polling division number 11, Pinder got 164 votes; Sands received 122 votes; Stuart got 13 votes; Rollins got six votes while Moncur didn't get any votes.
In polling division number 12, Pinder received 123 votes; Sands got 108 votes; Stuart got 11 votes and Moncur and Rollins got one vote each.
Returning Officer Jack Thompson said five of Pinder's votes were challenged and were not counted last night.
Thompson added that one of Stuart's votes was also challenged.
Election officials will recount the ballots today.
February 17, 2010
thenassauguardian
Friday, January 8, 2010
The Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) leader Cassius Stuart to run in Elizabeth by-election
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
THE Bahamas Democratic Movement announced yesterday that party president, Cassius Stuart, will contest the Elizabeth seat in the upcoming by-election.
Mr Stuart borrowed the popular campaign phrase from US President Barack Obama saying the party is "fired up and ready to go."
"Today, the BDM draws the line in the political sand, and offer ourselves to be an innovative part of the new direction that our country needs. We are offering ourselves because we believe in what this country can be," Mr Stuart told a press conference.
When former MP for Elizabeth, Malcolm Adderley, resigned his seat on Wednesday and severed ties with the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), the door opened for candidates to vie for the constituency.
Last night BDM officials met to finalise campaign tactics and budgetary matters. Mr Stuart said he anticipated the BDM would spend about $500,000 on the election.
Of speculation about the election costing political parties $1 million or more, Mr Stuart said the BDM was not trying to pay mortgages for community members, but only to organise a fair campaign, knocking on doors, interacting with the community.
He said the plan was to solicit small donations from a broad base, noting that this approach, popularised by Mr Obama, has never been tried in the Bahamas before.
Stakes are high for the BDM who are banking on the election to act as a catalyst for future wins in the next general election. They currently have no representatives in the House of Assembly after bids in two general elections.
Referring to what was dubbed the 'Ohio Syndrome' in the last US presidential elections, when momentum coalesced in favour of then candidate Obama's campaign, Mr Stuart said the Elizabeth constituency could pave the way for a new political culture in the Bahamas. The thinking of party executives is, if Elizabeth votes for a third party bringing change to the political landscape, it will indicate the potential for more widespread change in the future.
"The politics of yesterday must be done away with and a new political must be awakened. Elizabeth, you can pave the way for that new political culture. You can be the ones to who show the entire Bahamas that it is possible to change. People of Elizabeth, you can be the lighthouse for a nation who is adrift with no clear direction," said Mr Stuart.
In the 2007 election, Mr Stuart ran in the Garden Hills constituency, securing 3.5 per cent of the votes cast. He lost to Brensil Rolle of the Free National Movement (FNM). The BDM candidate for Elizabeth in the last election was Bernard Rolle. He acquired just over 70 votes in a constituency of 4,000 voters, or less than two per cent.
Mr Rolle said despite the conservative numbers, evidence of his impact was the fact that FNM candidate, Elma Chase Campbell, blamed the BDM for the PLP win. Mr Adderley won by a margin of 42 votes over the FNM candidate.
"I feel like the people were very receptive of our platform, but some people were reluctant. This time around the people will be more free to do what their heart leads them to do and that is vote for a third party. They know that they have tried both parties and everything continues to remain the same," said Mr Rolle.
Campaign chairman, Dr Dexter Grant, said the BDM is seeking to bring innovative ideas and strong leadership into the political mix. The plan is to campaign under the slogan: "A new voice in parliament, a new voice for Elizabeth, a new direction for the country."
"In the face of economic turmoil, we believe there can be prosperity. In the face of crime and violence, we believe there can be peace. In the face of illiteracy, we believe there can be knowledge. In the face of politics that has torn our country in two, there can be unity. In the face of hopelessness, we believe there can be hope and in the face of sorrow there can be gladness," said Mr Stuart.
January 08, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
THE Bahamas Democratic Movement announced yesterday that party president, Cassius Stuart, will contest the Elizabeth seat in the upcoming by-election.
Mr Stuart borrowed the popular campaign phrase from US President Barack Obama saying the party is "fired up and ready to go."
"Today, the BDM draws the line in the political sand, and offer ourselves to be an innovative part of the new direction that our country needs. We are offering ourselves because we believe in what this country can be," Mr Stuart told a press conference.
When former MP for Elizabeth, Malcolm Adderley, resigned his seat on Wednesday and severed ties with the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), the door opened for candidates to vie for the constituency.
Last night BDM officials met to finalise campaign tactics and budgetary matters. Mr Stuart said he anticipated the BDM would spend about $500,000 on the election.
Of speculation about the election costing political parties $1 million or more, Mr Stuart said the BDM was not trying to pay mortgages for community members, but only to organise a fair campaign, knocking on doors, interacting with the community.
He said the plan was to solicit small donations from a broad base, noting that this approach, popularised by Mr Obama, has never been tried in the Bahamas before.
Stakes are high for the BDM who are banking on the election to act as a catalyst for future wins in the next general election. They currently have no representatives in the House of Assembly after bids in two general elections.
Referring to what was dubbed the 'Ohio Syndrome' in the last US presidential elections, when momentum coalesced in favour of then candidate Obama's campaign, Mr Stuart said the Elizabeth constituency could pave the way for a new political culture in the Bahamas. The thinking of party executives is, if Elizabeth votes for a third party bringing change to the political landscape, it will indicate the potential for more widespread change in the future.
"The politics of yesterday must be done away with and a new political must be awakened. Elizabeth, you can pave the way for that new political culture. You can be the ones to who show the entire Bahamas that it is possible to change. People of Elizabeth, you can be the lighthouse for a nation who is adrift with no clear direction," said Mr Stuart.
In the 2007 election, Mr Stuart ran in the Garden Hills constituency, securing 3.5 per cent of the votes cast. He lost to Brensil Rolle of the Free National Movement (FNM). The BDM candidate for Elizabeth in the last election was Bernard Rolle. He acquired just over 70 votes in a constituency of 4,000 voters, or less than two per cent.
Mr Rolle said despite the conservative numbers, evidence of his impact was the fact that FNM candidate, Elma Chase Campbell, blamed the BDM for the PLP win. Mr Adderley won by a margin of 42 votes over the FNM candidate.
"I feel like the people were very receptive of our platform, but some people were reluctant. This time around the people will be more free to do what their heart leads them to do and that is vote for a third party. They know that they have tried both parties and everything continues to remain the same," said Mr Rolle.
Campaign chairman, Dr Dexter Grant, said the BDM is seeking to bring innovative ideas and strong leadership into the political mix. The plan is to campaign under the slogan: "A new voice in parliament, a new voice for Elizabeth, a new direction for the country."
"In the face of economic turmoil, we believe there can be prosperity. In the face of crime and violence, we believe there can be peace. In the face of illiteracy, we believe there can be knowledge. In the face of politics that has torn our country in two, there can be unity. In the face of hopelessness, we believe there can be hope and in the face of sorrow there can be gladness," said Mr Stuart.
January 08, 2010
tribune242
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Elizabeth by-election to be held in February
By BRENT DEAN ~ Guardian Senior Reporter ~ brentldean@nasguard.com:
The Elizabeth by-election, the first in the country since 1997, will be held in February, The Nassau Guardian has learned.
There is speculation that Dr. Duane Sands will be the Free National Movement (FNM) candidate in the by-election. When contacted yesterday, Dr. Sands did not disclose if he would be in the race.
"There is a sitting, or incumbent, member of Parliament for Elizabeth and I think it is unreasonable for us to comment in any other way unless such didn't apply," he said.
When asked specifically if he will be the FNM candidate in the by-election, Dr. Sands replied:
"Let's just say I am a Bahamian. I believe very strongly in my country and whatever I can do to further advance my country, I'd be prepared to do."
PLP sources have confirmed that a faction in the party is urging PLP leader Perry Christie not to run a candidate in the Elizabeth constituency. They suggest the FNM is using the by-election, in part, to test its strength halfway through this mandate.
The front-runner for the PLP's nomination for Elizabeth is reportedly attorney and party Vice-chairman Ryan Pinder.
Pinder is the son of former PLP MP Marvin Pinder, who represented the area when it was the Malcolm Creek constituency.
Elizabeth MP Malcolm Adderley resigned his seat in Parliament on Saturday, by way of a letter to Speaker of the House of Assembly Alvin Smith. Adderley also resigned as a member of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) on Saturday in a separate letter to party chairman Bradley Roberts.
His resignation from the House will take effect at the end of the day on Wednesday.
The Parliamentary Elections Act says that the House Speaker shall send a message to the governor general requesting the issue of a writ of election once the speaker is made aware of a seat vacancy.
Upon receipt of the speaker's message, the governor general issues a writ of election for the constituency where there is a vacancy. The act states that there should be no less than 21, or no more than 30 days, between the issue of the writ of election and the return of that writ.
The returning officer to whom a writ of election is directed has up to two days after receiving a writ of election to give public notice of the election.
National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest told The Guardian yesterday he is "extremely confident" that the governing party will win the Elizabeth seat.
"It is not currently our seat but it's a seat that we would like to win and that we intend to win," said Turnquest, who is a former FNM leader.
Adderley is serving his second term as the Elizabeth MP, having won the seat for the first time in 2002. In the 2007 general election, Adderley won the seat by 45 votes over now Ambassador to China Elma Campbell.
The Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) candidate Bernard Rolle received 72 votes; there were 32 rejected ballots; and about 300 registered voters did not vote on election day.
thenassauguardian
The Elizabeth by-election, the first in the country since 1997, will be held in February, The Nassau Guardian has learned.
There is speculation that Dr. Duane Sands will be the Free National Movement (FNM) candidate in the by-election. When contacted yesterday, Dr. Sands did not disclose if he would be in the race.
"There is a sitting, or incumbent, member of Parliament for Elizabeth and I think it is unreasonable for us to comment in any other way unless such didn't apply," he said.
When asked specifically if he will be the FNM candidate in the by-election, Dr. Sands replied:
"Let's just say I am a Bahamian. I believe very strongly in my country and whatever I can do to further advance my country, I'd be prepared to do."
PLP sources have confirmed that a faction in the party is urging PLP leader Perry Christie not to run a candidate in the Elizabeth constituency. They suggest the FNM is using the by-election, in part, to test its strength halfway through this mandate.
The front-runner for the PLP's nomination for Elizabeth is reportedly attorney and party Vice-chairman Ryan Pinder.
Pinder is the son of former PLP MP Marvin Pinder, who represented the area when it was the Malcolm Creek constituency.
Elizabeth MP Malcolm Adderley resigned his seat in Parliament on Saturday, by way of a letter to Speaker of the House of Assembly Alvin Smith. Adderley also resigned as a member of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) on Saturday in a separate letter to party chairman Bradley Roberts.
His resignation from the House will take effect at the end of the day on Wednesday.
The Parliamentary Elections Act says that the House Speaker shall send a message to the governor general requesting the issue of a writ of election once the speaker is made aware of a seat vacancy.
Upon receipt of the speaker's message, the governor general issues a writ of election for the constituency where there is a vacancy. The act states that there should be no less than 21, or no more than 30 days, between the issue of the writ of election and the return of that writ.
The returning officer to whom a writ of election is directed has up to two days after receiving a writ of election to give public notice of the election.
National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest told The Guardian yesterday he is "extremely confident" that the governing party will win the Elizabeth seat.
"It is not currently our seat but it's a seat that we would like to win and that we intend to win," said Turnquest, who is a former FNM leader.
Adderley is serving his second term as the Elizabeth MP, having won the seat for the first time in 2002. In the 2007 general election, Adderley won the seat by 45 votes over now Ambassador to China Elma Campbell.
The Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM) candidate Bernard Rolle received 72 votes; there were 32 rejected ballots; and about 300 registered voters did not vote on election day.
thenassauguardian
Friday, December 18, 2009
Bahamas: Urban Renewal programme workers frustrated over political wrangling
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
COMMUNITY workers have told The Tribune about their frustration at the political wrangling over Urban Renewal.
Talk has raged for months among politicians about who founded the programme, who changed the programme, who stopped and restarted the programme, and whose programme was more effective.
But people who work on the programme say the political points-scoring is damaging Urban Renewal and affecting the people who are in dire need.
"People believe we are not doing anything and it takes away from the work which is being done," said Kolamae Pedican, manager for the Kemp Road Urban Renewal Centre.
"I am working hard and it makes me feel like the work I am doing does not matter. When people listen to the politicians they stop coming. They say they thought we were closed.
"There have been changes in the programme, but I am a civil servant and I have to respect the changes. The message needs to go out that Urban Renewal centres are not closed. We are still serving the public, we are still helping people and we still work very closely with the police. That baby just needs to go to rest."
Urban Renewal was introduced by the Progressive Liberal Party in their last term in government. The programme received international recognition and was lauded as a success story. When the Free National Movement assumed control of the government, they made changes to the programme, which have been widely criticised by the PLP. Under the PLP, the Royal Bahamas Police Force played a central role in the management and operation of the programme.
At the Kemp Road Centre, four officers and two reservists worked in the centre with case aids from the Department of Social Services. Pedican was one of those case aids serving under Centre Coordinator, Inspector Frankie-Mae Mather. The police are no longer stationed in the centre's offices, and some of their community policing activities, such as being stationed in schools, have been discontinued. However, they continue to work closely with the centre management, and with school principals.
Some members of the PLP have been critical of the removal of police officers from direct involvement in the programme. Some have further questioned the appointment of Ella Lewis as the Director, saying her position as former FNM candidate for Farm Road and Centreville, which is the constituency of Perry Christie, Leader of the Opposition, compromises her authority.
"I think the back and forth about what has been changed has had a negative affect on the programme. It is taking a lot of effort to go into the communities to inform people that the centres are open and the programmes are still active," said Ms Lewis.
"I was appointed because I am qualified: I am community based and community active. I live in an urban area. I have worked with inner city people all of my life. I have love and respect for the community and I am committed to making the Bahamas better through urban renewal," she said.
Ms Lewis said she acknowledges the good work that was done under Urban Renewal by the PLP. She said it was an excellent programme, but it lacked some of the structure necessary. Under her leadership, she said she is working to add that aspect to the programme to make it even more successful.
While the needs of each community vary, the nine Urban Renewal centres focus on ten core programmes, including: after-school programmes, where students get help with homework and school projects; senior citizen programmes, where seniors can participate in seminars, workshops, tours and socials; and youth activities, such as marching bands.
At the start of the FNM administration, two of the centres were closed for no more than two months, according to Ms Lewis, in order to facilitate staffing changes. All of the other centres remained open and active. In many instances, staff members carried over from the former administration.
At the Kemp Road Centre, three of the four current staff members served under the former structure. Former Centre Coordinator, Inspector Frankie-Mae Mather, provided the training for the new management.
PLP Senator Allyson Maynard-Gibson has been a vocal supporter of Urban Renewal under the PLP leadership. In her presentation on the Senate floor this week, she read several references from a report, "Urban Renewal: Past, Present and Possible Future" authored by Rhodes Scholar and physician Desiree Cox. Mrs Maynard-Gibson spoke about the success of the programme in curbing crime in urban communities.
"My point is bigger than Urban Renewal. I am interested in the problem of crime and seeing a major paradigm shift in this country so we have something that works, and so Bahamian people can live in peace and tranquility. My responsibility is to ensure the issues that impact our people are aired and that the government acts on issues that are critical," said Mrs Maynard-Gibson.
"There is no bigger issue than crime. Urban renewal was a transformative programme. I do not want to diminish the people working in Urban Renewal, I think they are trying their best, but if something is working it should be given more resources," she said.
Work in Urban Renewal centres across the island is continuing. The Kemp Road Centre hosted a Christmas tree lighting ceremony this week that attracted both young and old residents. One of their regular activities is a feeding programme. They work closely with the food rescue organisation Hands for Hunger to feed a steady stream of residents daily, who are unable to feed themselves.
"People are really appreciative and they look to us for support. They depend on us to educate them on things like applying for passports or getting a police record clean. They come to us to find out how to get help from the various government social services. If someone dies they call us; if someone is sick they call us; if someone gets locked up or married, they call us," said Ms Pedican.
Supporters of Urban Renewal say they are not interested in playing political games or engaging in a back and forth political debate. But Bahamas Democratic Movement leader Cassius Stuart said the debate is unavoidably political because politicians from the PLP and FNM are holding fast to particular positions and being very vocal about it.
"Quite frankly I believe both political leaders have been immature in their dealing with urban renewal policy. It is destroying the essence of what the programme should really be. We have a high degree of political immaturity at the top which is why we have problems at the bottom. There should be a clear and concise direction as to where the programme is going so everyone can have clarity," said Mr Stuart.
Mr Stuart said both parties have political motivations, which is underlying the heated rhetoric. In the case of the FNM, he said they want to claim that their changes were the real source of success for the programme. In the case of the PLP, he said they want to use the programme in its original form to propel them back into power.
"Who is going to suffer? Workers will suffer because there is no clear direction as to how the programme should be run. The people on the ground, who should really be receiving the assistance, young people, the elderly and less fortunate, will suffer if the workers can't do what they are supposed to do. Now it is a big mess because it is a political game. We are wasting time, because the politicians are confusing everything," said Mr Stuart.
Mr Stuart suggested the best solution for Urban Renewal would be to have it run by a non-governmental organisation. He said the objectives of the programme, which he identified as rebuilding urban communities and strengthening the relationship between residents and the police, require political non-interference, and responsible members of the community should look at taking it over.
In the new year, The Tribune will be looking at the achievements of Urban Renewal.
December 17, 2009
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
COMMUNITY workers have told The Tribune about their frustration at the political wrangling over Urban Renewal.
Talk has raged for months among politicians about who founded the programme, who changed the programme, who stopped and restarted the programme, and whose programme was more effective.
But people who work on the programme say the political points-scoring is damaging Urban Renewal and affecting the people who are in dire need.
"People believe we are not doing anything and it takes away from the work which is being done," said Kolamae Pedican, manager for the Kemp Road Urban Renewal Centre.
"I am working hard and it makes me feel like the work I am doing does not matter. When people listen to the politicians they stop coming. They say they thought we were closed.
"There have been changes in the programme, but I am a civil servant and I have to respect the changes. The message needs to go out that Urban Renewal centres are not closed. We are still serving the public, we are still helping people and we still work very closely with the police. That baby just needs to go to rest."
Urban Renewal was introduced by the Progressive Liberal Party in their last term in government. The programme received international recognition and was lauded as a success story. When the Free National Movement assumed control of the government, they made changes to the programme, which have been widely criticised by the PLP. Under the PLP, the Royal Bahamas Police Force played a central role in the management and operation of the programme.
At the Kemp Road Centre, four officers and two reservists worked in the centre with case aids from the Department of Social Services. Pedican was one of those case aids serving under Centre Coordinator, Inspector Frankie-Mae Mather. The police are no longer stationed in the centre's offices, and some of their community policing activities, such as being stationed in schools, have been discontinued. However, they continue to work closely with the centre management, and with school principals.
Some members of the PLP have been critical of the removal of police officers from direct involvement in the programme. Some have further questioned the appointment of Ella Lewis as the Director, saying her position as former FNM candidate for Farm Road and Centreville, which is the constituency of Perry Christie, Leader of the Opposition, compromises her authority.
"I think the back and forth about what has been changed has had a negative affect on the programme. It is taking a lot of effort to go into the communities to inform people that the centres are open and the programmes are still active," said Ms Lewis.
"I was appointed because I am qualified: I am community based and community active. I live in an urban area. I have worked with inner city people all of my life. I have love and respect for the community and I am committed to making the Bahamas better through urban renewal," she said.
Ms Lewis said she acknowledges the good work that was done under Urban Renewal by the PLP. She said it was an excellent programme, but it lacked some of the structure necessary. Under her leadership, she said she is working to add that aspect to the programme to make it even more successful.
While the needs of each community vary, the nine Urban Renewal centres focus on ten core programmes, including: after-school programmes, where students get help with homework and school projects; senior citizen programmes, where seniors can participate in seminars, workshops, tours and socials; and youth activities, such as marching bands.
At the start of the FNM administration, two of the centres were closed for no more than two months, according to Ms Lewis, in order to facilitate staffing changes. All of the other centres remained open and active. In many instances, staff members carried over from the former administration.
At the Kemp Road Centre, three of the four current staff members served under the former structure. Former Centre Coordinator, Inspector Frankie-Mae Mather, provided the training for the new management.
PLP Senator Allyson Maynard-Gibson has been a vocal supporter of Urban Renewal under the PLP leadership. In her presentation on the Senate floor this week, she read several references from a report, "Urban Renewal: Past, Present and Possible Future" authored by Rhodes Scholar and physician Desiree Cox. Mrs Maynard-Gibson spoke about the success of the programme in curbing crime in urban communities.
"My point is bigger than Urban Renewal. I am interested in the problem of crime and seeing a major paradigm shift in this country so we have something that works, and so Bahamian people can live in peace and tranquility. My responsibility is to ensure the issues that impact our people are aired and that the government acts on issues that are critical," said Mrs Maynard-Gibson.
"There is no bigger issue than crime. Urban renewal was a transformative programme. I do not want to diminish the people working in Urban Renewal, I think they are trying their best, but if something is working it should be given more resources," she said.
Work in Urban Renewal centres across the island is continuing. The Kemp Road Centre hosted a Christmas tree lighting ceremony this week that attracted both young and old residents. One of their regular activities is a feeding programme. They work closely with the food rescue organisation Hands for Hunger to feed a steady stream of residents daily, who are unable to feed themselves.
"People are really appreciative and they look to us for support. They depend on us to educate them on things like applying for passports or getting a police record clean. They come to us to find out how to get help from the various government social services. If someone dies they call us; if someone is sick they call us; if someone gets locked up or married, they call us," said Ms Pedican.
Supporters of Urban Renewal say they are not interested in playing political games or engaging in a back and forth political debate. But Bahamas Democratic Movement leader Cassius Stuart said the debate is unavoidably political because politicians from the PLP and FNM are holding fast to particular positions and being very vocal about it.
"Quite frankly I believe both political leaders have been immature in their dealing with urban renewal policy. It is destroying the essence of what the programme should really be. We have a high degree of political immaturity at the top which is why we have problems at the bottom. There should be a clear and concise direction as to where the programme is going so everyone can have clarity," said Mr Stuart.
Mr Stuart said both parties have political motivations, which is underlying the heated rhetoric. In the case of the FNM, he said they want to claim that their changes were the real source of success for the programme. In the case of the PLP, he said they want to use the programme in its original form to propel them back into power.
"Who is going to suffer? Workers will suffer because there is no clear direction as to how the programme should be run. The people on the ground, who should really be receiving the assistance, young people, the elderly and less fortunate, will suffer if the workers can't do what they are supposed to do. Now it is a big mess because it is a political game. We are wasting time, because the politicians are confusing everything," said Mr Stuart.
Mr Stuart suggested the best solution for Urban Renewal would be to have it run by a non-governmental organisation. He said the objectives of the programme, which he identified as rebuilding urban communities and strengthening the relationship between residents and the police, require political non-interference, and responsible members of the community should look at taking it over.
In the new year, The Tribune will be looking at the achievements of Urban Renewal.
December 17, 2009
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