Sustainable Development and Prosperity for All Bahamians and The Posterity in The Bahamas

The Bahamas - A Nation in Crisis: A Roadmap for Economic Recovery, Debt Reduction, and National Development in The Bahamas

By Dr Kevin Turnquest-Alcena
Nassau, The Bahamas

The Bahamas, once a leading economic force in the Caribbean, is now at a critical juncture.  The national debt has ballooned, competitiveness has waned, and global competitors, like Bermuda, have overtaken The Bahamas in key sectors such as captive insurance and financial services.  This situation poses serious risks for the nation's future stability, especially considering the lack of financial buffers to withstand natural or economic disasters.

The time for comprehensive reform is now.  The Bahamas must act decisively to address issues in immigration, inland revenue, financial regulation, and urban development, while leveraging examples from countries like Singapore, India, and Jamaica that have successfully implemented similar reforms.  Through bold and innovative measures, The Bahamas can reduce its debt, foster economic growth, and build a resilient future for all Bahamians.

1. Commendation for Inland Revenue and Insurance Sectors

The Inland Revenue Department and insurance sectors are integral to the financial stability of The Bahamas.  Their recent progress in collecting taxes and generating revenue has been commendable, but more must be done to ensure efficiency and sustainability.  The reliance on contract workers, many of whom lack adequate training, has been a challenge.  By transitioning these workers to permanent roles and providing formal training that includes a minimum C grade in Math and English, the government can create a stable and efficient workforce capable of driving tax collection efforts (Bahamas Ministry of Education, 2021).

This initiative must be paired with an increase in the minimum wage to ensure that workers are fairly compensated, thereby boosting morale and increasing consumer spending.  Such measures will help alleviate economic challenges while promoting greater stability in the workforce.

2. Addressing National Debt and Economic Competitiveness

The Bahamas faces a crippling national debt, which as of 2020, had exceeded 103% of GDP (Central Bank of The Bahamas, 2021).  If not addressed, this debt will hinder the country’s ability to invest in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.  Countries like Norway and the UAE have successfully mitigated such risks by creating sovereign wealth funds, which serve as financial buffers during times of crisis.  Establishing a similar fund in The Bahamas could provide a safety net in the event of natural disasters or economic downturns.

Additionally, The Bahamas must reform its financial services regulations to remain competitive on the global stage.  Bermuda’s rise as a global leader in captive insurance is a direct result of its business-friendly regulatory environment.  The Bermuda Monetary Authority has created a balanced regulatory framework that encourages innovation while maintaining compliance, thus attracting international businesses (Bermuda Monetary Authority, 2020).  The Bahamas must take similar steps to regain its competitive edge.

3. Leveraging Customs Instruments and Targeted Taxation for Revenue

To boost national revenue, The Bahamas can implement a sugar tax or similar levies on unhealthy products such as sugary drinks and fast food.  This model has been successful in New York City, where taxing sugary beverages and junk food has raised revenue and improved public health outcomes (New York City Department of Health, 2019).  Such taxes in The Bahamas would target large multinational companies, such as McDonald’s, and provide funds that can be reinvested into critical areas like healthcare, education, and sports development.

Revenue from these taxes should also be allocated toward developing youth programs, supporting social services, and funding national initiatives that promote health and well-being across the country.

4. Reforming Immigration Policies for Nation Building and Economic Development

The Bahamas’ current immigration policies are too restrictive and limit the country’s ability to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads.  Countries like Canada and Singapore have implemented practical immigration policies that bring in skilled workers who contribute to their economies (Canadian Immigration and Citizenship, 2020).  The Bahamas should follow this model, easing immigration restrictions to attract multinational companies (MNCs) and skilled workers who can drive economic growth.

Additionally, undocumented immigrants who are currently part of a parallel economy should be brought into the formal system.  Legalizing their status would allow them to contribute to tax revenues and reduce the strain on public services, while also enhancing national security.  Immigrants are a crucial part of nation-building, and The Bahamas must capitalize on their potential to stimulate economic growth.

5. Implementing a Regulated National Lottery for Systematic Revenue Generation

A regulated national lottery could provide a valuable source of revenue for The Bahamas, funding essential sectors like sports, education, and social services.  Countries such as Barbados and the United Kingdom have used national lotteries to generate significant revenue for national development initiatives (Barbados National Lottery Report, 2020).  Implementing a similar system in The Bahamas would reduce the national debt and provide consistent funding for key public services.

By regulating the lottery, The Bahamas can ensure that funds are allocated systematically, with a focus on youth development, national sports programs, and education.  This will not only alleviate debt but also foster national pride and engagement.

6. Revamping Banking Regulations for Entrepreneurs and Business Development

The Bahamas' banking regulations are currently too restrictive, making it difficult for entrepreneurs and small businesses to access capital.  To support entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth, the government must implement banking legislation that simplifies access to loans and financing for startups and small businesses.

Countries like India have successfully implemented banking reforms that support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are vital to their economy.  By adopting similar reforms, The Bahamas can foster a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and investment (Government of India, 2020).  Additionally, exchange control policies should be modernized to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), as investors are more likely to bring capital into a country where financial regulations are transparent and flexible (IMF, 2021).

7. Revitalizing Downtown Nassau and Developing Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

Downtown Nassau is in dire need of revitalization.  The area’s colonial architecture is deteriorating, and the lack of modern infrastructure has made it difficult to attract multinational corporations (MNCs) and tourists.  By redeveloping Bay Street into a modern economic hub, The Bahamas can attract global businesses and create jobs for local residents.  This redevelopment should focus on creating a dynamic space for local businesses and international companies, driving economic activity and tourism.

Additionally, The Bahamas should establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs), similar to those in Dubai and Singapore, offering tax incentives and regulatory relief to attract foreign companies and investors.  SEZs can serve as innovation hubs for technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, positioning The Bahamas as a competitive player in the global economy (Government of Singapore, 2020).

8. Strengthening the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NACoB)

The National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NACoB) is responsible for ensuring that the country's educational institutions meet international standards.  However, NACoB requires reform to ensure that it is staffed by individuals with the necessary academic and professional qualifications to maintain ISO quality standards.

Countries like Jamaica have successfully implemented educational reforms by appointing qualified professionals to lead their accreditation bodies, ensuring that institutions are held to high standards (Government of Jamaica, 2019).  The Bahamas should adopt a similar approach to strengthen NACoB and ensure that the country's educational institutions are globally competitive.

9. Establishing Planning Commissions for Sustainable Development

The Bahamas must establish Planning Commissions modeled after those in India and Singapore to ensure long-term sustainability and development.  India’s NITI Aayog, for example, serves as a central policy think tank that drives economic growth and development (Government of India, 2020).  Similarly, Singapore’s Economic Development Board plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic policies, ensuring that Singapore remains competitive globally (Government of Singapore, 2020).

The Bahamas should establish independent planning commissions tasked with setting national growth targets, managing resource allocation, and evaluating the performance of government departments.  These commissions must be free from political interference and staffed by professionals who understand global best practices in policy development.

10. Conclusion: A Call for Introspection, Reform, and Nation Building

The Bahamas stands at a pivotal moment in its history.  Faced with mounting national debt, declining competitiveness, and an outdated regulatory framework, the country must undertake comprehensive reforms to secure its future.  The examples set by Singapore, India, Bermuda, and Jamaica show that transformation is possible with visionary leadership, practical policies, and a commitment to nation-building.

By reforming immigration policies, modernizing banking regulations, strengthening inland revenue, and implementing a regulated national lottery, The Bahamas can create a more competitive business environment, reduce national debt, and foster long-term economic growth.  Moreover, the revitalization of downtown Nassau and the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will attract international businesses and generate jobs, while reforms to NACoB will ensure that the country’s educational institutions meet global standards.

This is not just about economic reform; it is about building a better future for our children, grandchildren, and generations to come.  We must look inward, evaluate our strengths and weaknesses, and implement policies that ensure sustainable development and prosperity for all Bahamians.  Through visionary leadership, investment in human capital, and a commitment to global best practices, The Bahamas can emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to take on the challenges of the 21st century.

The journey will not be easy, but it is necessary if we are to leave behind a Bahamas that is prosperous, peaceful, and prepared for the future.  We owe it to future generations to act now—together, we can build a nation that not only thrives economically but also serves as a beacon of hope and progress for the world.

Source

References

Barbados National Lottery. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.barbadoslottery.com/

Bermuda Monetary Authority. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.bma.bm/

Canadian Immigration and Citizenship. (2020). Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/annual-report.html

Central Bank of The Bahamas. (2021). Annual Economic Review 2020. Retrieved from https://www.centralbankbahamas.com/research-publications

Government of India. (2020). About NITI Aayog. Retrieved from https://niti.gov.in/

Government of Jamaica. (2019). Education System Transformation Programme. Retrieved from https://www.moey.gov.jm/

Government of Singapore. (2020). Singapore Economic Development Board. Retrieved from https://www.edb.gov.sg/

IMF. (2021). Bahamas Staff Report. Retrieved from https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2021/cr21248.pdf

New York City Department of Health. (2019). Sugary Drinks Taxation and Health. Retrieved from https://www1.nyc.gov/

The Decline of The Bahamas

The Steady Decline of The Bahamian Nation - The Bahamas

By Dennis Dames
Nassau, The Bahamas

The public's perception of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) is at an all time crying low - in my view. Recent bad news about the Force and some of its Officers has added unfavourably to how the Bahamian people see the Police, and their organization.

The Coroners Court has concluded lately that a number of Police Officers have committed manslaughter in the excution of their duties. This has left a totally bad taste in the mouths of many citizens and residents generally - and has widen the distrust between the Police and the general public - which has eroded further the national security of The Bahamas.

To make matters horribly worse, a senior Officer of the Force - who occupied a high position of trust and responsibility - is accused of engaging in serious criminal activities with a high profile, highly and politically connected, potentially rogue and criminal-minded attorney, and street gangsters; some of whom have been murdered on the streets of Nassau in recent times. This has created a public scandal of monumental proportions.

The leadership of the Police Force along with the government of the day - seem to be taking the matter very lightly - in my opinion. Thus, the Bahamian community's view of the Police and the government - is one of complete disgrace. The handling of such a serious situation to date has left one to wonder if the powers that be have decided that they will gamble politically and just pretend that all's well.

Well, all is not well in The Bahamas under the political and immoral leadership of the status quo and its devoted facilitators. The Bahamian public feels as if endemic wholesale corruption, incompetence and criminality in high places throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas - is the order of the day which the shamelessly corrupt leadership of the nation holds so dearly close to their demonic hearts and souls.

The fruit of such diabolical corruption in high places will continue to rip apart the Bahamian nation. The wickedly corrupt political and otherwise leaders in The Bahamas do not care about the future welfare of their own friggin children! So, the future of The Bahamas will be more and more of the much sought after devilish corruption in high places - while powerful criminals and blood-thirsty bosses have their way with impunity!

How very sad - as many so called good Bahamian men and women remained silent! It looks like every Bahamian citizen are standing on the sidlines just watching The Bahamas descend in to the pits of hell.

...we Bahamians don’t have an issue with slavery... ...We don’t mind giving up our personal freedoms, our self-determination ...we don’t mind having to rely on other people to feed us ...to clothe us ...to determine our future... ...Like Uncle Tom, we don’t mind a Massa ...we just want a good one

Five Years Later . . .

By RUPERT MISSICK JR:

IF YOU were born with a disability, this is not about you.

 

If you are a child; this is not about you. If you are among the many who through no fault of their own were born here but remain undocumented; this is not about you. If you are sick and struggle everyday to determine whether the little money you have should go to buy medicine or food; this is not about you. If you struggle everyday to overcome the pain of abuse, or if you are still living under the threat of it; this is not about you. If you are an able-bodied, adult who enjoys all of the rights and privileges – real or supposed – of being a Bahamian, then this is definitely about you.

 

I want to tell you a secret. You are being lied to. You are allowing people to appeal to the laziest part of your human nature and you are giving people the power over you, your life and your children’s lives. Because in truth there is no white man enslaving us, no foreigners taking anything we don’t willingly give up to be taken, no secret society of “others” or “hidden forces” attempting to keep Bahamians down. And even if there is a black boss, a cabal of black bosses who, through either politics or social discrimination, have been able to keep the masses down, I congratulate them because they have subjugated 350,000 people without firing a single shot.

 

In the end, my friend, if you feel powerless it’s because you didn’t want the power. You worry about feeding your family because you have left it up to people outside of your house to feed you. You worry about not being able to compete with the ever quickly encroaching world because you have not prepared yourself to be marketable. You worry about the land being sold from under your feet because you have ceded the power over the land to a small group of people who would never have power unless you willingly vote them in. If you are unhappy, if you feel like The Bahamas is teetering on the edge of becoming some dystopian hellscape then it’s because you want it to.

 

I know I can’t do away with 40 years of excuses made on your behalf in 40 column inches, but I just want you to know, as a church is not the building with polished pews and pretty stained glass, neither is the Bahamas sun, sand and sea – it is the people. It has always been the people and its fortunes rest on the people. And when I say people I don’t mean those people, not your people or my people…I mean on you, the individual.

 

What upsets you? You don’t like the abuse of our environment? What have you done in the past 40 years, other than talk about it? You believe Bahamians are disadvantaged by an influx of foreign workers?

 

What have you done to educate yourself to replace the foreigner with the bachelors degree, the masters degree, the doctorate, the one with the second language, the one who has worked abroad or spent 10 plus years in the field?

 

Are you willing to take the cutlass out of the hand of your Haitian brother to work in your neighbour’s yard or the wash basket out of the arms of the Filipino maid of the lady down the street? And if so, are you satisfied with only being a replacement for the gardener or the maid?

 

Does crime upset you? Are you willing to call the police on your cousin? What about your uncle? Your son? What about your daughter’s boyfriend or your boyfriend? What about your neighbour? Your husband? Or is it just the crime you don’t benefit from that upsets you?

 

Does child abuse disturb you? Are you going to say “that’s nothing new” when you hear most of our sexually active teens are trading sex for chattel or say “that’s our culture” when you barely blink at a story of a man in his mid-twenties and the 15-year-old mother of his child?

 

But I understand. Bitching and whining, winging and complaining… there’s some comfort to that and actually doing something… well that would be something.

 

If we were honest with ourselves, I mean like really honest, we Bahamians don’t have an issue with slavery. We don’t mind giving up our personal freedoms, our self-determination, we don’t mind having to rely on other people to feed us, to clothe us to determine our future. Like Uncle Tom, we don’t mind a Massa, we just want a good one.

 

So every five years, as we have done for the past 40 we look to a group of 39-40 overseers who run the plantation for the massa we hope will bring us more food, softer work and nicer things. If they fail we sadly do not turn to ourselves and say what can I do to save myself from this untenable situation we turn to the Massa one plantation over and say: “Run, come Massa Pindling, save me from cruel Massa Symonette”.

 

And then 25 years later: “Run, come Massa Ingraham, save me from thieving-Massa Pindling.”

 

Then 10 years later: “Run, hurry come Massa Christie, the yoke Massa Ingraham put on me too hard.”

 

Then five years after “Massa Ingraham, I sorry I didn’t appreciate you better please help me! Massa Christie does run he plantations slack and let the overseers run through the pantry.”

 

Then another five years after: “Massa Christie come back, I forget how hard Massa Ingraham is be.”

 

On a side note, if I were the political powers that be in this country, I would be quick to teach self reliance and self determination because the years between the hand over from one massa to the next is getting shorter.

 

The sad, unfortunate – and I believe unintended – consequence of our practised version of our adopted European faith is that we continuously seek a saviour outside of ourselves – in a manger, in the sky, existing in some age other than this, in some realm other than the here and now instead of acknowledging the God that dwells within.

 

But the power of what it means to be Imago Dei – made in the image of God – cannot coexist with a system that needs you to be dependant, that needs you to need it. So we are encouraged to ignore that grace and abandon what could be paradise on earth for the Land of Should. And the land of Should is full of wonderful Should trees that grow big fat Should fruit.

 

One tree bears: The Government should, the other tree: The Church should, the next one over, the police should and still another, my boss should. But there is another little tree far in a cave in a dark corner in the Land of Should that everyone ignores. It is a very important Should tree, but it grows a bitter fruit that no one likes called: “I should.”

 

We all say that we want nothing more from these people than access to opportunity – but that’s a lie. Let’s be honest, it is. We want to be given something, a hand out. We’ve spent a generation getting used to it. We have forgotten what our grandparents’ knew: Opportunity doesn’t drag people up from the gutter it meets them half way on their climb out.

 

We have allowed politicians to tell us that we are poor, disadvantaged, that there is some magical secret bag of money, a whole boatload of stuff in some secret harbour that the other guys don’t want you to have, but only if we bring them into power and put them on the throne that the ship will let loose its moorings from its hiding place and come right into Potter’s Cay Dock. You know it won’t because there is no ship. There never has been, never was and never will be. The only ship that will ever come into port is the one you captain yourself.

 

There was a time when it didn’t matter that we were poor, that we were uneducated or under-educated, where great achievers emerged from yards with outdoor toilets and clapboard palaces. Why didn’t that hold them back? Because it didn’t matter that they were poor because everyone was poor and everyone had an outdoor toilet. They still had to achieve and they achieved with far less – most dying wishing they had one fraction of the opportunity that we just pass by today.

 

So the next time “they” are doing something to you that you don’t like, stop and think about how much of that thing you don’t like is being done to you with your permission. Much has been said about how some of our grandparents sold their votes for a sack of sugar, a pound of flour and some lard. Don’t allow yourself to regard this fact with self righteous indignation, we are no different. What is it now? A government job or contract? The protection of a politician? Sweet promises and sweeter lies?

 

Democracy is an exercise, capitalism is an exercise, that means that it requires effort, work, stretching, heavy lifting, it is a doing, it is not something that is done to you. But if you find that it is being done to you… then it is something else entirely.

 

May 13, 2013

 

Tribune 242

 

Caribbean Blog International

 

President of the Atlantic Caribbean Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists (A.C.U.S.D.A) Dr. Leonard Johnson warned Bahamians not to gamble with their future by supporting the legalisation of the numbers business

Bahamians Warned Over Gambling


By Rogan Smith
The Bahama Journal

A leading pastor is warning Bahamians not to gamble with their future by supporting the legalisation of the numbers business.

The highly controversial issue took centre stage during the nation’s 39th Independence Day celebrations as President of the Atlantic Caribbean Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists (A.C.U.S.D.A) Dr. Leonard Johnson did his best to sway a captive audience – both on Clifford Park and at home – not to support gambling.

The Christie administration, in fulfilling a campaign promise, has vowed to hold a referendum before the end of the year so that Bahamians can decide for themselves whether they want gambling legalised in the country.

Dr. Johnson says Bahamians should not “resort to the easy way out.”

“Let us not seek shortcuts. The ad says everyone can be a winner, but that is not so. Only in the kingdom of God everyone wins. We must not be bought because people donate millions to charity,” he told a crowd of thousands.

“The people of God must go by the word of God. We must listen to the report of God and depend on God to bless us. I say 39 years later that we must not be mere reflections of other men bought. We must be the pastors and the persons who think and act for ourselves. We cannot force you to act for God; we cannot legislate morality, but brothers and sisters we can preach, ‘thus saith the Lord.’ We can preach to the nation; we can tell people what is in the Bible. It is [then] left to us to decide.”

But, the religious community seem to be split on the issue.

On one hand the Bahamas Christian Council (BCC) says it is “diametrically opposed” to gambling, but several of its members say they are open to the idea and have touted the economic benefits.

Twenty local pastors, three of whom are BCC members, said recently that they were “sensitised” to the issue. They felt the country could benefit from the taxes.

Reverend Philip McPhee of  Mt. Calvary Baptist Church appears to be on board with legalising the practice.

Critics, however, are concerned about the social costs of gambling.

During Monday’s Ecumenical Service Dr. Johnson said there are other ways for Bahamians to make money.

“As I look at the example of Joseph I see no risk taking; I see no chance taking; I see no gambling for the success that he experienced,” he said. “There is hard work, there is discipline, there is industry, there is trust in God and a situation that seemed impossible God made it possible,” he said.

“When we place our trust in God, when we place our confidence in God it doesn’t matter how [bad] it may appear, it doesn’t matter how difficult [it may be to balance] the budget; when the people of God are trusting in God then God will stand up and bless his people and bless the nation. But, when the people turn from God and try to do it their way they cannot expect the blessings of God.”

Dr. Johnson explained that many of The Bahamas’ former leaders were opposed to gambling.

He said 39 years ago the late Carlton Francis, who served as minister of development at the time, objected to casino gambling.

“That was 39 years ago. Now, 39 years later, where are we? Carlton Francis said we are a small nation that can be easily permeated by any malicious influence that is dangerous. Furthermore he says, ‘I am saying that where we are aspiring to the disciplines of hard work and industry we are not yet off the ground.’ Thirty-nine years later are we off the ground? Are we going back? Are we moving ahead?” Dr. Johnson said.

“Mr. Francis, still speaking about casino gambling said, ‘I believe that there are alternatives. But, no one will find these alternatives so long as they can find the easy way out. Apart from the question of conscience, I don’t believe gambling is good for a growing nation.’ This is one of the founding fathers – one of the leaders who said these words in December of 1973 and [here] we are 39 years later in 2012.”

11 July, 2012

The Bahama Journal

Caribbean Blog International

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

Bahamians Decide Their Future On Monday

tribune242 

LAST WEEK, a young Bahamian came to see us. He wanted to talk. It was about the election, but, according to him, it was mainly about his future, which the outcome of the election would determine.

He loved the Bahamas. To him it was home -- a place he never thought he could leave. But Monday's election, and the attitude of many Bahamians, discouraged him.

"If," he said, "after all that Mr Ingraham and his government have done for the Bahamian people, especially during a world recession, they can't understand and appreciate, what is the future for this country? We are just starting to move out of our economic decline. Do you know what would happen if the PLP returned -- everything would stop, and it you think things are bad now, it will be a disaster should they get in on Monday."

"I have been thinking," he said, "if the FNM lose this election, why should I dedicate the rest of my life in trying to help build a country in which a people are so blind and unappreciative."

All Bahamians had to do, he said, was look around them, make comparisons with the PLP's five years of treading water to see the dynamic progress -- despite the hard times -- during the Ingraham years.

His words reminded us of the epithet to Sir Christopher Wren engraved on the walls of St Paul's Cathedral: "Reader, if you want to see my monument, look around you."

After the Great Fire of London in 1666, Sir Christopher was commissioned to rebuild the city. St Paul's was his masterpiece.

The young Bahamian was particularly annoyed at the attitude of the civil service unions. During the world's economic collapse, civil servants were among the first to be fired to reduce each government's costs -- even in the great United States. Not so the Bahamas. Prime Minister Ingraham made certain that no civil servant lost his or her job. Yet, while fellow Bahamians were losing their homes, and their private sector jobs, unionists, secure in their posts, were selfishly bleating for more.

The PLP, smug in its belief of entitlement, was so shocked at losing the 2007 election that it commissioned a research company to find out why.

The first recommendation was that the PLP had to expand its support base. Greenberg Quinlan Rosher found that the PLP won the majority of its votes among the 60 and over age group. It also attracted a socio-economic group with less than a high school education. Over the years the PLP have successfully played on this group's ignorance. But obviously, time is eroding that base.

Also, the report said, the party had to cleanse itself of its scandal-ridden reputation. The party had to take "concrete actions that convey its seriousness about purging corruption from the party and state." The perception among voters, it said, was that the PLP was "more focused on doing things that benefit its own politicians than for people."

Another crucial point was Mr Perry Christie's leadership qualities. There is no disputing that Mr Christie is personally popular, but, said the report, "voters equate his leadership style with weakness." This had to change. To succeed Mr Christie had to be seen as a "forceful, decisive leader."

While prime minister, he appeared too weak and forgiving -- a man completely unable to purge his government of those causing the scandal. How much has he changed? On Monday he is offering the Bahamian people much of the same crew that caused him his problems from 2002 to 2007. Among the new faces are at least two, who if reports can be believed, could cause him future credibility problems.

Obviously, he has shown no strength here, and watching him on the campaign trail one gets the distinct impression that it is his deputy -- "Brave" Davis and not Perry Christie - who is the man in charge. This, again, if what we hear is true, could spell problems in the not too distant future. Many Bahamians are uneasy about the possibility of such a leadership switch.

And so "scandal" is a word that the PLP should quietly tip-toe around -- the day is coming when it will turn to bite them.

On Monday, voters have a choice between two men -- one a strong, leader who accomplishes much, the other, a man who has difficulty making decisions.

We recall a radio talk show many years ago when what sounded like the voice of an elderly Bahamian called the station to relate his experience. The discussion was about Mr Ingraham being a dictator and doing everything himself rather than leaving it up to his ministers. The caller came to the Prime Minister's defence. He said that Mr Ingraham was forced to move in when others failed to do their job. He then told his personal story.

He said he had what to him was a major problem. He took it to his MP, but got no satisfaction. He then went to the heads of several departments that were causing him grief, still nothing was settled. In desperation, he knocked on the door of the prime minister. He found it easier to open the PM's door than that of his own representative.

When he left, he said, he had all his answers. A few telephone calls were made and his problems were solved.

That is the kind of Prime Minister that Bahamians need - and, said my young friend who was concerned about his future under a PLP-led government, all Bahamians have to do is discard their PLP blinkers and see all the accomplishments made on their behalf in the past five years under an FNM government.

It is now up to the Bahamian people.

On Monday they will choose between a decisive leader, who will achieve much for the country, or an indecisive leader who will let others take the lead.

Bahamians hold their destiny in their own hands. We hope that they choose wisely.

May 04, 2012

tribune242

Caribbean Blog International

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

Let Calm Heads Prevail

by Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis


The Bahamas is approaching the election season, with numerous events, rallies and even family gatherings. I implore you, to let calm heads prevail during this season. We must remember, that we are all Bahamians and when the election is over, we must all still live together in this Bahamaland. It is not unusual for one home to have individuals who support different political parties but what is unusual for us, is for family members not to support each other, instead allowing political persuasions to affect our family bond.

We must continue to respect an individual’s right to speak, support and vote for the party of their choice, as this is the fundamentals of the democratic process at its best. We must bring out the best in each other; we should practice patience, hospitality and love. We should abstain from mud-slinging and personal attacks on each other because at the end of the day, we all want one thing, a better Bahamas. No one wants to live in a violent, unfriendly environment.

I was saddened by the news of one of Grand Bahama’s FNM candidates, Peter Turnquest’s daughter being attacked presumably by political opponents yesterday. This most unfortunate incident should not happen in our country and I wish her a speedy recovery. It is also my wish that in this Christian society, we would not encounter this type of event again as the election fever heats up.

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

Killarney does not support violence and personal attacks, and I ask all Bahamians to refrain from this destructive behavior.

Mar 18, 2012

Hubert Ingraham should have invested not in roads but in the future of our youth... ... infrastructure work has not acted as a major stimulus to the economy... We are still experiencing almost zero growth

Ingranomics Part 1

By Ian G. Strachan

Last week we looked at some of the positives of the FNM’s term in office.  It’s time now to look at the flip side. What did they get wrong; where did they blow a golden opportunity and what damage have their decisions caused?

 

PLAYING IT BY THE BOOK

You’ve heard it many times but the world has been grappling with a global economic meltdown.  The USA, our biggest trading partner, has 14 million people unemployed and eight million people who can only find part time work.  In one year alone (2008-2009), U.S. unemployment increased by a mind-blowing 60 percent, from around nine to 14 million.  As the USA goes so do we.

The Ingraham administration weathered this crisis and it has been weathered largely through government borrowing and a concomitant refusal to adopt serious austerity measures. The result is a scary level of national debt which is costing us roughly $300 million a year to service (almost 40 times what we are spending this year in the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources).

Now the orthodox economic approach, as I understand it, is that when your economy makes a downward turn--which all economies naturally do--governments must increase their spending to stave off unemployment and to keep money flowing.

Governments normally spend on infrastructure in times like these, so that when the economy rebounds, private business can more easily and effectively do its thing and the citizenry generally can enjoy a good quality of life (in so far as infrastructure lends itself to that).  Governments also have to figure out where to cut taxes as an incentive or to ease pressure and where to increase taxes and or tighten tax collection so they can continue to do their work despite the lean times. (NIB has been more diligent about collection, for instance, and this year we saw a reduction in the prime rate.)

Few governments in the world run on a surplus; they mostly run on a deficit and borrow to make up the difference.  A developing island nation like ours, with a little, one dimensional economy, but with citizens who have First World expectations, has had serious pressure placed on it these last four years.  Ingraham had no choice but to increase borrowing to maintain the bubble we live in and avert disaster; there was simply no other option.

The question voters must ask is, did we borrow money for projects that put us on the best possible footing going forward as a country?  Did we use this economic crisis as an opportunity to set our house in order and do some things we didn’t previously have the will to do?  Did our government also do everything in its power to increase its revenue base (a challenge in lean times) while at the same time being sure not to burden the small man with more taxes at a moment when he was least able to sustain it?

 

STIMULUS?

The FNM’s heavy emphasis on infrastructure, (and the kinds of infrastructural work chosen), has not eased the level of frustration and suffering in the country; in fact it has increased it for many.

First of all, infrastructure work has not acted as a major stimulus to the economy.  We are still experiencing almost zero growth.  These massive projects have not put a whole lot of money into the Bahamian economy.  One, the work has been done for the most part by foreign firms and two, most of the materials needed are imported, which means more money leaving than staying.  Three, they haven’t employed anywhere near the necessary number of Bahamians (even temporarily) to significantly ease the hardship in the society.  We needed to employ 7-10,000 to truly lift ourselves out of the doldrums and it just hasn’t happened.

One project that could have employed that many people in the short and long term is Baha Mar, but the deal cut with China ensures that much of the money spent will go right back where it came from and most of the temporary jobs too.  It was just a lousy deal and Parliament never should have agreed to it.  The PLP will argue that the FNM’s stopped, review and cancel policy stalled projects like Baha Mar and caused our economic slowdown.  I don’t buy it.

But whereas the FNM may argue that they invested the millions they borrowed in infrastructural improvements that will stand the test of time (they hope) and did not frit it away on nebulous programs/schemes that might have questionable long term benefits to the country, their approach was unimaginative, overly conservative and made life worse for Bahamians in the short to medium term.  The Ingraham administration demonstrated an unwillingness or inability to innovate or experiment. (The humble Self Starter Programme was the riskiest innovation they attempted in my view, but I would love to be corrected.)

The road works caused a number of homegrown businesses to die and displaced others.  It also made it difficult for businesses all over the island to deliver goods and services and made it difficult for employees to get to and from work.  And this has been going on for two and a half years.  I can’t begin to imagine how much that has cost individuals and businesses in time and money.  And the FNM government has been unable to convince anybody that they intend to make amends in some way during their term in office.

In the final analysis I can’t name one industry that the Bahamian government has helped to experience major growth through its powers to borrow, invest and to incentivize with tax breaks, so much that thousands of new, permanent jobs were created.  No, forget thousands, even hundreds.  Fishing?  Farming?  Light manufacturing?  Have we simply resigned ourselves to more decades of low productivity in these areas?  There’s nothing we can do to get things going in these sectors?

We are spending eight million out of our 1.9 billion dollar budget on Agriculture and Fisheries. That’s less than one half of one percent.  That is tragic.  Even a man as well meaning and thoughtful as Larry Cartwright can’t make miracles happen with that (especially in a nation where the men scoff at farming and fishing and all want to work a hotel job).  According to Cartwright 76 percent of government land leased to farmers is abandoned and 25,000 acres of available arable land lies dormant waiting for a small farmer to apply.  Well, I guess we’ll keep waiting.

 

DIG UP DIG UP

The FNM could have followed the recommendations of the experts they hired decades ago and created a single, Bahamian-owned bus company through public-private partnership and the economic times would have provided the perfect cover for doing so. This would have reduced traffic congestion, brought greater discipline and order to the society, increased efficiency, created new, permanent jobs, created opportunities for new satellite businesses, lowered the cost of living for many and hopefully increased tax revenue.  All for a fraction of the cost of the road works.

Instead, they chose to do road work and more roadwork.  As such, many believe Ingraham chose to reward his political allies with contracts and pass on the headache of the buses to future governments.  Instead he’s given two thirds of our nation a head ache.  His gamble is that the new roads will be appreciated by May 2012.  But he may very well lose that bet and lose power because of these roads.  I wonder, how much of these road works have been forced on us by these agreements we have made with China or Baha Mar?  The government should publish the Heads of Agreement docs in the papers and on line.

If I am going to risk losing an election over something unpopular, I’m going to at least make sure I lose over something that really will make life better for as many people as possible and will do the most lasting good.  Few think the Big Dig Up will do either.

They could have spent some of those millions in capital works on expanding The College of The Bahamas, which is a major employer and which empowers thousands and can empower even more Bahamians young and old.  Higher education is the most reliable avenue to escaping poverty, yet only 10 percent of Bahamians get a college education.  Expanding the college would create jobs within it and around it, it would allow more money to stay in The Bahamas since more students could attend, and it would ensure that we have a more competitive workforce in this information age.

COB needs more land, more classrooms, better labs, and bigger and better dormitories.  Ingraham should have invested not in roads but in the future of our youth.  He should have bought up the land surrounding the Oakes Field Campus, re-amalgamate BTVI and COB, and develop COB according to a Master Plan.  Instead Ingraham slammed brakes on the college’s growth by cutting its budget in 2009 and 2010, and he continues to ignore, abuse and mismanage BTVI (like the PLP before him).

What he will try to sell us on is that he modernized New Providence.  I suppose he tried in his way, but there are some holes in that one. Big holes. (I think I drove into one last night and almost drowned).

More next week.

Sep 26, 2011

thenassauguardian

Caribbean Blog International

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham's announcement that he planned to remain at the helm of the FNM, and fight the next election was indeed welcome news

Prime Minister Ingraham – we shall carry on
tribune242 editorial


PRIME MINISTER Hubert Ingraham's announcement over the weekend that he planned to remain at the helm of the FNM, and fight the next election was indeed welcome news.

Welcome news because the whole future of this country hangs in the balance and cannot at this point in its development be entrusted to inexperienced leadership.

Instead of jockeying for lofty positions within the party, FNM MP's have a duty to put their personal aspirations aside and concentrate on what the people sent them to parliament for -- and for which they are being paid. They have a duty to protect the interests of their constituents and at the same time to learn the workings of government. This is no job for political neophytes.

It has always baffled us that the only field that requires no special training is that of the politician. And yet it is the politician -- especially the uneducated ones -- who presume to make so many important decisions for a nation. They are usually the ones making the most noise and jumping to their feet talking bombastic nonsense to catch the attention of their grassroots base.

There are reports that there has been much political jostling behind the scenes in both parties about the future of their leaders. Aspirants are upsetting daily business as they campaign for positions. In the PLP Mr Christie has made it clear that he will lead his party in the 2012 election. However, he has left the door ajar suggesting that he might not serve out a full term if elected, but would step aside for his successor. Fortunately, Mr Ingraham has stated his position clearly -- as is his custom -- saying that he will not only carry on, but if elected will take his job to full term. This will leave his party free to concentrate on the people -- if elected -- for another five years past 2012. And this is what the country needs at this critical time in its history -- government without distractions.

As a matter of fact, the PLP seem not to have accepted their 2007 defeat at the polls, but have continued their electioneering almost on a daily basis. With problems more pressing -- jobs, crime, an uncertain future -- Bahamians are growing tired of their pin-pricks.

Why, for example, would Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell, who had much to say on the Prime Minister's recent visit to China, especially about the Baha Mar deal, go out of his way to try to make the Bahamian people believe that Mr Ingraham had had no meeting with the Chinese Prime Minister while in China?

Mr Mitchell - one MP who knows his way around the web - should have known that on November 1, the same photograph that is published on today's front page with Mr Ingraham and Premier Wen Jiabao shaking hands was also on the web -- and is still on the web. With the photograph is a short article that said that "Chinese Premier Wen Jaibao met with his Bahamian counterpart, Hubert Ingraham on Sunday (Oct. 31)." And the article continued: "Hailing the sound political foundation of their bilateral relations, Wen said China would like to help the Bahamas improve its ability for self-development and deepen cooperation in infrastructure, finance, tourism, agriculture and new energy, among others. The Chinese Premier also called for both sides to step up cultural exchanges and safeguard common interests in addressing climate change and other challenges." There was more to the article of what Mr Ingraham said, but this is sufficient to prove that when Mr Mitchell told the Bahamian people that the two did not meet, he was telling a great big whopper! And to confirm the authenticity of the meeting- if more confirmation is needed - the photo and article were released by China's Xinhua news agency.

Mr Mitchell should remember that when you are caught out in the small ones, no one believes you when you tell the truth on the big ones. And for good measure we suggest that he recall the story of the boy who cried wolf once too often. It's a children's story, the moral of the tale being that what happened to the boy is what "happens to people who lie: even when they tell the truth no one believes them."

It is a little moral tale for children that we suggest every politician should keep in his hip pocket for reference -- especially when he gets carried away on the political podium.

As we were writing this article on Mr Ingraham being the right man with the experience, contacts and so much unfinished business yet to complete for the country that we were pleased he had decided to carry on as party leader, the release arrived in our newsroom about Mr Mitchell's false statement (see front page). It was a temptation that we couldn't resist and so we detoured from our subject and fell for the distraction.

November 16, 2010

tribune242 editorial

Bahamas Blog International