Perry Christie, the political hypocrite calls for an independent Boundaries Commission almost 10 (ten) years after the PLP - under his leadership - encouraged voters to vote against a referendum called by the Ingraham administration on 27 February, 2002... One of the questions had to do with whether an independent Boundaries Commission ought to be established in The Bahamas

Bethel dismisses Christie’s call for independent Boundaries Commission

By Candia Dames
Guardian News Editor
candia@nasguard.com

Free National Movement Chairman Carl Bethel has dismissed as idle talk former Prime Minister Perry Christie’s statement that the time has come for an independent Boundaries Commission.

Christie spoke of the need for an independent commission in an interview with The Nassau Guardian last week.

“I had the opportunity to put one in and didn’t, but there is absolutely no doubt whatsoever that our democracy has matured to the point where it is a major contradiction to have someone sit down in a room by themselves and draw a plan that impacts the future of a country, and not have that done in a transparent way,” said Christie, leader of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP).

“...There is absolutely no doubt whatsoever that we have passed the time when it ought to have happened.

“Because of gamesmanship, [political leaders are] able to take advantage of what is really a glaring failure on the part of our democracy where [they] in a very candid way take advantage of this opportunity and this discretion to draft a map that they could just cherry pick and change things around.”

But Bethel said he doubts Christie was very serious about that suggestion.

“Opposition parties, sometimes it seems, say things that they never had any intention when they had the power and authority of doing, and make all sorts of promises,” he said.

“I think, Mr. Christie, if he was serious about what he now says, when he had his Constitutional Commission, would have at least looked at that question which he now raises.

“I do not believe that it is a serious suggestion on his part.  Obviously, it is not a matter that has been canvassed by him or his colleagues for very long.  I think it’s relating really to the moment.  It’s a comment made in the moment and not so much a considered, well thought out, much debated position.

“The Constitutional Commission under the former PLP government didn’t touch it, and it’s one thing to talk to hear yourself talk; it’s another thing to come with a well considered proposal.”

In 2002, Christie and the PLP encouraged voters to vote against a referendum called by the Ingraham administration.

One of the questions had to do with whether an independent Boundaries Commission ought to be established.

Fifty-seven thousand, two hundred and ninety-one people voted ‘no’ and 30,903 people voted ‘yes’.

“I’m not sure that we can accord too much credibility to what Mr. Christie may genuinely feel to be his position at this present time,” Bethel told The Nassau Guardian.

In the interview last week, Christie also accused the current administration of gerrymandering.

But Bethel also dismissed this charge.

“Oppositions always say that,” he said.  “That’s a stock phrase used by oppositions.

“When the PLP created the St. Anne’s Constituency during the last boundary revisions under Mr. Christie’s superintendence, the then opposition (FNM) felt that this was a classic case of gerrymandering because what was apparent to us is virtually as many FNM polling divisions in as many different constituencies had been pushed into this new entity called St. Anne’s, and that the consequence of doing that was to strengthen the Progressive Liberal Party’s hold on at least three constituencies: Yamacraw, Elizabeth and Fox Hill.

“And so in a sense it was a classic case, in our view, of getting three for the price of one, which by any calculation would amount to an exercise in gerrymandering.”

Bethel said there are principles that guide the Boundaries Commission, which is also known as the Constituencies Commission.

“Those principles are usually discussed among the members and agreed in general long before they actually sit down to address the specific questions of the boundaries,” Bethel said.

“One of those principles would be, for example, that the commission would be seeking to attain as near as possible equality in the number of registered voters in every constituency (depending on the island).”

The FNM chairman added, “What is clear and there is nothing that the opposition has been able to say to date — and they had to a lot to say about these boundary cuts —but there is nothing that they have been able to say to date that is able to cast any doubt upon the integrity of the adherence of the Boundaries Commission to the principle that all members, including opposition members, would have agreed at the beginning of the whole process.”

In three of the last four general elections, the party in power that cut the boundaries lost (1992, 2002 and 2007).

Nov 14, 2011

thenassauguardian

Caribbean Blog International

...for those Bahamians who think there is no reasonable offering to vote for at the next general election - 2012, ...you should rest assured that there are many other ways to participate in the advancement and governance of The Bahamas

Does it matter if you vote?

thenassauguardian editorial

Interesting debates always emerge when the question is posed as to whether or not citizens living in democracies should feel obligated to vote.

Most democracies were fought for. People who campaigned for freedom, self-governance and civil rights were jailed; some were murdered; some were beaten and many others were victimized. Some of these fights were actual wars.

In this context, we all should take the vote seriously. It is not a right, but a gift fought for by those who came before us.

As we all sit and evaluate the political parties and independent candidates who will offer for public office in the run-up to the next general election, we should make every effort to determine if there is someone on the ballot good enough to vote for.

Those who do not think there is anyone good enough to vote for should consider entering the race or the political process.

But if the ballot is filled with poor candidates, what should a voter do?Should voters feel compelled to vote?

No, they should not. Voting is an important part of the democratic process. However, voting should not be confused with democracy. Democracy is about self-governance. As citizens, we have a responsibility to do this everyday not just every five years.

By working at a charity, providing assistance to the homeless, democracy is at work; by volunteering as a mentor at a school, democracy is at work; by raising an educated, hardworking law-abiding citizen, democracy is at work.

So for those who think there is no reasonable offering to vote for at the next general election, you should rest assured that there are many other ways to participate in the advancement and governance of The Bahamas.

A group of residents in a community can easily come together, approach their public school, and start an after-school literacy program for the children falling behind, for example.

Simple initiatives such as these, if done by many individuals or by many groups, can do much to change the lives of the disadvantaged and the soon-to-be lost.

Elections are important; voting is important. But if you think the mainstream political parties are pathetic and the independents are incompetent, do not distress. You can exercise your democratic power everyday by doing something to help build the community.

Nov 04, 2011

thenassauguardian editorial

Caribbean Blog International

Branville McCartney - founder of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party is so anxious to become the next prime minister of The Bahamas that he is willing to use the sorry plight of illegal Haitians, and their Bahamian-born children to pander to the fears of voting Bahamians

tribune242 editorial


IT IS a tragedy when a politician, so anxious to win an election, panders to the base emotions of an electorate. And in doing so ignores the damaging consequences that his divisive message could have, not only on this generation, but on many generations to come.

Apparently Mr Branville McCartney is so anxious to become the next prime minister of this country that he is willing to use the sorry plight of illegal Haitians, and their Bahamian-born children to pander to the fears of voting Bahamians. Such a campaign of hatred will not only split this community, but will eventually build up such an emotional force that when it breaks in years to come this nation's way of life would be completely destroyed.

One would have thought that the mass killing that targeted young teenagers in Norway these past few days would have been a sufficient tragedy to send a warning signal of what can happen when suspicion and division is built up in a community. Such an atmosphere can inspire one madman to destroy a nation's whole way of life.

Seventy-six people -- most of them teenagers -- were killed in Oslo last week because of one man's fear that Islam threatened Europe's Christian culture. Anders Hering Breivik, himself a young man, was against his country's "multiculturalism," which he believed enabled "the ongoing Islamic colonisation of Europe." And so he wrote a 1,500 page treaties on his beliefs, pleaded not guilty to committing any crime, and almost gloated over the killings, because as a self-proclaimed Christian nationalist he believed it his duty to recreate a Knights Templar in Europe to fight a holy war against Islam.

This bizarre behaviour is usually the end game in an atmosphere of hate and suspicion that can send evil sparks flying in a madman's fevered brain. One only has to read history to understand the underlying racial hatred that has sparked centuries of unrest and most of this world's wars.

Mr McCartney, founder of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), which he promises will be the next government, says that he will fight to change the country's constitution so that children born here to illegal immigrants will not be eligible for citizenship. If elected he will push for a referendum to carry out his plans.

Under the constitution, persons who are born in the Bahamas to illegal immigrants have the right to apply for citizenship between their 18th and 19th birthdays.

We agree with former PLP cabinet minister George Smith who accused Mr McCartney of "trying to pander to the xenophobia of many Bahamians who want to blame some of our social ills on people who by virtue of their circumstances find themselves in the Bahamas illegally."

And warned Mr Smith: "Political leaders should never pander to ignorance and people who are motivated by fear and this is probably what Mr McCartney... is doing."

We agree with Mr Smith. We also agree with retired Anglican Archbishop Drexel Gomez who sees Mr McCartney's "final solution" for Haitian children as "inhumane."

"I cannot understand anyone who is going to seek leadership in this country who is not going to deal with the situation in a humanitarian way," said the Archbishop.

And it is true what the Archbishop says. This country does owe much to immigrants. Many immigrants -- teachers, policemen, doctors and nurses -- helped build the Bahamas. Many of them came as immigrants from other Caribbean islands -- and never forget: our first black member of parliament was a Haitian.

As the Archbishop pointed out these children up to the age of 18 have known no other home.

They speak our language, they belong to our culture, their friends are Bahamian. As far as they are concerned they are also Bahamian. At the age of 18 are they to be thrown into a world that they do not know, because of the myopic prejudice of Bahamians who just a few generations before were also foreigners in a foreign land? Many of the forebears of our present Bahamians were not even born here, yet they became one with us -- flesh of the same flesh -- and put much effort into the building of this nation. What none of us must forget is at some stage or another -- and this includes Mr McCartney -- our forebears were strangers in a foreign land. Today we are all Bahamians. Were our forebears more humane than we are today?

Yes, the Haitian question is a troubling one, but Mr McCartney's solution lacks humanity. It is not the right way to go, and if through this election he builds up an even greater foreign phobia, future generations will not bless his name for lighting a spark that allowed hatred to spiral out of control.

July 29, 2011

tribune242 editorial

Caribbean Blog International

George Smith says Branville McCartney is "pandering" to xenophobic fears over illegal immigration in an effort to gain the support of the Bahamian voters' base

Former minister claims Branville 'pandering' to fears over illegal immigration



By TANEKA THOMPSON
Deputy Chief Reporter
tribune242
tthompson@tribunemedia.net


BRANVILLE McCartney is "pandering" to xenophobic fears over illegal immigration in an effort to gain the support of the country's voter base, said former Cabinet Minister George Smith.

His comments came after Mr McCartney said that he will fight to change the country's constitution so that children born here to illegal immigrants will not be eligible for Bahamian citizenship.

Mr McCartney, leader of newly formed third party the Democratic National Alliance, said he will advance a referendum on the issue if he is elected as the country's next prime minister, according to a local daily.

Under the constitution, persons who are born in the Bahamas to illegal immigrants have the right to apply for citizenship between their 18th and 19th birthday.

Mr Smith, a former Cabinet minister in the Pindling administration and one of the framers of the country's constitution, dismissed this as political pandering to illegal immigration fears.

"He's trying to pander to the xenophobia of many Bahamians who want to blame some of our social ills on people who by virtue of their circumstances find themselves in the Bahamas illegally. I think that places like (squatter settlement) Mackey Yard probably also compound it but the Bahamas has to (be) mindful that many of our ancestors have left the Bahamas and settled in other places and in some instances they settle illegally.

". . .But for the grace of God we would be like the Haitians," he added.

Mr Smith, former representative for Exuma, cautioned politicians not to fear monger for political traction.

"Political leaders should never pander to ignorance and people who are motivated by fear and this is probably what Mr McCartney - someone who I am fond of - is doing," said Mr Smith, in response to questions from The Tribune.

Instead, he said politicians should convene a non-partisan task force on constitutional reform after the dust settles from the next general election.

Yesterday Immigration and Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette said his former Cabinet colleague's latest stance is surprising. He claimed that this policy was never put forth by Mr McCartney while he served as junior immigration minister.

"When I looked at the newspaper I was amused that Mr McCartney would suggest that having been minister of state (of immigration) for a number of years and never recommended that. I'm following his immigration issues with amusement because I know that his views were not put forward (while he was in office).

"He and I had many discussions and he (was able to) put any proposal up to me and I would consider it and put it forward. I don't recall (that policy) coming from him when he was in office," said Mr Symonette.

Mr McCartney resigned from the Free National Movement earlier this year and left the Ingraham Cabinet last year.

Last week he told The Tribune that he quit as a Cabinet minister because his repeated efforts to address the country's immigration problems were "blocked" by "the man himself," Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.

July 26, 2011

tribune242

Caribbean Blog International

As bad as things are for the FNM, voters will not automatically flock to the PLP just for the hell of it... For the PLP to win, someone must find Perry Gladstone Christie and tell him, “Wake up.”

Where is Perry Gladstone Christie?

thenassauguardian editorial



Oppositions are supposed to oppose. The opposition leader is supposed to lead this charge. He is the prime minister’s constitutional rival. He is supposed to want that job so badly that he challenges the PM and his government on points of policy and achievement frequently in the public sphere. The public should see the fire in the eyes of the opposition leader.

Perry Gladstone Christie is not this type of opposition leader. He is rarely seen or heard when it comes to issues of national importance. Even in the Parliament, Christie has little presence. He often speaks outside of the prime time period and does not add anything new or challenging to the debate.

Without Bradley Roberts, who has a compulsion for sending press releases, the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) would have almost no public voice. Statements from Christie on matters of national importance come as frequently as Chickcharney sightings in the forests of Andros.

We all know that Christie has no interest in being opposition leader. He was stunned at being unseated as PM in 2007. Nonetheless, he has the role and should do more on the national stage to look like someone who should be PM again.

The Free National Movement (FNM) is in freefall. The roadwork in New Providence, crime, the Mackey Yard Haitian issue and the frequent power outages have made this a summer of discontent for much of the population.

With all this ammunition, Christie says little to nothing. Absence from commentary on national issues conveys apathy. And who wants to elect a leader who appears so disinterested that he says almost nothing.

Christie must remember that he and Hubert Ingraham no longer have a duopoly on power with the premiership going from one friend to the other. Others have entered the political arena and people are at least listening to them.

The default position previously was to vote for the ‘other’ party when the governing side ran out of gas. But with the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) menacing, Christie should realize that some anti-government votes will go that way if he keeps on looking like the missing leader.

A general election will be called in less than a year – in fact, sooner than that. A vibrant opposition leader would be doing interviews, on talk radio, hosting televised town meetings and much more to demonstrate his interest in the issues and to bring forward the solutions his government would implement.

Sadly, the few times when Christie makes an utterance he only talks about the past. If he is talking about crime he mentions his government’s old urban renewal program; if he talks about the economy he mentions the anchor project deals his government signed; if he talks about housing he mentions the homes built under his administration’s watch.

As bad as things are for the FNM, voters will not automatically flock to the PLP just for the hell of it. For the PLP to win, someone must find Perry Gladstone Christie and tell him, “Wake up.”

Jul 22, 2011

thenassauguardian editorial

Caribbean Blog International

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

Does it matter if you vote?

thenassauguardian editorial



Interesting debates always emerge when the question is posed as to whether or not citizens living in democracies should feel obligated to vote.

Most democracies were fought for. People who campaigned for freedom, self-governance and civil rights were jailed, some were murdered, some were beaten and many others were victimized. Some of these fights were actual wars.

In this context, we all should take the vote seriously. It is not a right, but a gift fought for by those who came before us.

As we all sit and evaluate the political parties and independent candidates who will offer for public office in the run-up to the next general election, we should make every effort to determine if there is someone on the ballot good enough to vote for.

Those who do not think there is anyone good enough to vote for should consider entering the race or the political process.

But if the ballot is filled with poor candidates, what should a voter do? Should voters feel compelled to vote?

No, they should not. Voting is an important part of the democratic process. However, voting should not be confused with democracy. Democracy is about self-governance. As citizens, we have a responsibility to do this everyday – not just every five years.

By working at a charity, providing assistance to the homeless, democracy is at work; by volunteering as a mentor at a school, democracy is at work; by raising an educated, hardworking law-abiding citizen, democracy is at work.

So for those who think there is no reasonable offering to vote for at the next general election, you should rest assured that there are many other ways to participate in the advancement and governance of The Bahamas.

A group of residents in a community can easily come together, approach their public school, and start an after school literacy program for the children falling behind, for example.

Simple initiatives such as these, if done by many individuals or by many groups, can do much to change the lives of the disadvantaged and the soon-to-be lost.

Elections are important; voting is important. But if you think the mainstream political parties are pathetic and the independents are incompetent, do not distress. You can exercise your democratic power everyday by doing something to help build the community.

3/30/2011

thenassauguardian editorial

Bahamas Blog International

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

Bahamian Voters Eager

By IANTHIA SMITH



It seemed to be just what the parliamentary registration needed; something to boost the low registration numbers in the country and according to Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Parliamentary Registration Department Sherlyn Hall an announcement by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham on Friday did just that.

It was just three days ago the prime minister told reporters at a press conference that the voter register will be closed by July, an announcement that apparently put fire to many Bahamians who are now rushing to the registration booths.

Since that announcement, Mr. Hall said workers in his department have seen a massive increase in the numbers of Bahamians who have registered.

Since it began last year, the voter registration process was moving at a snail’s pace to the point where Parliamentary Commissioner Errol Bethel made several appeals for Bahamians to get the ball rolling in that regard.

Since Friday, it seems Bahamians have gotten on board and Mr. Hall right now some 30,300 people are on the register.

"Since that time we have had tremendous increase from Friday and Saturday’s figures," Mr. Hall said. "They have not been factored in so we are really looking at a tremendous increase on that 30,300.

"For instance on Friday we took over 413 persons alone at the Urban Renewal Centres throughout New Providence. So we’ve seen a tremendous increase all of last week."

On Friday, Prime Minister Ingraham said, "Sometime after June of this year, I propose to cause the current register of voters to [close] and by that I mean that I want that register to come to an end, which would mean that only persons who are registered on the new register will be eligible to vote," he told reporters on Friday.

"I’m going to give 90 days notice of that. I’m now thinking of giving that notice sometime in April so that sometime towards the end of June or July, I intend to bring the current register to an end. The boundaries commission will be appointed after that."

The deputy permanent secretary added that the Family Islands’ representatives are also reporting an upswing with their registration numbers.

He said up to yesterday alone, the department was expecting that some 500 to 700 more people would have registered to vote in the capital.

"I think (the announcement the prime minister made) helped with these figures," Mr. Hall added. "I think that’s where the boost came from. I think the more we can get people excited and let them know that they can come in early, the better it will be for everyone and we are now seeing them doing that. This is the boost we’ve been waiting on for a long time.

"We are very pleased with how things are going and we are pleased with the numbers that have been coming out but we want to urge the public to continue to come out."

The Bahama Journal was able to speak to some of the new registrants yesterday.

They said after hearing what the prime minister had to say last week, they had no choice but to get out and register.

"It’s good to be prepared," Austin Grant said as he waited for his voter’s card photo to be taken. "The way things are going right now they could call the election any minute and I’d like to be ready. It’s always good to be ready and after today I’ll be ready."

Another registrant said, "The reason why I came out is because they said election is coming soon and I’m trying to get in front of the line. What the prime minister said really made me think so I had to come out."

"I’m out here registering to vote so I can have a say in my country and I’m doing it now before it closes," another registrant said.

While he has not indicated any dates as yet, many are speculating that Prime Minister Ingraham will call an election before the end of the year.

March 29th, 2011

jonesbahamas

Bahamas Blog International

Branville McCartney support in the Free National Movement (FNM) has collapsed

What was Branville McCartney thinking?
thenassauguardian national review



The headline for this piece is the question that just about everyone has been asking since McCartney made the now famous statement — that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has no compassion.

McCartney, a sitting FNM MP who has made no secret of his leadership aspirations, made the startling statement last week Tuesday during an appearance on Star 106.5 FM’s talk show, “Jeffrey”, hosted by Jeff Lloyd.

This is exactly what McCartney told Lloyd: “At this stage, I’d certainly want [the FNM] to succeed, but we have our challenges. We seem to not be connected to the people, from the leader straight down. [We’re] showing a lack of compassion and not listening to the people.

“Although, yes we’re the ones who were put here to make decisions, the people are the ones who put us here. We need to listen. We don’t have all of the answers but the way we go about things, it’s not good. We have a number of new voters and even old supporters are concerned. I hope we get our act together.”

When asked if he was referring to a particular personality within the party, McCartney said Ingraham has to take responsibility for the challenges the party faces going into the next election.

“The prime minister is the leader of the FNM. The buck stops with the prime minister. Yes, there’s a lack of compassion — probably not intentionally. Perhaps that’s just the way he is. That type of governance was necessary in 1992. In 2011 and 2012, I don’t think it is.”

For anyone who doubted the statement or its context reported exclusively by The Nassau Guardian on Wednesday, McCartney repeated his feelings about the Prime Minister and the state of the Free National Movement during an interview with NB12 TV news later that night.

The statement drew a strong response from the public, much like his decision to resign from Ingraham’s Cabinet after serving just under two years as a junior minister in the ministries of tourism and immigration. McCartney thought he was being “underutilized”.

Now a new round of questions surrounding McCartney’s political strategy and his political future hang heavily over the relative newcomer to politics.

Is this the final chapter in McCartney’s political career? Maybe not, but the young politician does not appear to be making any friends in the FNM.

“His (McCartney’s) support in the party has collapsed,” said a well-placed source within the FNM who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to speak on behalf of the party. “Any residual support he had has collapsed.

“You can’t keep going around lacerating the Prime Minister and the FNM for all the wrong things they are doing, but then say, ‘I support the party’. “It doesn’t make sense.”

PARTY VS. PUBLIC SUPPORT

Those outside the FNM seem similarly confused.

“If Branville is listening to people out there who may be clamoring for him to be the leader of the FNM, the question is are they people who can vote for him at convention. If not, he ought to recognize that it’s not meaningful support,” said Raynard Rigby, a former chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party.

“If he has support within the FNM he ought to figure out and think through how his open criticism of the leader will factor into the minds of his supporters. You can be popular in the eyes of the public, but party support is what matters if you are interested in a leadership position, and you saw that in the deputy leadership race in the PLP. Obie Wilchcombe was seen as more popular but Brave (Davis) beat him convincingly because he had the support of the party.”

George Smith, a veteran politician who served in the Sir Lynden Pindling administration, suggests that McCartney has failed to do just that — think things through, at least when it came to last week’s statement.

“The statement probably reflects what he is thinking, but he obviously did not weigh it carefully. In politics when you say something that makes you appear bold and courageous you may have to pay a price,” said Smith.

Only time will tell what that price will be, but there are already the obvious suggestions that McCartney may not receive the FNM nomination to run in Bamboo Town as a result of the “no compassion” remark.

“Make no mistake, FNMs have their own problems with Hubert Ingraham, but the party does not like these attacks which are seen as extremely disloyal to the party,” said the FNM source. “He is providing attack lines to the opposition. That’s a serious thing.”

McCartney has said that if he does not get the nomination he would run as an independent or “otherwise”. That “otherwise” is unlikely to be the PLP, given the boost an independent McCartney in Bamboo Town would give to the chances of the opposition winning that seat.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE

Independents, generally, fare very poorly in general elections in The Bahamas, unless they receive the support of a political party that may decide not to run anyone in that seat.

While there have been success stories, such as Perry Christie and Hubert Ingraham (Tennyson Wells and Pierre Dupuch to a lesser extent), those men had years and years of experience in office and serving in Cabinet before turning independent, and had been battle-tested.

McCartney has neither the wealth of experience nor the political battle wounds to carry him through the trials of the “political wilderness”, and cast him as a maverick independent.

But what McCartney does appear to have is a certain appeal to a segment of the public that is hungry for a new face to lead the country. “Sick of Ingraham and Scared of Christie” is becoming a mantra among many young professional Bahamians who are openly declaring their intentions of sitting out the next general election.

McCartney is a successful lawyer and a seemingly dedicated and conscientious MP. He has a certain talent for public relations and is good at using technology and social media to connect with young voters. And whatever his critics may say, he is not afraid to publically criticize the government or his party, which in some quarters has been interpreted as ambitious and courageous.

McCartney has also taken a tough stance on two hot button issues in the country — illegal immigration and crime — and while everyone has not always agreed with his approach, his decision to publically state his positions has been generally well-received by the public.

Whether McCartney decides to bide his time in the FNM — although that seems unlikely in light of his recent statements — or become an independent, the road ahead will not be easy.

“When you are in Cabinet you have a level of public persona associated with the position. In the back bench you have to continually redefine who you are politically to maintain a public presence,” said Rigby.

This is a point obviously not lost on McCartney, who since resigning from Cabinet has made a number of headlines, more recently for showing up at a BTC unions anti-privatization rally, and telling reporters that he was undecided on an issue that his party obviously supports.

But if McCartney is to succeed in one of the mainstream political parties, he will have to work on how his actions and statements are being interpreted by those who make the decisions in those parties — the more experienced politicians who in this political climate call the shots.

AMBITION OR ARROGANCE

What some have interpreted as ambition and courage, others have interpreted as arrogance and inexperience.

“If he had said what he said in a way that people could better interpret he would have shown good political acumen, but by being so (publicly) honest he clearly has positioned himself in a way that the party has to deal with him,” said Smith, who emphasized that personally he is very fond of McCartney.

“Longevity is not on his side. He has not been around long enough. He’s a newcomer.

“He must have tremendous talent and personality which permits him to be effective, courteous, respectful and show that he has learned the game well enough and get people to say of him the many things he says of himself.”

A former politician who spent decades in frontline politics said of McCartney:

“He was in Cabinet for less than two years and then said he wanted to be leader or a substantive minister. It’s admirable to have ambition to go to the top but there’s a road, a protocol. Dion (Foulkes) and Tommy (Turnquest) came up through the party.

“I thought he was trying to do a good job in immigration, he made some errors but at least he was doing something. If he is able to control this particular situation he may survive but he has to get a handle on his public posturing.”

Among his colleagues, McCartney reportedly has little support.

“None of his Cabinet colleagues take him seriously. I don’t think he is seen as a contender. By resigning from Cabinet he removed himself as a contender for leadership,” said the FNM source.

McCartney was appointed to the Cabinet in his first term in office, took many by surprise when he decided to resign last year February.

According to his resignation letter: “The factors that motivated this run the full gamut of issues and emotions, some more compelling than others. In the forefront are my feelings of stagnation and the inability to fully utilize my political potential at this time.”

He went on to say: “It is also my belief that our current political system is headed in the wrong direction…I have already proven myself on many levels and have much to be proud of, but it would be wrong of me to assume that I have proven myself to you without demonstrating the strength and diversity of knowledge you deserve.”

An interview following that resignation only added to the confusion.

McCartney said that as a member of the Cabinet he was required to tow the party line, and thought he could do more outside of the Ingraham Cabinet, “speak out on what is right and not based on party lines”.

He said at the time: “There is no doubt that the prime minister, Hubert Alexander Ingraham, is the best man for the job at this time. He is no doubt the best leader that we have had in our party and he remains that way today… I respect him, I support him. He has my full, full support.”

McCartney said at the time that he had no intention of challenging Ingraham for the leadership of the party. But that line changed later that year when McCartney made it known that if the FNM held its convention that year he would offer himself for leader. The FNM decided not to hold the convention, citing financial and other reasons.

WASTED OPPORTUNITY

Some thought that the opportunity to serve in the Cabinet was a great training ground for anyone with leadership aspirations, even if you disliked the style or some of the decisions of the prime minister.

“He had a chance to make his mark but he left. It takes years to make change but he didn’t give himself a chance,” said the FNM source, who pointed out that Ingraham obviously saw potential in McCartney or else he would not have been appointed to the Cabinet in his first term in office.

Another criticism that has been leveled against McCartney is that he is not a team player, and had to be reminded that “Branville does not have a policy, the government has a policy”.

Some of his actions as junior minister in immigration were controversial and interpreted as grandstanding. Not only did it raise eyebrows in the country but warranted review by the prime minister.

“If he had remained in the cabinet, continued to perform and perform well, show that he was more politically savvy he would have had a good shot in serving in the leadership of the FNM,” said Rigby.

“His future may look dim today but that could change down the road. He must demonstrate that he is a man of conviction, at times it may be necessary to publicly criticize the party and leader but you have to be prepared to be an agent of change.”

2/7/2011

thenassauguardian national review

Bahamas Blog International

As Labor Flexes its Muscles

The Bahama Journal Editorial


Today by way of this commentary, we wish to put in clearer perspective what we perceive as the political import of what seems to be an increased degree of restiveness on the part of so very many public sector workers.

On occasion, their main gripe seems to concern money. At other times, workers and their representatives seem to be preoccupied with matters germane to respect.

But no matter the reason or the season, the fact remains that, politicians always pay some kind of price whenever public sector workers become roiled and riled to that point where they say that, they are sick and tired of things as they are.

This is so because, unlike their counter-parts in the private sector, ministers cannot ignore the fact that when they step forward to bargain with workers, there is always some political element somewhere in the details.

That is why it is always so very instructive to understand the import of some of history's lessons.

We make this reference to the importance of history as we reflect on what is currently taking place on the industrial scene.

In a sense, what we are currently witness is a kind of macabre footnote to some of the demonstrations that took place in the late 90’s as the then governing Free National Movement faced the ire of a powerful cadre of workers.

It is to be noted that, today’s emerging labor situation seems eerily reminiscent of the situation and circumstances that existed in 1999, when the Free National Movement and its leadership found themselves challenged and openly disrespected by angry workers.

And so, with general elections on the horizon, it is anybody’s guess as to how things will pan out for either the governing Free National Movement or its political nemeses in the guise of the Progressive Liberal Party.

And for sure, even as we focus on the two major parties, we are acutely aware of the fact that, there are other forces – some of them allegedly and reputedly with deep pockets – who might yet have a decisively important impact on how things turn out.

In addition, there are other forces that seem poised to have some effect on the outcome of those contests whenever they take place. Here we reference, the role that might yet be played by workers in their guise as voters; and [yet again] as we have previously suggested, we have a background context where, for want of a more comprehensive understanding of what national development should be about; the Bahamian people and their leaders now wallow in a mire of despond.

And as they wallow, we have a situation on the ground where the hard men and women with guns in hand and murder in their hearts, are doing their thing.

We also know it for a fact that, history itself teaches that, workers can seat or unseat those in power.

Here we are quite certain that the power in this truism is not lost on either the governing Progressive Liberal Party or on its nemeses on the opposition side of the political street in The Bahamas.

As such, it should come as no surprise to any one that Bahamian workers are restive at this precise moment. This is surely due -in part at least- to the fact that workers are voters.

Evidently, too, with Christmas on its way; with a national economy that is in a parlous state; with utility bills as high as ever and with money as scarce as hen’s teeth; some of this nation’s workers are today as mad as hell.

Evidently, there is no telling how things will turn out for those who are governing and for those men and women who wish to take hold of the reins of power.

While general elections are still some ways off, the fact remains that workers know that – when the chips are down- they have a tremendous amount of power at their command.

Here we would advise all who would hear and all who would know that, they had better listen to the voice of the worker.

And while, we advise that those who lead and those who would lead should listen to the cries of the people; this is not to say that we are demanding anyone to yield to this or that insistent demand.

At the minimum, therefore, those who would take one position as opposed to another should explain themselves to the people.

Once this tack is taken, they can then let the chips fall where they may.
In the ultimate analysis, then, what makes this situation so very important is the fact that workers are voters. This means that whenever they wish, they can bring a government to grief and despair.

December 9th. 2010

The Bahama Journal Editorial

Bahamas Blog International

Bishop Simeon Hall: The Bahamian people, by and large, have bought into the lie that only lawyers are best suited to sit in Parliament

Bishop Simeon Hall speaks out against electing lawyers to Parliament
By TANEKA THOMPSON
Tribune Staff Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net:



BAHAMIAN voters should throw their support behind "ordinary" members of society instead of continuously electing lawyers to the halls of Parliament, said Bishop Simeon Hall.

The senior pastor of New Covenant Baptist Church reasoned that lawyers - many of whom profit from the "present culture of criminality" - cannot be expected to solve the crime problem or change the systems in place which have led to this "national nightmare."

He added that men and women who have proven themselves successful in community building and business would make better political candidates. While several lawyers are the architects of the nation's foundation, and have an indispensable role in nation building, Parliament needs more contractors, successful entrepreneurs, farmers and community builders to take the Bahamas to the "promised land," said the religious leader.

"It is time for the country's electorate to help in reducing the number of lawyers we have in our Parliament and allow more persons from the ordinary walks of our society to participate in our national debate," said Mr Hall in a statement released yesterday.

"There exists an urgent and immediate need for ordinary persons to represent the common masses. It cannot be expected that this national nightmare of crime will be (remedied) by the wisdom of one group. While lawyers, in the main, do not cause crime, they are the major beneficiaries of the present culture of criminality and this cannot be expected to do what is needed to change things."

"The Bahamian people, by and large, have bought into the lie that only lawyers are best suited to sit in Parliament," said Mr Hall as he called all political parties to choose ordinary persons with a reputation of community leadership for their election tickets.

The country needs fresh ideas and new perspectives in the national dialogue, he added, "if we are to change the status quo which sees ordinary persons on the edge of desperation".

August 23, 2010

tribune242

Bahamas Blog International

Workers Party Leader Rodney Moncur Nominated For Elizabeth Constituency Bye-Election

WORKERS PARTY STATEMENT ON THE CANDIDACY OF RODNEY MONCUR FOR THE ELIZABETH CONSTITUENCY BYE-ELECTION
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2010



The people of Elizabeth constituency, like all the other voters of this country, have come to a political cross roads and a serious decision has to be made.

Let us not make idle distinctions between PLP and FNM; we the voters, having tried both parties for long periods of time in the past, have come to the conclusion that they are one and the same. They are a narrow class of relatives, friends, school-mates, business partners and professionals who have dominated Bahamian politics for a whole generation.

If we just take a snapshot of the recent political history of Elizabeth we will see where Elma Campbell, Ambassador in China, who ran against her cousin Malcolm Adderley, a lawyer, and was beaten by him, is the first cousin of Dwayne Sands who now wishes to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Malcolm Adderley from the House of Assembly to become a Judge of the Supreme Court.

We leave it to the good doctor to tell the people of Elizabeth whether or not he too is the cousin of Malcolm Adderley and if so, solemnly affirm that he never had any conversation with Adderley before his resignation regarding how the seat would be passed from one cousin to another.

Before Elizabeth came into existence, another constituency, called Malcolm Creek, included parts of Elizabeth and was represented for a significant period of time by one Marvin Pinder, a prime PLP operative.

This same Marvin Pinder, who was a PLP Minister, is the father of Ryan Pinder, the PLP candidate for Elizabeth in the up-coming bye-election. In this case, power over the people is being passed, not from cousin to cousin, but from father to son.

And then, there is the classic connection between former law partners Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham and opposition leader Perry Christie, which smacks of the enigmatic relationship that existed for years between Lynden Pindling of the PLP and his schoolmate, Cecil Wallace Whitfield of the FNM.

And while we are looking at the illustrious personalities that have dominated Bahamian politics for a generation, we cannot forget the venerable patriarch of the FNM, Sir Orville Turnquest, former Governor-General, father of Tommy Turnquest, the hapless Minister of National Security and uncle of Dwayne Sands.

And the record shows that this Dwayne Sands is the son of Basil Sands, who served diligently, for a significant period of time, under the PLP regime as the Chairman of Bahamasair and, therefore, featured prominently in the Commission of Enquiry which Hubert Ingraham appointed in the early 90s, as a smoke-screen to fool voters that Pindling was being punished for his misdeeds.

Now we are only looking here at Elizabeth; but if we look at all the other 41 constituencies we will find strong, convincing evidence of the existence of this closed, tight-knit, narrow class of, relatives, friends, school-mates, business partners and professionals who have dominated Bahamian politics for a whole generation.

Of course, like every other Bahamian, they have the constitutional and moral right to offer themselves for election to public office; and we, the voters, election after election, have historically delegated public authority to them in good faith, sincerely believing and hoping that they would use the high office, not for personal gain, but to manage the affairs of the nation honorably and efficiently, bringing peace, security and prosperity to all.

If, in our opinion, they had done a good job of governing over the past 53 years, we would not be declaring today our intention to field a candidate in the up-coming bye-election in Elizabeth.

But both parties, the PLP and the FNM, have taken turns in making false promises and declarations to the Bahamian voters to seize and hold on to power for personal gain and, in the process, they have mismanaged the economy, they have corrupted the public institutions and they have done gross damage to the delicate social fabric of the country.

Even before the global economic downturn, the level of joblessness had been too high for too many years. Too many qualified people, especially young have had to wait and search diligently for months and months, and sometimes even years, for a job, simply because there are not enough jobs being created on a consistent basis.

The PLP and FNM governments from 1967 to 2010, all failed to plan for economic development and the consistent creation of jobs. Not one of them ever produced a National Development Plan for this country. They have all played government-by-ear and have played it badly. Consequently, the economy has been stagnant for years, with tourism not increasing substantially for almost twenty years.

The PLP-FNM government have failed so miserably from the early 90s to now to monitor the international climate in which our financial services sector must operate, that The Bahamas has been named and shamed over and over by the industrialized countries for running a sub-standard, almost shady, jurisdiction; and they are now forced into a humiliating situation of signing dozens of treaties in a few months time to save the industry from international sanctions and to try to stop major off-shore banks from closing down and leaving the country.

We charge that one of the major public institutions that have been corrupted by the PLP-FNM is the public education system. Over the years, the PLP-FNM class has provided segregated education for their children in private schools, using a substantial amount of funds from the Government, of course; and when the cost of educating their children abroad became too high, they created a scholarship fund with Government money, which was abused so much by them that poor people never got a chance to benefit from it and now it has been discontinued because of the abuse and corruption.

While all of this has been going on, the physical infrastructure of the public school system has being deprived of financial support and administrative attention, so much so that CC Sweeting High School students in 1983 would have burned down their dilapidated school, if it had not been for the Workers Party who taught the young people that public protest was the legal and much more productive reaction than arson.

Because of gross neglect and abuse, the public school system under the PLP-FNM government over the past 53 years eventually deteriorated into a breeding ground for gangs and other anti-social groups and today crime, perpetrated by a generation of thugs that have grown up under this corrupt and inefficient PLP-FNM coalition of selfish and narrow interests, is our number one problem.

Despite his promises late last year, the Prime Minister Ingraham, in our opinion, has not yet given the nation any definitive statement on the initiatives that his lost and confused Government will adopt to prevent the spread and increase in crime in this country. The Leader of the Opposition, in his inimitable style, has made no statement on crime and is not expected to do so.

The Workers Party believes that punishment for heinous crime such as murder, rape armed robbery and so on should be swift, severe and certain. In light of this philosophy we view most of the efforts discharged by the FNM Government so far as being limp-wristed and not having the virility that is needed in this time of social crisis.

The Ingraham Government has adopted a soft approach in this matter for too long; and now it has exploded and is beyond control. Limp-wristed activities such as electronic monitoring bands around criminals’ ankles while they are out on bail are ludicrous.

Young men have already been heard laughing and joking at how they will inactivate those gadgets in short order and how, given the fact that the Government can not keep simple traffic lights working all the time, it is certain that they will not be able to keep such a complex high-tech system working all the time.

The Workers Party’s position is that we do not need bracelets on murderers’ ankles; we need ropes around their necks, as is mandated by the age-old laws of this country. We need firm-wristed and hard-fisted strategies to wrestle this crime monster. Nothing else will do.

But the legal and judicial process has been corrupted by political malpractice; and the cold, clear truth is that the PLP-FNM cabal of lawyer-politicians makes a lot of money negotiating bail for their murderer clients, who, upon being released into this peaceful community, wreak tremendous havoc of revenge, intimidation and more murder.

So, we have come to challenge you, the voters in Elizabeth to make a historic step and vote against both the PLP and the FNM in the upcoming bye-election. Send a clear message to these covenant-breakers that they have been weighed in the balance and found wanting.

We have come to you with a challenge to invest in a promising political future by casting your votes for Rodney Moncur, Leader of the Workers Party and sending to Parliament for the first time, a representative who is bold and energetic, who has surrounded himself with good sense and who is saturated with love of God, family and you.

Sign


Allan Strachan
Workers Party
Chairman

Bahamas Blog International

Where to Vote: The official polling divisions and locations for the 2007 General Election...

The Bain & Grants Town Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 2 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 3 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 4 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 5 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 6 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 7 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 8 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 9 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 10 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 11 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 12 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 13 College of the Bahamas, Poinciana Drive
Polling Division No. 14 C. R. Walker Secondary School, Blue Hill Road


The Bamboo Town Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 2 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 3 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 4 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 5 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 6 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 7 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 8 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 9 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 10 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 11 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 12 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 13 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road
Polling Division No. 14 Prince Williams High School, Cowpen Road


The Blue Hills Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 2 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 3 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 4 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 5 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 6 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 7 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 8 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 9 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 10 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 11 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 12 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 13 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd
Polling Division No. 14 Garvin Tynes Primary School, Alexander Blvd


The Carmichael Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 2 Gerald Cash Primary School, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 3 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 4 Gerald Cash Primary School, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 5 Gerald Cash Primary School, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 6 Gerald Cash Primary School, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 7 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 8 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 9 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 10 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road


The Clifton Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Adelaide Primary School, Adelaide Village
Polling Division No. 2 Adelaide Primary School, Adelaide Village
Polling Division No. 3 Church of God of Prophecy, Mt. Pleasant
Polling Division No. 4 Church of God of Prophecy, Mt. Pleasant
Polling Division No. 5 Adelaide Primary School, Adelaide Village
Polling Division No. 6 Gambier Primary School, Gambier Village
Polling Division No. 7 Gambier Primary School, Gambier Village
Polling Division No. 8 Gambier Primary School, Gambier Village
Polling Division No. 9 Gambier Primary School, Gambier Village
Polling Division No. 10 Adelaide Primary School, Adelaide Village


The Elizabeth Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 2 Thelma Gibson Primary School, Elizabeth Estates
Polling Division No. 3 Thelma Gibson Primary School, Elizabeth Estates
Polling Division No. 4 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 5 Thelma Gibson Primary School, Elizabeth Estates
Polling Division No. 6 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 7 Thelma Gibson Primary School, Elizabeth Estates
Polling Division No. 8 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 9 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 10 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 11 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive
Polling Division No. 12 Faith Temple Christian Academy, Prince Charles Drive


The Englerston Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 E. P. Roberts Primary School, Balfour Avenue.
Polling Division No. 2 E. P. Roberts Primary School, Balfour Avenue.
Polling Division No. 3 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road.
Polling Division No. 4 E. P. Roberts Primary School, Balfour Avenue.
Polling Division No. 5 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road.
Polling Division No. 6 E. P. Roberts Primary School, Balfour Avenue.
Polling Division No. 7 E. P. Roberts Primary School, Balfour Avenue
Polling Division No. 8 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road
Polling Division No. 9 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road
Polling Division No. 10 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road
Polling Division No. 11 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road
Polling Division No. 12 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road
Polling Division No. 13 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road
Polling Division No. 14 E. P. Roberts Primary School, Balfour Avenue
Polling Division No. 15 R. M. Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road


The Farm Road And Centreville Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 2 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 3 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 4 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 5 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 6 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 7 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 8 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 9 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 10 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 11 Our Lady’s Primary School, Deveaux Street
Polling Division No. 12 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 13 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 14 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue
Polling Division No. 15 Centreville Primary School, Collins Avenue


The Fort Charlotte Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 St. Francis/Joseph Primary School, Boyd Road
Polling Division No. 2 St. Francis/Joseph Primary School, Boyd Road
Polling Division No. 3 St. Francis/Joseph Primary School, Boyd Road
Polling Division No. 4 St. Francis/Joseph Primary School, Boyd Road
Polling Division No. 5 C. C. Sweeting Sr. High School, College Avenue
Polling Division No. 6 St. Francis/Joseph Primary School, Boyd Road
Polling Division No. 7 C. C. Sweeting Sr. High School, College Avenue
Polling Division No. 8 C. C. Sweeting Sr. High School, College Avenue
Polling Division No. 9 C. C. Sweeting Sr. High School, College Avenue
Polling Division No. 10 St. Francis/Joseph Primary School, Boyd Road
Polling Division No. 11 C. C. Sweeting Sr. High School, College Avenue


The Fox Hill Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Sandilands Primary School, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 2 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 3 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 4 Sandilands Primary School, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 5 Sandilands Primary School, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 6 Sandilands Primary School, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 7 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 8 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 9 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 10 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 11 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 12 St. Augustine’s College, Bernard Road


The Garden Hills Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 A. F. Adderley Secondary School, Blue Hill
Polling Division No. 2 A. F. Adderley Secondary School, Blue Hill
Polling Division No. 3 A. F. Adderley Secondary School, Blue Hill
Polling Division No. 4 A. F. Adderley Secondary School, Blue Hill
Polling Division No. 5 S. C. McPherson Jr. High, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 6 S. C. McPherson Jr. High, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 7 A. F. Adderley Secondary School, Blue Hill
Polling Division No. 8 A. F. Adderley Secondary School, Blue Hill
Polling Division No. 9 S. C. McPherson Jr. High, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 10 S. C. McPherson Jr. High, Blue Hill Road
Polling Division No. 11 S. C. McPherson Jr. High, Blue Hill Road


The Golden Gates Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 2 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 3 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road
Polling Division No. 4 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 5 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 6 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 7 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 8 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 9 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 10 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 11 Carlton Francis Primary School, Seven Hills
Polling Division No. 12 Carmichael Primary School, Carmichael Road


The Golden Isles Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 2 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 3 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 4 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 5 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 6 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 7 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 8 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 9 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 10 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens
Polling Division No. 11 Gerald Cash Primary, Flamingo Gardens


The Kennedy Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 2 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 3 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 4 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 5 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 6 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 7 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 8 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 9 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 10 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 11 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 12 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road
Polling Division No. 13 Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute, Old Trail Road


The Killarney Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 2 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 3 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 4 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 5 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 6 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 7 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 8 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 9 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 10 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 11 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 12 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive
Polling Division No. 13 H. O. Nash Secondary School, Dolphin Drive


The Marathon Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Claridge Road Primary School, Claridge Road
Polling Division No. 2 Claridge Road Primary School, Claridge Road
Polling Division No. 3 Claridge Road Primary School, Claridge Road
Polling Division No. 4 Claridge Road Primary School, Claridge Road
Polling Division No. 5 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates
Polling Division No. 6 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates
Polling Division No. 7 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates
Polling Division No. 8 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates
Polling Division No. 9 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates
Polling Division No. 10 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates
Polling Division No. 11 C. I. Gibson High School, Marathon Estates


The Montagu Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 2 Kings Way Academy, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 3 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 4 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 5 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 6 Kings Way Academy, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 7 Kings Way Academy, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 8 Kings Way Academy, Bernard Road
Polling Division No. 9 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 10 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 11 Queens’ College High School, Village Road
Polling Division No. 12 St. Matthews Primary School, Church Street


The Mount Moriah Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 2 St. John’s College, Bishop Eldon Drive
Polling Division No. 3 St. John’s College, Bishop Eldon Drive
Polling Division No. 4 St. John’s College, Bishop Eldon Drive
Polling Division No. 5 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 6 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 7 St. John’s College, Bishop Eldon Drive
Polling Division No. 8 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 9 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 10 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 11 Government High School, Yellow Elder Way
Polling Division No. 12 St. John’s College, Bishop Eldon Drive


The Pinewood Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 2 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 3 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 4 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 5 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 6 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 7 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 8 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 9 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 10 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens
Polling Division No. 11 Cleveland Eneas Primary School, Pinewood Gardens


The St. Anne’s Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 2 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 3 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 4 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 5 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 6 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 7 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 8 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 9 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 10 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road
Polling Division No. 11 St. Anne’s School, Fox Hill Road


The St. Cecilia Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 2 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 3 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 4 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 5 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 6 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 7 Ridgeland Primary School, Ridgeland Park
Polling Division No. 8 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 9 Ridgeland Primary School, Ridgeland Park
Polling Division No. 10 Ridgeland Primary School, Ridgeland Park
Polling Division No. 11 Ridgeland Primary School, Ridgeland Park
Polling Division No. 12 St. Cecilia Primary School, Third Street the Grove
Polling Division No. 13 Ridgeland Primary School, Ridgeland Park
Polling Division No. 14 Ridgeland Primary School, Ridgeland Park


The St. Thomas More Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 2 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 3 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 4 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 5 St. Thomas More Primary School, Madeira Street
Polling Division No. 6 St. Thomas More Primary School, Madeira Street
Polling Division No. 7 St. Thomas More Primary School, Madeira Street
Polling Division No. 8 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 9 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 10 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 11 St. Thomas More Primary School, Madeira Street
Polling Division No. 12 St. Thomas More Primary School, Madeira Street
Polling Division No. 13 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 14 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 15 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street
Polling Division No. 16 Palmdale Primary School, Bradley Street


The Sea Breeze Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 2 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 3 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 4 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 5 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 6 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 7 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 8 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 9 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 10 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 11 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 12 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village
Polling Division No. 13 Sadie Curtis Primary School, Nassau Village


The South Beach Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 2 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 3 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 4 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 5 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 6 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 7 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 8 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 9 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 10 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South
Polling Division No. 11 C. V. Bethel High School, East Street South


The Yamacraw Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 2 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 3 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 4 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 5 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 6 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 7 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 8 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 9 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 10 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 11 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw
Polling Division No. 12 St. Andrews School, Yamacraw


Freeport, Grand Bahama

The Eight Mile Rock Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Lewis Yard Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 Lewis Yard Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 Church of God - Hawksbill
Polling Division No. 4 Church of God - Hawksbill
Polling Division No. 5 Hugh Campbell Primary School
Polling Division No. 6 Bartlett Hill Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Bartlett Hill Primary School
Polling Division No. 8 St. Stephen’s Anglican Church Parish Hall
Polling Division No. 9 Eight Mile Rock High School
Polling Division No. 10 Eight Mile Rock High School
Polling Division No. 11 Eight Mile Rock High School
Polling Division No. 12 Eight Mile Rock High School
Polling Division No. 13 St. Vincent De Paul Catholic School
Polling Division No. 14 St. George’s High School
Polling Division No.15 St. George’s High School


The Lucaya Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 St. George’s High School Gym
Polling Division No. 2 Walter P. Parker Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 Mary Star of the Sea Catholic School
Polling Division No. 4 Mary Star of the Sea Catholic School
Polling Division No. 5 St. George’s High School
Polling Division No. 6 St. George’s High School
Polling Division No. 7 Bishop Michael Eldon School
Polling Division No. 8 Walter P. Parker Primary School
Polling Division No. 9 Bishop Michael Eldon School
Polling Division No. 10 Mary Star of the Sea Catholic School
Polling Division No. 11 Mary Star of the Sea Catholic School
Polling Division No. 12 St. George’s High School Gym
Polling Division No. 13 St. George’s High School Gym
Polling Division No. 14 Walter P. Parker Primary School
Polling Division No. 15 Bishop Michael Eldon School
Polling Division No. 16 Walter P. Parker Primary School
Polling Division No. 17 St. George’s High School Gym


The High Rock Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Sweetings Cay Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 High Rock Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 Eric L. Sam Center
Polling Division No. 4 Free Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 5 Water Cay All-Age School
Polling Division No. 6 McCleans Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Freeport Primary School
Polling Division No. 8 Maurice Moore Primary School
Polling Division No. 9 Freeport Primary School
Polling Division No. 10 Maurice Moore Primary School
Polling Division No. 11 Walter P. Parker Primary School
Polling Division No. 12 Freeport Primary School
Polling Division No. 13 Freeport Primary School
Polling Division No. 14 Eric L. Sam Center


The Marco City Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Maurice Moore Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 Freeport Gospel Chapel School
Polling Division No. 3 Jack Hayward High School
Polling Division No. 4 Mary Star of the Sea Catholic School
Polling Division No. 5 Sunland Baptist Academy
Polling Division No. 6 Sunland Baptist Academy
Polling Division No. 7 Bishop Michael Eldon School
Polling Division No. 8 Bishop Michael Eldon School
Polling Division No. 9 Jack Hayward High School
Polling Division No. 10 Jack Hayward High School
Polling Division No. 11 Jack Hayward High School
Polling Division No. 12 Jack Hayward High School
Polling Division No. 13 Grand Bahama Catholic High School
Polling Division No. 14 Jack Hayward High School


The Pineridge Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Hugh Campbell Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 Genesis Academy
Polling Division No. 3 Grand Bahama Catholic High School
Polling Division No. 4 St. Paul’s Methodist College
Polling Division No. 5 St. Paul’s Methodist College
Polling Division No. 6 Grand Bahama Catholic High School
Polling Division No. 7 St. Paul’s Methodist College
Polling Division No. 8 Foster B. Pestaina Center
Polling Division No. 9 Foster B. Pestaina Center
Polling Division No. 10 Central Church of God
Polling Division No. 11 Grand Bahama Catholic High School
Polling Division No. 12 Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy
Polling Division No. 13 Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy


The West End And Bimini Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 West End Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 West End Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 West End Primary School
Polling Division No. 4 Holmes Rock Primary School
Polling Division No. 5 Holmes Rock Primary School
Polling Division No. 6 Martin Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Martin Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 8 Public School, Alice Town
Polling Division No. 9 Anglican Parish Hall, Bailey Town
Polling Division No. 10 Holy Name Catholic School, Bailey Town
Polling Division No. 11 Mount Zion Baptist Sunday School Hall, Bailey Town


Family Islands

The North Abaco Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Grand Cay All Age School
Polling Division No. 2 Fox Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 Teacher Residence, Cedar Harbour
Polling Division No. 4 North Abaco High
Polling Division No. 5 Cooper Town Primary
Polling Division No. 6 Leasure Lee, Marsh Harbour
Polling Division No. 7 Green Turtle Cay School
Polling Division No. 8 Abaco Central High
Polling Division No. 9 Abaco Central High
Polling Division No. 10 Abaco Central High
Polling Division No. 11 Abaco Central High


The South Abaco Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Guana Cay All Age School
Polling Division No. 2 Man-O-War Cay Public School
Polling Division No. 3 Hope Town Public School
Polling Division No. 4 Marsh Harbour Primary School
Polling Division No. 5 Marsh Harbour Primary School
Polling Division No. 6 Marsh Harbour Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Old School, Spring City
Polling Division No. 8 Cherokee Cay, Spring City
Polling Division No. 9 Different of Abaco
Polling Division No. 10 Crossing Rocks Public School
Polling Division No. 11 Sandy Point Public School
Polling Division No. 12 Moores Island Public School


The South Andros Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Mars Bay Post Office
Polling Division No. 2 Deep Creek Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 South Andros High School
Polling Division No. 4 High Rock Primary School
Polling Division No. 5 Long Bay Cays Pre-School
Polling Division No. 6 Old Driggs Hill Primary School/Community Center
Polling Division No. 7 Victoria’s Point Pre-School
Polling Division No. 8 Burnt Rock Primary School
Polling Division No. 9 Behring Point Primary
Polling Division No. 10 Bowen Sound Primary School
Polling Division No. 11 Fresh Creek Primary School
Polling Division No. 12 Central Andros High School


The Cat Island, Rum Cay & San Salvador Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Arthur’s Town High School
Polling Division No. 2 Orange Creek Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 Bennett’s Harbour Primary School
Polling Division No. 4 Media Centre, The Cove
Polling Division No. 5 New Bight Primary School
Polling Division No. 6 Old Bight Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Porte Howe, Primary School
Polling Division No. 8 Devil’s Point Post Office
Polling Division No. 9 Rum Cay All-Age School
Polling Division No. 10 Catholic Church Hall
Polling Division No. 11 San Salvador Elewating Assoc. Lodge Hall


The North Eleuthera Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 2 All Age School, Harbour Island
Polling Division No. 3 Catholic Centre, Harbour Island
Polling Division No. 4 Spanish Wells All Age School
Polling Division No. 5 Spanish Wells All Age School
Polling Division No. 6 Spanish Wells All Age School
Polling Division No. 7 Community Centre Current
Polling Division No. 8 Current Island All Age School
Polling Division No. 9 North Eleuthera Primary School, Bluff
Polling Division No. 10 North Eleuthera High School, Lower Bogue
Polling Division No. 11 Town Hall Administrator’s Complex Upper Bogue
Polling Division No. 12 Primary School, Gregory Town
Polling Division No. 13 P. A. Gibson Primary School Hatchet Bay
Polling Division No. 14 Primary School, James Cistern


The North Andros And Berry Islands Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Lowe Sound Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 Society Hall Lowe Sound
Polling Division No. 3 Nicholls Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 4 Nicholls Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 5 Conch Sound Community Center
Polling Division No. 6 Red Bay’s Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Training Centre Barc Community
Polling Division No. 8 R. N. Gomez All Age School
Polling Division No. 9 Mastic Point Primary School
Polling Division No. 10 Lodge Hall, South Mastic Point
Polling Division No. 11 Public School, Stafford Creek
Polling Division No. 12 Public School, Blanket Sound
Polling Division No. 13 Public School, Stanyard Creek


The South Eleuthera Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 2 Preston H. Albury High School
Polling Division No. 3 Rock Sound Primary
Polling Division No. 4 Green Castle, Primary
Polling Division No. 5 Wemyss Bight Primary
Polling Division No. 6 Deep Creek Primary
Polling Division No. 7 Administrative Building
Polling Division No. 8 Administrative Building
Polling Division No. 9 Governor’s Harbour Primary
Polling Division No. 10 Magistrate’s Court Governor’s Harbour
Polling Division No. 11 Emma E. Cooper Primary School


The Exuma Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Staniel Cay All Age School
Polling Division No. 2 Black Point All Age School
Polling Division No. 3 Farmers Cay All Age School
Polling Division No. 4 Barraterre School Building
Polling Division No. 5 Stuart Manor Primary School
Polling Division No. 6 Rolleville Primary School
Polling Division No. 7 Rokers Point Primary School
Polling Division No. 8 Forest Primary School
Polling Division No. 9 Mt. Thompson Primary School
Polling Division No. 10 Moss Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 11 George Town Primary School
Polling Division No. 12 Roll Town Community Centre
Polling Division No. 13 Williams Town Public School
Polling Division No. 14 Exuma Resource Centre
Polling Division No. 15 St. Margaret Anglican Church Community Centre


The Long Island & Ragged Islands Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Morrisville Primary School
Polling Division No. 2 Community Centre, Clarence Town
Polling Division No. 3 Mangrove Bush Primary School
Polling Division No. 4 Lower Deadmans Cay Primary School
Polling Division No. 5 Resource Centre, Grays
Polling Division No. 6 Miller School Building
Polling Division No. 7 Simms Primary School
Polling Division No. 8 Glintons Primary School
Polling Division No. 9 School Building, Ragged Island
Polling Division No. 10 NGM Major High School


The Mical Constituency
Polling Division Polling Place

Polling Division No. 1 Public Library Landrail Point
Polling Division No. 2 Cabbage Hill Primary School
Polling Division No. 3 Colonel Hill High School
Polling Division No. 4 Primary School Lovely Bay
Polling Division No. 5 Primary School Snug Corner
Polling Division No. 6 High School Pompey Bay
Polling Division No. 7 Primary School Salina Point
Polling Division No. 8 Post Office, Long Cay
Polling Division No. 9 Abraham’s Bay High School
Polling Division No. 10 Pirates Well Primary School
Polling Division No. 11 High School, Matthew Town
Polling Division No. 12 Primary School, Matthew Town



Caribbean Blog International

Holy Cross Constituents in Support of Their Member of Parliament (MP), Sidney Stubbs Flirts with Contempt of Court in Mr Stubbs' Bankruptcy Case

The Bahamas Chief Justice, Sir Burton Hall dismissed Member of Parliament Sidney Stubbs' application to have his bankruptcy order overturned and indicated that the Supreme Court was not hearing an appeal in this matter

Holy Cross Voters Warned

By Candia Dames

candiadames@hotmail.com

Nassau, The Bahamas

24th November 2004

Constituents of Holy Cross who filed a summons in the Supreme Court in support of their Member of Parliament Sidney Stubbs could be in contempt of court, Chief Justice Sir Burton Hall determined on Tuesday.

The summons was actually filed by three constituents seeking to intervene in the proceedings, who also presented what purports to be a petition signed by 180 voters.

The current register has 3,912 registered voters in Holy Cross.

Sir Burton said in each case, the constituent describes himself as a “registered voter in the Holy Cross constituency” and “professes his satisfaction with the judgment debtor (Mr. Stubbs) as his representative.”

He said the application from Mr. Stubbs to have his bankruptcy order set aside or annulled arises out of a private matter and has nothing to do with the constituents.

“The filing of the summons on 17 November and the supporting affidavits raise serious questions as to whether it is an attempt to interfere with the due administration of justice by intimidating the court or the other party to the litigation by the demonstration of the popular support the judgment debtor has in his capacity as a Member of Parliament, irrespective of the merits of his case,” Sir Burton said.

He added, “I trust that parties to actions, and their counsel, would consider carefully the correctitude of documents which they think to file in court.  In this case, I choose not to pursue further the question of contempt and take the course of striking out the summons and affidavits as irrelevant to any issue now before the court and an abuse of its process.”

Mr. Stubbs has insisted throughout the legal fight to have the bankruptcy order against him set aside that he continues to have the full support of his constituents.

He has said that he continues to work in Holy Cross as its MP, although the outstanding case is preventing him from taking his seat in the House of Assembly.

On Tuesday, Sir Burton dismissed Mr. Stubbs’s application to have his bankruptcy order overturned and indicated that the Supreme Court was not hearing an appeal in this matter.

Sir Burton, however, said that if Mr. Stubbs’s counsel can say that he does not have an appeal active before the Privy Council, the Supreme Court would be in a position to consider an application for annulment.

An annulment of the order would acknowledge that Mr. Stubbs has paid his debt and is no longer a bankrupt.

But he can only hold onto his seat if he has a pending appeal.

Attorney Wayne Munroe, who represents the MP’s former creditor, Gina Gonzalez, has insisted that Mr. Stubbs does not have any active appeal.