Branville McCartney and the 2012 election
By ADRIAN GIBSON
ajbahama@hotmail.com
IN THE next general election, it appears that newly independent MP Branville McCartney and his purported new party are hoping that Bahamians are tired of playing musical chairs between the two major parties--FNM and PLP--and are more inclined to vote for, and even elect, a third party force. Frankly, our politically expedient culture, coupled with our more traditional Westminster system--where third parties are speedily dispatched to the political gallows and certain political death--dreams of a third party capturing the imagination of the masses are futile this electoral cycle, regardless of the false promises of support made by many fair-weather bandwagon riders in the months before the official campaigns/rallies kickoff.
Without a doubt, Mr McCartney is a self-styled populist whose recent resignation from the FNM--whilst expressing opposition to the BTC deal with Cable and Wireless Communications--has sent shock waves throughout the political sphere and wider Bahamian society. Indeed, whilst there are some who see McCartney's move as standing up for his beliefs and being demonstrative of him showing that he has heart and isn't merely a bootlicker, others see it as a display that is nothing short of full-blown, megalomaniacal grandstanding.
Contrary to the speculation regarding the BTC sale--where a widespread mutiny was rumoured to be in the works within the ranks of the FNM's Parliamentary caucus and was supposedly inclusive of Mr McCartney and three other FNM MPs--no such incident occurred. Whether the alleged MPs chickened out or not remains a mystery, however, there was no crescendo of voices--within the FNM, among the masses and, I'm told, not even among scores of the employees at BTC--absolutely rebuking the sale of the telecoms company.
Quite honestly, it appears that there will be a political bloodletting in Bamboo Town, with both the FNM and the PLP running candidates and plotting an ambush of Mr McCartney at the polls. With lots of finger-jabbing and verbal bricks being thrown, the contest for the Bamboo Town seat has quickly become a highly contentious matter, seemingly leaving McCartney at a political crossroads and facing a stormy, most combative political season that will see the electoral machinery of both major parties descend upon Bamboo Town.
According to some accounts, Mr McCartney's purported new entity--if it comes to fruition--could feature one or two political rejects who were cast off by the major parties due to character flaws and questionable dealings. Mr McCartney must be careful not to surround himself with shifty characters and sycophants and must, if he leads a new party, seek to establish a renewed sense of purpose and a coherent political philosophy that appeals to the national consciousness. So, is Bran McCartney close-up-ready? What are his views on the Bahamas' future?
It remains to be seen whether Bran McCartney's apparent out-performance of many of his former Cabinet colleagues was merely artificial hype and a fluke because he headed a highly emotive ministry--Immigration--or because he genuinely possessed ideas and leadership acumen. That said, in this upcoming election cycle, it appears the third party votes will merely tip the scale in favour of one of the major parties as opposed to the other, and not the third parties themselves. I'm doubtful that any of the current or yet-to-be-announced third parties in a general election have reached the stage where they would've encroached upon the percentage of any given party (FNM/PLP) to make people think that a third party is a force to be reckoned with.
Can Mr McCartney woo independent, non-ideological voters particularly in this age of identity politics? Will Mr McCartney's resignation and the impending showdown in Bamboo Town, coupled with the formation of a new party, expose him as having stepped into a pair of oversized shoes?
As good an MP as he appears to have been, will Mr McCartney find himself hopelessly in the political wilderness after the next election?
And, why didn't Mr McCartney own his political moment and vote no to the BTC sale whilst sitting as an FNM and then allow the FNM to expel him from the party? Why did he resign and walk out of Parliament instead of facing the music-- wouldn't that have had greater historical effect? No doubt, he would have gone down in history and become an even bigger political rock star.
Why didn't McCartney bring some of his Bamboo Town constituents with him to Parliament as a show of support for his vote on the BTC sale and his resignation from the FNM?
Indeed, it is true that some within the FNM are whooping and hollering now that Mr McCartney has divorced the party, particularly as he was a strong threat to their chances of ascending to the FNM leadership in the post-Ingraham era (likely 2017).
Has McCartney's political stock depreciated from self-inflicted wounds or is it just burgeoning?
Did McCartney buy into his own public relations?
Is the FNM's ongoing and much publicized response to Mr McCartney's resignation an indication of a seismic crack in their electoral machinery? Now that McCartney has abandoned the FNM, will he ever be catapulted into a much higher political stratosphere--that is, that of Prime Minister? Will Mr McCartney do a "Bernard Nottage" and abandon the proposed political entity and one day return to the FNM, this time to assume the party's leadership? Is McCartney's rumoured formation of a new party merely a vehicle to demonstrate his leadership abilities in hopes of impressing the internal machinery of the FNM and being invited back as their political saviour in 2017?
As I said in an earlier column, now that Bran McCartney has taken his fate into his own hands, if he remains an independent--a true independent--he's likely to still attract many marginal, non-ideological and independent-minded voters--a class of voters that's rapidly expanding with today's younger, more educated electorate.
Indeed, there remains a jingoistic adoration of the Bamboo Town MP. Moreover, Mr McCartney--regardless of the chair throwing and stirring dramatics at the FNM's recent town hall meeting in the constituency--has a sizeable FNM following and FNMs have, in the past, shown themselves willing to vote independent if they feel that the party didn't do the right thing. In this case, McCartney may not find that support as many FNMs feel like he walked out on them.
Frankly, Mr McCartney would likely suffer a political death if he joins another party--or perhaps forms his own--and thereby returns to the electorate after one term with another "label" attached.
Quite honestly, McCartney should postpone any plans for a third party and instead focus on winning his own seat!
Moreover, this political season Mr McCartney must avoid appearing like a disgruntled FNM and engaging in petty bickering, instead promulgating ideas and promoting national initiatives.
In Bamboo Town, he has demonstrated an ideal work ethic and has a body of work--within the constituency--to bolster his campaign. McCartney, among his constituents, is heralded as a hard worker, a young man who understands the true purpose of Parliamentary representation of his constituents.
Reliable sources have informed me that there are plans afoot to outfox Mr McCartney at the polls, writing him off as a showman, whose "groundless" braggadocio, will douse his electoral prospects and place him on a treadmill to oblivion whilst also serving as a teachable moment to a cadre of political newcomers. One FNM insider advised me to watch the "shifting landscape."
Bran McCartney must now wade through a political minefield and, as one who was once considered the future face of the FNM, his resignation has led to a man--who potentially could've risen to the leadership of the FNM--ushering himself out of the throne room.
Frankly, if Mr McCartney is relegated to the political dustbin following the next general election, he would be another politician crushed by the machinery of the major parties. However, if he wins, he's likely to be a force to be reckoned with, particularly if he articulates ideas and is not blinded by ego.
That said, if the Bahamas continues to be a red (FNM) and gold (PLP) state, young persons promoting change and aspiring for leadership may have to fight from within the internal structure of the major parties, seeking to convince council and executive members of the value of their candidacy and the importance of new ideas in advancing the country--unless, of course, there is a political revolution!
April 09, 2011
tribune242
A political blog about Bahamian politics in The Bahamas, Bahamian Politicans - and the entire Bahamas political lot. Bahamian Blogger Dennis Dames keeps you updated on the political news and views throughout the islands of The Bahamas without fear or favor. Bahamian Politicians and the Bahamian Political Arena: Updates one Post at a time on Bahamas Politics and Bahamas Politicans; and their local, regional and international policies and perspectives.
Showing posts with label Bamboo Town Bahamas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bamboo Town Bahamas. Show all posts
Monday, April 18, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
A Message From Branville McCartney - MP - Bamboo Town
A Message From MP McCartney
...That all elected officials may respond to the needs of their community and serve the common good – we pray to the Lord – Lord hear our prayer.
We are so very fortunate to be blessed by God with such a beautiful country and, indeed, for the most part, beautiful, kind, generous and God fearing people. I, just like so many other persons, am convinced that there is no other place in this world like the Bahamas! But what are we doing or not doing to our beloved country? Are we settling for mediocrity and accepting it as the best we have?
Are we letting politics get in the way? I have no doubt that The Bahamas ought to be more than a “Little Switzerland” in the Atlantic, but are we doing our part?
A few weeks ago, while at church, I listened intently to the intercessory prayer – “that all elected officials may respond to the needs of their community and serve the common good – we pray to the Lord – Lord hear our prayer”. This intercessory stuck in my mind and I wondered if our elected officials, including me, respond to the needs of their community. Now I take that to mean the community of the Bahamas and its welfare. For the most part, I think we respond, but in the wrong way and for the wrong reasons. In my humble view, I think that we have become so polarized/political/partisan that we lose sight of what is the “common good” of the community; what is indeed the common good of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people. We tend to put PLP and the FNM and their respective colours before the people of the Bahamas. This should not be! We should be at a stage where we have moved beyond petty politics.
Now do not get me wrong, there is a time and a place for politics, but the interest and the welfare of the Bahamian people must be priority number one! I am not sure we, as politicians, appreciate this notion.
In Bamboo Town, my theme colour is the olive green – not red and white,not yellow, but the olive green. That colour signifies that I am extending the olive branch to all members of my constituency, inclusive of – FNMs, PLPs and ABCs. You see, if I were to have the FNM’s colours, the odds are, only the FNMs will participate in the many programs we have in the community. What then happens to those who are not FNM or those who do not vote, perhaps became of religious or other reasons? The idea, put simply, is for ALL to participate! It does not matter to me what political persuasion you are. I am the representative for all and my aim is for the common good. As a result, I have had the good fortune of persons of different political persuasions, and quite pleasantly surprisingly persons who do not participate in the political process for one reason or the other, join and assist in programs that we have in Bamboo Town. That is because we are about community not politics.
I do pray to the Almighty that we do not become like some of our neighbouring countries to the south where violence is the order of the day when it comes to politics. Let us not follow in their footsteps.
In my resignation statement, I said that I fear that we are going in the wrong direction politically. This is what I meant. It is time that we respond to the needs of our respective communities and serve the common good – Lord hear our prayer.
Taken from: REPRESENT!
Your voice in Bamboo Town
Vol. 1 Issue 15
January 2011 Edition
Bahamas Blog International
...That all elected officials may respond to the needs of their community and serve the common good – we pray to the Lord – Lord hear our prayer.
We are so very fortunate to be blessed by God with such a beautiful country and, indeed, for the most part, beautiful, kind, generous and God fearing people. I, just like so many other persons, am convinced that there is no other place in this world like the Bahamas! But what are we doing or not doing to our beloved country? Are we settling for mediocrity and accepting it as the best we have?
Are we letting politics get in the way? I have no doubt that The Bahamas ought to be more than a “Little Switzerland” in the Atlantic, but are we doing our part?
A few weeks ago, while at church, I listened intently to the intercessory prayer – “that all elected officials may respond to the needs of their community and serve the common good – we pray to the Lord – Lord hear our prayer”. This intercessory stuck in my mind and I wondered if our elected officials, including me, respond to the needs of their community. Now I take that to mean the community of the Bahamas and its welfare. For the most part, I think we respond, but in the wrong way and for the wrong reasons. In my humble view, I think that we have become so polarized/political/partisan that we lose sight of what is the “common good” of the community; what is indeed the common good of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people. We tend to put PLP and the FNM and their respective colours before the people of the Bahamas. This should not be! We should be at a stage where we have moved beyond petty politics.
Now do not get me wrong, there is a time and a place for politics, but the interest and the welfare of the Bahamian people must be priority number one! I am not sure we, as politicians, appreciate this notion.
In Bamboo Town, my theme colour is the olive green – not red and white,not yellow, but the olive green. That colour signifies that I am extending the olive branch to all members of my constituency, inclusive of – FNMs, PLPs and ABCs. You see, if I were to have the FNM’s colours, the odds are, only the FNMs will participate in the many programs we have in the community. What then happens to those who are not FNM or those who do not vote, perhaps became of religious or other reasons? The idea, put simply, is for ALL to participate! It does not matter to me what political persuasion you are. I am the representative for all and my aim is for the common good. As a result, I have had the good fortune of persons of different political persuasions, and quite pleasantly surprisingly persons who do not participate in the political process for one reason or the other, join and assist in programs that we have in Bamboo Town. That is because we are about community not politics.
I do pray to the Almighty that we do not become like some of our neighbouring countries to the south where violence is the order of the day when it comes to politics. Let us not follow in their footsteps.
In my resignation statement, I said that I fear that we are going in the wrong direction politically. This is what I meant. It is time that we respond to the needs of our respective communities and serve the common good – Lord hear our prayer.
Taken from: REPRESENT!
Your voice in Bamboo Town
Vol. 1 Issue 15
January 2011 Edition
Bahamas Blog International
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Branville McCartney says he supports the FNM and its leadership... but its leader - Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham - lacks compassion in relation to the suffering, misfortune, and future of the Bahamian people
MP McCartney: PM LACKS COMPASSION
By KRYSTEL ROLLE
Guardian Staff Reporter
krystel@nasguard.com
Predicts FNM will face challenges in next election
Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney predicted yesterday that the Free National Movement (FNM) will be challenged during the upcoming general election in part because of its leader’s lack of compassion toward the Bahamian people.
“At this stage, I’d certainly want [the FNM] to succeed, but we have our challenges,” said McCartney, while a guest on the Star 106.5 radio talk show ‘Jeffrey’ with host Jeff Lloyd.
“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.”
McCartney — who resigned from the Ingraham Cabinet nearly a year ago — said voters want to see a different approach to governance.
Among other things, he said Bahamians want to see the government’s plans for the future of the country and opportunities that would be provided to them.
“They want to know that this place called the Commonwealth of The Bahamas is for Bahamians,” he said.
McCartney has made it known that he wants to be a future leader of the FNM. Since stepping down as Minister of State for Immigration in February 2010, he has been careful, though, not to publicly criticize Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham in any strong terms.
He said yesterday that if he were leader, he would do things a little differently from Ingraham.
“The difference I think is you need to listen. I don’t profess to have all the answers. I will give persons the respect that they deserve,” he said.
McCartney was expected to challenge Ingraham for the leadership had the FNM held a convention last year.
Asked yesterday if he had conversations with Prime Minister Ingraham about his future with the party, McCartney said he has not spoken to Ingraham since he resigned from the Cabinet.
He said it is still unclear whether he will be chosen by the party to contest the Bamboo Town seat in the general election.
“I would like a nomination, but if I don’t get it I’m going to move on. The party makes that decision, not me. That’s out of my hands,” he said.
McCartney added that whether or not he is chosen to run on the FNM’s ticket for Bamboo Town, he will offer as a candidate in the election.
“[I would run] independent or otherwise; we will see what happens,” he said when pressed on the matter.
McCartney added however that he supports the FNM and its leadership.
2/2/2011
thenassauguardian
By KRYSTEL ROLLE
Guardian Staff Reporter
krystel@nasguard.com
Predicts FNM will face challenges in next election
Bamboo Town MP Branville McCartney predicted yesterday that the Free National Movement (FNM) will be challenged during the upcoming general election in part because of its leader’s lack of compassion toward the Bahamian people.
“At this stage, I’d certainly want [the FNM] to succeed, but we have our challenges,” said McCartney, while a guest on the Star 106.5 radio talk show ‘Jeffrey’ with host Jeff Lloyd.
“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.”
McCartney — who resigned from the Ingraham Cabinet nearly a year ago — said voters want to see a different approach to governance.
Among other things, he said Bahamians want to see the government’s plans for the future of the country and opportunities that would be provided to them.
“They want to know that this place called the Commonwealth of The Bahamas is for Bahamians,” he said.
McCartney has made it known that he wants to be a future leader of the FNM. Since stepping down as Minister of State for Immigration in February 2010, he has been careful, though, not to publicly criticize Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham in any strong terms.
He said yesterday that if he were leader, he would do things a little differently from Ingraham.
“The difference I think is you need to listen. I don’t profess to have all the answers. I will give persons the respect that they deserve,” he said.
McCartney was expected to challenge Ingraham for the leadership had the FNM held a convention last year.
Asked yesterday if he had conversations with Prime Minister Ingraham about his future with the party, McCartney said he has not spoken to Ingraham since he resigned from the Cabinet.
He said it is still unclear whether he will be chosen by the party to contest the Bamboo Town seat in the general election.
“I would like a nomination, but if I don’t get it I’m going to move on. The party makes that decision, not me. That’s out of my hands,” he said.
McCartney added that whether or not he is chosen to run on the FNM’s ticket for Bamboo Town, he will offer as a candidate in the election.
“[I would run] independent or otherwise; we will see what happens,” he said when pressed on the matter.
McCartney added however that he supports the FNM and its leadership.
2/2/2011
thenassauguardian
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Branville McCartney - Member of Parliament for Bamboo Town says: ...that there are a lot of men in his area who are in need of jobs
Men In Bamboo Town Want Jobs
By Sasha L. Lightbourne:
It’s something you find in every community – men who are unemployed and looking for jobs – and certainly that was the case in Bamboo Town where several young men who are residing in the area said one of the things their member of parliament can do is to put on a job fair.
Member of Parliament for Bamboo Town, Branville McCartney acknowledged that there are a lot of men in the area in need of jobs.
"We are trying to get a men’s forum together because we do have quite a number of men who are unemployed," he said.
"They feel despondent and frustrated so we are trying to get some persons in to talk to them like social workers and psychiatrists so I have to acknowledge that one of the areas I am having difficulty in is trying to get the young men involved in certain things."
Mr. McCartney said it is difficult to reach out to all the young men but because his Constituency is so large it is often hard to do so.
One of the men we spoke to in the area agreed that more jobs should be created in the area.
"I think one of the things Mr. McCartney can do is put on a job fair," Mr. King said.
"People have this misconception that young men out there don’t want to work and that is wrong. I got laid off last year and have been looking for a job ever since but it has been hard to find a job. Everyone is saying that they are not hiring because of the economy."
He explained that it is hard not having a job especially when you have a family to support.
"You have to look at the high crime rate in the country and wonder are these people just being nuisances or do they have no other choice," Mr. King asked.
"It’s hard out there. I just hope Mr. McCartney sees the young men in his constituency and will respond by assisting them. We are not looking for any handouts but we can find ways to create jobs in this constituency, only if that’s to cut grass then that’s what it has to be but something has to be done."
When we spoke to Mr. McCartney last week he told the Bahama Journal that several job fairs had been held in the past and there are plans to host another one later this year.
"We want to continue doing those kinds of things but the people have to come out and support it," he said.
"It’s expensive to put on those initiatives and then no one shows up. We also have regular community meetings as well as association meetings where we discuss these types of things with constituents so we can find out what the needs of the community are."
August 9th, 2010
jonesbahamas
By Sasha L. Lightbourne:
It’s something you find in every community – men who are unemployed and looking for jobs – and certainly that was the case in Bamboo Town where several young men who are residing in the area said one of the things their member of parliament can do is to put on a job fair.
Member of Parliament for Bamboo Town, Branville McCartney acknowledged that there are a lot of men in the area in need of jobs.
"We are trying to get a men’s forum together because we do have quite a number of men who are unemployed," he said.
"They feel despondent and frustrated so we are trying to get some persons in to talk to them like social workers and psychiatrists so I have to acknowledge that one of the areas I am having difficulty in is trying to get the young men involved in certain things."
Mr. McCartney said it is difficult to reach out to all the young men but because his Constituency is so large it is often hard to do so.
One of the men we spoke to in the area agreed that more jobs should be created in the area.
"I think one of the things Mr. McCartney can do is put on a job fair," Mr. King said.
"People have this misconception that young men out there don’t want to work and that is wrong. I got laid off last year and have been looking for a job ever since but it has been hard to find a job. Everyone is saying that they are not hiring because of the economy."
He explained that it is hard not having a job especially when you have a family to support.
"You have to look at the high crime rate in the country and wonder are these people just being nuisances or do they have no other choice," Mr. King asked.
"It’s hard out there. I just hope Mr. McCartney sees the young men in his constituency and will respond by assisting them. We are not looking for any handouts but we can find ways to create jobs in this constituency, only if that’s to cut grass then that’s what it has to be but something has to be done."
When we spoke to Mr. McCartney last week he told the Bahama Journal that several job fairs had been held in the past and there are plans to host another one later this year.
"We want to continue doing those kinds of things but the people have to come out and support it," he said.
"It’s expensive to put on those initiatives and then no one shows up. We also have regular community meetings as well as association meetings where we discuss these types of things with constituents so we can find out what the needs of the community are."
August 9th, 2010
jonesbahamas
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Branville McCartney: I wouldn't want to be a Cabinet minister anymore
By JASMIN BONIMY ~ Guardian Staff Reporter ~ jasmin@nasguard.com:
Former Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney said yesterday he would not be seeking another Cabinet post even if the Free National Movement wins the next general election.
McCartney resigned from Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham's Cabinet on February 28. The Bamboo Town member of Parliament said he has no regrets about leaving the post.
"From the political point of view I would like to see the FNM win the next elections," McCartney said. "They have done a tremendous job and their work is not finished. I wouldn't want to be a Cabinet minister anymore but of course I would be there to assist in any way I can to help the party to win the next election."
McCartney added that giving up his time-consuming post has allowed him to concentrate on other areas of his life.
"It's been going good," he said. "I've been spending a lot of time in Bamboo Town and as you can see there are numerous things going on in Bamboo Town. I've had a lot of time to spend with my family, fishing, and traveling. So it's been good."
Sources close to McCartney said he had been planning to resign since January, but stayed on because he didn't want to hurt the FNM's chances in the Elizabeth by-election in February. The party's candidate Dr. Duane Sands lost by three votes to the Progressive Liberal Party's Ryan Pinder.
Shortly after he announced he was stepping down, McCartney told The Nassau Guardian that despite his resignation he remained committed to the FNM and would continue to be loyal to the leadership of Prime Minister Ingraham.
Now weeks after he resigned, he said there has been no backlash from the decision as he continues to share a cordial relationship with his FNM peers.
"You have a right to resign," he said. "It may have been a shock to some persons but for me it was well thought out. I haven't received any tension from any of my former Cabinet ministers, the prime minister or any officer of the party. It's been very cordial."
McCartney reiterated that he believes the FNM is the party best suited to govern the country through tough economic times
And while McCartney would not say if he was eyeing the FNM's top post, The Guardian understands that he has been considered by some people as a front-runner for the leadership of the FNM in the future.
"I want to continue to serve the country to my best at a position where I can speak from my heart and speak to what I think is best, good and right," McCartney said. "So I'm at a good place right now. So whatever comes we will see."
April 22, 2010
thenassauguardian
Former Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney said yesterday he would not be seeking another Cabinet post even if the Free National Movement wins the next general election.
McCartney resigned from Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham's Cabinet on February 28. The Bamboo Town member of Parliament said he has no regrets about leaving the post.
"From the political point of view I would like to see the FNM win the next elections," McCartney said. "They have done a tremendous job and their work is not finished. I wouldn't want to be a Cabinet minister anymore but of course I would be there to assist in any way I can to help the party to win the next election."
McCartney added that giving up his time-consuming post has allowed him to concentrate on other areas of his life.
"It's been going good," he said. "I've been spending a lot of time in Bamboo Town and as you can see there are numerous things going on in Bamboo Town. I've had a lot of time to spend with my family, fishing, and traveling. So it's been good."
Sources close to McCartney said he had been planning to resign since January, but stayed on because he didn't want to hurt the FNM's chances in the Elizabeth by-election in February. The party's candidate Dr. Duane Sands lost by three votes to the Progressive Liberal Party's Ryan Pinder.
Shortly after he announced he was stepping down, McCartney told The Nassau Guardian that despite his resignation he remained committed to the FNM and would continue to be loyal to the leadership of Prime Minister Ingraham.
Now weeks after he resigned, he said there has been no backlash from the decision as he continues to share a cordial relationship with his FNM peers.
"You have a right to resign," he said. "It may have been a shock to some persons but for me it was well thought out. I haven't received any tension from any of my former Cabinet ministers, the prime minister or any officer of the party. It's been very cordial."
McCartney reiterated that he believes the FNM is the party best suited to govern the country through tough economic times
And while McCartney would not say if he was eyeing the FNM's top post, The Guardian understands that he has been considered by some people as a front-runner for the leadership of the FNM in the future.
"I want to continue to serve the country to my best at a position where I can speak from my heart and speak to what I think is best, good and right," McCartney said. "So I'm at a good place right now. So whatever comes we will see."
April 22, 2010
thenassauguardian
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Branville McCartney: I won't take blame for Elizabeth vote
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
FORMER Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney last night hit out at suggestions by senior FNM officials that he was to blame for the party's less than stellar performance in the Elizabeth by-election.
According to sources within the FNM, Mr McCartney was berated at an FNM council meeting last week where a number of meritorious council members (MCM) took the MP to task for the poor showing at the polls in Polling Division 11.
This division, which was headed by the FNM's Minister of State for the Environment Phenton Neymour, was also worked by Mr McCartney who these sources claim, failed to show any "inspiration in his designated duties."
This lack of "inspiration" they claimed was due to the suspicion that the MP was not in favour of the party's candidate Dr Duane Sands, who Mr McCartney could possibly see as another challenger for the leadership of the party if and when the opportunity arose.
"So it came as no surprise to me that he would have resigned," the source added. "Who knows, maybe he was trying to pre-empt what was already in the process of being done."
However, according to Mr McCartney, he has always supported the FNM's candidate in Elizabeth and any suggestion otherwise is completely ridiculous. Further to that, he added that if he did not support Dr Sands he would not have campaigned for him, and the suggestion that he was not "working hard enough" is nothing more than a vicious lie.
"I said publicly on radio my support for Dr Sands. I said that Dr Sands is the best man for the job. My record will speak for itself. You can ask people who campaigned with me," he said.
To Mr McCartney's credit, the MP did note in his resignation letter that he had withheld making this announcement until after the by-election so that it would not hurt the party's chances in Elizabeth.
Reiterating this point, the Bamboo Town MP said he could not possibly be blamed for what happened in Elizabeth as all indicators were revealing that the election was going to be a "close race."
In fact, other sources within the party have suggested that it was the Prime Minister's change in Immigration policy following the earthquake in Haiti that caused the party a number of voters who decided not to show up at the polls.
However, Mr McCartney would not respond to this aspect and maintained that he will be focusing his attention on the affairs of his constituency at this time.
He did say, however, that he remains of the view that if he were to make a push for the leadership of the FNM at some later date, his resignation from the Cabinet of the Bahamas would not be held against him.
"I acted on my personal convictions. And when you act on that you are doing what is right. And when you are doing what is right, how can that hurt you?
"I have not resigned from the party or from my constituency. I intend now to even speak more on other national issues without Cabinet collective responsibility," he said.
As such, the MP said that he will continue to champion the cause of the Bahamian people at large on national issues which will range from Immigration to crime, to land security and border protection.
March 03, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
FORMER Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney last night hit out at suggestions by senior FNM officials that he was to blame for the party's less than stellar performance in the Elizabeth by-election.
According to sources within the FNM, Mr McCartney was berated at an FNM council meeting last week where a number of meritorious council members (MCM) took the MP to task for the poor showing at the polls in Polling Division 11.
This division, which was headed by the FNM's Minister of State for the Environment Phenton Neymour, was also worked by Mr McCartney who these sources claim, failed to show any "inspiration in his designated duties."
This lack of "inspiration" they claimed was due to the suspicion that the MP was not in favour of the party's candidate Dr Duane Sands, who Mr McCartney could possibly see as another challenger for the leadership of the party if and when the opportunity arose.
"So it came as no surprise to me that he would have resigned," the source added. "Who knows, maybe he was trying to pre-empt what was already in the process of being done."
However, according to Mr McCartney, he has always supported the FNM's candidate in Elizabeth and any suggestion otherwise is completely ridiculous. Further to that, he added that if he did not support Dr Sands he would not have campaigned for him, and the suggestion that he was not "working hard enough" is nothing more than a vicious lie.
"I said publicly on radio my support for Dr Sands. I said that Dr Sands is the best man for the job. My record will speak for itself. You can ask people who campaigned with me," he said.
To Mr McCartney's credit, the MP did note in his resignation letter that he had withheld making this announcement until after the by-election so that it would not hurt the party's chances in Elizabeth.
Reiterating this point, the Bamboo Town MP said he could not possibly be blamed for what happened in Elizabeth as all indicators were revealing that the election was going to be a "close race."
In fact, other sources within the party have suggested that it was the Prime Minister's change in Immigration policy following the earthquake in Haiti that caused the party a number of voters who decided not to show up at the polls.
However, Mr McCartney would not respond to this aspect and maintained that he will be focusing his attention on the affairs of his constituency at this time.
He did say, however, that he remains of the view that if he were to make a push for the leadership of the FNM at some later date, his resignation from the Cabinet of the Bahamas would not be held against him.
"I acted on my personal convictions. And when you act on that you are doing what is right. And when you are doing what is right, how can that hurt you?
"I have not resigned from the party or from my constituency. I intend now to even speak more on other national issues without Cabinet collective responsibility," he said.
As such, the MP said that he will continue to champion the cause of the Bahamian people at large on national issues which will range from Immigration to crime, to land security and border protection.
March 03, 2010
tribune242
Branville McCartney: 'I want to run for FNM in Bamboo Town at next election'
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
IN LIGHT of his resignation from the Cabinet, Former Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney said he hoped he would not be denied a nomination to run as an FNM in the Bamboo Town constituency whenever the next general election is called.
Speaking to The Tribune at his constituency office yesterday, the popular MP said he was hopeful Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham would not seek to "punish" him as he has not yet even made up his mind if he will in fact run again for the House of Assembly.
"I had five years to serve. Right now I have two more years. If I don't get a nomination from the party I doubt I will run as an Independent -- or anything else for that matter. I would have done my time, and I would have done my time well. I guarantee you that. I would have done my time well and I will move on," he said.
As he is widely considered to be one of the few Members of Parliament who can claim to have a "sure seat" due to his representation and work in the area, it is often said that Mr McCartney does not need the FNM backing to win his seat in Bamboo Town.
However, despite this, the MP maintains that he came into Bamboo Town as and FNM and he will leave Bamboo Town as an FNM.
Having resigned from his Cabinet post over the weekend, Mr McCartney said that he will now focus his time on his family and the constituency of Bamboo Town, giving both the "representation and support they need and deserve at this time."
"My strengths will be invested in making them stronger. My energy and ambition will hopefully lead to greater opportunities for them. There have indeed been some very thrilling high points along the way, one of which I am very proud to share with you today. My wife Lisa, my daughters Kasia and Tai and I have welcomed a new member to our family, Lawrence Khail McCartney.
"The birth of each of our children has provided us unbounded joy and emotion and a welcome reminder that life is more about the moments than the occasions, and success in life depends on how well you are able to determine and manage the order of your priorities -- by the acceleration of some, the abeyance of others and the acceptance that in life nothing comes before its time," he said.
March 03, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
IN LIGHT of his resignation from the Cabinet, Former Minister of State for Immigration Branville McCartney said he hoped he would not be denied a nomination to run as an FNM in the Bamboo Town constituency whenever the next general election is called.
Speaking to The Tribune at his constituency office yesterday, the popular MP said he was hopeful Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham would not seek to "punish" him as he has not yet even made up his mind if he will in fact run again for the House of Assembly.
"I had five years to serve. Right now I have two more years. If I don't get a nomination from the party I doubt I will run as an Independent -- or anything else for that matter. I would have done my time, and I would have done my time well. I guarantee you that. I would have done my time well and I will move on," he said.
As he is widely considered to be one of the few Members of Parliament who can claim to have a "sure seat" due to his representation and work in the area, it is often said that Mr McCartney does not need the FNM backing to win his seat in Bamboo Town.
However, despite this, the MP maintains that he came into Bamboo Town as and FNM and he will leave Bamboo Town as an FNM.
Having resigned from his Cabinet post over the weekend, Mr McCartney said that he will now focus his time on his family and the constituency of Bamboo Town, giving both the "representation and support they need and deserve at this time."
"My strengths will be invested in making them stronger. My energy and ambition will hopefully lead to greater opportunities for them. There have indeed been some very thrilling high points along the way, one of which I am very proud to share with you today. My wife Lisa, my daughters Kasia and Tai and I have welcomed a new member to our family, Lawrence Khail McCartney.
"The birth of each of our children has provided us unbounded joy and emotion and a welcome reminder that life is more about the moments than the occasions, and success in life depends on how well you are able to determine and manage the order of your priorities -- by the acceleration of some, the abeyance of others and the acceptance that in life nothing comes before its time," he said.
March 03, 2010
tribune242
Free National Movement (FNM) defectors weigh in on Branville McCartney resignation
NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
FRESH on the heels of his resignation from the Cabinet, Branville McCartney may now have to face political isolation according to his predecessor.
Tennyson Wells, like Mr McCartney, represented the constituency of Bamboo Town under the banner of the FNM. He resigned his Cabinet seat in 2000 to vie for the leadership of the party, which he lost to Tommy Turnquest. Mr Wells later quit the party after what he termed "serious differences of opinion" and sat in parliament as an independent.
Commenting on what he thinks the future will hold for Mr McCartney, Mr Wells said: "I think he will have to continue to look over his back, look over his shoulder, because the rest of his colleagues are not going to stand with him whether he is right or wrong. The vast majority are not going to stand with him even if they know he was right.
Reality
"They want to maintain or enhance their position. They are not going to stand up like men and women. That is the sad reality of politics in this country."
In a statement released by Mr McCartney over the weekend, the former Minister of State for Immigration said the main reason he quit was a feeling of stagnation and a sense that he was not fully utilising his "political potential."
Mr Wells said he was not surprised by the resignation, even though he had not followed the situation closely, as such conflicts are a feature of FNM governments.
He pointed to the example of his colleague Pierre Dupuch, another former member of an FNM Cabinet who was fired by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham in 2000, after being accused of undermining Mr Ingraham's authority.
Yesterday, Mr Wells said he feels that despite his five-year sabbatical from politics, Mr Ingraham has changed little.
"He basically wants to do everything himself, which is impossible and the country suffers from it and will continue to suffer from it. No man is an island and we are all interdependent. Each of us ought to consider other people's views and give them consideration. No one has all the answers to all the problems in the country. When we realise this it will be better for everybody," Mr Wells said.
March 03, 2010
tribune242.com
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net:
FRESH on the heels of his resignation from the Cabinet, Branville McCartney may now have to face political isolation according to his predecessor.
Tennyson Wells, like Mr McCartney, represented the constituency of Bamboo Town under the banner of the FNM. He resigned his Cabinet seat in 2000 to vie for the leadership of the party, which he lost to Tommy Turnquest. Mr Wells later quit the party after what he termed "serious differences of opinion" and sat in parliament as an independent.
Commenting on what he thinks the future will hold for Mr McCartney, Mr Wells said: "I think he will have to continue to look over his back, look over his shoulder, because the rest of his colleagues are not going to stand with him whether he is right or wrong. The vast majority are not going to stand with him even if they know he was right.
Reality
"They want to maintain or enhance their position. They are not going to stand up like men and women. That is the sad reality of politics in this country."
In a statement released by Mr McCartney over the weekend, the former Minister of State for Immigration said the main reason he quit was a feeling of stagnation and a sense that he was not fully utilising his "political potential."
Mr Wells said he was not surprised by the resignation, even though he had not followed the situation closely, as such conflicts are a feature of FNM governments.
He pointed to the example of his colleague Pierre Dupuch, another former member of an FNM Cabinet who was fired by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham in 2000, after being accused of undermining Mr Ingraham's authority.
Yesterday, Mr Wells said he feels that despite his five-year sabbatical from politics, Mr Ingraham has changed little.
"He basically wants to do everything himself, which is impossible and the country suffers from it and will continue to suffer from it. No man is an island and we are all interdependent. Each of us ought to consider other people's views and give them consideration. No one has all the answers to all the problems in the country. When we realise this it will be better for everybody," Mr Wells said.
March 03, 2010
tribune242.com
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