Butler's candor is refreshing
thenassauguardian editorial
Craig Butler yesterday left the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). He was the party’s treasurer. Butler is the grandson of the first Bahamian Governor General, Sir Milo Butler. He is also the brother of Free National Movement (FNM) Cabinet Minister and Montagu Member of Parliament Loretta Butler-Turner.
Butler, an attorney, was denied the PLP nomination to run as a candidate in the February 2010 Elizabeth by-election and he was again denied the PLP nomination to run as the party’s candidate in the Kennedy constituency at the next general election. Attorney Dion Smith received the nomination.
Butler knows the party will not give him a nomination as a candidate. It thinks he would be a liability as a candidate.
Butler has publicly acknowledged that he had a drug problem in the past. On the Star 106.5 FM talk show Jeffery yesterday with host Jeffery Lloyd, after his resignation, Butler said his drug use began in the 1990s when he went away to university.
His drug use ended late in 2001 or early 2002, Butler added. In 2008, he was charged with causing harm to his wife Terrel, who is also an attorney. The matter was later dropped.
Regarding the drug use, it was refreshing to hear a public figure come forward and disclose that he is not perfect.
None of us are.
Many Bahamians, doctors, lawyers, teachers, politicians and others have struggled with substance abuse. It is a triumph when an addict overcomes and resumes living a balanced life. If a person has truly overcome, such past indiscretions should not bar that person from serving the community.
In fact, such a story of failure and triumph could be inspirational to many, especially young people who have had similar struggles.
That being said, all should be aware that political parties worldwide shy away from candidates with public histories of drug abuse. The fear is that the past struggles could be perceived as signs of deficiency and inadequacy.
For young people going into politics, Butler’s struggle to attain a nomination should be a cautionary tale. The past can be held against you.
The PLP, though, must be careful that it does not come out of this looking hypocritical. In the 1984 Commission of Inquiry report, many senior PLPs were accused of drug related corruption. Many PLPs during the party’s last term in office, from 2002 to 2007, also had scandals. Many ran, nonetheless, in the 2007 general election. Some will run again in the next general election.
It’s strange to deny Butler and to allow some of the others in the PLP to run again and again, or to be appointed to senior government posts, when they too had mishaps in the past.
Jun 02, 2011
thenassauguardian editorial
A political blog about Bahamian politics in The Bahamas, Bahamian Politicans - and the entire Bahamas political lot. Bahamian Blogger Dennis Dames keeps you updated on the political news and views throughout the islands of The Bahamas without fear or favor. Bahamian Politicians and the Bahamian Political Arena: Updates one Post at a time on Bahamas Politics and Bahamas Politicans; and their local, regional and international policies and perspectives.
Showing posts with label Craig Butler. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Craig Butler. Show all posts
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Craig Butler - treasurer of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), resigned from his post and the opposition party
PLP treasurer resigns
BRENT DEAN
NG Deputy News Editor
thenassauguardian
brentldean@nasguard.com
Craig Butler, treasurer of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), resigned yesterday from his post and the opposition party and vowed to run as a candidate in the Kennedy constituency at the next general election.
“It should come as no surprise to political observers that I've grown disillusioned with this once great political organization, the PLP, to which my grandfather (Sir Milo Butler) dedicated and fought so diligently to secure our Bahamas,” said Butler at Rawson Square near the bust of his grandfather.
“I too joined the ranks feeling compelled to walk in his great footsteps and wanting to give of myself unselfishly as he so freely did. After a period of prayer, deep reflection and contemplation I have reached the end of my journey and today I sever all ties with the PLP.”
Butler, an attorney, was denied the PLP nomination to run as a candidate in the Elizabeth by-election in February 2010. He was again denied the PLP nomination to run as the party’s candidate in Kennedy at the next general election. Attorney Dion Smith received the nomination.
On the Star 106.5 FM radio talk show ‘Jeffrey’ with host Jeffrey Lloyd, Butler confirmed his candidacy for Kennedy in some form. This could be as an independent candidate or aligned with a political organization.
Butler has said that PLP leader Perry Christie has told him he will not get a nomination from the party.
Butler has also publicly acknowledged that he had a drug problem in the past, one he has overcome. In 2008, he was charged with causing harm to his wife Terrel, who is also an attorney. The matter was later dropped.
Butler, however, has argued that he deserves a ‘second chance’ similar to that given to others in the PLP who have made errors in the past.
“The measure of my character is filled with lifelong lessons and though my journey has been one with tremendous setbacks, it is precisely these lessons that have made me who I am today. I possess an indomitable spirit that has afforded me the opportunity to understand and appreciate the struggles of the down trodden and the marginalized,” said Butler.
He described the current PLP as, “not the organization for which Milo Butler so proudly and diligently fought for.”
Butler’s grandfather Sir Milo was the first Bahamian governor general. Craig Butler is also the brother of Free National Movement (FNM) Cabinet Minister and Montagu Member of Parliament Loretta Butler-Turner.
“As an offspring of Sir Milo Butler I found it impossible to sit idly by and allow others to dictate what my future should be,” he said.
“I wish to no longer be a spectator but an active participant in helping to formulate policies and solutions for our nation’s challenges, its growth and development, a Bahamas that would allow future generations to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.”
Butler became the PLP’s treasurer at the party’s convention in October 2009. In September 2009, the PLP treasurer before Butler, Sidney Cambridge, also resigned after he was charged by the government of the United States with money laundering.
Jun 02, 2011
thenassauguardian
BRENT DEAN
NG Deputy News Editor
thenassauguardian
brentldean@nasguard.com
Craig Butler, treasurer of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), resigned yesterday from his post and the opposition party and vowed to run as a candidate in the Kennedy constituency at the next general election.
“It should come as no surprise to political observers that I've grown disillusioned with this once great political organization, the PLP, to which my grandfather (Sir Milo Butler) dedicated and fought so diligently to secure our Bahamas,” said Butler at Rawson Square near the bust of his grandfather.
“I too joined the ranks feeling compelled to walk in his great footsteps and wanting to give of myself unselfishly as he so freely did. After a period of prayer, deep reflection and contemplation I have reached the end of my journey and today I sever all ties with the PLP.”
Butler, an attorney, was denied the PLP nomination to run as a candidate in the Elizabeth by-election in February 2010. He was again denied the PLP nomination to run as the party’s candidate in Kennedy at the next general election. Attorney Dion Smith received the nomination.
On the Star 106.5 FM radio talk show ‘Jeffrey’ with host Jeffrey Lloyd, Butler confirmed his candidacy for Kennedy in some form. This could be as an independent candidate or aligned with a political organization.
Butler has said that PLP leader Perry Christie has told him he will not get a nomination from the party.
Butler has also publicly acknowledged that he had a drug problem in the past, one he has overcome. In 2008, he was charged with causing harm to his wife Terrel, who is also an attorney. The matter was later dropped.
Butler, however, has argued that he deserves a ‘second chance’ similar to that given to others in the PLP who have made errors in the past.
“The measure of my character is filled with lifelong lessons and though my journey has been one with tremendous setbacks, it is precisely these lessons that have made me who I am today. I possess an indomitable spirit that has afforded me the opportunity to understand and appreciate the struggles of the down trodden and the marginalized,” said Butler.
He described the current PLP as, “not the organization for which Milo Butler so proudly and diligently fought for.”
Butler’s grandfather Sir Milo was the first Bahamian governor general. Craig Butler is also the brother of Free National Movement (FNM) Cabinet Minister and Montagu Member of Parliament Loretta Butler-Turner.
“As an offspring of Sir Milo Butler I found it impossible to sit idly by and allow others to dictate what my future should be,” he said.
“I wish to no longer be a spectator but an active participant in helping to formulate policies and solutions for our nation’s challenges, its growth and development, a Bahamas that would allow future generations to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.”
Butler became the PLP’s treasurer at the party’s convention in October 2009. In September 2009, the PLP treasurer before Butler, Sidney Cambridge, also resigned after he was charged by the government of the United States with money laundering.
Jun 02, 2011
thenassauguardian
Sunday, August 15, 2010
PLP Kennedy showdown: Derek Ryan, Dion Smith or Keith Bell?
PLP set for Kennedy 'showdown'
tribune242:
THE PLP is reportedly set to have a "showdown" in the Kennedy constituency with three candidates said to be seeking the nomination to run under the party's banner.
Attorney Derek Ryan, Dion Smith, and former police superintendent Keith Bell are all reported to be working in the area after the PLP's former candidate Kenyatta Gibson crossed the floor to become an FNM Member of Parliament.
Of the three candidates, it is said Mr Ryan and Mr Smith are the two front-runners - with Mr Smith getting the majority of the party's inner circle support, while Mr Ryan has secured the support on the constituency level.
With reports reaching The Tribune that the third probable contender, Mr Bell, is also being considered to run for the party in St Cecilia or the Sea Breeze constituency - party sources have suggested he will, in all eventuality, be considered for one of the latter seats to help defuse this growing problem.
Initially it was also reported that PLP treasurer Craig Butler had displayed an interest in the seat but was overlooked when Mr Smith emerged as a possible contender.
Mr Smith's probable nomination has come under fire in recent days as political pundits speculate that his emergence on the political scene could have more to do with cementing the position of other "would-be leaders" within the party than his own actual nomination. This has raised fears in some quarters among the party that there could be a challenge to the leadership of the party's leader Perry Christie prior to the 2012 general election.
Having emerged victorious from a challenge to his leadership at the party's last national convention, senior PLPs have stressed that the PLP cannot afford to revert to a repeat performance of that time - as Mr Christie's focus should now be placed firmly on defeating the FNM in 2012.
August 14, 2010
tribune242
tribune242:
THE PLP is reportedly set to have a "showdown" in the Kennedy constituency with three candidates said to be seeking the nomination to run under the party's banner.
Attorney Derek Ryan, Dion Smith, and former police superintendent Keith Bell are all reported to be working in the area after the PLP's former candidate Kenyatta Gibson crossed the floor to become an FNM Member of Parliament.
Of the three candidates, it is said Mr Ryan and Mr Smith are the two front-runners - with Mr Smith getting the majority of the party's inner circle support, while Mr Ryan has secured the support on the constituency level.
With reports reaching The Tribune that the third probable contender, Mr Bell, is also being considered to run for the party in St Cecilia or the Sea Breeze constituency - party sources have suggested he will, in all eventuality, be considered for one of the latter seats to help defuse this growing problem.
Initially it was also reported that PLP treasurer Craig Butler had displayed an interest in the seat but was overlooked when Mr Smith emerged as a possible contender.
Mr Smith's probable nomination has come under fire in recent days as political pundits speculate that his emergence on the political scene could have more to do with cementing the position of other "would-be leaders" within the party than his own actual nomination. This has raised fears in some quarters among the party that there could be a challenge to the leadership of the party's leader Perry Christie prior to the 2012 general election.
Having emerged victorious from a challenge to his leadership at the party's last national convention, senior PLPs have stressed that the PLP cannot afford to revert to a repeat performance of that time - as Mr Christie's focus should now be placed firmly on defeating the FNM in 2012.
August 14, 2010
tribune242
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
PLP by-election hopeful Ryan Pinder defends his right to dual citizenship
tribune242:
HOPEFUL PLP candidate for the Elizabeth by-election, Ryan Pinder, has defended his right to dual citizenship amid controversy over the right of a Member of Parliament to hold two nationalities.
The Constitution states in Article 48 that no person shall be qualified to be elected as a Member of the House of Assembly who is a citizen of another country having become such a citizen voluntarily, or is, by virtue of his own act, under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state.
But as Mr Pinder is a Bahamian born in Nassau, of a Bahamian father and American mother, he acquired US citizenship at birth automatically, rather than voluntarily, and therefore qualifies to serve as a Bahamian MP according to law.
He and attorney Craig Butler are in the running for the PLP candidacy in the upcoming Elizabeth by-election. The party will announce the chosen candidate tonight.
Mr Pinder maintains he would be an excellent representative for the people of Elizabeth, if selected to run in the area once served by his father Marvin Pinder.
But critics have cast doubt over Mr Pinder's right to serve in the House of Assembly, and a debate has stirred on the Internet attracting around 200 comments on a social networking website.
Web blogger Cammy LeFlage said: "It is not 'fine' to be a dual citizen and be a leader in government because it just begs the question: Whose side are you on? Who do you really represent?
"The Bahamas and the US have a quite cozy relationship but the Bahamas must always look out for itself and its people.
"If he carries dual citizenship, how is this supposed to really work? Answer: It won't."
Voices Bahamian stated: "Whoever is in the House holding US citizenship is in the wrong."
However, others have defended Mr Pinder's position.
Carmichael Business League president Ethric Bowe said: "Google the Bahamian constitution and read it for yourself. Ryan has no impediment. We have racism or ignorance operating here. But look it up to settle this then let's move on to some issues."
The issue was also belittled by website user Misty Albury who asked: "Does holding dual passports make you any less capable of holding a position? My kids hold dual citizenship as well and if someday they want to hold office I would hope it wouldn't matter because of something so little."
Jamaican parliamentary hopeful Daryl Vaz was determined ineligible for election as MP in the country because he held dual citizenship. And Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette's brother Robert 'Bobby' Symonette gave up the American citizenship he had been bestowed by virtue of his mother's nationality when he ran for Parliament in 1949.
However, Mr Pinder clarified how Bahamian law differs from Jamaican legalities and has changed in the 60 years since Mr Symonette ran for office and the Bahamas became independent of British rule.
Attorney Paul Adderley said Mr Pinder's dual citizenship does not disqualify him from running for a position in the House as he said other MPs also hold allegiance to two nations.
He said: "There are some very important people who are like that, so there is nothing in that. It's where he is born; you can't change that. So it's not an issue."
Mr Pinder is a tax and commercial law attorney for Becker & Poliakoff and as a US citizen is required to pay taxes in the US. He also lived in the United States for eight years before returning to Nassau in 2008 to head the firm's Bahamian office.
He said his employment by a US law firm is not an issue as many Bahamians work for foreign companies, particularly in the finance industry.
And his American citizenship does not compromise his rich Bahamian heritage nor his ability to serve the people of Elizabeth.
Mr Pinder said: "I am clearly Bahamian, I was clearly born here of a Bahamian father and based on the Constitution there is no issue of me being able to be a member of the House of Assembly.
"My allegiance is to the Bahamas, I don't feel torn in any way. My legacy in the Bahamas goes back to 1648 and the Eleutheran adventurers. My roots in the Bahamas are deeper than I propose most people in the Bahamas. My allegiance is clearly and unequivocally in the Bahamas as a Bahamian."
"This isn't an issue. There's no violation of the Constitution and it's not an issue that is relevant to the people of Elizabeth.
"If I am the chosen candidate I propose to provide proper representation to the people.
"They have issues such as job stability, economic stability and economic security. We should be discussing the issues pertinent to the people of Elizabeth."
January 12, 2010
tribune242
HOPEFUL PLP candidate for the Elizabeth by-election, Ryan Pinder, has defended his right to dual citizenship amid controversy over the right of a Member of Parliament to hold two nationalities.
The Constitution states in Article 48 that no person shall be qualified to be elected as a Member of the House of Assembly who is a citizen of another country having become such a citizen voluntarily, or is, by virtue of his own act, under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state.
But as Mr Pinder is a Bahamian born in Nassau, of a Bahamian father and American mother, he acquired US citizenship at birth automatically, rather than voluntarily, and therefore qualifies to serve as a Bahamian MP according to law.
He and attorney Craig Butler are in the running for the PLP candidacy in the upcoming Elizabeth by-election. The party will announce the chosen candidate tonight.
Mr Pinder maintains he would be an excellent representative for the people of Elizabeth, if selected to run in the area once served by his father Marvin Pinder.
But critics have cast doubt over Mr Pinder's right to serve in the House of Assembly, and a debate has stirred on the Internet attracting around 200 comments on a social networking website.
Web blogger Cammy LeFlage said: "It is not 'fine' to be a dual citizen and be a leader in government because it just begs the question: Whose side are you on? Who do you really represent?
"The Bahamas and the US have a quite cozy relationship but the Bahamas must always look out for itself and its people.
"If he carries dual citizenship, how is this supposed to really work? Answer: It won't."
Voices Bahamian stated: "Whoever is in the House holding US citizenship is in the wrong."
However, others have defended Mr Pinder's position.
Carmichael Business League president Ethric Bowe said: "Google the Bahamian constitution and read it for yourself. Ryan has no impediment. We have racism or ignorance operating here. But look it up to settle this then let's move on to some issues."
The issue was also belittled by website user Misty Albury who asked: "Does holding dual passports make you any less capable of holding a position? My kids hold dual citizenship as well and if someday they want to hold office I would hope it wouldn't matter because of something so little."
Jamaican parliamentary hopeful Daryl Vaz was determined ineligible for election as MP in the country because he held dual citizenship. And Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette's brother Robert 'Bobby' Symonette gave up the American citizenship he had been bestowed by virtue of his mother's nationality when he ran for Parliament in 1949.
However, Mr Pinder clarified how Bahamian law differs from Jamaican legalities and has changed in the 60 years since Mr Symonette ran for office and the Bahamas became independent of British rule.
Attorney Paul Adderley said Mr Pinder's dual citizenship does not disqualify him from running for a position in the House as he said other MPs also hold allegiance to two nations.
He said: "There are some very important people who are like that, so there is nothing in that. It's where he is born; you can't change that. So it's not an issue."
Mr Pinder is a tax and commercial law attorney for Becker & Poliakoff and as a US citizen is required to pay taxes in the US. He also lived in the United States for eight years before returning to Nassau in 2008 to head the firm's Bahamian office.
He said his employment by a US law firm is not an issue as many Bahamians work for foreign companies, particularly in the finance industry.
And his American citizenship does not compromise his rich Bahamian heritage nor his ability to serve the people of Elizabeth.
Mr Pinder said: "I am clearly Bahamian, I was clearly born here of a Bahamian father and based on the Constitution there is no issue of me being able to be a member of the House of Assembly.
"My allegiance is to the Bahamas, I don't feel torn in any way. My legacy in the Bahamas goes back to 1648 and the Eleutheran adventurers. My roots in the Bahamas are deeper than I propose most people in the Bahamas. My allegiance is clearly and unequivocally in the Bahamas as a Bahamian."
"This isn't an issue. There's no violation of the Constitution and it's not an issue that is relevant to the people of Elizabeth.
"If I am the chosen candidate I propose to provide proper representation to the people.
"They have issues such as job stability, economic stability and economic security. We should be discussing the issues pertinent to the people of Elizabeth."
January 12, 2010
tribune242
Monday, January 11, 2010
Free National Movement (FNM) names likely man for Elizabeth constituency by-election
By ALISON LOWE
Tribune Staff Reporter
alowe@tribunemedia.net:
THE political field for the upcoming Elizabeth constituency by-election was narrowed over the weekend as the FNM announced its local constituency association has selected Dr Duane Sands as its chosen candidate.
In response, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts said his party is likely to pick either attorneys Ryan Pinder or Craig Butler.
At a press conference yesterday at Free National Movement headquarters on Mackey Street, FNM national chairman Carl Bethel announced that 47-year-old Dr Sands, a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon, was unanimously elected by the Elizabeth Constituency Association as its preferred candidate.
Dr Sands tonight faces the scrutiny of the FNM Candidates Committee - essentially the executive of the party - and later its Executive Committee in what Mr Bethel described as the next steps in a "very detailed consultative mechanism" outlined in the party's constitution for selecting candidates in national elections.
The Chairman said that while he would not "presume" the outcome of those consultations, "having regard to what were the most persuasive and carefully thought out views" of the Elizabeth Constituency Association it is quite likely Dr Sands - who currently serves as Chairman of the Bahamas Medical Council, a Director of the Central Bank of the Bahamas and Chief of Surgery at the Princess Margaret Hospital - will be formally ratified as the party's candidate come Thursday.
He emphasised that the selection of Dr Sands thus far "was not an open and closed process or a closed door situation" but a democratic one.
Asked about how important a win in the constituency is for the governing party, Mr Bethel said: "Every constituency is politically very important and to win is also very important."
"Though we are confident of victory we appreciate and value the importance of every individual voter and will not take the concerns of any individual voter for granted. Each voter in Elizabeth can expect their concerns will be individually considered and assessed," he added.
He would not be drawn on the significance of the by-election as a litmus test of likely success in the next general election, stating only that to see it as such would be to take "too opportunistic a view" of the event, which he emphasised was precipitated by the "personal decisions" of Malcolm Adderley, the former PLP party member who resigned his seat last week.
Meanwhile, ending some initial speculation that it may not vye for the seat for fear of wasting resources, the PLP has confirmed that it will be running a candidate in the by-election.
PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts said it is "highly likely" at present that once final consultations are concluded, the Party's National General Council will ratify either attorney and party vice chairman Ryan Pinder - son of former PLP Malcolm Creek representative Marvin Pinder - or party treasurer Craig Butler as its candidate for the upcoming election.
The PLP was out in force in the constituency over the weekend, with numerous parliamentarians and party members doing the rounds.
Speaking at FNM headquarters on Dr Sands nomination by the constituency association, Mr Bethel said Dr Sands was the only person who formally applied to be the party's standard bearer for the area and in the unanimous vote of around 20 constituency association members, three others who had verbally indicated an interest in putting themselves forward as candidates threw their support behind Dr Sands.
Freddy Sands, Chairman of the Elizabeth Constituency Association said that he is confident Dr Sands, who is married with four children, is a man who is "not about prestige ... not about money, (but) is concerned about our country and the way it is headed now."
Mr Bethel said that in choosing an FNM MP for their area, Elizabeth constituents can expect to have their first representative "in nearly a decade who will have an effective voice around the table of governance" given how Mr Adderley, who served as their MP since 2002, was purportedly undermined by PLP party leader Perry Christie.
Mr Bethel said those living in the area can expect to see the governing party "campaigning vigorously, consistently, and as much as is required to have the maximum possible impact and to hear the concerns of every single registered voter in the Elizabeth constituency".
"They can expect an attentive ear and that whatever it is possible for us to improve the condition of all in the Elizabeth constituency we will do," said the Chairman.
Asked what the party has budgeted to spend on its campaign, Mr Bethel said this figure has not yet been settled but it will "cost some good money." He added that any donations towards this effort would be "thankfully received and faithfully applied."
The Chairman encouraged "all eligible voters who are residents of Elizabeth who are not already registered to vote or who may have turned 18 since the last general elections or who may have moved into the constituency more than six months ago to take all the necessary steps to register to vote either at the Parliamenary Commissioner's office during working hours, or at the Thelma Gibson Primary School between the hours of 5pm and 8pm on weekdays."
January 11, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
alowe@tribunemedia.net:
THE political field for the upcoming Elizabeth constituency by-election was narrowed over the weekend as the FNM announced its local constituency association has selected Dr Duane Sands as its chosen candidate.
In response, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts said his party is likely to pick either attorneys Ryan Pinder or Craig Butler.
At a press conference yesterday at Free National Movement headquarters on Mackey Street, FNM national chairman Carl Bethel announced that 47-year-old Dr Sands, a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon, was unanimously elected by the Elizabeth Constituency Association as its preferred candidate.
Dr Sands tonight faces the scrutiny of the FNM Candidates Committee - essentially the executive of the party - and later its Executive Committee in what Mr Bethel described as the next steps in a "very detailed consultative mechanism" outlined in the party's constitution for selecting candidates in national elections.
The Chairman said that while he would not "presume" the outcome of those consultations, "having regard to what were the most persuasive and carefully thought out views" of the Elizabeth Constituency Association it is quite likely Dr Sands - who currently serves as Chairman of the Bahamas Medical Council, a Director of the Central Bank of the Bahamas and Chief of Surgery at the Princess Margaret Hospital - will be formally ratified as the party's candidate come Thursday.
He emphasised that the selection of Dr Sands thus far "was not an open and closed process or a closed door situation" but a democratic one.
Asked about how important a win in the constituency is for the governing party, Mr Bethel said: "Every constituency is politically very important and to win is also very important."
"Though we are confident of victory we appreciate and value the importance of every individual voter and will not take the concerns of any individual voter for granted. Each voter in Elizabeth can expect their concerns will be individually considered and assessed," he added.
He would not be drawn on the significance of the by-election as a litmus test of likely success in the next general election, stating only that to see it as such would be to take "too opportunistic a view" of the event, which he emphasised was precipitated by the "personal decisions" of Malcolm Adderley, the former PLP party member who resigned his seat last week.
Meanwhile, ending some initial speculation that it may not vye for the seat for fear of wasting resources, the PLP has confirmed that it will be running a candidate in the by-election.
PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts said it is "highly likely" at present that once final consultations are concluded, the Party's National General Council will ratify either attorney and party vice chairman Ryan Pinder - son of former PLP Malcolm Creek representative Marvin Pinder - or party treasurer Craig Butler as its candidate for the upcoming election.
The PLP was out in force in the constituency over the weekend, with numerous parliamentarians and party members doing the rounds.
Speaking at FNM headquarters on Dr Sands nomination by the constituency association, Mr Bethel said Dr Sands was the only person who formally applied to be the party's standard bearer for the area and in the unanimous vote of around 20 constituency association members, three others who had verbally indicated an interest in putting themselves forward as candidates threw their support behind Dr Sands.
Freddy Sands, Chairman of the Elizabeth Constituency Association said that he is confident Dr Sands, who is married with four children, is a man who is "not about prestige ... not about money, (but) is concerned about our country and the way it is headed now."
Mr Bethel said that in choosing an FNM MP for their area, Elizabeth constituents can expect to have their first representative "in nearly a decade who will have an effective voice around the table of governance" given how Mr Adderley, who served as their MP since 2002, was purportedly undermined by PLP party leader Perry Christie.
Mr Bethel said those living in the area can expect to see the governing party "campaigning vigorously, consistently, and as much as is required to have the maximum possible impact and to hear the concerns of every single registered voter in the Elizabeth constituency".
"They can expect an attentive ear and that whatever it is possible for us to improve the condition of all in the Elizabeth constituency we will do," said the Chairman.
Asked what the party has budgeted to spend on its campaign, Mr Bethel said this figure has not yet been settled but it will "cost some good money." He added that any donations towards this effort would be "thankfully received and faithfully applied."
The Chairman encouraged "all eligible voters who are residents of Elizabeth who are not already registered to vote or who may have turned 18 since the last general elections or who may have moved into the constituency more than six months ago to take all the necessary steps to register to vote either at the Parliamenary Commissioner's office during working hours, or at the Thelma Gibson Primary School between the hours of 5pm and 8pm on weekdays."
January 11, 2010
tribune242
Friday, January 8, 2010
The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Deputy Leader Philip 'Brave' Davis urges PLP to be bold and nominate a by-election candidate in Elizabeth
By TANEKA THOMPSON
Tribune Staff Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net:
THE Progressive Liberal Party should nominate a by-election candidate in the Elizabeth constituency to fulfil the Opposition's mandate as a viable alternative to the FNM, urged PLP Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis.
His comments came amid reports that the party is split on the by-election argument with several top PLPs said to be against entering the race.
It is reported that some senior members want to conserve the party's resources for the next general election, however Mr Davis feels that unless Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham intends to call a national election this year the PLP should vie for the Elizabeth seat.
"(The PLP) as a major political party, its existence is premised on the fact that it is existing for the purpose of contesting elections. Unless there are some exceptional circumstances existing, you start off on the premise that you will contest and you may be persuaded to not contest but only in exceptional circumstances," he said ahead of last night's public PLP meeting in the Elizabeth constituency to rally its supporters.
"If we are aware that Mr Ingraham will call a general election in the next two to three months, that will be a factor that we will take into account, that will be a compelling factor not to participate," Mr Davis said on the sidelines of yesterday's House Select Committee on Crown Land hearing.
Meanwhile the party has yet to officially select a potential by-election candidate but its National General Council is expected to meet over the next few days to weigh out its options.
Attorneys Ryan Pinder, Craig Butler and Ken Dorsett have expressed interest in the seat but it is unclear if any of these men will be chosen to represent the party. PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts has also been rumoured to join the fray, but Mr Roberts denied these reports.
Said to be the FNM's pick for the by-election is noted surgeon Dr Duane Sands.
The stage for a by-election was set when former MP Malcolm Adderley resigned from the House on Wednesday, days after delivering a one-line resignation letter to the PLP last weekend. The election is scheduled for February.
In an emotional speech, Mr Adderley told the House that the last seven and a half years as MP for Elizabeth were "the worst personal experience" for him. He claimed that party leader Perry Christie "undermined" him as an MP.
Disappointed by Mr Adderley's actions, Mr Davis said he expected more from his former colleague.
He added that Mr Adderley did not handle his departure from the Progressive Liberal Party with the respect and dignity his former party colleagues gave him.
"I do not share Mr Adderley's views on the leadership of the party. I'm disappointed that he was driven to that view and perhaps if he had time to examine, not just Mr Christie's conduct but his own, he may have had a different point of view going forward.
"I would have expected him to have conducted himself differently. I would have expected that because there is no doubt that the Progressive Liberal Party, as a party, quite apart from the individuals that make it up treated Mr Adderley with the respect and dignity that was deserving of a member of Parliament that was elected on a PLP ticket and he ought to have returned the same favour to us."
Despite the loss of Mr Adderley - compounded with the departure of Kennedy MP Kenyatta Gibson a year earlier - Mr Davis said the party remains as strong as ever.
It is rumoured that Mr Adderley will be appointed as a Supreme Court judge by Prime Minister Ingraham in the near future. He has previously worked as a public prosecutor, acting magistrate and a supreme court judge for one year.
He is the second MP in almost 13 years to resign as an MP -- the last being Sir Lynden Pindling when he retired from front-line politics in 1997.
January 08, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net:
THE Progressive Liberal Party should nominate a by-election candidate in the Elizabeth constituency to fulfil the Opposition's mandate as a viable alternative to the FNM, urged PLP Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis.
His comments came amid reports that the party is split on the by-election argument with several top PLPs said to be against entering the race.
It is reported that some senior members want to conserve the party's resources for the next general election, however Mr Davis feels that unless Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham intends to call a national election this year the PLP should vie for the Elizabeth seat.
"(The PLP) as a major political party, its existence is premised on the fact that it is existing for the purpose of contesting elections. Unless there are some exceptional circumstances existing, you start off on the premise that you will contest and you may be persuaded to not contest but only in exceptional circumstances," he said ahead of last night's public PLP meeting in the Elizabeth constituency to rally its supporters.
"If we are aware that Mr Ingraham will call a general election in the next two to three months, that will be a factor that we will take into account, that will be a compelling factor not to participate," Mr Davis said on the sidelines of yesterday's House Select Committee on Crown Land hearing.
Meanwhile the party has yet to officially select a potential by-election candidate but its National General Council is expected to meet over the next few days to weigh out its options.
Attorneys Ryan Pinder, Craig Butler and Ken Dorsett have expressed interest in the seat but it is unclear if any of these men will be chosen to represent the party. PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts has also been rumoured to join the fray, but Mr Roberts denied these reports.
Said to be the FNM's pick for the by-election is noted surgeon Dr Duane Sands.
The stage for a by-election was set when former MP Malcolm Adderley resigned from the House on Wednesday, days after delivering a one-line resignation letter to the PLP last weekend. The election is scheduled for February.
In an emotional speech, Mr Adderley told the House that the last seven and a half years as MP for Elizabeth were "the worst personal experience" for him. He claimed that party leader Perry Christie "undermined" him as an MP.
Disappointed by Mr Adderley's actions, Mr Davis said he expected more from his former colleague.
He added that Mr Adderley did not handle his departure from the Progressive Liberal Party with the respect and dignity his former party colleagues gave him.
"I do not share Mr Adderley's views on the leadership of the party. I'm disappointed that he was driven to that view and perhaps if he had time to examine, not just Mr Christie's conduct but his own, he may have had a different point of view going forward.
"I would have expected him to have conducted himself differently. I would have expected that because there is no doubt that the Progressive Liberal Party, as a party, quite apart from the individuals that make it up treated Mr Adderley with the respect and dignity that was deserving of a member of Parliament that was elected on a PLP ticket and he ought to have returned the same favour to us."
Despite the loss of Mr Adderley - compounded with the departure of Kennedy MP Kenyatta Gibson a year earlier - Mr Davis said the party remains as strong as ever.
It is rumoured that Mr Adderley will be appointed as a Supreme Court judge by Prime Minister Ingraham in the near future. He has previously worked as a public prosecutor, acting magistrate and a supreme court judge for one year.
He is the second MP in almost 13 years to resign as an MP -- the last being Sir Lynden Pindling when he retired from front-line politics in 1997.
January 08, 2010
tribune242
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
THE Progressive Liberal Party's (PLP's) cash fears over by-election
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
THE Progressive Liberal Party is weighing its options as to whether it will put up a candidate in the Elizabeth by-election, sources within the party have confirmed to The Tribune.
Currently the party is faced with a dilemma because the FNM has essentially taken a lead in the area having had representatives from its party on the ground for the past three weeks.
As for campaigning, the PLP is concerned that it has to find at least half a million dollars to put up a formidable challenge to the FNM's machinery in the area.
According to sources within the PLP, the party has containers that are still filled with PLP T-shirts and other election paraphernalia, but the actual funding of a by-election campaign will be difficult to find at such short notice.
Additionally, if these monies could be found, the party is faced with the reality that even if it were to win the by-election it would not change the balance of power in the House of Assembly as the PLP would still be in Opposition. In effect it would have essentially "wasted" $500,000 that could be used for the 2012 general elections.
While all of these issues are reportedly being discussed at the highest levels within the party, there is also a growing concern amongst some PLP Members of Parliament about what the perception would be if the party were not to run a candidate in the area.
"We need to have a representative in the area, anybody, so we can show the people that we care about them, and that we want to represent them in the House of Assembly. Now how do we do this? We could run a Ryan Pinder or Craig Butler in there, but elections cost money, and when you are up against the FNM and all of its machinery it is very difficult to win this one seat. So what do you do?" the source asked.
Today the PLP's former Member of Parliament Malcolm Adderley is expected to resign from his seat in the House of Assembly, causing the first by-election in at least a decade. In his departing speech, Mr Adderley is expected to take aim at his former party leader, Perry Christie. It is not known at this time what Mr Christie's response will be, but sources close to the leader claim that Mr Christie is "more than ready" to answer Mr Adderley "blow-for-blow."
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
THE Progressive Liberal Party is weighing its options as to whether it will put up a candidate in the Elizabeth by-election, sources within the party have confirmed to The Tribune.
Currently the party is faced with a dilemma because the FNM has essentially taken a lead in the area having had representatives from its party on the ground for the past three weeks.
As for campaigning, the PLP is concerned that it has to find at least half a million dollars to put up a formidable challenge to the FNM's machinery in the area.
According to sources within the PLP, the party has containers that are still filled with PLP T-shirts and other election paraphernalia, but the actual funding of a by-election campaign will be difficult to find at such short notice.
Additionally, if these monies could be found, the party is faced with the reality that even if it were to win the by-election it would not change the balance of power in the House of Assembly as the PLP would still be in Opposition. In effect it would have essentially "wasted" $500,000 that could be used for the 2012 general elections.
While all of these issues are reportedly being discussed at the highest levels within the party, there is also a growing concern amongst some PLP Members of Parliament about what the perception would be if the party were not to run a candidate in the area.
"We need to have a representative in the area, anybody, so we can show the people that we care about them, and that we want to represent them in the House of Assembly. Now how do we do this? We could run a Ryan Pinder or Craig Butler in there, but elections cost money, and when you are up against the FNM and all of its machinery it is very difficult to win this one seat. So what do you do?" the source asked.
Today the PLP's former Member of Parliament Malcolm Adderley is expected to resign from his seat in the House of Assembly, causing the first by-election in at least a decade. In his departing speech, Mr Adderley is expected to take aim at his former party leader, Perry Christie. It is not known at this time what Mr Christie's response will be, but sources close to the leader claim that Mr Christie is "more than ready" to answer Mr Adderley "blow-for-blow."
tribune242
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
PLP by-election win 'would be indicator of party's strength and support'
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
A PLP win in a likely by-election in the Elizabeth constituency would prove a good indicator of the party's strength and support with the voting public, it was claimed last night.
Attorney Philip Galanis, a former PLP senator, believes that in order to nab a possible by-election victory, the party must quickly determine the best possible candidate to outweigh the heavy resources the FNM will pour behind its prospective hopeful.
So far those who have expressed an interested for the Elizabeth nomination include attorneys Ryan Pinder, Craig Butler and Ken Dorsett.
Elizabeth MP Malcolm Adderley quit the PLP with effect from January 1, 2010, and is expected to resign from his seat in the House of Assembly when Parliament meets tomorrow.
It would set the stage for a hotly-contested by-election in Elizabeth, which PLP chairman Bradley Roberts estimates would cost the public purse upwards of $1 million.
"I think it would be a very good indicator of how strong the party is and would be a referendum, an indication by some, of what the people of the country feel about the performance of the Ingraham administration," Mr Galanis said.
"The party needs to really caucus with a view to determine who the best candidate is to contest the election, if one is called. It needs to impose some stringent policies to selecting its candidate and most importantly it needs to impress upon its stand bearers that that is all they are, any seat they might win in Parliament does not belong to them and their representation is a privilege, not a right."
However, PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts said the party has not officially selected a replacement for Mr Adderley reasoning that he has yet to resign from the House, thus leaving a vacancy in the Elizabeth seat, an area with a long history of voting for the PLP.
"We only found out on the weekend that Malcolm was going to resign from the PLP. We still don't know whether Malcolm is going to resign from the House," he told The Tribune yesterday.
"Some people may be doing some solicitation (in the area) that's not unusual (but) the party doesn't have a mandate to fill any position yet."
In the statement released yesterday, the FNM said it respects Mr Adderley's "personal decision" to cut political ties with the PLP.
Although it is believed the Government wooed Mr Adderley to give up his seat with promises of a plum job as a judge, the Ingraham administration said it did not know the reasons behind the decision while taking a jab at the upper echelons of the Opposition.
"Such a decision is not lightly made and obviously must reflect a deeply thought-out personal determination on his part. The Free National Movement does not have the benefit of knowing the inmost reasons behind Mr Adderley's resignation from the PLP.
"However, one has only to read and consider the vilification and bile which was spewed in the hysterical PLP press response to venture a guess as to why Mr Adderley, and perhaps others, may no longer want to be associated with what that organisation has become under the leadership of Perry Christie and Bradley Roberts."
The statement also thanked Mr Adderley for continuing to serve as Chairman of the Gaming Board after his party lost the 2007 general election, a decision that infuriated members of his party.
Yesterday, the FNM alluded to Mr Adderley's reported interested in joining the judiciary but did not confirm whether he has been offered or accepted the job.
"We understand that Mr Adderley is willing to continue in the service of his country as a Justice of the Supreme Court, a position for which he is well qualified, especially at a time when there is urgent need for qualified Bahamian judges willing to serve. If that is so, we highly commend him.
"We note that he has previously served in this position in an acting capacity while his political persuasion was well known."
Mr Adderley's move came after months of speculation about his strained relations with the PLP and party leader Perry Christie. Mr Adderley has reportedly long been at odds with his party and has been inactive in the party's Parliamentary caucus.
Mr Christie's decision not to expel Mr Adderley from the PLP long ago has garnered harsh criticism from observers, even former PLP chairman Raynard Rigby who accused the party leader "of being asleep at the wheel."
January 05, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
A PLP win in a likely by-election in the Elizabeth constituency would prove a good indicator of the party's strength and support with the voting public, it was claimed last night.
Attorney Philip Galanis, a former PLP senator, believes that in order to nab a possible by-election victory, the party must quickly determine the best possible candidate to outweigh the heavy resources the FNM will pour behind its prospective hopeful.
So far those who have expressed an interested for the Elizabeth nomination include attorneys Ryan Pinder, Craig Butler and Ken Dorsett.
Elizabeth MP Malcolm Adderley quit the PLP with effect from January 1, 2010, and is expected to resign from his seat in the House of Assembly when Parliament meets tomorrow.
It would set the stage for a hotly-contested by-election in Elizabeth, which PLP chairman Bradley Roberts estimates would cost the public purse upwards of $1 million.
"I think it would be a very good indicator of how strong the party is and would be a referendum, an indication by some, of what the people of the country feel about the performance of the Ingraham administration," Mr Galanis said.
"The party needs to really caucus with a view to determine who the best candidate is to contest the election, if one is called. It needs to impose some stringent policies to selecting its candidate and most importantly it needs to impress upon its stand bearers that that is all they are, any seat they might win in Parliament does not belong to them and their representation is a privilege, not a right."
However, PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts said the party has not officially selected a replacement for Mr Adderley reasoning that he has yet to resign from the House, thus leaving a vacancy in the Elizabeth seat, an area with a long history of voting for the PLP.
"We only found out on the weekend that Malcolm was going to resign from the PLP. We still don't know whether Malcolm is going to resign from the House," he told The Tribune yesterday.
"Some people may be doing some solicitation (in the area) that's not unusual (but) the party doesn't have a mandate to fill any position yet."
In the statement released yesterday, the FNM said it respects Mr Adderley's "personal decision" to cut political ties with the PLP.
Although it is believed the Government wooed Mr Adderley to give up his seat with promises of a plum job as a judge, the Ingraham administration said it did not know the reasons behind the decision while taking a jab at the upper echelons of the Opposition.
"Such a decision is not lightly made and obviously must reflect a deeply thought-out personal determination on his part. The Free National Movement does not have the benefit of knowing the inmost reasons behind Mr Adderley's resignation from the PLP.
"However, one has only to read and consider the vilification and bile which was spewed in the hysterical PLP press response to venture a guess as to why Mr Adderley, and perhaps others, may no longer want to be associated with what that organisation has become under the leadership of Perry Christie and Bradley Roberts."
The statement also thanked Mr Adderley for continuing to serve as Chairman of the Gaming Board after his party lost the 2007 general election, a decision that infuriated members of his party.
Yesterday, the FNM alluded to Mr Adderley's reported interested in joining the judiciary but did not confirm whether he has been offered or accepted the job.
"We understand that Mr Adderley is willing to continue in the service of his country as a Justice of the Supreme Court, a position for which he is well qualified, especially at a time when there is urgent need for qualified Bahamian judges willing to serve. If that is so, we highly commend him.
"We note that he has previously served in this position in an acting capacity while his political persuasion was well known."
Mr Adderley's move came after months of speculation about his strained relations with the PLP and party leader Perry Christie. Mr Adderley has reportedly long been at odds with his party and has been inactive in the party's Parliamentary caucus.
Mr Christie's decision not to expel Mr Adderley from the PLP long ago has garnered harsh criticism from observers, even former PLP chairman Raynard Rigby who accused the party leader "of being asleep at the wheel."
January 05, 2010
tribune242
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) chairman Bradley Roberts predicts money will determine Elizabeth by-election victor
By CANDIA DAMES ~ Guardian News Editor ~ candia@nasguard.com:
Whether the Progressive Liberal Party will run a candidate in the Elizabeth by-election is a matter the party will decide at a later date, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts said yesterday, adding that the party does not now have a great deal of funds to invest in such a process.
The by-election will come as a result of the resignation of current MP Malcolm Adderley from the House of Assembly. Adderley also resigned from the Progressive Liberal Party on Saturday.
"We have a process in our party that we will be obliged to follow and in going through that process, a determination will be made and recommendations will be brought to the National General Council of the party who will make the final determination," he said.
Despite reports from party insiders, Roberts also said he was not aware of any plan that was afoot to expel Adderley from the party.
Some political pundits have described Adderley's resignation on Saturday as a preemptive strike. According to party insiders, the PLP was getting ready to expel him.
Roberts said yesterday, "If that is so, I have no knowledge of that whatsoever. Nothing has come to my attention in that regard. Some remarks I made recently may have caused the matter to come to a head."
Last week, the PLP chairman predicted that the matter would reach conclusion soon.
Asked if he is confident the party would win the seat should it contest it, Roberts said yesterday, "Personally, Bradley Roberts is a very optimistic person and at this time in the history of our Bahamas with the economy being in the state that it is in, the amount of suffering that has been going on, it is not an unknown quantity that there are things that take place that the Free National Movement are experts at doing and that will obviously play a very, very strong and influential part in the outcome of the election. In other words, people generally vote nowadays in the interest of their bellies as opposed to the interest of what is true and what is right.
"It means then, in my opinion, that the outcome will be determined by who invests the greatest amount of funds in the process."
Following the 2007 general election, PLP leader Perry Christie said one of the main reasons the Free National Movement won was that it outspent the Progressive Liberal Party. It is widely known that the PLP emerged from that election financially strapped.
Roberts said yesterday that several PLPs — including attorneys Ryan Pinder and Craig Butler — have expressed an interest in running on the party's ticket in Elizabeth.
Adderley, a former acting Supreme Court justice, is expected to become a judge following his departure from the House. His resignation takes effect at the end of the day on Wednesday.
Asked why the PLP leadership did not take action against Adderley, Roberts said that is a question that would have to be asked of the chairman who served before him.
He said since he has been chairman, "We've had other things that we've been preoccupied with and Malcolm was certainly not a priority in this chairman's estimation. I had personally written off Malcolm Adderley a long time ago."
In a statement issued yesterday, the FNM said it respects the personal decision made by Adderley to sever his political affiliation with the opposition.
"Such a decision is not lightly made and obviously must reflect a deeply thought-out, personal determination on his part," the statement said.
"The Free National Movement does not have the benefit of knowing the inmost reasons behind Mr. Adderley's resignation from the PLP. However, one has only to read and consider the vilification and bile which was spewed in the hysterical PLP press response to venture a guess as to why Mr. Adderley, and perhaps others, may no longer want to be associated with what that organization has become under the leadership of Perry Christie and Bradley Roberts."
The party also thanked Adderley for agreeing to continue to serve as chairman of the Gaming Board after the 2007 general elections.
"We understand that Mr. Adderley is willing to continue in the service of his country as a justice of the Supreme Court, a position for which he is well qualified, especially at a time when there is urgent need for qualified Bahamian judges willing to serve," the statement said. "If that is so, we highly commend him. We note that he has previously served in this position in an acting capacity while his political persuasion was well known."
thenassauguardian
Whether the Progressive Liberal Party will run a candidate in the Elizabeth by-election is a matter the party will decide at a later date, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts said yesterday, adding that the party does not now have a great deal of funds to invest in such a process.
The by-election will come as a result of the resignation of current MP Malcolm Adderley from the House of Assembly. Adderley also resigned from the Progressive Liberal Party on Saturday.
"We have a process in our party that we will be obliged to follow and in going through that process, a determination will be made and recommendations will be brought to the National General Council of the party who will make the final determination," he said.
Despite reports from party insiders, Roberts also said he was not aware of any plan that was afoot to expel Adderley from the party.
Some political pundits have described Adderley's resignation on Saturday as a preemptive strike. According to party insiders, the PLP was getting ready to expel him.
Roberts said yesterday, "If that is so, I have no knowledge of that whatsoever. Nothing has come to my attention in that regard. Some remarks I made recently may have caused the matter to come to a head."
Last week, the PLP chairman predicted that the matter would reach conclusion soon.
Asked if he is confident the party would win the seat should it contest it, Roberts said yesterday, "Personally, Bradley Roberts is a very optimistic person and at this time in the history of our Bahamas with the economy being in the state that it is in, the amount of suffering that has been going on, it is not an unknown quantity that there are things that take place that the Free National Movement are experts at doing and that will obviously play a very, very strong and influential part in the outcome of the election. In other words, people generally vote nowadays in the interest of their bellies as opposed to the interest of what is true and what is right.
"It means then, in my opinion, that the outcome will be determined by who invests the greatest amount of funds in the process."
Following the 2007 general election, PLP leader Perry Christie said one of the main reasons the Free National Movement won was that it outspent the Progressive Liberal Party. It is widely known that the PLP emerged from that election financially strapped.
Roberts said yesterday that several PLPs — including attorneys Ryan Pinder and Craig Butler — have expressed an interest in running on the party's ticket in Elizabeth.
Adderley, a former acting Supreme Court justice, is expected to become a judge following his departure from the House. His resignation takes effect at the end of the day on Wednesday.
Asked why the PLP leadership did not take action against Adderley, Roberts said that is a question that would have to be asked of the chairman who served before him.
He said since he has been chairman, "We've had other things that we've been preoccupied with and Malcolm was certainly not a priority in this chairman's estimation. I had personally written off Malcolm Adderley a long time ago."
In a statement issued yesterday, the FNM said it respects the personal decision made by Adderley to sever his political affiliation with the opposition.
"Such a decision is not lightly made and obviously must reflect a deeply thought-out, personal determination on his part," the statement said.
"The Free National Movement does not have the benefit of knowing the inmost reasons behind Mr. Adderley's resignation from the PLP. However, one has only to read and consider the vilification and bile which was spewed in the hysterical PLP press response to venture a guess as to why Mr. Adderley, and perhaps others, may no longer want to be associated with what that organization has become under the leadership of Perry Christie and Bradley Roberts."
The party also thanked Adderley for agreeing to continue to serve as chairman of the Gaming Board after the 2007 general elections.
"We understand that Mr. Adderley is willing to continue in the service of his country as a justice of the Supreme Court, a position for which he is well qualified, especially at a time when there is urgent need for qualified Bahamian judges willing to serve," the statement said. "If that is so, we highly commend him. We note that he has previously served in this position in an acting capacity while his political persuasion was well known."
thenassauguardian
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