Election tactics to fool Bahamians in full swing
tribune242 editorial
DURING yesterday's rally Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union president Bernard Evans expressed the hope that "between now and the vote something will happen to derail the sale" of BTC to Cable & Wireless.
We are certain that the Bahamian woman who called a radio show yesterday morning to complain that she tried to pay her telephone bill but found no cashier on duty at any of the outlets-- except at the BTC Marathon office -- to assist her is anxious for the sale to go through. She is probably among the many Bahamians who -- unlike Mr Evans -- cannot wait for the company to be privatised so that persons like herself will get the standard of service they have every right to expect.
It is presumed that instead of manning their stations yesterday many of the missing staff were on Bay Street protesting the sale of BTC. Lower fees, better service and more choice in their public communications is what the public wants -- as far as many of them are concerned, it cannot come soon enough. Sunday night an internal e-mail, claiming to have been sent by Philip "Brave" Davis to six party members, mysteriously found its way to the desks of several newspaper editors and reporters.
With daily information being supplied by TV, Twitter, Face book and all the other new fangled means of information, Bahamians are sufficiently well informed not to buy into the PLP's propaganda blaming the Bahamas' economic downturn on the Ingraham government, rather than where it rightfully belongs -- the world economic crash.
"We have not been able to persuade the electorate that it is management and not the global economy that is causing the woes today..." said the e-mail. Party members have been advised to change their tactics. The e-mail claims that what is "resonating is the intentional delay and slothfulness to get things started that was left in place." We do not think that what the PLP like to call "stop, review and cancel" will resonant with Bahamians either if they fully understand what the Ingraham government has saved for them by going over all agreements left in place by the Christie government. When they realise what they would have lost had this not been done, we do not believe that even this propaganda slogan will resonate with anyone.
The Davis e-mail suggested that the chorus line to this week's debate about the sale has to be the five reasons why the "BTC deal stinks and this word has to be the chorus line to all contributions." Taking Mr Davis' advice yesterday, Fort Charlotte MP Alfred Sears during his contribution to the debate called for a Commission of Inquiry because the deal "does not pass the smell test."
The Christie camp is certainly desperate to win an election. They are clutching at any and every straw that passes their way to try to capture votes.
The e-mail advised the party stalwarts to be "dismissive" of the rally. This was a reference to Saturday night's FNM rally attended by a large, enthusiastic and orderly crowd. We presume that the directive was to ignore it, but one intrepid PLP MP broke ranks and suggested that the FNM were disappointed by the poor turnout to their rally. The police estimated that on Saturday night the rally drew a crowd of about 7,000-- hardly a poor turnout.
One bystander watching yesterday's demonstration outside the House believed the people should protest, but wondered if "anyone is listening." Why should anyone listen when reports persist that "party operatives" are paying many of them to be there.
We have been told by eyewitnesses that when the House broke for lunch around 1pm yesterday, a long line --"from the top to the bottom of the stairs" -- of demonstrators waited outside the Opposition's office door in the Bayparl building, demanding payment for doing what they claimed they were paid to do at the rally. "One of them urinated on the stairs, they were smoking grass, swearing and saying they wanted their money," an eyewitness said.
We then had reports of another disturbance at the PLP's Gambier headquarters last night when a fight broke out and police and an ambulance had to be called. Again, according to an eyewitness, it was claimed that a bus load of persons arrived demanding payment. How can anyone listen to demonstrators, a large number of whom are being paid by "party operatives" to swell the ranks. Obviously many of them neither understand nor care about the issues. Despite these alleged inducements, the turnout has been sparse, especially for an issue about which Opposition politicians claim the people are so passionate. Paid protesters do not reflect the opinion of the general public and, therefore, cannot be taken seriously.
This tactic of paying this type of person-- some of whom the police say are "well known" to them -- to disturb the peace is dangerous. One only has to look at what eventually happened to politicians in Jamaica who played this game too long. Bruce Golding is a case in point.
It would be wise for Bahamian politicians -- especially after what must be to them an embarrassing episode -- to call a halt and change course. Bahamians want to know the truth for a change. They are tired of propaganda.
March 22, 2011
tribune242 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 Philip "Brave" Davis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philip "Brave" Davis. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Charles Maynard accused Philip "Brave" Davis of hiring bloggers to post "scandalous lies" of alleged corruption and extra-marital affairs about him
PLP Deputy accused of 'Internet lies'
By TANEKA THOMPSON
Tribune Staff Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net:
CULTURE Minister Charles Maynard yesterday accused Opposition Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis of hiring Internet bloggers to post "scandalous lies" that link him to alleged corruption and extra-marital affairs.
Mr Davis strongly denied the allegations when contacted by The Tribune yesterday morning and said he had no idea who is behind the website in question. He added that he had no time for - and did not condone - smear campaigns or personal attacks on fellow politicians.
The post in question, published on Monday, lashed out at Mr Maynard for criticisms made on a talk show earlier this week - and also in the House of Assembly last month - alleging that criminal defense attorneys and Mr Davis specifically who "profited" from and "manipulated" the slow-moving legal system.
According to Mr Maynard, every time he publicly criticises Mr Davis a scathing story about him appears on the website, making it "obvious" to him who is driving the rumours.
"I know as a fact that Brave Davis is behind it, that the person who does this works directly for him." Mr Davis emphatically denied the accusation.
"I don't think that it's fair for me to say something in the House - generally speaking and also directed to him in terms of how I felt about what he would have done earlier in his law practice - and his way of dealing with it is to have these scandalous things on blogs.
"It was so obvious in this latest attack, yesterday I appeared on a talk show and said something about him and they allude to that (in the blog) and it makes it obvious. It's immature (and) does nothing to forward the political system," Mr Maynard said.
Mr Davis, on the other hand, said he had no part in the disparaging remarks made against the minister adding that he cannot control the thoughts and actions of persons who may support him.
"That's unfortunate if he thinks every time he talks negatively about me he is negatively attacked - then he ought to consider whether he should be negatively attacking me. If he is attacking me and he finds himself being attacked, just as he has supporters out there I have supporters too. I have no interest in nor will I condone negative attacks on anyone. I have no interest in running any negative campaign - we have too many challenges in our country," the PLP Member of Parliament for Cat Island and Rum Cay said when asked about the allegations.
He continued:" "I don't need anyone to respond for me...But I am heartened to know that people feel sufficiently warm about me to come to my defence if they feel I am unduly attacked. Of course I am not going to sit by idly and allow people to attack (others)."
When asked directly if the website is run by PLP operatives, Mr Davis said: "I wouldn't say that's the case." He told The Tribune that the comments posted were "crossing the line."
Among other things, the post also alleges that the minister engaged in extra-marital affairs while on official duty at the World Cup match in South Africa and benefited from alleged criminal proceeds passed down to him by his father, Andrew "Dud" Maynard, a former PLP chairman.
Mr Maynard said his father, a veteran politician, can handle the aspersions but they take a harder toll on his wife.
"From my father's point of view he's been in politics all his life and knows it gets dirty. My wife is new to politics and not very happy about it - to me it's a new low.
"It goes out into the public domain, despite the fact that it's lies, it's still something that nobody would like to be said about them."
Still it doesn't appear that Mr Maynard plans to sue the handlers of the website for defamation.
He explained that Bahamian law has not caught up with the influence of the world wide web.
He said he hopes the Ingraham administration can advance some sort of legislative reform to address these matters, particularly before the next general election when campaigns on both sides of the party divide will heat up.
July 07, 2010
tribune242
By TANEKA THOMPSON
Tribune Staff Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net:
CULTURE Minister Charles Maynard yesterday accused Opposition Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis of hiring Internet bloggers to post "scandalous lies" that link him to alleged corruption and extra-marital affairs.
Mr Davis strongly denied the allegations when contacted by The Tribune yesterday morning and said he had no idea who is behind the website in question. He added that he had no time for - and did not condone - smear campaigns or personal attacks on fellow politicians.
The post in question, published on Monday, lashed out at Mr Maynard for criticisms made on a talk show earlier this week - and also in the House of Assembly last month - alleging that criminal defense attorneys and Mr Davis specifically who "profited" from and "manipulated" the slow-moving legal system.
According to Mr Maynard, every time he publicly criticises Mr Davis a scathing story about him appears on the website, making it "obvious" to him who is driving the rumours.
"I know as a fact that Brave Davis is behind it, that the person who does this works directly for him." Mr Davis emphatically denied the accusation.
"I don't think that it's fair for me to say something in the House - generally speaking and also directed to him in terms of how I felt about what he would have done earlier in his law practice - and his way of dealing with it is to have these scandalous things on blogs.
"It was so obvious in this latest attack, yesterday I appeared on a talk show and said something about him and they allude to that (in the blog) and it makes it obvious. It's immature (and) does nothing to forward the political system," Mr Maynard said.
Mr Davis, on the other hand, said he had no part in the disparaging remarks made against the minister adding that he cannot control the thoughts and actions of persons who may support him.
"That's unfortunate if he thinks every time he talks negatively about me he is negatively attacked - then he ought to consider whether he should be negatively attacking me. If he is attacking me and he finds himself being attacked, just as he has supporters out there I have supporters too. I have no interest in nor will I condone negative attacks on anyone. I have no interest in running any negative campaign - we have too many challenges in our country," the PLP Member of Parliament for Cat Island and Rum Cay said when asked about the allegations.
He continued:" "I don't need anyone to respond for me...But I am heartened to know that people feel sufficiently warm about me to come to my defence if they feel I am unduly attacked. Of course I am not going to sit by idly and allow people to attack (others)."
When asked directly if the website is run by PLP operatives, Mr Davis said: "I wouldn't say that's the case." He told The Tribune that the comments posted were "crossing the line."
Among other things, the post also alleges that the minister engaged in extra-marital affairs while on official duty at the World Cup match in South Africa and benefited from alleged criminal proceeds passed down to him by his father, Andrew "Dud" Maynard, a former PLP chairman.
Mr Maynard said his father, a veteran politician, can handle the aspersions but they take a harder toll on his wife.
"From my father's point of view he's been in politics all his life and knows it gets dirty. My wife is new to politics and not very happy about it - to me it's a new low.
"It goes out into the public domain, despite the fact that it's lies, it's still something that nobody would like to be said about them."
Still it doesn't appear that Mr Maynard plans to sue the handlers of the website for defamation.
He explained that Bahamian law has not caught up with the influence of the world wide web.
He said he hopes the Ingraham administration can advance some sort of legislative reform to address these matters, particularly before the next general election when campaigns on both sides of the party divide will heat up.
July 07, 2010
tribune242
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Ezra Russell - Aspiring Member of Parliament and Rob Law - his American business partner plan to sue police over their "unjustified" 96-hrs detention
Aspiring MP plans to sue police over 96-hour detention
By ALISON LOWE
Tribune Staff Reporter
alowe@tribunemedia.net:
AN ASPIRING would-be MP and his American business partner are preparing to sue the police for their "unjustified" 96-hours detention in the disappearance of a German in Cat Island.
Cat Island native Ezra Russell and US citizen Rob Law were held for questioning from Saturday, May 8, to Wednesday, May 12, after Cat Island resident, Johannes Maximillian Harsch was reported to have disappeared, leaving his private jet and yacht on the island.
According to Mr Russell, Mr Law - who is presently out of the country -- also will be seeking compensation for the alleged "abuse" he claims he suffered at the hands of police detectives during questioning. He has alleged that he was "smothered" with a plastic bag put over his head by officers in an attempt to obtain information.
Following their questioning over the four-day period, the two men were released without charges being brought, according to police.
Almost three weeks after he was last seen, Mr Harsch, who rented a private villa near the Fernandez Bay resort on Cat Island, remains unaccounted for.
Now Mr Russell, who hopes to run as an independent MP for Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador in the next general election, claims that police have come up short when pressed for answers about the basis on which they were able to detain Mr Law and himself beyond the usual 48 hours police are allowed to hold a person for questioning in connection with a crime.
"Everyone's playing like they don't know what's going on," said Mr Russell.
Police told the media at the time that they were able to get an extension granted by the court for the additional time to speak with the men.
Meanwhile, Mr Russell is also claiming that a political conspiracy is behind him being held in custody for the extra period. Although he has provided no evidence, he believes that his would-be political opponent, Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP Philip "Brave" Davis might be behind an attempt to sully his reputation. Mr Russell, who was Mr Davis' campaign general in the MP's previous elections, recently announced his intention to run against Mr Davis in the next election. Mr Davis is also Deputy leader of the PLP.
The businessman also hopes to get approval in the near future to go ahead with a resort development on the island in conjunction with Mr Law.
Yesterday Mr Davis dismissed such allegations as "nonsense."
"As long as I've known Ezra Russell and his family I've done nothing to harm, obstruct or in anyway frustrate their legitimate goals and I have no desire to do so," Mr Davis said, adding that he has no "control over the police."
Explaining the circumstances that he believes led to his arrest, Mr Russell noted that Mr Law, who has lived on the island for about 15 years, had been friends with Mr Harsch, but the two ex-patriates had recently "fallen out."
"The police came to the island and didn't do a proper investigation. They just listened to rumours," said Mr Russell.
Calls to head of the Police's Central Detective Unit, Superintendent Leon Bethel, yesterday for comment on the status of the investigation in Mr Harsch's disappearance and Mr Russell's allegations were not returned.
June 02, 2010
tribune242
By ALISON LOWE
Tribune Staff Reporter
alowe@tribunemedia.net:
AN ASPIRING would-be MP and his American business partner are preparing to sue the police for their "unjustified" 96-hours detention in the disappearance of a German in Cat Island.
Cat Island native Ezra Russell and US citizen Rob Law were held for questioning from Saturday, May 8, to Wednesday, May 12, after Cat Island resident, Johannes Maximillian Harsch was reported to have disappeared, leaving his private jet and yacht on the island.
According to Mr Russell, Mr Law - who is presently out of the country -- also will be seeking compensation for the alleged "abuse" he claims he suffered at the hands of police detectives during questioning. He has alleged that he was "smothered" with a plastic bag put over his head by officers in an attempt to obtain information.
Following their questioning over the four-day period, the two men were released without charges being brought, according to police.
Almost three weeks after he was last seen, Mr Harsch, who rented a private villa near the Fernandez Bay resort on Cat Island, remains unaccounted for.
Now Mr Russell, who hopes to run as an independent MP for Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador in the next general election, claims that police have come up short when pressed for answers about the basis on which they were able to detain Mr Law and himself beyond the usual 48 hours police are allowed to hold a person for questioning in connection with a crime.
"Everyone's playing like they don't know what's going on," said Mr Russell.
Police told the media at the time that they were able to get an extension granted by the court for the additional time to speak with the men.
Meanwhile, Mr Russell is also claiming that a political conspiracy is behind him being held in custody for the extra period. Although he has provided no evidence, he believes that his would-be political opponent, Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP Philip "Brave" Davis might be behind an attempt to sully his reputation. Mr Russell, who was Mr Davis' campaign general in the MP's previous elections, recently announced his intention to run against Mr Davis in the next election. Mr Davis is also Deputy leader of the PLP.
The businessman also hopes to get approval in the near future to go ahead with a resort development on the island in conjunction with Mr Law.
Yesterday Mr Davis dismissed such allegations as "nonsense."
"As long as I've known Ezra Russell and his family I've done nothing to harm, obstruct or in anyway frustrate their legitimate goals and I have no desire to do so," Mr Davis said, adding that he has no "control over the police."
Explaining the circumstances that he believes led to his arrest, Mr Russell noted that Mr Law, who has lived on the island for about 15 years, had been friends with Mr Harsch, but the two ex-patriates had recently "fallen out."
"The police came to the island and didn't do a proper investigation. They just listened to rumours," said Mr Russell.
Calls to head of the Police's Central Detective Unit, Superintendent Leon Bethel, yesterday for comment on the status of the investigation in Mr Harsch's disappearance and Mr Russell's allegations were not returned.
June 02, 2010
tribune242
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Election court Bahamas: Parliamentary Commissioner Errol Bethel questioned
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Tribune Staff Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net:
PARLIAMENTARY Commissioner Errol Bethel was questioned extensively yesterday regarding discrepancies in the protest votes cast in the Elizabeth by-election.
Mr Bethel was the first and only witness to take the stand yesterday during day two of the Elizabeth election court hearing.
Philip "Brave" Davis, lead attorney for Progressive Liberal Party candidate Leo Ryan Pinder, opened yesterday's proceedings by outlining the election court petition.
Mr Davis then read into the record the affidavit of Stafford Coakley, a licensed surveyor. According to Mr Coakley's affidavit, Mr Pinder -- the petitioner -- had asked him to mark out the residences of the protested voters on a map of the Elizabeth constituency. According to the surveyor, all but five of the protest voters resided in the Elizabeth constituency. The surveyor found that one of the voters in question lived at a home in Commonwealth Boulevard which does not fall within the boundary of the Elizabeth constituency.
When Mr Bethel took the stand, attorney David Higgins who represents him and Returning Officer Jack Thompson, read his affidavit into the court's record. Mr Davis then began his cross-examination of Mr Bethel. During the cross-examination, Mr Bethel admitted that a part of his duty was to verify whether persons whose names appeared on the register were in fact there. He said that his duties were to advise persons of the fact that they were not on the register if it came to his attention. Those notices he said could be sent to their addresses.
Letters are being used to identify the voters whose votes are being protested in the proceedings -- in order to protect their identity. Mr Davis pointed out that the issue with Voter A was over two different listed addresses.
Mr Davis noted that the voter had one address that would put the voter in the Fox Hill Constituency and another that would put the voter in the Elizabeth constituency. He noted that on the voter's card the word Elizabeth was written over Fox Hill. Mr Bethel said that Fox Hill had been stamped over Elizabeth. He said that Fox Hill had been stamped there just prior to the May 2007 general elections. Polling division 12 is now in Fox Hill he said. The other listed address for the voter was South Pine Barren Road, West Barn Close. Mr Davis pointed out that according to the voter's card, voter A was in Elizabeth polling division 4. He pointed out that the voter had voted in May 2007 and in the same constituency in February 2010. Mr Bethel said he could not confirm which was the correct address. He accepted Mr Davis' suggestion that the register had to be corrected or voter's card cancelled and a new one issued in this case.
In relation to a voter identified as voter C, the issue arose as to what appeared on the counterfoil relative to the voter's date of birth. It was revealed that the date of birth listed on the register was different than that listed on the counterfoil. Mr Bethel admitted that the error was on the counterfoil. In relation to a voter identified as voter E who appeared in polling division 8, Mr Bethel pointed out that the discrepancy over the omission of Alligator Close to the voter's address listed on the register was because the computer could only take so many characters. The voter's full address would have read South Sandilands Road, West Fox Hill Road, Alligator Close.
In relation to voter D who voted in polling division 7, Mr Davis noted that in the constituency column, the word Elizabeth had been there but was crossed out and replaced with Yamacraw. He also pointed out that in the polling division column; seven was marked out and replaced with 8. This was also reflected on the counterfoil. Mr Bethel admitted that the address West Commonwealth Boulevard, South Malaysia Way would be in the Elizabeth constituency but the S for South was marked out and N for north was placed there instead, which would place the voter out of Elizabeth. Mr Davis pointed out that the oath taken by the voter also contained corrections. In the oath the voter had sworn that they lived in Elizabeth. Mr Bethel subsequently admitted that the corrections had been made by his office. Mr Bethel contended that the error was that the voter was obviously in the wrong constituency. Mr Davis suggested to him, however, that he was wrong to direct that such corrections be made. Mr Bethel, however, did not accept this suggestion. Mr Davis concluded his cross-examination yesterday by highlighting voter F. According to Mr Davis, voter F had been a registered voter from November 23, 2005 and had been placed in the Yamacraw constituency, polling division 6. Mr Bethel, however, told the court that he had never encountered the voter.
The election court hearing is expected to resume on Monday at 10.30 am. Dr Sands' legal team is expected and attorneys for Mr Bethel and Returning Officer Jack Thompson are expected to begin their cross-examination.
March 13, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net:
PARLIAMENTARY Commissioner Errol Bethel was questioned extensively yesterday regarding discrepancies in the protest votes cast in the Elizabeth by-election.
Mr Bethel was the first and only witness to take the stand yesterday during day two of the Elizabeth election court hearing.
Philip "Brave" Davis, lead attorney for Progressive Liberal Party candidate Leo Ryan Pinder, opened yesterday's proceedings by outlining the election court petition.
Mr Davis then read into the record the affidavit of Stafford Coakley, a licensed surveyor. According to Mr Coakley's affidavit, Mr Pinder -- the petitioner -- had asked him to mark out the residences of the protested voters on a map of the Elizabeth constituency. According to the surveyor, all but five of the protest voters resided in the Elizabeth constituency. The surveyor found that one of the voters in question lived at a home in Commonwealth Boulevard which does not fall within the boundary of the Elizabeth constituency.
When Mr Bethel took the stand, attorney David Higgins who represents him and Returning Officer Jack Thompson, read his affidavit into the court's record. Mr Davis then began his cross-examination of Mr Bethel. During the cross-examination, Mr Bethel admitted that a part of his duty was to verify whether persons whose names appeared on the register were in fact there. He said that his duties were to advise persons of the fact that they were not on the register if it came to his attention. Those notices he said could be sent to their addresses.
Letters are being used to identify the voters whose votes are being protested in the proceedings -- in order to protect their identity. Mr Davis pointed out that the issue with Voter A was over two different listed addresses.
Mr Davis noted that the voter had one address that would put the voter in the Fox Hill Constituency and another that would put the voter in the Elizabeth constituency. He noted that on the voter's card the word Elizabeth was written over Fox Hill. Mr Bethel said that Fox Hill had been stamped over Elizabeth. He said that Fox Hill had been stamped there just prior to the May 2007 general elections. Polling division 12 is now in Fox Hill he said. The other listed address for the voter was South Pine Barren Road, West Barn Close. Mr Davis pointed out that according to the voter's card, voter A was in Elizabeth polling division 4. He pointed out that the voter had voted in May 2007 and in the same constituency in February 2010. Mr Bethel said he could not confirm which was the correct address. He accepted Mr Davis' suggestion that the register had to be corrected or voter's card cancelled and a new one issued in this case.
In relation to a voter identified as voter C, the issue arose as to what appeared on the counterfoil relative to the voter's date of birth. It was revealed that the date of birth listed on the register was different than that listed on the counterfoil. Mr Bethel admitted that the error was on the counterfoil. In relation to a voter identified as voter E who appeared in polling division 8, Mr Bethel pointed out that the discrepancy over the omission of Alligator Close to the voter's address listed on the register was because the computer could only take so many characters. The voter's full address would have read South Sandilands Road, West Fox Hill Road, Alligator Close.
In relation to voter D who voted in polling division 7, Mr Davis noted that in the constituency column, the word Elizabeth had been there but was crossed out and replaced with Yamacraw. He also pointed out that in the polling division column; seven was marked out and replaced with 8. This was also reflected on the counterfoil. Mr Bethel admitted that the address West Commonwealth Boulevard, South Malaysia Way would be in the Elizabeth constituency but the S for South was marked out and N for north was placed there instead, which would place the voter out of Elizabeth. Mr Davis pointed out that the oath taken by the voter also contained corrections. In the oath the voter had sworn that they lived in Elizabeth. Mr Bethel subsequently admitted that the corrections had been made by his office. Mr Bethel contended that the error was that the voter was obviously in the wrong constituency. Mr Davis suggested to him, however, that he was wrong to direct that such corrections be made. Mr Bethel, however, did not accept this suggestion. Mr Davis concluded his cross-examination yesterday by highlighting voter F. According to Mr Davis, voter F had been a registered voter from November 23, 2005 and had been placed in the Yamacraw constituency, polling division 6. Mr Bethel, however, told the court that he had never encountered the voter.
The election court hearing is expected to resume on Monday at 10.30 am. Dr Sands' legal team is expected and attorneys for Mr Bethel and Returning Officer Jack Thompson are expected to begin their cross-examination.
March 13, 2010
tribune242
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Philip Davis' former campaign general - Ezra Kelson Russell plans to challenge him in next election
By PAUL G TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
A FORMER campaign general for the Progressive Liberal Party's deputy leader Philip "Brave" Davis has announced his intention to challenge the MP in the next General Election, claiming the area has suffered far too long without "good and qualified representation."
Ezra Kelson Russell said that "God willing" he will be the next Member of Parliament for Cat Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador because he is the "man with the plan."
In his former capacity as the chairman of Mr Davis' election campaign in 2007, Mr Russell said he has no time to "bad mouth" either the PLP or the FNM as his intention to run has nothing to do with "bad blood" or any grudge with the area's current MP.
"I am coming with a mission, to represent the good people of Cat Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador. The people here have suffered for too long. They say that Brave doesn't have a house in the area, he doesn't live in the constituency, and a lot of his supporters are upset that they don't see him. They are telling me that Ezra if you do not run, we will not support the PLP and Mr Philip Brave Davis in the next election," he said.
Having already met with religious leaders on the island and their many civil servants, Mr Russell said he has considerable support in the area having been the "front man" for the PLP in the area for decades.
As such he said, if he were to be successful in a general election, he would use his influence in the House of Assembly for the betterment of Cat Island, San Salvador and Rum Cay by providing better linkages and avenues for cultural tourism. In addition, Mr Russell added that he would create a proper sporting facility in the far flung islands that would improve the lives of the children, as well as upgrading the many now derelict government offices.
"I live in Cat Island. The people here can find me to talk to me or meet with me on a daily basis. I live in the constituency. I know what the people are going through. They can identify with me because I go through their same pains on a daily basis."
The prospective candidate said he will be travelling to San Salvador on February 9 to begin his campaign, having already done a roll call on the island to feel out his level of support there.
"I am a people person. We are independent people. We think in and outside the box. And we don't have no time to smear nobody. The government and anybody else should be thinking of taking care of its people. It is the government's job to make sure the infrastructure is there. That is all we want. And I will ensure that we get it," he said.
Attempts to reach Mr Davis for comment on this matter were unsuccessful.
January 26, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
pturnquest@tribunemedia.net:
A FORMER campaign general for the Progressive Liberal Party's deputy leader Philip "Brave" Davis has announced his intention to challenge the MP in the next General Election, claiming the area has suffered far too long without "good and qualified representation."
Ezra Kelson Russell said that "God willing" he will be the next Member of Parliament for Cat Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador because he is the "man with the plan."
In his former capacity as the chairman of Mr Davis' election campaign in 2007, Mr Russell said he has no time to "bad mouth" either the PLP or the FNM as his intention to run has nothing to do with "bad blood" or any grudge with the area's current MP.
"I am coming with a mission, to represent the good people of Cat Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador. The people here have suffered for too long. They say that Brave doesn't have a house in the area, he doesn't live in the constituency, and a lot of his supporters are upset that they don't see him. They are telling me that Ezra if you do not run, we will not support the PLP and Mr Philip Brave Davis in the next election," he said.
Having already met with religious leaders on the island and their many civil servants, Mr Russell said he has considerable support in the area having been the "front man" for the PLP in the area for decades.
As such he said, if he were to be successful in a general election, he would use his influence in the House of Assembly for the betterment of Cat Island, San Salvador and Rum Cay by providing better linkages and avenues for cultural tourism. In addition, Mr Russell added that he would create a proper sporting facility in the far flung islands that would improve the lives of the children, as well as upgrading the many now derelict government offices.
"I live in Cat Island. The people here can find me to talk to me or meet with me on a daily basis. I live in the constituency. I know what the people are going through. They can identify with me because I go through their same pains on a daily basis."
The prospective candidate said he will be travelling to San Salvador on February 9 to begin his campaign, having already done a roll call on the island to feel out his level of support there.
"I am a people person. We are independent people. We think in and outside the box. And we don't have no time to smear nobody. The government and anybody else should be thinking of taking care of its people. It is the government's job to make sure the infrastructure is there. That is all we want. And I will ensure that we get it," he said.
Attempts to reach Mr Davis for comment on this matter were unsuccessful.
January 26, 2010
tribune242
Saturday, January 9, 2010
PLP Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis claims Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham's appointing of political figures to bench undermining crime fight
By ALISON LOWE
Tribune Staff Reporter
alowe@tribunemedia.net:
PLP Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis yesterday claimed the appointment of political figures to the judicial bench by the Prime Minister is undermining the fight against crime.
Essentially accusing Hubert Ingraham of master-minding the resignation of Malcolm Adderley from the PLP and politics this week, Mr Davis accused Mr Ingraham of playing political games with the country when there are more pressing matters like crime and unemployment that he should be addressing and called on Elizabeth constituents to use the upcoming by-election to "send a message" to the Prime Minister and the FNM that "enough is enough."
Mr Davis said: "Hubert Ingraham just this week spoke about new crime fighting initiatives. We need a new direction. Yet the man talking one thing and doing another! In order for the fight against crime to be effective there must be a well oiled, functioning and Independent judiciary! Since returning to power Hubert Ingraham has engaged in the most blatant politicisation of the judiciary!
"In the last 12 months he seen to it that at least two judges appointed to sit on the Bench of the Supreme Court came directly out of the belly of the FNM. At the same time he has done all in his power to rid the courts of any judge who he even dreams may have voted PLP at least once before!
"We have judge after judge after judge who due to political affiliation has to excuse themselves from hearing certain cases. How does this address the back log in our courts? It doesn't!" said Mr Davis.
Mr Davis made his charge as he addressed a PLP Rally at Doris Johnson High School in the Elizabeth constituency in the wake of Malcolm Adderley's resignation from the PLP and as MP for the area.
Speaking as he announced his resignation as the Elizabeth MP on Tuesday in parliament, Mr Adderley blamed his decision on his deteriorating relationship with PLP party leader, Perry Christie, throughout his seven and a half years as an MP.
He suggested Mr Christie's poor leadership and behind-the-scenes efforts to undermine him as a representative had left him with the belief that Elizabeth constituents "deserve better." Mr Adderley is rumoured to soon be set to take up an appointment as a Supreme Court judge, on the recommendation of Mr Ingraham.
Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP, Mr Davis, proposed that the move was orchestrated to look like it was about dissatisfaction with PLP leader Perry Christie when in fact it is an attempt to get Bahamians to "forget the misery they are experiencing daily" under his government's leadership
Mr Davis charged that it is irresponsible to precipitate a costly by-election when government revenue is down and people are suffering in bad economic times.
"People are hungry! Lights are off! Some of our schools are like war zones! People are in pain! And yet this Government can only find money when it is time to play political games and pursue selfish agendas!" said Mr Davis.
"They think you are blind! They think that you cannot see what they are doing! They think you cannot see the games!" he added.
While the PLP has yet to announce who its candidate will be in the by-election, or to specifically confirm if it will nominate a candidate to contest the seat under its party's banner, Mr Davis told those at the meeting that the party is "ready".
"Stand strong and brave with the Progressive Liberal Party!" he added.
Mr Davis told The Tribune on Thursday that he firmly believes the party should contest the seat, although other senior party members are said to be unsure.
No date has yet been publicly announced for the election to take place however it is expected to occur sometime in February.
The Bahamas Democratic Party is the only political party to so far officially declare that it will be contesting the seat, with party president Cassius Stuart the intended torchbearer. President of the Bahamas Medical Council Dr Duane Sands is rumoured to be the FNM's preferred candidate for the area, although this has not been confirmed.
January 09, 2010
tribune242
Tribune Staff Reporter
alowe@tribunemedia.net:
PLP Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis yesterday claimed the appointment of political figures to the judicial bench by the Prime Minister is undermining the fight against crime.
Essentially accusing Hubert Ingraham of master-minding the resignation of Malcolm Adderley from the PLP and politics this week, Mr Davis accused Mr Ingraham of playing political games with the country when there are more pressing matters like crime and unemployment that he should be addressing and called on Elizabeth constituents to use the upcoming by-election to "send a message" to the Prime Minister and the FNM that "enough is enough."
Mr Davis said: "Hubert Ingraham just this week spoke about new crime fighting initiatives. We need a new direction. Yet the man talking one thing and doing another! In order for the fight against crime to be effective there must be a well oiled, functioning and Independent judiciary! Since returning to power Hubert Ingraham has engaged in the most blatant politicisation of the judiciary!
"In the last 12 months he seen to it that at least two judges appointed to sit on the Bench of the Supreme Court came directly out of the belly of the FNM. At the same time he has done all in his power to rid the courts of any judge who he even dreams may have voted PLP at least once before!
"We have judge after judge after judge who due to political affiliation has to excuse themselves from hearing certain cases. How does this address the back log in our courts? It doesn't!" said Mr Davis.
Mr Davis made his charge as he addressed a PLP Rally at Doris Johnson High School in the Elizabeth constituency in the wake of Malcolm Adderley's resignation from the PLP and as MP for the area.
Speaking as he announced his resignation as the Elizabeth MP on Tuesday in parliament, Mr Adderley blamed his decision on his deteriorating relationship with PLP party leader, Perry Christie, throughout his seven and a half years as an MP.
He suggested Mr Christie's poor leadership and behind-the-scenes efforts to undermine him as a representative had left him with the belief that Elizabeth constituents "deserve better." Mr Adderley is rumoured to soon be set to take up an appointment as a Supreme Court judge, on the recommendation of Mr Ingraham.
Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP, Mr Davis, proposed that the move was orchestrated to look like it was about dissatisfaction with PLP leader Perry Christie when in fact it is an attempt to get Bahamians to "forget the misery they are experiencing daily" under his government's leadership
Mr Davis charged that it is irresponsible to precipitate a costly by-election when government revenue is down and people are suffering in bad economic times.
"People are hungry! Lights are off! Some of our schools are like war zones! People are in pain! And yet this Government can only find money when it is time to play political games and pursue selfish agendas!" said Mr Davis.
"They think you are blind! They think that you cannot see what they are doing! They think you cannot see the games!" he added.
While the PLP has yet to announce who its candidate will be in the by-election, or to specifically confirm if it will nominate a candidate to contest the seat under its party's banner, Mr Davis told those at the meeting that the party is "ready".
"Stand strong and brave with the Progressive Liberal Party!" he added.
Mr Davis told The Tribune on Thursday that he firmly believes the party should contest the seat, although other senior party members are said to be unsure.
No date has yet been publicly announced for the election to take place however it is expected to occur sometime in February.
The Bahamas Democratic Party is the only political party to so far officially declare that it will be contesting the seat, with party president Cassius Stuart the intended torchbearer. President of the Bahamas Medical Council Dr Duane Sands is rumoured to be the FNM's preferred candidate for the area, although this has not been confirmed.
January 09, 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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)