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Volume: 123 No. 32, Thursday, January 8, 2026
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ST JAMES SHOWDOWN • Owen Wells and Shanendon Cartwright eye newly created western New Providence seat • Boundary Report proposes new Berry Island/Bimini and St James constituencies • Michael Pintard claims report fails to fix voter disparities despite government denials
SHANENDON CARTWRIGHT FNM deputy leader and MP for St Barnabas
LAWYER OWEN WELLS
SEE PAGES 4 & 5 FOR STORIES
Deadly crash in Eleuthera claims the lives of two men By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net TWO men, aged 21 and 28, were killed in a traffic collision in Eleuthera yesterday morning, marking the country’s latest road fatalities. Scene of the crash in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera where two men died.
The crash occurred shortly before 7am on Queen’s Highway in Palmetto Point, involving two vehicles travelling in opposite directions. Police said a white Ford Transit sustained extensive front-end damage. The vehicle was driven
by a man and carried two male passengers, both of whom were transported to New Providence for further medical treatment. The driver was treated at a local clinic and later discharged. FATAL - SEE PAGE THREE
Fernander: Step aside as MP if you cannot see a better Bahamas By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
BISHOP DELTON FERNANDER
PARLIAMENTARIANS were told to step aside if they could not imagine a better Bahamas by Bishop Delton Fernander, who challenged lawmakers to bring vision and accountability to public office during the annual Parliamentary Church Service. “If you cannot see a better Bahamas, maybe this
should be your last run,” he preached at the service at Church of God on East Street, attended by Prime Minister Philip Davis, Cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament and opposition figures. The annual service marks the start of the legislative year and brings together government, opposition and senior public officials for prayer and reflection. It IMAGINE - SEE PAGE THREE
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
JUNKANOO SUPPLEMENT INSIDE
PAGE 2, Thursday, January 8, 2026
THE TRIBUNE
Images from the annual Parliamentary Church Service
Pictured top left: Oppisition Leader Michael Pintard, Killarney MP Dr Hubert Minnis, St Annes MP Adrian White. Pictured top right: Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, Speaker of the House Patricia Deveaux and President of Senate Lashell Adderley. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
US Ambassador to The Bahamas Herschel Walker
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 3
Bishop challenges lawmakers to choose national interest over personal gain IMAGINE from page one
“The Bahamian people are counting on you to have their best interest at heart and not your own. They want you to make decisions for all of us and not a few of us. They want the things that take place in these parliaments to make jobs and opportunities for the children’s children.” Bishop Delton Fernander speaks during the annual Parliamentary Church Service yesterday. Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
has long served as a platform for clergy to address national leadership outside the House of Assembly. Bishop Fernander said public office required a clear vision for improvement, reminding lawmakers that the country’s parliamentary history, spanning nearly three centuries, carried moral weight beyond political debate. “Hundreds, maybe thousands of people have sat in the places you preside in,” he said, noting that while chambers and settings may change, leaders serve within a tradition older than themselves. He challenged the current Parliament to consider what would distinguish it from those who came before, saying some leaders had served with distinction while others had faded into obscurity despite occupying the same seats of power. Describing the nation’s forefathers as architects of change, Bishop Fernander said their leadership succeeded because they made full use of their time and responsibility. “It takes great courage, strategy, character, humility, faith and a sense of purpose to take a country from a fishing village to a top tourism destination,” he said. “What will we do with our time?” He extended the challenge beyond Parliament, urging Bahamians to reflect on whether they could point to meaningful change since
Independence that defined their own legacy. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, conflict and economic pressure, Bishop Fernander said the public was relying on its leaders to act in the national interest. “The Bahamian people are counting on you to have their best interest at heart and not your own,” he said. “They want you to make decisions for all of us and not a few of us. They want the things that take place in these parliaments to make jobs and opportunities for the children’s children.” He warned that leaders could not chart a better future without first being able to imagine it. “You should see us in a better place so you can take us to a better place,” he said, adding that silence was not an option when the country’s future was at stake. Alluding to the approaching general election, Bishop Fernander cautioned against treating the period as what he described as the “silly season”. “It is a time of seriousness, not silliness,” he said. He urged the nation to attract and embrace its best talent, warning that many Bahamians abroad were helping to build other countries because they no longer felt welcomed at home. “We must reach deep within ourselves and ask who is the best fit, who will bring value to our country,” he said. “We have gone too far, come too far, fried too much fish and made too
many fritters for us to stay home and not vote.” Calling for greater accountability, Bishop Fernander said leadership required more than handouts. “We have to have hard questions,” he said. “It has got to be more than the money we spend. We cannot just distribute turkeys. Our country demands more.” He recalled a time when Bahamians were denied the right to vote and urged citizens to honour that right by participating fully in the democratic process. Turning to the role of the church, Bishop Fernander apologised for what he described as past silence driven by personal gain. “I want to apologise for the silence,” he said. “In an effort to attract political contracts, to be named on boards and to have our names called, we found and lost our voice.” He urged faith leaders to speak out even when doing so carried personal cost. “Speak even if it costs you your contract,” he said. As he closed, Bishop Fernander reminded lawmakers that their journeys were shaped by sacrifice and faith long before they entered public life. “Granny held the rope for you. Grandfather held the rope for you,” he said. “You grew up in a praying position. Now you are a big fan of prayers, but you have got to get to the point where you realise you cannot make it on your own. Only God can keep us.”
BOTH MEN KILLED IN ELEUTHERA CRASH WORKED FOR LOCAL ENERGY COMPANY
BISHOP Delton Fernander greets Dpeuty Prime Minister outside at the annual Parliamentary Church Service ONE of the traffic adccident vicitms, Zoran Forbes. FATAL from page one The second vehicle, a Nissan Bluebird, was driven by a 28-year-old man with a 21-year-old male passenger.
Both were extricated from the wreckage using the Jaws of Life and were pronounced dead at the scene by a local physician. The Tribune understands the victims were
Sanvano Francis and the father of Zoran Forbes, a Grand Bahama native. Sources said the men were employed by the energy company El Greco on the island.
ONE of the vehicles involved in the crash is taken from the scene in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera.
Cartwright and Wells linked to newly created St James seat PAGE 4, Thursday, January 8, 2026
THE TRIBUNE
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net A POLITICAL fight is taking shape over the newly created St James constituency, with both major parties moving early to claim the redrawn western New Providence seat ahead of the next general election. Progressive Liberal Party political aspirant Owen Wells and Free National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright are both said to be eyeing the constituency, which was recommended by the Constituency Boundaries Commission in a report tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday. Mr Cartwright is the sitting Member of Parliament for St Barnabas and the FNM’s deputy leader. He also served on the Boundaries Commission that recommended the
FNM DEPUTY LEADER AND ST BARNABAS MP SHANENDON CARTWRIGHT creation of the St James constituency — a seat a
Tribune source said he is expected to be ratified
for. Mr Wells, who lives in
the western area that will fall within the proposed St James boundaries, was spotted at the PLP’s aspirants’ module in August. He was unveiled in November as chairman of Bahamix Limited. A lawyer by training, Mr Wells is a partner at the law firm McKinney, Turner & Co. He earned an LLB with Upper Second Class honours from the University of Buckingham in England, completed a postgraduate diploma in Bar Vocational Studies at the College of Law in Bloomsbury with a “Very Competent” distinction, and was called to the Bar of England and Wales in July 2010. He was admitted to The Bahamas Bar in September 2010. Speculation has circulated since last year that Mr Cartwright was considering a move from St Barnabas. Some St Barnabas
constituents, including FNM supporters, have previously complained that Mr Cartwright became less visible in the constituency after rising within the party’s leadership. They have said he was more active as an MP before becoming deputy leader and that constituency meetings have become less frequent. Those critics also said they were repeatedly given the “run around” when trying to meet with him. Mr Cartwright has acknowledged that some residents may want a stronger physical presence but has rejected claims of neglect. He has said he remains accessible to constituents who reach out and has pointed to ongoing community initiatives, including a feeding programme, a backyard farming project and a Mother’s Day giveback.
Pintard hits out at government over constituency voter parity By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net FREE National Movement (FNM) leader Michael Pintard says he believes the government missed an opportunity to address a number of voter parity issues in its boundaries report, a claim government officials dismissed as “nonsense.” While acknowledging the
commission’s recommendation of two new seats - one in western New Providence and the other in Grand Bahama, Mr Pintard said the opposition believes the report did not adequately address the fundamental issues the commission is tasked with resolving. “So for example," he said, "in their move of taking Bimini and putting it with the Berry islands. Clearly, if they were interested in
greater parity across Grand Bahama, you would notice that there is at least a 1,300 vote difference between West Grand Bahama now and let's say East Grand Bahama.” Mr Pintard noted the government’s claims of seeking voter parity, but said it is not reflected in Grand Bahama or elsewhere under the proposed changes. He furthered that the disparity is evident in the
Prime Minister’s seat in Cat Island, which has fewer than 1,800 voters, compared with his own constituency, Marco City, which has over 6,000 voters. He also noted MICAL as another challenging constituency to represent, pointing out that it has the same resources as other constituencies despite its size. “One thing for sure, we know that you could change the lines, but you can't change the minds of Bahamians,” Mr Pintard said, “and so we're looking forward to contesting this election, and we believe in future, one of the things we will do when we're in government is to address the issue of lack of parity in terms of the number of voters in the various seats.” Yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who served on the commission, defended the report, dismissing opposition claims that it missed an opportunity. He noted that the opposition had opportunities to make such changes when they were in government, but did not do so. “The reality is the opposition had a member of the committee," he said. "These matters were fully discussed. The opposition member agreed with the report, executed the report. We laid the report today. That report would go to the Governor General and indeed next week, the order will come which will be executed by the Governor General.” He added that the opposition “can spew as much nonsense as they like,”
“Clearly, if they were interested in greater parity across Grand Bahama, you would notice that there is at least a 1,300 vote difference between West Grand Bahama now and let’s say East Grand Bahama.”
FNM leader Michael Pintard speaks to the media outside the House of Assembly yesterday. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr stressing that the commis- regard,” he said. sion carried out its work as Regarding the St James objectively as possible. constituency, which includes Concerning the reason- parts of Killarney and ing behind combining the Golden Isles, Mr Cooper Bimini and Berry Islands said the commission has seat, he said the proposal long noted the large voter was not a new concept. bases in both areas. “We’ve previously had He said while Killarney that configuration and there remains the largest constitare natural connections uency, the changes aim to between Bimini and Berry create more balance and island and we thought ensure that most constituthat was an opportunity to encies fall within the 5,000 create a new seat in they voter range.
PRIME MINISTER Philip ‘Brave’ Davis speaks in the House of Assembley yesterday as the Boundaries Commssion Report was tabled.
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 5
St James and Bimini seats created in boundaries report NEW
ADJUSTED
THE BOUNDARIES Commission Report is handed tyo the Speaker of the House Patricia Deveaux yesterday. Photo: chappell Whyms Jr By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net SEVERAL constituencies are set to see expanded voter bases under proposals from the Constituency Boundaries Commission, including the creation of a new western New Providence seat spanning communities in Golden Isles, Killarney and Southern Shores. The commission’s report, tabled in the House of Assembly by Speaker Patricia Deveaux, confirms what The Tribune reported earlier this week: the creation of a new constituency to be called St James, along with a separate Bimini and Berry Islands seat. The proposals are aimed at addressing population shifts and maintaining voter parity, while keeping the total number of polling divisions nationwide unchanged at 501. They also recommend adjustments to constituency names and boundary alignments. Proposed changes affect a wide range of constituencies, including Bain and Grants Town, Centreville, Englerston, Fort Charlotte, Free Town, Garden Hills, Golden Isles, Killarney, St Annes, St Barnabas, Southern Shores, Tall Pines, Central Grand Bahama, Marco City and Abaco. In its report, the commission said it relied on past boundaries reports, recent election data and the latest census in formulating its recommendations. Several MPs whose constituencies would be affected said the proposed changes would not alter their political plans.
Killarney MP Dr Hubert Minnis said he was not a “runner” and intended to remain in the constituency, adding that he would review the proposals to assess their impact. West Grand Bahama and Bimini MP Kingsley Smith said he planned to remain on Grand Bahama but welcomed the proposal to create a standalone Bimini seat, calling it “something that they wanted for quite some years now.” He pointed to Bimini’s growing economy and ongoing road and infrastructure projects, saying residents often felt disadvantaged by being tied to West Grand Bahama. “With the new proposal, it gives me the whole of West Grand Bahama and that is a hovering task,” he said. “The challenge with those islands is that one member of parliament have to take the time or share time between those islands. Each island wants the attention of their politician or their member of parliament.” Under the proposals, the new St James constituency would absorb polling divisions 1, 2, 5, 10 and 14 from Golden Isles; polling division 4 from Southern Shores; polling divisions 3 and 11 from Killarney, along with three parcels from polling division 4 currently in Killarney. Polling divisions 4, 7 and 12 from Tall Pines would also be reassigned to St James. The affected areas include Adelaide, Coral Harbour, Renaissance and Dignity Gardens, as well as Southwest Ridge, Jacaranda, Serenity, Mount Pleasant Village and parts of South Ocean. St James would have 5,149 registered
from Central and add to West
GB
voters, while the proposed Bimini and Berry Islands constituency would have 2,253 voters. Other changes include the transfer of polling division 5 in Bain and Grants Town, which covers areas near Infant View Road, to Fort Charlotte, reducing Bain and Grants Town’s voter count to 4,581. Centreville would give up polling division 3 to St Barnabas, leaving Centreville with 4,847 voters. The polling division covers areas between Wulff Road and Deveaux Street. In eastern New Providence, Free Town would lose polling division 4, Little Blair, to St Annes, reducing its voter count from 4,557 in 2021 to 4,497. Garden Hills would gain polling division 1 from Englerston but lose polling division 10 to Tall Pines, leaving it with 5,211 voters. St Barnabas would receive polling division 3 from Centreville, while polling division 3 from St Barnabas would be reassigned to Fort Charlotte. Outside New Providence, the report outlines several changes for Grand Bahama. In Central Grand Bahama, polling divisions 2 and 10 would be reassigned to West Grand Bahama, increasing Central Grand Bahama’s voter total from 5,896 to 5,984. West Grand Bahama and North Andros would become standalone constituencies. In Marco City, a portion of polling division 15, including areas near the International Bazaar, would be moved to polling division 13 in Pineridge. On Abaco, the commission recommends moving polling divisions 10 and 11, including Dundas Town, from North Abaco to Central and South Abaco, reducing North Abaco’s voter count from 4,121 to 4,097. The commission reported a total of 195,594 registered voters, based on data from the Parliamentary Registration Department. It also proposed renaming The Exumas & Ragged Island as “Exuma & Ragged Island”, and Mangrove Cay & South Andros as “Central, Mangrove Cay & South Andros”. In a statement, the Progressive Liberal Party welcomed the report, describing the redistribution as a normal feature of a healthy democracy. “This is a sensible response to growth and shifts in where people live, and it strengthens representation, particularly in areas where constituencies have grown beyond what is manageable for one member of parliament to serve effectively,” the party said.
THIS TABLE shows proposed changes to polling stations based on boundary changes suggested in the Boundaries Commission Report tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday.
THE TABLE above from the Boundaries Commission Report notes all constituencies where a change of bounday is suggested, as well as listing two new seats - St James in western New Providence and Bimini/Berry Islands.
PAGE 6, Monday, Thursday, January 8, 2026
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New lines, new battleground THE political battleground for the next election continues to take shape – and the conclusions of the Constituency Boundaries Commission adds definition to that shape. The boundaries report always prompts plenty of debate – but in the end it will be two new constituencies, much as has been expected all along. One of those decisions will see Bimini and the Berry Islands become a constituency, while the other sees battle lines drawn in New Providence for the new constituency of St James, hiving off part of Killarney along with parts of Golden Isles and Southern Shores. There are some other shuffles in polling divisions elsewhere – as you can read in today’s Tribune. It is important to take note – so that when the election comes around soon you will not find yourself disenfranchised or trying to vote in the wrong constituency. There were some quibbles – FNM leader Michael Pintard raising some points about parity of voting numbers in constituencies, but even he was busily posting on social media that it just meant two more constituencies to win. For the St James constituency, it appears FNM deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright is eyeing a new spot rather than continuing St Barnabas. The Tribune has heard previous grumbles from St Barnabas about whether Cartwright has managed to balance his constituency duties alongside his leadership commitments. Cartwright has rejected claims of neglect, however, as you would imagine. A likely opponent is Owen Wells, for the PLP, who lives in the new constituency. Elsewhere, the candidate battles are lining up – with further candidates to be named soon. Some would say that means it is time for the hopefuls to make their case to voters, but really it is time for you. It is time for voters to hold those hopefuls to account,
and to tell them what they expect of them if they are going to receive that X on the ballot paper. This is after all the moment when the power rests with the people. If the incumbent government wishes to return to office, it has to prove its worth. If the opposition wishes to take power, it needs to lay out its case. Do not settle for half-promises. Any political party worth its mettle will have firm commitments in a properly laid-out policy plan. A party manifesto should not simply be a list of positive-sounding words. It should not be a rundown of commitments that will not be followed through with. For those promises not met previously, demand of politicians why they were not carried out. We have argued in this space, for example, of the importance of freedom of information legislation implementation. We have spoken of the necessity of following through on pledges for equality for women. For clarifying inequalities of citizenship. Then there are questions about the future of Grand Bahama – still stuck in a malaise that seems to never go away. We are quite sure that each of you has your own policy issues you want to discuss. For incumbent MPs, remember they will have had funds to make changes in their constituency. What did they do with those? Were promises followed through? For those challenging those incumbents, what are their plans? What will they do to make a difference on your doorstep? The battle will be coming sooner than you can imagine – if indeed it is not already here. Would-be representatives are already out on the streets, already posting their videos to social media, already knocking on doors. It is nearly time. Make those who would lead our nation earn it – and hold them to their promises when they do.
Would Jesus support webshops? EDITOR, The Tribune. I WAS browsing through the Internet and came across an archived photo of former Prime Minister Perry G. Christie and the majority of the members of his Cabinet at a press conference -- a photo that was posted following the January 28, 2013 gaming referendum. For the then Christie administration, the results of that referendum were highly disappointing. Over 50,200 Bahamians voted “no’’ to the legalisation of web shop gaming, which represented 60.71 percent of the nearly 83,000 who participated. Just 32,533 or 32.29 percent of voters supported the PLP and the Numbers Boys. Despite their wealth, the Numbers Boys were unable to defeat the tidal wave of opposition to their industry, which suggests to this writer that Bahamians, by and large, still adhere to traditional values. The evangelical movement behind the no vote camp did a yeoman’s job at getting its message across. We have a saying in the church that “only what is done for Christ Jesus will last.” Underscoring this sobering point is that two prominent members of the then Christie administration have since made their transition. Every legislation enacted by any government will be judged by God. The move to legalise web shop gaming will be no exception, as it will have a ripple effect throughout eternity. I believe that a case can be
made that web shop gaming is a violation of biblical law. Yes, web shop gaming is a sin. And those who engage in it are in grave danger of eternal damnation. Those who argue in favor of the industry should ask themselves: had Jesus Christ been a Bahamian, would He support web shop gaming? Would Jesus support an industry that thrives on thousands losing their hard-earned money? Would He support an industry that is either directly or indirectly responsible for gambling addiction? Would He support an industry that has harmed local churches financially? Many local churches are unable to assist those in need within the congregation because so many are gambling away their financial resources rather than being faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to them. It is an indictment on The Bahamas that the Web shop gaming industry is far more financially prosperous than the kingdom of God. We must remember the Golden Rule of Matthew 7:12 which reads, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Those who gamble is hoping to gain off the losses of others. This goes against the principles of the Golden Rule. Not only is web shop gaming a violation of the Golden Rule, but it is also a violation of the two great laws on which the Ten
Commandments are based: “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first Commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself”.....(Mark 12:30-31). First and foremost, our first responsibility is to God. Notice that the first four commandments are vertical. By that I mean the first four concerns our duty to God. Consequently, the remaining six commandments are horizontal. They concern our duty to our fellow human being. One of the remaining six commandments is the eight, which reads, “Thou shalt not steal” (Exodus 20:15). In his commentary on the eight commandment, John Calvin wrote the following: “It follows, therefore, that not only are those thieves who secretly steal the property of others, but those also who seek for gain from others’ losses, accumulate wealth by unlawful practices, and are more devoted to their private advantage than to equality.” With that said, the thousands of Bahamians who continue to patronise web shop gaming must engage in a much-needed spiritual introspection. Time is of the essence because eternity is at stake. KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama December 28, 2025.
Have a cool, fun, interesting, amazing photo? Have it featured here in The Tribune’s picture of the day! Email your high quality image to pictureoftheday@tribunemedia.net A ‘SWIMMING PIG’ taking a stroll on the beach.
Photo: Brad
New leaders needed for this modern era EDITOR, The Tribune. BAHAMIAN leadership today often resembles the practice of adopting retired racehorses to train young horses in the art of speed. While the passion may still exist and the stories may still inspire, the actual ability to compete is lacking. In a world where economies, capital, and technology move at the Speed Of Thought, this lack of capability is not a trivial weakness; it poses a significant risk to the nation. We are entering an era where a country’s competitive advantage is no longer determined by slogans, ribbon cuttings, or the longevity of its leaders. Instead, it hinges on execution: how quickly a nation can make decisions, build infrastructures, implement smart regulations, protect citizens’ data, attract investments, up skill its workforce, and deploy modern facilities. The world is not waiting for The Bahamas to “catch up.” It is reordering itself in real-time through artificial intelligence, automation, digital finance, supply chain reshoring, energy transition, climate resilience, and platform-based economies that can compress decades of change into just a few years. In this context, our habitual approach to selecting leaders and decision-makers is perilous. We continue to choose based on seniority, familiarity, and political maneuvering rather than measurable competence in modern systems. We confuse visibility with ability, rewarding rhetoric over tangible results. While we treat governance as a performance art, the world views it as an operational discipline. Let’s be honest: many of our institutions are using outdated processes from the 20th century in today’s 21st-century threat environment. Permitting is slow, procurement is slow, land administration is slow, and energy reliability is fragile. Data governance remains underdeveloped, and our skills pipelines do not keep pace with the market
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net demands. Our typical response is to form committees, deliver speeches, and promise reforms that no longer align with reality. In the new economy, being slow is not neutral; it means falling behind. Slow processes are expensive and create vulnerabilities. The harsh reality is this: we don’t have a shortage of leadership; we have a problem with leadership fitness. Fitness refers to current capability, not past reputation. It involves designing policies that can withstand scrutiny from global capital. It requires a solid understanding of cybersecurity, data protection, AI-driven disruption, and digital identity, not just as trendy concepts, but as essential operational needs. It means delivering housing, infrastructure, and services through modern project management, complete with transparent dashboards and accountability for timelines and budgets. It also entails building an economy that competes for talent, not just tourists. Retired racehorses can still provide value, but not by pretending they are still the fastest on the track. Their worth lies in their wisdom, not their speed. The error lies in allowing yesterday’s champions to dictate tomorrow’s strategies when the terrain has changed, the rules have evolved, and the competition has advanced. What Does the Bahamas Need? We need performance-based governance. Every ministry and public agency should publish quarterly delivery dashboards that reflect outcomes visible to citizens. This includes metrics such as permits processed, procurement timelines, energy reliability, housing units delivered, crime clearance rates, school performance indicators, digital service adoption, and revenue
leakages addressed. We should focus on scorecards, not speeches. We need to establish role fitness standards. Senior appointments should require modern competencies, including finance, technology literacy, project delivery, regulatory design, and systems leadership. If the goal is to lead a modern economy, we must stop hiring as if we were preserving an outdated one. We must professionalise execution. We need to create delivery units staffed with operators rather than talkers, individuals trained to complete projects on time, manage risks, and eliminate bottlenecks. Politics sets the direction, while professionals deliver results. We must develop the next generation of leaders now. The Bahamas needs an aggressive national ups-killing initiative and leadership pipeline that pairs young technical talent with experienced statesmen and international expertise, incorporating reverse mentoring, to ensure knowledge transfer without holding the nation back. This is not about disrespect; it’s about reality. The global economy is accelerating rapidly, and it does not take our comfort, traditions, or excuses into account. If we continue to train future leaders using outdated methods, we will produce individuals who can talk about speed but are unable to act swiftly. The Bahamas does not need more ceremonial leadership; we need leaders who can operate effectively in an era of rapid change, focused on measurable results and intense global competition. Mere desire is insufficient. Speed, competence, and execution are the new forms of patriotism. NOĒSIS — CRITICAL THINKER Freeport, Grand Bahama January 4, 2026.
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 7
Port Lucaya vendors seek rent reduction amid slow business By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net VENDORS at the Port Lucaya Marketplace say business remains slow but they are hopeful conditions in Grand Bahama will improve once the nearby hotel reopens. They spoke out after several vendors called for a reduction in rent to ease mounting financial pressure. Nevar Smith, president of the Port Lucaya Marketplace Association, said about 90 percent of the 170 store owners and tenants are struggling to cover costs amid low sales driven by weak foot traffic. Although some visitors were seen walking through the marketplace yesterday, vendors said the activity has not translated into meaningful sales. Terrance “Woodypecker” McKenzie, a wood carver, said business is no longer as steady as it once was, prompting him to shift to wholesale sales. “Things are up and down. I agree, we do need a reduction in rent because it is slow. One time ago, you used to make money, but things have slowed down,” he said. “I now sell my carvings wholesale.” Mr McKenzie said more entertainment and marketing were needed to draw visitors. “We need more entertainment like a Junkanoo Rush-out, and advertisements to attract people at PLM. And things will get better when they do what they promise and finish the opening of the hotel.” He said the reopening of the Grand Lucaya resort would bring more jobs and visitors to the area,
Port Lucaya Marketplace in Grand Bahama where vendors complain that business is slow, seeing few visitors and less meaningful sales. benefiting vendors at the marketplace. Straw vendor Sonia Russell also supported a rent reduction, saying it would help vendors weather the downturn. She said faith was essential during difficult periods. “It’s your faith in God that will sustain you even though it may seem tough,” she said. Reflecting on the slowdown, Ms Russell said the
experience carried lessons. “Even though a lot of people complain because they may not have all the money that they were making at one time when this place was prospering, God allows some stuff to happen. There is a season of gain and a season of loss, and we have to learn to manage what we have responsibly.” She also warned against negative rhetoric about the island.
“When we speak, our words are powerful. So if everybody keeps saying, 'Grand Bahama's in a bad state,' Grand Bahama will stay in the bad state.” Another straw vendor, Ms Pennerman, said while earnings have fallen, she remains grateful. “Yes, things are slow, but once you get something in your hand it is better than
nothing at all. So I'm grateful for whatever I get.” She said business was far stronger when the Grand Lucayan hotel was operating. “Back then, we used to make thousands and a hundreds of dollars, but the economy has dropped.” Ms Pennerman said she remains hopeful conditions
Photos: Vandyke Hepburn
will turn around. Vendors pay a monthly booth rent of $100, while store owners pay more than $1,000 per month. The Port Lucaya Marketplace Association, established six months ago, has been seeking a meeting with the owner, Peter Hunt, but Mr Smith said there has been no response.
PAGE 8, Thursday, January 8, 2026
THE TRIBUNE
Pintard hopes for Wells support as the former MP intends to run By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net OPPOSITION Leader Michael Pintard said he hopes former Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells will support the Free National Movement, even as Mr Wells has signalled his intention to be on the ballot at the next general election after the party nominated Dr Duane Sands. Speaking to reporters outside the House of Assembly yesterday, Mr Wells confirmed he plans to contest the election and said he believes he can bring “excellent representation” to Bamboo Town. However, when asked whether he would be running as an independent candidate, he declined to answer. The Tribune reported in October 2025 that Mr
Wells intended to run as an independent. Mr Pintard rejected suggestions that Mr Wells’ candidacy could split the FNM vote in the constituency. “You know he’s our brother, we love him, but Dr Duane Sands is the next Member of Parliament for Bamboo Town,” Mr Pintard said. “We hope that we’ll be able to get his support before nomination day.” Pressed on why the party chose Dr Sands over Mr Wells, Mr Pintard said: “That ship has sailed. We want to move on to other things.” Dr Sands, the FNM chairman, was ratified as the party’s candidate for Bamboo Town in December. He previously served as the Member of Parliament for Elizabeth. Mr Wells first served as MP for Bamboo Town under the Christie
FNM LEADER MICHAEL PINTARD administration and later under the Minnis
Help Wanted Collections Specialist Leading local company seeking Collections Specialist to manage a list of debt collection matters, prospective payment arrangements, urgent payments or large payment arrangements that have been promised. The ideal candidate will be able to conduct skip tracing and property title research, prepare financial calculations through the use of financial models, communicate with accountholders, update collection management software, and work well with co-workers.
administration, going on to hold the portfolios of Minister of Transport and Minister of Health. He was among the most prominent FNM figures to publicly back former prime minister Dr Hubert Minnis at the party’s last
RENWARD WELLS convention. Despite losing the seat in the 2021 general election, Mr Wells has remained a visible presence in the constituency and has repeatedly expressed interest in running again.
Meanwhile, political observers are awaiting the FNM’s ratification of its remaining candidates, amid speculation over whether some party members will contest new seats or seek re-election in their current constituencies.
Thirteen Haitian Nationals convicted and Immigration deports 64 migrants
Qualifications: Highly motivated and results driven Excellent communication skills Business degree/3-5 years or Work Experience in the field of Collections or Banking Excellent computer skills Ability to problem solve and apply judgement Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced professional setting All interested and qualified applications should submit a cover letter and resume to the attention of the Human Resources Manager at the below email address: debtcollections242@gmail.com The deadline for receipt of all applications is Friday January 9th, 2026. Only persons shortlisted for an interview will be contacted. THIRTEEN Haitian nationals were convicted of immigration offences this week, while officials carried out the deportation of 64 foreign nationals to their home countries. In the New Providence Magistrate’s Court today, six Haitian nationals appeared before Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley and pleaded guilty to charges of illegal landing and overstaying. The group received fines ranging from $300 to $1,500, with alternative custodial sentences of three to six months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. Their convictions follow the sentencing of seven other Haitian men on Tuesday, December 6, for overstaying, where fines
were set between $300 and $2,500 and custodial sentences ranged from three months to two years. In all 13 cases, the court ordered that the individuals be handed over to the Department of Immigration for deportation upon payment of their fines or completion of their prison terms. Separately, the Department of Immigration’s Deportation and Removal Units confirmed that 64 foreign nationals were repatriated between December 27, 2025, and January 6, 2026. This group of deportees consisted of 59 Haitian nationals, two Chinese nationals, one Venezuelan national, one Dominican national, and one Ghanaian national.
PAGE 12, Thursday, January 8, 2026
THE TRIBUNE
Murder accused jailed No bail for man accused for 66-day breach of bail of killing young mother By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN awaiting trial for a 2021 murder was sentenced to six months in prison yesterday after breaching his bail conditions for 66 days. Cleso Rolle, 32, failed to sign in at his local police station between June 18 2025 and November 17 2025. Rolle is accused of shooting and killing Deandre Thompson while he was in a white bus at the intersection of Sapodilla and Willow Tree Streets on January 3 2021.
He pleaded guilty to violating his bail conditions before Assistant Chief Magistrate Shaka Serville on November 21 2025. During his latest appearance, Rolle told the court that his time in custody had affected him and said he accepted responsibility for his actions. He said he intended to take his bail conditions more seriously and wanted to be present for the birth of his child. Rolle also cited difficulties signing in at his assigned police station and requested a closer location. Magistrate Serville told him that any change to his bail conditions would have to be
addressed by the Supreme Court. Inspector Cordero Farrington, the prosecutor, urged the court to impose a one-year prison sentence, describing the breaches as “egregious” and noting that Rolle also had two drug matters last year. Rolle was sentenced to six months in prison, with time already spent on remand taken into account. In passing sentence, Magistrate Serville said the punishment was intended to serve as a deterrent and expressed hope that Rolle would learn from the experience.
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN accused in the fatal shooting of a young mother while she and her three-day-old child were inside a car on Finlayson Street last January was once again denied bail. Davan Brennen, 32, was denied bail on charges of murder and abetment to murder before Justice Neil Braithwaite. Prosecutors allege that the defendants shot and killed 23-year-old Philierica Sands as she slept inside her pink Honda Fit on January 26, 2025. The victim’s infant
child was also in the car at the time of the shooting. In his bail application, Brennen submitted that he had no prior convictions. He claimed that without bail he would be disadvantaged in preparing his defence and wished to be able to provide for his family, including his young child. He also indicated that he worked as an Aliv technician prior to his incarceration. While Brennen acknowledged that he had previously been denied bail, he claimed his voluntary bill of indictment did not contain evidence to support the charges. Betty Wilson, on behalf of the prosecution, objected to the defendant’s bail. Ms Wilson submitted that on the day of the murder, reputed gang leader Mario Brown was killed in the Kemp Road area. She said the defendant lives in the same area as Brown and that CCTV footage showed an Aliv van as part of a convoy in the Finlayson Street area when shots were fired. The prosecution claimed that when interviewed by police, the defendant admitted to knowing Brown and to driving the van in the areas in question. However, Brennen denied being part of a convoy or participating in a plan to avenge Brown’s death. He claimed he was only giving a friend a ride at the time of the incident and that the friend used his phone to contact Mario Stuart. The prosecution said Stuart has since been
charged with murder and admitted to being a lookout during the incident. While the defendant claimed he did not know other vehicles were following him, it was said that his passenger told him he knew the other vehicles and that they were following. The defence argued that Brennen is of good character and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. They claimed that while Brennen’s van was seen during the incident, the defendant himself was not. The defence further submitted that service of the voluntary bill of indictment constituted a change of circumstances since the prior bail refusal, arguing that the evidence against Brennen was weak. However, the prosecution maintained that the evidence against the defendant was cogent and alleged that he participated in a retaliatory killing. In reviewing the case, Justice Braithwaite noted that an innocent mother was slain as a bystander in what appeared to be retaliatory gang violence. Justice Braithwaite rejected the submission that service of the voluntary bill of indictment amounted to a change of circumstances, noting that a trial date has already been set. After referencing recent retaliatory shootings, Justice Braithwaite refused bail, citing concerns for the defendant’s safety and public safety. Murrio Ducille KC and Brian Bastian represented the accused.
TWO-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MAN AFTER POLICE CAR CHASE By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 20-YEAR-OLD man who led police on a chase and was later found with a loaded firearm was sentenced to two years in prison yesterday. Keinojay Boothe failed to stop when police spotted him driving a charcoal-coloured Honda without a licence plate in the area of Meadow and Augusta Streets on January 4. During the pursuit, police said Boothe crashed into a wall on Ferguson Street and threw a gun onto a nearby roof. He attempted to flee again, but the chase ended when his vehicle collided with a police car.
Officers recovered a black Austria Glock 9mm pistol and seven rounds of ammunition. Boothe pleaded guilty before Magistrate Lennox Coleby to possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition. His co-accused, Ashton Georges, 20, pleaded not guilty. The charges against Georges were withdrawn after Boothe accepted sole responsibility for the offence. Boothe was sentenced to 24 months in prison and informed of his right to appeal to the Supreme Court. Levan Johnson and Miranda Adderley represented the accused. Assistant Superintendent of Police Lincoln McKenzie prosecuted.
MAN ACCUSED OF STEALING $1,000 IN CASH FROM HIS GRANDMOTHER By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 34-YEAR-OLD man was granted bail yesterday after being accused of stealing $1,000 in cash from his grandmother on Christmas Day. Prosecutors allege Ravon Armbrister stole $1,000 in mixed currency from Glenda Mae Bain at a residence on Ameryllus
Avenue. Armbrister pleaded not guilty to a charge of stealing before Senior Magistrate Kendra Kelly-Burrows. He was granted bail in the amount of $1,000 with one or two sureties and was ordered to sign in at the Grove Police Station on the first Monday of each month. His trial is scheduled to begin on February 18. Sergeant Vernon Pyfrom prosecuted.
27-YEAR-OLD ACCUSED OF ASSAULT OF WOMAN WITH A ROCK GETS BAIL By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 27-YEAR-OLD man accused of assaulting a woman with a rock was granted bail yesterday. Prosecutors allege Jamell Matthew assaulted Varnessa Moss during a verbal altercation on January 4 in New Providence.
Matthew pleaded not guilty to assault with a dangerous instrument before Deputy Chief Magistrate Kara Turnquest Deveaux. Inspector K Wilkinson, the prosecutor, raised no objection to bail, which was set at $5,000 with one or two sureties. Matthew returns to court for trial on March 4.
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THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 13
Bahamian researcher: Obesity drugs may prevent colorectal cancer By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net DRUGS commonly used to treat diabetes and obesity may also help prevent colorectal cancer, according to a new international study led by Bahamian researcher Dr Colton Jones. The findings will be presented this week at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium in San Francisco. Dr Jones, a cancer fellow and researcher at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio’s Mays Cancer Center MD Anderson, said the research is the first large-scale, real-world study to directly compare glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, known as GLP-1s, with aspirin for primary colorectal cancer prevention. “While aspirin has been studied for colorectal cancer prevention, its modest benefit and bleeding risks limit its use. GLP-1 receptor agonists, now widely prescribed for diabetes and obesity, may offer a safer
option for both metabolic control and cancer prevention,” Dr Jones said in a press release. The study examined health records of more than 281,000 participants using data from TriNetX, a commercial database covering 150 million patients across 106 health organisations. Half of the participants were taking a GLP-1 drug, while the other half were taking aspirin. The average age was 58, and nearly 70 per cent of participants were women. Researchers found that GLP-1 users were 36 per cent less likely to develop colorectal cancer than those taking aspirin. Among people with a family or personal history placing them at higher risk, the reduction increased to nearly 42 per cent. Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In 2025, an estimated 150,000 Americans were diagnosed with the disease, and more than 50,000 died. The study also examined side effects, reporting that GLP-1 users experienced fewer cases of acute kidney injury, stomach
DR COLTON JONES ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding than aspirin users. However,
diarrhoea and abdominal pain were more common among
those taking GLP-1 drugs. While the individual benefit was modest, with more than 2,000 people needing to take a GLP-1 drug to prevent one case of colorectal cancer, researchers said the potential public health impact could be significant. About six per cent of adults are already using GLP-1 medications, potentially benefiting millions. The protective effect was strongest among participants who began treatment before age 45 and was observed regardless of obesity or diabetes status. No reduction in risk was seen among tobacco users or individuals with atherosclerotic disease. Of the GLP-1 drugs analysed, only semaglutide, liraglutide and dulaglutide showed significant benefits, while tirzepatide did not. Dr Jones said the research represents a milestone for The Bahamas. “As a Bahamian spearheading research of this magnitude, I believe this is a proud moment for our nation,” he said, adding that clinical trials will be needed to further validate the findings.
Munroe hits back at police insurance debt claims By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net National Security Minister Wayne Munroe yesterday dismissed claims that the government owed Colina $100 million after the Police Staff Association (PSA) said officers’ spouses and children were being denied medical services as a result of not being enrolled on the government’s health insurance plan. Mr Munroe insisted police medical coverage remained active, adding that he had received the PSA memo but noted that the association had not provided detailed information about the affected officers, which limits the ministry’s ability to advocate on their behalf. He explained that while the Defense Force and Correctional Services work directly with the ministry to resolve similar issues, the PSA has primarily relied on public statements rather than meetings with officials. “I have given the memo to my permanent secretary for her to investigate,” he told The Tribune yesterday. “I am the advocate for the police, corrections, and defense force, I tell them that. So, I tell them if I'm their advocate and they have an issue come to me, let us know the facts and then we can advocate on that behalf.” He emphasized that existing coverage remained active, noting that if the government truly owed Colina money, other public servants would also face denied services, which has not been the case. "If the government owed this money, and that was a reason not to pay. Then nobody would get any services, including me, 'cause the policy that covers me, is the same as police. I would not have been able to go get my hypotensive medication on it, or go see the doctor on it. "The defense force wouldn't be able to do it. The corrections wouldn't be able to do it. The other public servants who were covered by it wouldn’t be able to do it and none of them are saying the same thing as the police staff association, they are the only one saying it," Mr Munroe said yesterday. These comments come as PSA chairman Ricardo Walkes said the issue affects officers who recently married or had children and submitted
the required documentation to add dependants to their insurance. Despite providing the necessary information, officers discovered their families were not covered when seeking medical care at hospitals and clinics. The association’s letter to members, dated January 7, described the matter as “urgent and troubling” and said the problem had persisted for more than a year. Walkes noted that the PSA was aware of at least 10 officers whose children were denied coverage and at least three officers whose spouses were unable to access medical services. According to Mr Walkes, Colina informed him that the government owed the insurer funds and requested at least a partial payment of $30 million before enrolling dependants. He said warnings had previously been issued to the government regarding the consequences of non-payment, but the outstanding balance continued to grow. Mr Walkes emphasized the financial and emotional strain the situation imposes on officers, noting that medical care can be prohibitively expensive. “This doesn't just affect the members of the police force but also corrections, the defense forces, customs, and other government employees,” he said, highlighting the broader implications for public servants. Mr Walkes also said that affected officers were not warned about the lapse in coverage. He noted that Colina had previously offered the government a structured payment plan to reduce arrears and maintain enrolment for dependants, but no response had been received from government officials. He stressed that a timely resolution was critical to ensure officers and their families have access to necessary medical care, given the physical and emotional demands of police work. The PSA has repeatedly sought meetings with the Prime Minister and other government officials to discuss the insurance issue but said it received no response. Mr Walkes warned that the denial of coverage poses serious risks to officers and their families, particularly given the hazards of police work, including potential exposure to infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or viral illnesses.
He suggested the situation mirrors last year’s dispute with Colina, when coverage was threatened due to unpaid bills. Mr Walkes added: “Medical care is quite expensive, and then when you take your children to the hospital, no matter what the care is, anything out of pocket could be very costly, and this doesn't just affect the members of the police force but also affects corrections, the defense forces, customs and immigration, and some other government employees, so it goes across the board understood.” He further noted that Colina was seeking a partial payment before enrolling dependants. “Not all of the fees owed, at least make a payment. What they're saying is that they're expecting a payment of at least $30 million before they would enroll those persons into the plan.” He added, “I would just like to them to pay Colina what is owed to them. What the persons at Colina said to me is that they offered the government more of a payment plan to bring this bill down
NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTER WAYNE MUNROE and keep it down. However, they haven't heard anything back from the government, either.” The claims represent the
latest instance in which the government has been accused of falling behind on payments to medical providers, following
repeated concerns raised by doctors who say they are still awaiting reimbursement through the National Health Insurance scheme.
PAGE 14, Thursday, January 8, 2026
THE TRIBUNE
Saint-Tropez bids adieu to Bardot with a funeral and public homage By SYLVIE CORBET and THOMAS ADAMSON Associated Press FRANCE said goodbye to one of its biggest movie stars, Brigitte Bardot, on Wednesday with a funeral in Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera resort where the icon lived for more than half a century after retiring from movie stardom at the height of her fame. The ceremonies included a private service followed by a public homage. The animal rights activist and far-right supporter died Dec. 28 at age 91 at her home in southern France. She died from cancer after undergoing two operations, her husband, Bernard d’Ormale, said in an interview with Paris Match magazine released Tuesday evening. “She was conscious and concerned about the fate of animals until the very end,” he said. Residents and admirers applauded the funeral convoy as the coffin of Bardot, once one of the world’s most photographed women and a defining screen siren of the 1960s, was being carried through the town’s narrow streets. A service started to the sound of Maria Callas’ “Ave Maria” at the Notre-Damede-l’Assomption Catholic Church in the presence of Bardot’s husband, son and grandchildren, as well as guests invited by the family and the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the protection of animals. “Sadness is overwhelming, and pain too,” Max Guazzini, a friend and secretary general of the Foundation, said in a speech. “We’re going to dream
about her as if we were sleeping. In our dream, Brigitte arrives in a great, white immensity and suddenly … thousands of seals arrive,” he said. “All the animals she saved and she loved form a procession behind her … Thousands of animals say: Brigitte, we will miss you, we love you so much, thank you.” Hundreds of people gathered in the small town to follow the farewell on large screens set up at the port and on two plazas. Bardot is to be buried “in the strictest privacy” at a cemetery overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. She had long called SaintTropez her refuge from the celebrity that once made her a household name. A public homage took place Wednesday afternoon at a nearby site for admirers of the woman whose image once symbolized France’s postwar liberation and sensuality. “Brigitte Bardot will forever be associated with Saint-Tropez, of which she was the most dazzling ambassador,” the town hall said last week. “Through her presence, personality and aura, she marked the history of our town.” Bardot settled decades ago in her seaside villa, La Madrague, and retired from filmmaking in 1973 at age 39, during an international career that spanned more than two dozen films. She later emerged as an animal rights activist, founding and sustaining a foundation devoted to the protection of animals. While she withdrew from the film industry, she remained a highly visible and often controversial public figure through
FRENCH actress Brigitte Bardot poses with a huge sombrero she brought back from Mexico, as she arrives at Orly Airport in Paris, France, on May 27, 1965. Photo: AP decades of militant animal rights activism and links with far-right politics. She will be buried in the so-called marine cemetery, where her parents are also interred. The cemetery, overlooking the Mediterranean sea, is also the final resting place of several cultural figures, including filmmaker Roger Vadim, Bardot’s first husband, who directed her breakout film “And God Created Woman,” a role that made her a worldwide star.
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ACTOR Brigitte Bardot’s coffin is carried outside Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church for her funeral ceremony, yesterday in Saint-Tropez, southern France. Photo: Philippe Magoni/AP
THE TRIBUNE
MORE PHOTOS FROM BRIGITTE BARDOT’S FUNERAL IN FRANCE
A WOMAN (above) carries a bouquet of flowers reading” BB, memory of an eternal animals lover” outside Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church before Brigitte Bardot’s funeral ceremony. Right: Brigette Bardot’s coffin being carried outside the church yesterday. Photos: Philippe Magoni/AP
FORMER French film star and animal right activist Brigitte Bardot acknowledges applause prior to a press conference, September 28, 2006 in Paris. Photo: Remy de la Mauviniere/AP
Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 15