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Volume: 123 No. 33, Friday, January 9, 2026
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TIME DOUBLED DUE TO BRUTALITY OF ATTACK Court: The sentence ‘grossly understated’ heinousness of man’s life-altering attack By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net A MAN who shot a woman in her vagina, beat her with a firearm and threatened to kill her and her family has had his prison sentence more than doubled after the Court of Appeal ruled that the original punishment grossly understated the brutality of
Grief resurfaces for widower after latest PMH neglect claims
the crime. The Court of Appeal increased the sentence of Mike Philius from ten to 25 years imprisonment, finding that the trial judge placed excessive weight on his personal circumstances and failed to properly account for the seriousness of a deliberate firearm attack that left the victim JAIL - SEE PAGE THREE
DEVEAUX CONFIRMS DESIRE TO RUN IN BAMBOO TOWN AGAIN By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net HOUSE Speaker Patricia Deveaux has confirmed she will seek re-election in Bamboo Town and is confident of being renominated, but made clear she would remain loyal to the Progressive Liberal Party even if she is denied the party’s nod.
Ms Deveaux, the MP for Bamboo Town, confirmed her intention to run again months after saying she was undecided about seeking a second term and after dismissing online speculation about her political future. She described the rumours as political mischief, telling The Tribune: “I was born here. I live here. RETURN - SEE PAGE FOUR
KENISE DARVILLE By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net JERAD Darville said allegations of neglect surrounding the recent death of a patient at Princess Margaret Hospital reopened wounds he
has struggled to close since losing his 33-year-old wife Kenise there nearly two years ago. Mr Darville said the claims made by the family of Clanesha Adderley mirrored what he experienced after his wife died at PMH in January 2023.
“It felt like reopened wounds,” Mr Darville said yesterday. The death of Ms Adderley shocked the country after her family told The Tribune they found the mother cold and unresponsive in a PMH ward, GRIEF - SEE PAGE TWO
PRIMETIME OWNER CITES UNEVEN PLAYING FIELD AND THE NEXT RISING OVERHEADS AS 14-YEAR-OLD VENUE CLOSES EDITION OF THE TRIBUNE WILL RETURN ON TUESDAY. By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
AFTER 14 years as a staple of New Providence’s nightlife, Primetime Nightclub has closed, marking the end of an era for a venue that once anchored latenight crowds. Owner Lavon Rahming said the decision was
driven by a mix of changing tastes, mounting costs and a personal sense that the business had reached its natural endpoint. “It was multiple factors but I think sometimes, you have a brand for so long, and you just have to rebrand and re-pivot," he said. "So, I think we just reached that point where people knew the brand for
so long, and we have a lot of newer establishments out, and a lot of my older customers start to diminish, probably based on just growing up." “People change their life, people get married, people get responsibilities and basically their party and start families and that's one CLOSED - SEE PAGE SEVEN
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
HAVE A HAPPY & SAFE MAJORITY RULE DAY
Widower calls for PMH reform after latest neglect allegations PAGE 2, Friday, January 9, 2026
GRIEF from page one claiming staff were unaware she had passed. Hours before her death on November 14, her family said Ms Adderley instructed them to send her case to a lawyer and sue PMH. They also recalled moments when she called home asking relatives to contact the nurses’ station because she could not get help. Mr Darville said hearing those details brought him back to the days leading up to his wife’s death. Kenise, a mother-of-three, died days after posting a video on Facebook outlining what she described as negligence and poor healthcare at the hospital. The video, which remains on her Facebook page, has more than 240,000 views. Her death prompted her family to demand an investigation and renewed calls for reform of the public healthcare system. “To tell you the truth, I felt disappointed because the prime minister gave me his word that he would make sure to look into this and that these sorts of things shouldn’t be happening,” Mr Darville said. “It’s one thing that persons have an untimely demise. But it’s a next thing that nobody even knew, that nobody even was paying attention.” Mr Darville said it was especially frustrating that healthcare workers at PMH are rarely held accountable or reprimanded, claiming officials often avoid public scrutiny by refusing to
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identify doctors and senior nurses involved in such cases. He said no one was held accountable for his wife’s death. In a letter dated March 8, 2023, the Public Hospital Authority said Kenise died because she was extremely ill and reported no shortcomings in the care provided by staff. Mr Darville said while nurses and patient care technicians are often blamed, he believes the problem runs deeper, affecting staff who are overworked, underpaid, and operating with limited resources. “All of this comes down to a management issue, and the persons who are being paid the most money to be able to solve these issues
are sitting on their hands and not doing a Christ thing about it,” he said. He added that building a second hospital in New Providence would not address long-standing staff frustrations, which he said directly affect patient care. The stories of Ms Adderley and Ms Darville, he said, reflect the experiences of many Bahamian families who believe their loved ones were neglected while under the care of PMH. This week, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said his ministry would “do everything in its power” to investigate the death of Ms Adderley. Pictured right: Kenise and Jerad Darville. Below: Kenise Darville
JUNKANOOERS MAKE FINAL PREPARATIONS AHEAD Asure Win makes $5k donation to Cleveland Enas Primary School OF FREEPORT’S NEW YEAR JUNKANOO PARADE
THE Classic Dancers Junkanoo shack was abuzz with activity as members put the finishing touches on their costumes ahead of the New Year Junkanoo Parade in Freeport on Pioneers Way. FNM Leader Michael Pintard, East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson and
FNM Central Grand Bahama candidate Frazette Gibson stopped by to greet Junkanooers and view the group’s costumes. They also visited the Platinum Knights and Swingers shacks on Queens Highway. Photos: Denise Maycock/Tribune Reporter
ASURE Win is making a difference with a $5,000 donation to Cleveland Eneas Primary School to help them prepare for the upcoming Junior Junkanoo Parade. The contribution will assist the school in getting to Bay Street after facing financial challenges. Pictured: Company marketing manager Anthony Coakley presents the donation to Cleveland Eneas Primary School officials.
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, January 9, 2026, PAGE 3
Appeal Court increases sentence to 25 years for vicious attack on woman JAIL from page one permanently injured. Philius was convicted of the attempted murder of Jacqueline Similien, who was shot outside her home in August 2021 and now lives with life-altering injuries. Around 6am on 25 August 2021, Ms Similien was at her residence with her boyfriend when their vehicle alarm sounded. As they went outside to investigate, several men were observed in the yard. Ms Similien recognised one of the men as Philius, whom she had known for many years and who had an ongoing feud with her boyfriend. As she followed the men in an attempt to obtain their vehicle’s licence plate number, she was set upon by another male who punched her
repeatedly. Philius then produced a firearm and shot Ms Similien in the left pelvic area, with the bullet exiting through her vaginal area, causing her to fall to the ground. While she lay injured, he struck her with the weapon and attempted to fire a second shot, but the firearm jammed. The court was told that Philius then threatened to kill Ms Similien and her family if the matter was reported, before fleeing the scene and leaving her bleeding in the roadway. Ms Similien was hospitalised for 19 days and now requires a urostomy bag to assist with urination as a result of the injuries sustained. Following his conviction, Philius was sentenced by the trial judge to 10 years’ imprisonment, less time spent on remand.
The Court of Appeal also described the attack as deliberate, sustained and vicious, emphasising that this was not an impulsive or emotionally driven incident. In arriving at that sentence, the judge relied heavily on a Probation Report and concluded that mitigating factors outweighed aggravating ones. The judge described Philius as a “young man”, a contributing member of society and “ordinarily of good standing”, citing his employment history, family ties and church contributions. Despite acknowledging the “heinous nature” of the offence and the serious injuries suffered by
the victim, the judge concluded that Philius was redeemable and capable of rehabilitation. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions appealed the sentence on the ground that it was unduly lenient, arguing that the judge misdirected herself by overemphasising personal circumstances and failing to give sufficient weight to deterrence and the seriousness of firearm-related violence. The prosecution further contended that the judge
erred in treating Philius as a person of good standing despite his recent drug convictions, which occurred only months before the offence. The Court of Appeal found that the trial judge mischaracterised Philius’s age as a mitigating factor, noting that he was 33 years old at the time of the offence and 36 at sentencing. The court stated that, in the absence of immaturity or reduced culpability, age was a neutral factor and not mitigating. The Court of Appeal also described the attack as deliberate, sustained and vicious, emphasising that this was not an impulsive or emotionally driven incident. The judgment highlighted the deliberate use of a firearm, the attempt to fire a second shot, the beating of the victim with the
weapon, and the decision to leave her bleeding and helpless in the roadway. The court found that the offence fell at the upper end of seriousness for attempted murder cases, particularly given the permanent injuries suffered by the victim. The court reiterated that attempted murder is among the most serious offences known to the criminal law and carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment under section 292 of the Penal Code. The judges warned that sentences which fail to reflect the seriousness of firearm violence risk undermining public confidence in the criminal justice system. The court quashed the sentence, and substituted it with a sentence of 25 imprisonment, beginning from the date of conviction.
Arrest warrant issued for Brittany Harris over libel allegations By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net AN arrest warrant has been issued for Brittany Harris, the woman accused of intentionally libelling Energy and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis and attorney Bjorn Ferguson. Prosecutors allege that Harris, 34, published a video of Mr Ferguson on social media sometime in April 2024 with the intent of
BRITTANY HARRIS
shaming him. She is also accused of posting defamatory material about Mrs Coleby-Davis on Facebook in October 2024, along with recorded audio that prosecutors say was shared with the intent to shame the minister. In December, Harris pleaded not guilty to two counts of intentional libel before Deputy Chief Magistrate Kara Turnquest Deveaux. Harris failed to appear in court yesterday for a
scheduled status hearing. As a result, Magistrate Deveaux ruled that Harris had breached her bail conditions, revoked her bail, and issued a warrant for her arrest. The sureties who signed Harris’s $5,000 bail may have their bond forfeited to the Crown. Harris had been scheduled to return to court for trial on February 24 and 25, 2026. Inspector K Wilkinson prosecuted.
PAGE 4, Friday, January 9, 2026
THE TRIBUNE
‘I still here and I ain’t going nowhere’ TITLE from page one I still here and I ain’t going nowhere. “I’m not perfect but I believe that I am a good representative.” Her comments come amid criticism from some constituents who have described her representation as lacklustre and said more could have been done in the constituency. Addressing that criticism, Ms Deveaux said progress has been made, even as she acknowledged there is more work to do. She pointed to infrastructure projects, including park repairs at Kennedy Park and Zion Boulevard Park, with additional areas to follow, as well as road paving completed in some neighbourhoods. She also cited a pre-holiday clean-up campaign and ongoing spraying exercises. “For the first time ever in the constituency of Bamboo Town, we now have our very own Urban Renewal Center. Since Urban Renewal is now up and running operational, on East Street South, crime has really gone down in Bamboo Town.” She said there was a period when petty theft and housebreaking were widespread, but added that the centre has helped to address those problems. Nonetheless, she said flooding remains a major concern and her top priority.
“We need to get some of the flood zones taken care of,” she said. “We really need that. Road paving and flood zones that’s been an issue for me.” Responding to complaints that she is not visible enough, Ms Deveaux said her constituency office remains open and accessible. “The only time I don’t see persons is if I’m sick, and that’s cold or sinus and the other day I was in the hospital, or if I am away. Outside of that, I see my constituency and my constituents, and so for me, this is personal. This is about servantry.” She said she maintains strong relationships with schools and community members in Bamboo Town, adding that her style of representation does not always translate into photo opportunities. “Anything that is constructive criticism, I’m willing to take but I can tell you this, I think I’m the best choice for Bamboo Town. I believe that I will take care of Bamboo Town.” Some residents have publicly voiced support for Ms Deveaux. “We need her to stay right where she is because
“I’m not perfect but I believe that I am a good representative.”
HOUSE SPEAKER AND BAMBOO TOWN MP PATRICIA DEVEAUX this the best MP we had,” said long-time resident Madeline Robinson. On the question of renomination, Ms Deveaux said she believes she has the backing of the PLP’s Candidates Committee, but stressed she
would accept whatever decision is made. “I am extremely proud of the work I’ve done. Listen, I am the Speaker of the House. I have no formal portfolio and I don’t have a ministry,” she said. “So for me, I do
everything at the graces of my colleagues. So, for me to get done what I’ve been able to accomplish in this time, I’ve done more than what I’ve seen some sitting MPs do in ten years in my short span.”
The Bamboo Town seat is expected to be closely contested. The Free National Movement has nominated chairman Dr Duane Sands, while former MP Reward Wells has also announced plans to run.
Rolle and Bowleg are early considerations for new Bimini and Berry Islands seat By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net INTEREST is already building around the newly created Bimini and Berry Islands constituency, with early attention focusing on a sitting PLP senator and a former FNM MP as possible contenders. PLP Senator Randy Rolle, whose family roots trace back to Bimini, and former North Andros and Berry Islands MP Carlton Bowleg, are among the names being discussed as the race begins to take shape. Natasha Bullard Hamilton, a Bimini resident, is also being mentioned as a potential Progressive Liberal Party candidate. Kitty Saunders, PLP branch chairperson for Bimini, said the party is backing Senator Rolle, describing him as the strongest choice to represent the island.
She said Bimini has long pushed for its own constituency and needs representation that understands the island’s people, culture and direction. “Senator Randy Rolle Jr is a true son of the soil and he has stepped forward with courage and humility and genuine commitment to serve,” she told The Tribune yesterday. Mr Bowleg, who has already been ratified for North Andros and the Berry Islands, said he continues to work in the constituency and will be guided by God in deciding his next step. He said he has received frequent calls from residents in both Bimini and the Berry Islands — communities where he has lived and which he considers home. “When the people in Bimini accepted me as one of their own in which
I am very grateful for because when I started out, I started as a custom officer and I contributed a lot to the island by just giving back and it’s the same I did in North Andros.” Turning to the Berry Islands, Mr Bowleg said he views residents there as family, describing them as resilient, genuine and committed. “No matter where I’m at, whatever I’m called to do, I will answer the call. I will do whatever it is I have to do for my people and that’s where its Bimini or North Andros,” he said. “I’m on board to make it work either which way. I just love doing what I do.” The Bimini and Berry Islands constituency was one of two recommended by the Constituency Boundaries Commission. The proposed seat would have 2,253 registered voters.
Man ordered to compensate RBPF after pleading guilty to making a false report By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was ordered to compensate the Royal Bahamas Police Force $250 after admitting to making a false report of an assault with a deadly weapon on New Year’s Eve. Lynden Adderley, 33, pleaded guilty to making
a false report after telling Police Constable 4735 Outten on December 31, 2025 that he had been assaulted. He appeared before Magistrate Abigail Farrington, where his attorney, Bjorn Ferguson, said his client was remorseful and apologised for wasting police time. After admonishing Adderley for his actions,
Magistrate Farrington granted him a conditional discharge and placed him on probation for six months. A breach of that probation would result in a $500 fine or a six-month prison sentence. Adderley was also ordered to compensate the Royal Bahamas Police Force $250, failing which he will serve two months in prison.
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Friday, January 9, 2026, PAGE 5
Sands slams ‘project management failure’ as long lines mar free cataract surgery initiative By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribubemedia.net DELAYS in cataract surgeries under the China– Bahamas Brightness Action Initiative have frustrated patients and drawn opposition criticism, as health officials blamed uncontrolled chronic illnesses while critics pointed to failures in planning and execution. The latest phase of the programme, launched this week, brought a team of seven Chinese ophthalmology specialists from Central South University in Hunan to work alongside doctors at Princess Margaret Hospital. The initiative aims to provide free cataract surgeries to at least 200 Bahamians, including patients from 11 Family Islands, and includes medical equipment valued at about $280,000 to be donated to PMH after the month-long effort. However, reports
emerged yesterday of long lines, scheduling setbacks and elderly patients waiting hours after fasting for surgery, only to be rescheduled for the following day with little clarity on timing. Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said the delays stemmed largely from patients presenting on the day of surgery with uncontrolled chronic conditions, despite being screened months earlier. He said many cataract patients also suffer from diabetes and hypertension, and procedures are postponed if blood sugar or blood pressure levels are unsafe. “Repairing the cataract is one thing, but putting the patient at risk for complications after is another concern,” Dr Darville said, adding that the Chinese team would not proceed if patient safety was in question. Dr Darville said some patients returned after the Christmas holidays
with conditions no longer under control, slowing the pace of surgeries. He said additional Public Hospitals Authority physicians were assigned to monitor patients more closely, describing the changes as adjustments rather than planning failures. “We want to do the surgeries, but we don’t want to put patients at risk,” he said. He added that Family Island patients were being prioritised once medically cleared, especially those already in New Providence facing accommodation costs. Former health minister Dr Duane Sands said he had heard similar complaints and said patients should not have been inconvenienced, given the scale and promotion of the initiative. “You would hope that the logistics was sorted out so that people were not disadvantaged or inconvenienced, or, you know, made to fast hours and then still not get the surgery done,”
Man charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm on Bay Street By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN has been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition after police allegedly found him with a loaded gun following a chase on Bay Street last weekend. Prosecutors allege that Prescott Williams, 31, failed to stop when police attempted to pull him
over on Bay Street around 9.30pm on January 4. A short chase followed, ending at the junction of Deveaux and Bay Streets when the motorcycle crashed. Williams allegedly fled briefly on foot before being apprehended. Police claim Williams was found with a silver and black Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol and two rounds of ammunition. Williams pleaded not guilty to the charges
before Magistrate Lennox Coleby. He was granted $7,500 bail with one or two sureties. As a condition of his bail, Williams is to be fitted with a monitoring device and must observe a nightly curfew. He is expected to return to court for trial on April 9. Alphonso Lewis represented the accused, while Assistant Superintendent of Police Lincoln McKenzie prosecuted.
Dr Sands said. He described the situation as a project management failure. “This is a project. This is about project management,” Dr Sands said. “So you know, the foreseen, the unforeseen, the expected, the unexpected, all needs to be considered in project management.” He said the situation reflected deeper problems within the health system and warned of reputational damage. “This is an embarrassment,” Dr Sands said. “This is an embarrassment for the government of The Bahamas.” The Chinese Embassy in The Bahamas said in a statement that the Brightness Action Initiative was a humanitarian effort and a symbol of bilateral cooperation, noting that seven specialists from top hospitals in Hunan were conducting free surgeries for around 200 patients and that equipment valued at about US$280,000 would be donated after the programme ends. “The Chinese medical team is delighted and proud to provide medical services to patients in The Bahamas
FNM CHAIRMAN DR DUANE SANDS The Chinese Embassy provided comments from Dr Li Yun, leader of the catarcat team. “We are highly skilled and experienced, having carried out cataract surgery programmes in multiple countries,” said Dr Yun. “For example, Dr Tan and myself have each performed more than 20,000 cataract surgeries. Together with the Bahamian colleagues, the team have been working very hard and often overtime to address the large number of complex cases. “The medical team are facing many tough and complex cases, as many patients who can travel abroad had already
received surgeries outside of The Bahamas. The Chinese medical team are treating many patients who can not travel and are suffering from underlying conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic retinal disease, which carry additional risks of complications and need longer-than-expected time to address. “The team is currently working closely with their Bahamian counterparts to further coordinate clinical procedures.” Health officials said adjustments to the programme are continuing, with patient safety guiding decisions as surgeries proceed.
Funeral Service For Reverend Oral Robert Dean, 68
a resident of Pratt’s Subdivision off Carmichael Road, New Providence, Bahamas and formerly of Arthur’s Town, Cat Island, Bahamas will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, January 10th, 2026 at The Remnant Tabernacle of Praise, Carmichael Road. Officiating will be Rev. Birthlon Newbold assisted by other Ministers of the Gospel. Cremation will follow. He was pre-deceased by his daughter: Corradell Dean Jr.
Cherished memories will always linger in the hearts of his loving family and friends, especially his loving wife: Corradell Dean; daughters: Cordelia and Oraleigh Dean, Corradell Dean Jr. (deceased); honorary daughters: Mystique Stevenson, Tara Bannister, Tameia Sturrup and Leshan Saunders; honorary sons: Davaro Saunders Sr., Quzhan Johnson, Jermaine Musgrove; honorary grandchildren: Davaro Jr., Davine, Da’shea and Davion Saunders; sisters/sisters-in-law: Evangelist Ivy Dean, Evelyn Johnson (Ornan), Dr. Beverley Strachan, Apostle Patricia Williamson (Elder Royal), Judyann Bodie, Elder Bessie Rolle (Elder Bernard); brothers/brothers-in-law: Alfred Dean, Rev. Willard Dean (Coral), Glen Dean (Ruth), Lloyd Bodie (Pearl), Dexter Bodie (Kim), Prince Bodie (Karen); aunts: Eliza Pinder, Jackie Dean and Iris Dean, Rosetta Bodie; nieces: Alsaida Newchurch and family, Wendy Ambrose and family, Marsha Williams and family, Erica Dean and family, Densie Dorsey and family, Rochelle and Deon Ferguson and family, Danielle Davis and family, Tamica Dorsett and family, Melissa Dean and family, Dellarese Allen and family, Lavanda Bethel and family, Donna Storr and family, Patricia Francis and family, Melony Rahming and family, Princess Vanessa Rahming, Sgt 2892 Glendera Gomez and family, RN Ginea Dean and family, Ulinda Matthews and family, Tiffany Anderson and family, Corene Sweeting and family, Alrice and Royann Williamson, Kimberley Frazer and family, Azya Bodie and family, Margo McIntosh and family, Wendi Bodie, Britanni Thompson and family, Percious Bodie, Dr. Kaymala Wright and family; nephews: PC2084 Prince Dean and family, Insp. 2999 Glen Dean Jr. and Rolle family, Navardo and Trevano Dean, ASP Raymond Rahming and family, Raynardo Dean and family, Olushola Bodie and family, Olufemi Bodie and family, Devito Bodie and family, Christopher Bodie and family, Marco McIntosh and family, Delano Williamson, Bernaldo Rolle and family, Ashton Bodie, Prince Bodie Jr. and family, Branson Rolle and family, Michael Bodie, Baxter Rolle; numerous god children; other relatives and friends including: Rev. Roderick Brown and family, Rev. Birthlon Newbold and family, Bishop Dr. Moses A. Johnson and family, Bishop Charles and Patrice Gardiner and family, The Church of God Family, Pastor Melvin Grant and the Remnant Tabernacle of Praise family, Pastor Ellison Greenslade and the Bible Truth Ministries Church family, The entire Dean family including the descendants of Lamon, Issac, Randolph, Ezra, Richard, Daniel. Ceily, Lucy, Geneva Dean, Eliza Pinder, and Ada Strachan, Jenny Larramore, Albertha Miller, Hilda Anderson, Thaddeus Thompson, Paula Romer and family, Elvis and Cleveland Ramsey, George Dean, Nathaniel Stubbs and Ross Turner, the entire Cat Island Community, Kevin and Farah Taylor and family, Inspector Hurvin and Jessica Curtis and family, Wellington and Lucy Farrington and family, Oris and Veronica Marshall and family, Mr. and Mrs. Maura and family, Orick and Denise Pratt and family, Deind and Danielle and family, Pratt’s Subdivision Community, Alec Farrington and family, Brady Johnson and family, Mr. Adrian Di’Agular and Staff at Superwash Limited, Anthony Rolle (Asst. Commissioner of Police), Edward Sawyer, Paul Major and family, His Whatsapp Family, Mrs. Flora Rahming and family, Captain Newbold and Staff of Triple A Marina, The Wilson Family, The Webb Family, Elvis and Clevland Ramsey, George Dean, Nathaniel Stubbs, Ross Turner, Dr. Adrian Sawyer and the Staff at The Dialysis Center, especially Nurse Marshall, Nurse Johnson and Nurse Bain, Doctors and Nurses of the PMH’S Virtual Ward and Male Surgical III ward. If you didn’t see your name, PLEASE forgive us. You know that we have good intentions; the names are too numerous to mention at this present time. Viewing will be held in the Serenity Suite at Restview Memorial Mortuary and Crematorium Limited Robinson and Soldier Roads, New Providence on Friday from 10:00am to 5:00pm and on Saturday at the church from 9:30am until service time.
PAGE 6, Monday, Friday, January 9, 2026
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No leader is above the law ALONG with the rest of the world, the events of September 11, 2001, are well remembered by The Tribune. To this day, our front page to mark the attacks that day on the US by al-Qaeda remains on display in our office reception – a reminder of a moment that changed the world. The aftermath of that attack brought with it shockwaves that resonate around the globe to this day – but in one very specific respect, there is one thing that occurred that had never happened before and has never happened since. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was created after the Second World War to counter the threat posed by expansionism by the Soviet Union – along with trying to prevent the rise of nationalism in Europe and encouraging a fractured post-war Europe to pull together. Article five of the treaty states that if a NATO member is attacked, it is considered an attack on all. It has been invoked precisely once – in response to the 9/11 attacks on the US. So when US President Donald Trump took to social media to post in all capital letters “I DOUBT NATO WOULD BE THERE FOR US IF WE REALLY NEEDED THEM”, he is ignoring the evidence of history. Indeed, allies from NATO countries were part of US operations such as the Iraq war in the aftermath of that attack. Allies died to help the US on the basis of that article being invoked. In the same post, Trump said the US would “be there” for NATO – which one supposes we should be thankful that the nation will abide by its treaty pledge. However, Trump yesterday went on to cast doubt on the very nature of international law itself. Speaking to the New York Times, he said he does not “need international law” and said the only constraint to his power is “my own morality, my own mind”. He said: “It’s the only thing that can stop me. I’m not looking to hurt people.” Asked whether his administration needed to adhere to international law, he answered “I do” before adding: “It depends on what your definition of international law is.” This all comes about in the wake of the US attacking Venezuela and capturing its president, and the noises being made, including from Trump himself, on how the US “needs” Greenland to become part of the US, regardless of what Greenland or Denmark, of which Greenland is an autonomous territory, might have to think about the matter. Indeed, remarkably, yesterday it emerged that despite the public pronouncements on the matter, the Trump administration has apparently never privately broached the subject of Greenland joining the US with officials from either Greenland or Denmark. Noise in the public arena, silence in the diplomatic arena. It makes one wonder indeed how much of it is just a distraction from other matters, be it the frustrations of voters with the state of the economy or the calls to release more details from the Epstein Files – that catalogue of
evidence surrounding the misdeeds of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the powerful people in his orbit. It need hardly be said how important international law is, but we shall endeavour to do so nonetheless. You or I cannot decide to simply ignore domestic law – it is not up to each one of us to decide what we do or do not do, there are rules there to protect us all from crime, from violence, from exploitation, to protect contracts, to provide legal remedies where wrongdoing has taken place and to ensure our daily lives are regulated by order, not swamped in chaos. The same applies to international law – on matters ranging from human rights and peace treaties to joint agreements between nations and regulation of trade. This is not the land of do-as-you-please, this is a world regulated by processes to ensure that justice can take place and that might cannot always decide what is right. There are flaws, without a doubt, and Trump is right to say it depends on your definition of international law, because some nations get away with ignoring international law more than others. Indeed, international laws tend to favour the most powerful, while imposing regulations on smaller nations. Witness, for example, our struggle to ensure we do not feature on blacklists and the measures we take to comply with international agreements. But no international framework can be down to the individual morality of national leaders – or else why would the US have any justification for trying to detain Maduro in the first place, who would simply be operating under his own “morality”? On a diplomatic level, one wonders more broadly why Trump is causing such disarray among his nation’s allies. The US has been a friend to many nations. It continues to be so. For The Bahamas, it is our closest ally solely on the basis of how much business our nations do with one another, even before one gets to the long-built cultural connections. We host millions of US visitors – and our citizens are frequently back and forward to the US in return, with many Bahamians having moved to settle there and become valuable parts of society. Around the world, leaders have been trying to find polite ways, it seems, to say hey, knock it off. Yesterday, French president Emmanuel Macron cautioned that the US was “breaking free from international rules” while German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned the world risked being turned into a “robber’s den”. The EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, mused on the Greenland issue: “If this is a real threat… then what would be our response?” These are friends of the US raising these concerns – with Steinmeier going so far as to say global democracy is at risk. If ever there was a time to listen to your friends, it is now. We hope their words resonate – and that the moment in history when NATO did indeed step up for the US is remembered and honoured.
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When devotion lacks direction EDITOR, The Tribune. CHARLES Spurgeon once warned that a time would come when, instead of shepherds feeding the sheep, the church would have clowns entertaining the goats. Whether or not he used those exact words, the image is painfully accurate and painfully relevant to the Bahamas. We proudly call ourselves a “Christian Nation.” We have more churches per square mile than many other countries. Our ceremonies begin with prayer, our leaders quote Scripture, and our schools display Christian mottos. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. We face persistent levels of violent crime. Families are broken apart, and corruption is seen as the norm. Many of our young men fall into the traps of gangs, guns, and the false allure of quick money. Domestic violence and abuse are widespread but often overlooked. While many Bahamians are deeply religious, this faith does not always lead to genuine transformation. Considering this situation in a country filled with churches, we must ask: what messages are being delivered from our pulpits? Too often, the focus of church life has shifted from true shepherding to mere showmanship. We have improved our performance. Our services are polished and emotionally engaging, and the praise teams are highly professional. The lighting, staging, and livestreams are well-executed. Conferences, concerts, and “special encounters” are promoted like entertainment events. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with this approach, it becomes problematic when hype takes the place of substance. Many of our congregation members can sing along to every worship song, yet they struggle to explain the gospel, interpret Scripture,
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net or withstand basic moral challenges. This is not a failure of intelligence; rather, it reflects a failure in spiritual formation. Concurrently, much of our preaching has shifted towards themes of prosperity and personal “breakthrough.” We are repeatedly told about “our season,” “our elevation,” and “our next level,” while essential topics like repentance, character, justice, and the cost of obedience receive significantly less attention. A message that keeps audiences excited but avoids addressing sin, greed, or injustice does not fulfill the role of shepherding; instead, it becomes spiritual entertainment. We often exhibit selective outrage. The church can quickly come together and make its voice heard on issues like gambling, carnival, and sexuality. Marches, press conferences, and full-page advertisements appear almost overnight in response to these issues. However, we do not see the same level of sustained and sacrificial unity concerning youth unemployment, educational failures, domestic violence, political corruption, or economic exploitation. It’s easier to condemn web shops than to challenge business practices occurring within our own congregations. It’s simpler to denounce carnival than to address abuse in Christian households. Meanwhile, a generation of young Bahamians is growing up observing the disconnect between what is said on Sundays and what happens during the week. They are not easily deceived. This letter is not an attack on all pastors. Many faithful men and women quietly do
the hard work of teaching, discipling, mentoring, feeding, and visiting, often with little recognition. However, they are swimming against a broader church culture that frequently rewards spectacle over substance, charisma over character, and proximity to political power over prophetic integrity. If we are serious about being more than a religious façade, some changes must occur. We need churches that measure success not by attendance, but by transformed lives. Budgets and programmes should shift from bigger shows to deeper discipleship, focused on Bible literacy, mentoring, skills training, counseling, and long-term work in the communities that are struggling. We need a prophetic voice that speaks with equal courage about issues such as sexual sin and domestic violence, gambling and corrupt contracts, as well as the exploitation of workers. The gospel does not only address personal morality; it also confronts issues of corporate ethics. Furthermore, we must recognise that many who identify as Christians in this country have never truly been taught or invited into a different way of living. This transformation begins with honest preaching and humble repentance within the church, rather than mere condemnation outside it. Spurgeon’s warning was not intended for “them out there”; it was meant for us. In a nation filled with churches yet lacking in righteousness, we must decide whether our pulpits will continue to entertain the goats or finally begin to feed the sheep. C Allen Johnson (Pastor), Purpose & Potential Church. C ALLEN JOHNSON Freeport, Grand Bahama December 29, 2025.
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Primetime looks to pivot toward a ‘grown crowd’ with new lounge concept CLOSED from page one of the reasons why I want to go more into grown crowd.” Mr Rahming said walking away from Primetime was not an easy choice, particularly after building the nightclub from the ground up. “I was fighting for this decision because when you start something from an idea that’s a scribble on a paper, you tend to fall in love with something, and then you don’t want to give it away, because you think it’s going to always be there. But then you realise that, okay, yeah, this already has time. Then you have to make a decision to go in a new direction, and search for growth,” he said. Rather than closing for good, Mr Rahming plans to
start over. He said the space will be renovated and reopened as a restaurant and lounge under a new name, with no connection to the Primetime brand. Renovations are underway, and he expects the new concept to launch in about four months. He said the closure had a limited impact on staff. As business slowed over the past year, many employees had already moved on, most working parttime while running other ventures. A small number remain involved during renovations, and he said he continues to support them where possible. Beyond his own business, Mr Rahming said the experience reflects the wider strain facing nightclub operators in The Bahamas. He pointed to rising prices,
heavy overheads and what he described as uneven treatment by authorities. “I think, like with any business, it’s very difficult to run an establishment in the economy that we have, especially nightclubs, but because sometimes I think people look at nightclubs and they demonise it,” he said. “I don’t think we get much support, even from the law, because on many occasions officers have made decisions to close the establishment even though there was no incident. The decisions are not on a level playing field, some establishments can go until 4am, but we are restricted to 2am. “If a person is coming out at 10 o’clock, why would you go to a 2am nightclub and you could spend the
same amount and enjoy it until 4am? I had a lawyer write to the business licensing department and police headquarters, and they denied it twice without reasoning. There is also the increase in prices every day for food, alcohol, and supplies. I cannot compete with new establishments that offer drinks for $1 or $2 because I have overhead obligations, that’s one of the major difficulties.” While newer venues have drawn away some of Primetime’s regulars, Mr Rahming said he does not see them as rivals. He noted that several were launched by former promoters who once worked at Primetime. “I wouldn’t say competition directly, because at least two of the establishment that have recently opened, they actually came
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from Primetime in terms of like promoters for me,” he said. “I had them promoting various events for me or whatever it is as part of the team, they understand my structure, they understand how to do it and I know for me, I like to see when people elevate, when people move on and make things happen. Now, it might have taken away from my crowd, because now a lot of the people that was
familiar with them at being at my establishment might have followed them into something new, but that’s a part of life.” The club’s final public night was last Saturday, followed by a staff gathering on Sunday. Operations formally ended on Monday, closing a chapter that Mr Rahming said was less an ending than a pivot toward what comes next.
St James residents split on whether new boundary cut was necessary or political By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net RESIDENTS of the newly created St James constituency are split over whether the boundary cut was necessary, with some acknowledging the sheer size of the former Golden Isles seat while questioning whether politics — not representation — drove the change. The Tribune canvassed communities across the proposed constituency yesterday, where residents pointed to long-standing infrastructure gaps, inconsistent political follow-through and mixed feelings about the candidates already being linked to the seat. While views varied, several residents leaned toward Free National Movement hopeful Shanendon Cartwright over Progressive Liberal Party contender Owen Wells. Under recommendations from the Constituency Boundaries Commission, the new St James constituency would draw polling divisions from Adelaide, Coral Harbour, Renaissance and Dignity Gardens, as well as Southwest Ridge, Jacaranda, Serenity, Mount Pleasant Village and parts
of South Ocean. Kevin Clarke, 51, of the Adelaide/Coral Harbour area, said the size of the former constituency made a split inevitable, even if the decision came as a surprise. “I was kind of taken aback because I didn't think they needed to separate it, but because it's separated, I still wasn't surprised," he said. "I saw that coming based on the fact that Golden Isles is the biggest constituency. It needed to be break up. It's just too big to just be for one MP.” Mr Clarke said the real issue was not boundaries, but delivery, arguing that residents are too often left with broken promises once elections pass. He described Mr Cartwright as a “strong contender” and said Mr Wells, though new, could bring fresh ideas, adding that new leadership and “fresh blood” can be healthy. However, he questioned Mr Cartwright’s decision to leave St Barnabas. “I thought he was doing really good in St Barnabas. On why the switch all of a sudden, but I think maybe he should have stayed in St Barnabas, but he probably feel like his time in St Barnabas is up, and he probably stand a chance in St James, but that remains to be seen.
We’ll have to see what happens in the next general election.” Irwing Morrison of Adelaide also supported breaking up the constituency, saying communities need stronger infrastructure support, but voiced frustration with MPs becoming less visible after elections. “It's like I say the MP is to represent us," he said. "When they get in, they get Adelaide, then they start to do things, and then they cut it off. You know, you don't really see them come around no more and, check up and see need to be done, or whatever. You know, the people gotta come complaining or try to visit them to say to certain things.” Mr Morrison said it was too early to favour either Mr Wells or Mr Cartwright, describing the race as a “50/50 chance”. In South Ocean, George Smith, 46, questioned the very premise of the boundary change, arguing that such moves are often politically driven. He said: “There is never a need to cut it, you know, it was always politically motivated when they do cut up boundaries because people look based on previous elections, ‘Hey, we won this part of the county. So if we just put the board over here,
FNM HITS OUT AT ‘MISPLACED PRIORITIES’ AS MUNROE DENIES $100M INSURANCE DEBT By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@ tribunemedia.net OPPOSITION figures are demanding answers amid allegations that police officers’ spouses and children were denied medical care because the government allegedly owes Colina Insurance Company about $100 million. Free National Movement deputy leader Shannendon Cartwright said the controversy exposed what he described as the government’s failure to meet its most basic obligations to public servants. “There is no excuse for what has been revealed,” Mr Cartwright said in a statement. “Police officers who are legally entitled to dependent health insurance are now being denied coverage for their spouses and children. This is not a clerical issue.” The allegations were raised publicly on Wednesday by the Police Staff Association, which said the problem had persisted for more than a year. The association reported that at least ten officers had children denied coverage, while the spouses of three officers were also refused medical services. On Wednesday, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe rejected claims that the government owes Colina $100 million and insisted that police officers’ medical
coverage remains active. He argued that if the government were in arrears on that scale, all public servants — including himself — would be denied medical services.. Mr Munroe acknowledged receiving a memo from the PSA but said it lacked sufficient details about the affected officers, limiting the ministry’s ability to advocate on their behalf. In his statement, Mr Cartwright said the alleged non-payment and resulting denial of coverage reflected misplaced priorities, accusing the government of spending on overseas travel and awarding no-bid contracts while public servants faced delayed salary increases and allowances. “A government that cannot pay its obligations to police officers, teachers, and public workers, but can freely spend on travel and no-bid contracts, is a government that has lost its moral compass,” he said. He added that “Bahamians are watching, and they are drawing their own conclusions.” “Soon, Bahamians will have the opportunity to choose a different path,” Mr Cartwright said. “They will be able to elect a government that understands that taking care of public servants is not optional. It is a duty.” Concerns were also raised by FNM Golden Isles candidate Brian Brown, who cited more than 30 years of experience in the insurance and
financial services industry. Mr Brown said health insurance was not a luxury, but a promise — particularly for police officers who face risks in the line of duty. “From an insurance perspective, this cannot be treated as a minor administrative issue,” he said. “When premiums are not paid, coverage becomes uncertain, and uncertainty is unacceptable in a system that is supposed to be there when people are most vulnerable.” He warned that arrears of that magnitude could legally allow insurers to delay or refuse payment on claims, placing officers and their families at financial and medical risk through no fault of their own. Mr Brown said the situation raised serious questions about priorities and competence, arguing that the government could not claim to be strengthening public safety while police families faced uncertainty over access to healthcare. “You cannot ask officers to show up with confidence while their families are left wondering whether they can access healthcare when they need it most,” he said. He called for immediate clarity on the status of dependent coverage for police officers and public servants, prompt resolution of any outstanding obligations, and transparency so the public could understand how the situation escalated.
we could win the whole election.’” Mr Smith said his community needed stronger police presence, noting that the nearest station is near the airport. He backed Mr Cartwright. “Because he's been a stand up guy from day one," he said. "I've known him from school time and even now in his capacities as MP he's always been a stand up guy. To me, he'd be the right fit. He could be the next prime minister if you ask me.” Rosemarie Sawyer, 74, who has lived in Coral Harbour for 34 years, said residents need better roads, land clearing and improved access to healthcare. She also supported Mr Cartwright. “Shanendon Cartwright is a good man," she said.
"If he say he's gonna do something, he'll do it. If he can't do it, it's best to say, I cannot do it. And that's the type of person. If he can help you, he will help you.” Still, she questioned the necessity of the cut. “No, the cut wasn't needed. But then they cut it because they feel they said Golden Isles constituency is too large, right? And they cut it to see if the PLP get back in or the FNM got it,” Ms Sawyer said. Ernest Francois, 52, of Adelaide, said development in the area has often been driven by political pressure rather than longterm planning, pointing to improvements made around the time of a by-election. “I'm just simply saying
that some money that was spent recently, that was spent the last 20 years. The money doesn't spend. They fix some people houses. They rebuild some people houses, which is really good.” “I really appreciate that. But urban renewal 2.0 been out for 10 years. None of these people came down there because we didn't need none of that until this by- election. The road been fixed. The people house been fixed.” Mr Francois declined to back either candidate, saying he needed more information before forming an opinion. He did, however, support the name chosen for the constituency, noting that St James Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches in the area.