IMMIGRANTS FREED EARLY THEN DEPORTED
Munroe says non-violent prisoners released to make space as population hits 1,801
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas Department of Correctional Services is struggling with overcrowding as more undocumented immigrants facing criminal charges enter the prison system, prompting the government to deport 85 inmates granted the Prerogative of Mercy on the condition they do not return to The Bahamas.
National Security
Minister Wayne Munroe confirmed to The Tribune yesterday that 85 inmates were being processed for deportation. The group included Haitian, Jamaican and American nationals, with Mr Munroe saying the majority were being deported to Haiti.
The inmates had varying sentence lengths. Some were serving time for immigration violations and had only a few months remaining. Others were nearing
279 Grand Lucayan staff to be let
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor
nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
THE government plans to complete the termination of all 279 Grand Lucayan staff by next week February 27, it has been revealed, as efforts to complete the resort’s $120m sale to Concord Wilshire head into what is likely to be the final stages. Julian Russell, chairman of Lucayan Renewal Holdings, the Government-owned special purpose vehicle (SPV) that holds the Grand Bahama-based resort, informed Obie Ferguson KC, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) president, of the intent to pay all workers their due severance pay, other benefits and entitlements under their relevant industrial agreements by month’s end.
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
A PUSH to reunite the Valley Boys has failed, with the World Famous Valley Boys rejecting overtures from the breakaway Way Forward group. The Way Forward Valley Boys, led by Trevor Davis, sent a February 16, 2026 letter signed by trustees Vincent King and Mark Bastian giving the World Famous Valley Boys seven days to respond to a call to “Reunite. Restore. Move forward together” and arrange a formal meeting. However, in a statement
Resort in Grand Bahama.
NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTER WAYNE MUNROE
PATRONS and students attend services at Church of Resurrection and at St. Cecilia engaging in their Ash Wednesday service to start their Lenten Season.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
Sergeant saves family of four from burning car
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
A POLICE sergeant rushing to work pulled a family of four from a burning vehicle moments before it exploded on Gladstone Road.
Sergeant 2543 Michael Farrow said he was driving to the Nassau Street Police Station around 6.55pm in a marked police vehicle last Saturday evening when he saw a white BMW X3 in the northbound lane with heavy smoke pouring from
beneath the bonnet.
He pulled alongside, checked on the driver and told him to switch off the engine as flames began erupting from the front of the vehicle. After parking ahead of the SUV, he ran back to help.
The driver warned him that others were still inside. As they reached the passenger side, the occupants began scrambling out.
“The two other doors opened up, and the lady came out holding a young baby in her hand,” Sergeant Farrow recalled yesterday,
adding that a little girl also exited from the back seat. The officer led the family across the road to a vacant lot as flames spread into the interior and intense heat radiated from the vehicle. He then urged them to move farther away seconds before two small explosions erupted and sparks flew. After he radioed for assistance, two more explosions followed, igniting nearby bushes.
Additional officers arrived around 7.15pm to divert traffic. Firefighters reached the scene at 7.26pm
and extinguished the blaze and burning bushes by about 7.50pm. The area was cleared by 8.45pm.
Sergeant Farrow said the driver, correctional officer Romani Campbell, had been travelling with his wife, Esthel Campbell, and their children when a dashboard alert advised him to drive moderately. He slowed but soon noticed smoke coming from under the bonnet before the officer intervened.
According to Sergeant Farrow, Mrs Campbell later said she was thankful
SERGEANT 2543
to have escaped, although her wallet and identification cards were destroyed. He said he reassured her that those items could be replaced and that the family’s safety mattered most.
“I’ll do it for anyone, whether armed enforcement or not,” Sergeant Farrow said.
The family later thanked the officer, crediting his actions with saving their lives.
FNM to continue campaign during Lent as Pintard pledges respect
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter
lrolle@tribunemedia.net
FREE National Move-
ment (FNM) leader
Michael Pintard said the party will continue its political activities throughout the Lenten season, declining to follow its opponent’s pause while pledging to campaign in a way he says honours the spiritual observance.
Mr Pintard made the comment as he announced plans to roll out the FNM’s manifesto in less than 40 days.
The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) on Monday launched its national election campaign, but has suspended public political events in observance of Lent, which began yesterday.
Party officials said they will use the period to intensify canvassing across constituencies to build support, with the full campaign expected to begin immediately after Easter.
The move followed a public debate over the appropriateness of beginning a national campaign on the eve of the 40-day period of Christian reflection leading up to Easter.
Religous leaders have been divided over the
timing of such events, with some seeing no conflict and others warning that it could overshadow sacred season.
Asked whether his party feared backlash, Mr Pintard said he was not concerned, noting that the FNM had consulted “at the highest level” with religious denominations that observe Lent.
“We are people of faith,” the opposition leader said. “We're a party and while we respect the fact that this is both secular and spiritual, we do have a serious commitment to obey some of the culture, but really the spiritual cultural norms in
the country, and so we are going to govern ourselves in a way that does not disrespect that.”
Mr Pintard said the party remains energised about upcoming events, including the release of its policy framework if elected to office.
He said the document will tackle key national concerns, including the cost of living, rising electricity bills, food security, immigration and crime.
“We believe we are ready,” he said, responding to talk of an early election. “And so whenever they
bring it, we’’ll have boots on the ground in every constituency appealing to the Bahamian people who we love dearly, and again, taking their case nationally in terms of what we must do as a country in order to reduce the suffering that Bahamians are experiencing.”
The Free National Movement has ratified candidates for all constituencies except MICAL, where it is awaiting the nominee’s formal departure from the public service to avoid jeopardising his ability to secure pension benefits.
Yesterday, Mr Pintard
described the prospective candidate as an exciting choice who is well known in the constituency and was urged by residents to run.
“This government’s attempt to intimidate him, to threaten his pension, etc, it will not work,” he said. “He will be absolutely fine and the next member of parliament for MICAL.”
MICHAEL FARROW
POLICE sergeant 2543 Michael Farrow rescues family of four from a burning vehicle on Gladstone Road.
FNM LEADER MICHAEL PINTARD
World Famous rejects Way Forward’s reunion bid
VALLEY from page one
to The Tribune , the World Famous Valley Boys said:
“There are no discussions taking place regarding this matter. However, the World Famous Valley Boys invites individuals interested in joining or rejoining the group to apply through the online membership portal, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and excellence in Junkanoo.”
The Way Forward’s proposal outlined a transitional team and a time-limited framework intended to reunify the organisation while respecting elected leadership and future elections.
The trustees said a single organisation could help re-engage sponsors and stabilise operations.
“Our name was built on discipline, sacrifice, brilliance in design, and a culture of excellence that shaped Junkanoo history.
letter read.
The Way Forward faction said it stands prepared to “meet in good faith for the future of the Valley Boys,” adding that history would judge the moment.
“When called upon to choose ego or excellence, we chose excellence. When called upon to choose division or destiny, we chose destiny. When called upon to protect the brand, we chose unity,” the letter stated.
The Valley Boys split publicly in mid-2024 after months of disagreements over leadership, governance and control of the group’s direction. The fallout played out ahead of the 2024 Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades, with both factions seeking official recognition to compete under the Valley Boys banner.
The dispute later moved into court, focusing on registration and administrative authority.
Judges raised concerns about the Registrar
General’s handling of rival registrations.
In October 2025, the Court of Appeal granted leave for a full appeal by the World Famous Valley Boys, describing it as “beyond belief” that an unauthorised group could secure registration without proper vetting under the Non-Profit Organisations Act and finding the Supreme Court had erred in dismissing earlier challenges.
Later in 2025, the World Famous Valley Boys secured an interim Supreme Court order restoring their non-profit status, directing the Registrar General to reinstate their business licence and tax identification number and instructing the National Junkanoo Committee to refer to the group as the World Famous Valley Boys Established 1958 in official communications.
The World Famous Valley Boys are scheduled to return to court in April 2026 over the use of the registered name.
Mitchell blasts banks over cheque delays and ‘poor’ service
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
PLP chairman Fred Mitchell has urged the Central Bank to examine cheque clearing delays, saying customers are enduring unacceptable banking service.
In a voice note circulated Wednesday, the Fox Hill MP said after discussing the case of a man
waiting nine days for a cheque to clear earlier this week, he had since heard other “horror stories” about the sector, which he described as “poor”.
He argued cheques should clear within 24 hours and suggested the delays reflect inadequate technological investment, contrasting The Bahamas with faster systems abroad.
“Today, in America, for example, you can take a picture of a check and the amount is in your account simultaneously,” Mr Mitchell said. “Across Africa, you can use SMS texting to pay for any transaction, just like cash.”
He accused banks of pushing customers away from cash while increasing costs and reducing face-to-face services, and
warned modernisation rhetoric was meaningless without infrastructure upgrades.
“My point is that we must get with it, and in getting with it, all this talk of the digital age and AI will mean nothing unless there is an upgrade in our infrastructure,” Mr Mitchell said.
Toward the end of the recording, he also criticised telecommunications services, blaming what he called the Free National Movement’s decision to sell the Bahamas Telecommunications Company and arguing his party would need another term to address lingering problems.
Mr Mitchell has repeatedly criticised the banking sector, previously highlighting delays in opening accounts, rising fees and what he considers a premature shift away from cash toward digital transactions. He has also suggested legislation may be needed to tighten regulation of commercial banks.
Concerns about banking access have also come
from the opposition.
In May 2025, Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard warned in Parliament about the withdrawal of banking services from several Family Islands and said the government
should take stronger action to regulate the sector. He referenced his party’s 2024 reform proposals, including restoring services to underserved islands and increasing Bahamian ownership in banking.
That name now calls us to act not from pride, but from purpose. The continued division does not strengthen the Valley Boys brand, it fragments it,” the
PLP CHAIRMAN FRED MITCHELL
THE WORLD Famous Valley Boys performing on Bay Street in 2023.
85 inmates deported to relieve overcrowding at Fox Hill prison
the end of sentences for drug offences.
Mr Munroe said the influx of undocumented immigrants into the prison system has pushed the population higher, forcing officials to make room for those coming in. He said the government was using the Prerogative of Mercy to release certain inmates early.
The Prerogative of Mercy is the constitutional power to reduce, suspend or cancel a criminal sentence after conviction. It is an act of executive mercy, not a court decision. In The Bahamas, it is exercised by the Governor-General, usually acting on the advice of the government. Mr Munroe said the process applies to inmates convicted of non-violent and non-sexual offences.
“With foreign nationals,
we take a view that we’re going to deport you, and the condition is going to be, you don’t return to The Bahamas without the permission of the director of immigration,” he said. “If you do, you breach the term of your release and you have to serve the balance of the sentence. Then we deport you back to your home country.” He described the Prerogative of Mercy as a tool to regulate the prison
Sweeting commits to clearing Abaco shanty debris after fires
By LEANDRA ROLLE
Chief Reporter
WORKS Minister Clay
Sweeting yesterday committed to removing debris from demolished shanty towns in Abaco amid continued public frustration about repeated fires at the site that residents say pose serious health hazards.
His comments follow Sunday’s blaze at the Gaza shanty town, the latest in a series of fires in recent months.
The site was cleared of more than 60 structures in February 2024, but debris and hundreds of derelict cars remain.
Residents say repeated fires now force them to breathe fumes and live with constant flare-ups.
Yesterday, Mr Sweeting blamed the recent fires on deliberate arson, but said his ministry is committed to
clearing the area, though he did not give a timeline.
“It’s a very large area so I think we'll just go in and clean it up and then you know whether if it's crown land, Land and Surveys will deem what's necessary for them to do with the property,” he told reporters yesterday.
When asked if anyone has been rebuilding in the area, Mr Sweeting said he could not speak to that specific site but acknowledged that unregulated communities remain a challenge.
“So persons continue to build, and we'll continue to do what we can to monitor and to demolish and to warn those that feel it's okay to build without permits on land that doesn't belong to them, without the proper protocols.”
He added that the shanty town taskforce will soon target Abaco, Andros, and Eleuthera for demolition
operations in the coming weeks.
More than 100 eviction notices have been issued for Andros, and over 200 for Abaco.
This follows a recent exercise at an unregulated site off Fire Trail Road that saw four structures destroyed. The homes housed between 30 to 50 residents.
The demolition of shanty towns has been a contentious issue. Successive governments have cited health concerns, illegal land use, and building code violations to justify the removals, yet critics argue the approach lacks compassion and fails to address housing shortages. Since ramping up efforts in November 2023, the Davis administration has reported the demolition of nearly 500 unregulated structures across several islands.
population and reduce the risk of legal challenges to detention conditions.
“So to keep the violent fellas in,” Mr Munroe said, “you look at persons who may have another month, another two months, another three months to go, another sentence, and you release them early.”
Prison Commissioner Doan Cleare said the most recent occupancy stood at
1,801 inmates, with undocumented immigrants sent to prison through the courts have contributed to overcrowding. The prison was constructed to hold 1300 inmates. He said there were no issues maintaining control within the facility, but overcrowding has caused discomfort among inmates sharing cells or dormitories. Between last year
and this year, the prison received more than 200 undocumented immigrants, he said, noting that it costs the government nearly $17,000 a year to house one inmate, a figure that covers food only, not medical or dental care.
The United States has repeatedly highlighted overcrowding and poor sanitation in its annual human rights reports.
PRISON COMMISSIONER DOAN CLEARE
The Tribune Limited
NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI
“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH,
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
Publisher/Editor 1972-
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Be careful what you believe
YOU are going to be lied to this election season. In fact, the lies have already started.
We do not mean the usual need during any election to fact check what the candidates are saying – although goodness knows that is as important as ever. No, instead we mean the torrent of lies and half-fictions that are going to be circulating on social media.
Just this week alone, two examples stood out of the kind of thing of which to beware.
The Ministry of Works was so concerned about one example that it issued a press release denying an allegation of damage to the bridge connecting Paradise Island to Nassau.
The picture showed an apparent split between two sections of a bridge, with text on the image saying that it was the Paradise Island bridge.
It was not. In fact, it was not in this country at all. Another version of the same picture located the “crack” to be in a flyover in Austin, Texas, where reporters had followed up the story to be told there was not even a crack at all – and this was simply how the flyover was built, to expand and contract with the weather.
Yet someone decided to take that picture and make mischief with it here. Whoever that was added a caption to pretend it was in The Bahamas, and off it went on social media, to mislead for whatever reason.
The obvious suspicion is that it was a lie being spun to make the current administration look bad. Many who will have shared the picture, even quite innocently, will not have shared the statement afterwards saying how it was not true – or even have seen the statement in the first place.
As the old saying goes, a lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.
The other example that cropped up on social media this week was far more insidious. Readers will no doubt have heard of the Epstein files – the mass of evidence from the investigation into sex predator Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein himself of course is dead, having allegedly committed suicide while in custody, itself the subject of many conspiracy theories. But many influential and famous people were in his orbit, with the Epstein files being released in the US with many redactions, leading to plenty of speculation as to who is and who is not in the files.
This week, what appeared to be documents from the files circulated suggesting a senior Bahamian politician was connected to Epstein along with talk of possible corruption. Except those documents were fake. They were not in the Epstein files – which are available to search through on a website from the US Department of Justice.
These are just two examples, before we even get to the possibilities of documents or images created by artificial intelligence.
Recently another series of videos with allegations against various politicians began circulating, narrated by a voice created by artificial intelligence. The allegations were shocking – and presented without a shred of proof.
Mostly, those videos circulated via Whatsapp, where it is much harder to track down the original source of the information. A Facebook page dedicated to those videos appeared briefly, but disappeared just as quickly. That is one of the clues to beware of as you sort through fact and fiction. As you see these allegations being shared around, ask yourself where the claims come from. An unattributed video shared on Whatsapp is always open to question – whereas sources such as ourselves here at The Tribune have to be accountable for what we print.
We will also likely see what are called “deepfakes” in this election cycle –videos allegedly showing public figures doing or saying something that never happened in real life. Again, consider who is reporting it and where it comes from. We have already seen some of these deepfakes – one circulated last year supposedly showing the prime minister encouraging people to invest in a scheme that in truth he had nothing to do with. The videos went round on Whatsapp – but anyone who took time to check the Office of the Prime Minister social media saw there was no such presence there, which if it was true, there surely would have been.
Take note of what sources of information do when something is incorrect too. Do they correct it? Do they apologise? Anyone trying to report accurate information will always seek to correct the record if something is wrong – that’s simply good practice.
The closer we get to the election date itself, the more you can imagine claims will be made. This is nothing new, let us be clear. Over the years, The Tribune has had to deal with all kinds of allegations being made close to election day – many of which have turned out to be completely untrue. Responsible outlets will take the time to check the claims before reporting them – but this year, some of those will be out on social media forcing people to rely on their own wits to decipher what is real before they can be officially debunked.
It will pay to be cautious. It will pay to be sceptical. Do not believe all that you read or see, and take the time to check the especially outrageous claims before you hit that share button.
Of course, do not believe all that you read could equally apply to some election manifestos. That, however, is another story.
Dumb idea and reasons behind it
EDITOR, The Tribune.
YESTERDAY the Chairman of the New Day PLP came out swinging like he was in the blue corner at the Andre Rodgers Stadium, gloves laced up, ready to defend the government’s shiny new specialty hospital.
And all because Dr Duane Sands called the project a “dumb idea.”
Now, plenty people get stuck on the phrase “dumb idea,” but what they seem allergic to discussing is the reasoning behind it. Because sometimes it’s not the volume of the insult — it’s the logic behind it that does the real damage.
According to The Nassau Guardian, Dr Sands questioned the wisdom of borrowing $195 million from the Chinese EXIM Bank to build a 200-bed specialty women’s and children’s hospital — especially while Princess Margaret Hospital is gasping for air, nurses are staging sick-outs over unpaid overtime, and vendors are threatening to withhold supplies because they are not being paid.
But instead of answering the very real question — why build new when the old one falling down? — the Chairman of the PLP decided to light a rhetorical match and throw it in the dry bush.
He thundered.
He scolded.
He declared Dr Sands “Dr No.”
But here’s the thing, my Bahamian brothers and sisters: passion is not policy. Volume is not vision.
Because let’s rewind the tape.
When the PLP came to office, there was an ongoing plan to renovate PMH. Not talk. Not a press conference. Not a concept drawing. An actual, funded renovation plan to upgrade Princess Margaret Hospital — including improvements that would directly impact women and children.
And what happened? They stopped it.
What
They reviewed it. They cancelled it. They sent the money back.
Sent. The. Money. Back. Now fast forward a few years and the same administration wants to borrow $195 million for a brandnew specialty hospital — to solve problems that the PMH renovations were already designed to address and would have already solved, had they been carried out.
So, help me understand the math. You cancel renovations to the existing hospital. Conditions worsen. Nurses protest. Vendors complain. Patients suffer delays. And the solution is… borrow more money for a brand-new specialty hospital while the old one still struggling? That isn’t vision. That’s déjà vu with interest payments.
Chairman Mitchell says PMH is “bursting at the seams.” Sir… it was bursting when you got there. And instead of reinforcing the seams, you pulled out the thread and now blaming the tailor. You cannot stop renovations, send back funds, allow infrastructure strain to intensify, and then act shocked — shocked! — that people are questioning your priorities. And let’s talk about priorities.
Healthcare workers are publicly saying they are owed overtime since June 2025. Vendors allegedly waiting on payments. Supplies reportedly delayed. And in the middle of all that, the government is signing off on a nine-figure foreign loan.
Bahamian people not asking for theatrics, they are asking for sequencing. Fix PMH.
Complete what was started.
Stabilise the system. Then expand. Instead, what we getting is political fireworks and historical name-calling. Calling somebody “Dr No” might make for a catchy headline, but it does not answer why a government would halt an active renovation plan — only to later borrow more money to fix the very same issues they allowed to fester.
Chairman, where was this “compassion” when the renovation contracts were paused?
Where was this righteous indignation when the money was returned?
Where was this “nothing dumb about that” energy when PMH still leaking, overcrowded, and understaffed?
Because from where the public sitting, this doesn’t look like strategic expansion. It looks like stopping a roof repair to announce a penthouse.
And the Bahamian people deserve better than political ego dressed up as healthcare reform.
If the goal was always to improve care for women and children, then completing the PMH renovations would have been the fastest, most cost-effective path forward. Instead, we now facing borrowed millions, geopolitical side-eyes, and a main hospital still under pressure. Before you blame critics for pointing out cracks, maybe explain why you paused the cement truck in the first place. Because in Bahamian politics, memory short — but hospital wait times long.
And the people watching. The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) government fails for one reason; it is their nature.
ADRIAN RAMSEY Nassau, February 12, 2026.
EDITOR, The Tribune.
KINDLY allow me space in your valuable column to articulate an opinion on the Bahamian Contractor’s Association ‘last shot to regulate the construction industry ‘according to Wednesday’s February 11th, Tribune. Firstly, I agree with all of the past governments who have refused to appoint board members. I believe that, whenever if, a government appoints members, it ought to be separate and apart from the Bahamian Contractor’s Association. The members of the board ought to be appointed by the government with term limits. They ought to be the body issuing licenses. The BCA is an Association of members. They ought to govern their
affairs, elect your president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, etc. And the government appointed board run its affairs. The point is, the Association and the board ought to be separate and apart. Otherwise, I believe the same barriers that are being put up to prevent new persons from entering my profession (real estate), may happen in the building industry. In 1996, the government erred, I believe, when it incorporated the real estate board into the Bahamas Real Estate Association. For example, the bar keeps getting higher for persons wishing to enter the business. A 70%passing mark is now 80%. What? five years from now it may be 90%… The salesman course fee used to be $1,000.00. Now
it’s $2,500.and should you fail the exam the retake is still $2,500.00. In the USA and other advanced countries, a real estate association is separate and apart from the licensing body. When a government makes the board and the Association one and the same, it allows them to be judged and the jury. They can do what they want, when they want and however they want. No accountability, no transparency. Madam Editor, I wish to encourage the government Not to incorporate the BCA into the Contractor’s Board. And to appoint its Own members.
PAT STRACHAN Nassau, February 14, 2026.
The Tribune. THE recent announcement by Dr Minnis to run as an independent candidate in the next general election created a seismic stir within the ranks of the Free National Movement (FNM). This pronouncement has hogged the headlines and has attracted widespread commentary and criticisms from some top brass FNM’s and other party faithful. This moves by Dr Minnis puts the Killarney seat up for grabs and could open the door for a possible victory for the Progressive Liberal party (PLP) in Killarney. But the main focus of this letter is not entirely about Dr Minnis; it is more about the effectiveness or lack thereof of an independent member of parliament. There is no shortage of independent candidates running in this upcoming general election. In most cases, these persons might have fallen out of favor with the party’s leadership and were perhaps unwilling to toe the party’s line. Others of them may be on some ego-driven redemption crusade, knowing full well that they have no chance of winning a seat. Some are just seeking to lift themselves out of political obscurity or are just trying to stay in the headlines, or so it seems. But such is the beauty of
our politics, where freedom and democracy reign supreme, and should be jealously guarded and protected. But let’s suppose, just for the sake of argument, that an independent candidate wins their seat, which is not impossible but highly unlikely-it has happened before. The big question is, apart some personal favors, or some after school programs, or some clean up initiatives, how much substantive infrastructural work can an independent Member of Parliament (MP) get done on his or her own?
None! Any capital works like road repair, electricity, housing, or sanitation etc, is carried out by the government of the day and not by any particular independent (MP). And if per chance that independent (MP) crosses political swords with the government of the day, it could make matters even more difficult for that particular (MP). In such a case, “spite” might raise its ugly head, and Bahamian politics is not immune from it. And so, all of the braggadocio about helping my people, building my country, lifting the poor out of poverty, etc, is just political chatter. Any independent (MP) who tells you otherwise is trafficking in deception and fantasy. They may give vague assurances ,grandiose promises, or flowery
speeches as an (MP) ,but that is as far as it gets. To use a Biblical analogy, an independent (MP) is like a modern-day John The Baptist; a lone voice crying out in the political wilderness. Nothing gets done in any constituency ,unless the government of the day decides to do it. It’s that simple. So again, it boils down to relevancy. Some of these persons seeking to run in the up-coming general election just want to remain relevant. They want to raise their political profile in the silent ledger of public opinion. Independent candidates seeking to become (MP’s) do however provide grist for the political rumor mill and have become quite a conversation starter at the gas station, in the parking lot, and in the barber shops. After the general election, when they would have all lost (as they certainly will) they will be swept into oblivion by time and history. In Dr Minnis’ case, it is not too late. He still has time to swallow his wounded pride, reverse course, and salvage his political legacy; otherwise, history will judge him harshly. Stubborn pride diminishes a man.
ZEPHANIAH BURROWS Nassau, February 15, 2026.
EDITOR,
Coleby-Davis admits Pike deal never tabled; contradicts PM
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
A DAY after Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis dismissed calls for disclosure of the Pike energy agreement, his energy minister conceded the final contract is still not online and has never been tabled in Parliament.
Mrs Coleby-Davis, speaking yesterday on Guardian Radio’s Morning Blend programme, said the agreement was completed and approved by the Attorney General’s Office, but the ministry still needed to post the documents on the Energy Reform website.
She could not say when that would happen.
Her remarks followed
the prime minister’s claim that all energy transformation contracts had been made public and formally laid in Parliament. He suggested that anyone saying they did not know the details was “lazy” and wanted to be “spoon-fed”. However, no Pike agreement has been tabled to date.
Mrs Coleby-Davis said that while negotiations were ongoing, the government made available only a legal summary prepared by the Attorney General’s Office.
“What we have done while we were in the midst of negotiations, we did get a legal summary document prepared from the Attorney General's Office,” she said. “However, following the
National Bus reform still ‘under study’ as union tired of talk
still a priority.”
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter
ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
THE government is still studying a unified national bus system years after first signalling reform, with no structure yet presented to operators and no timeline announced.
Transport and Energy Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis said yesterday that discussions remain ongoing as officials consult foreign transit agencies and local drivers while working toward a model for The Bahamas.
Speaking yesterday on Guardian Radio’s Morning Blend programme, she said the government has met with public transport authorities in Barbados and Bermuda, and has held talks with agencies in the United States while developing a plan suited to local conditions.
“I did meet with the authorities of MARTA, that's Atlanta, and in New York Metropolitan, that authority, and we have been building out a plan. We do have to go back to the union. They have been giving great ideas,” she said.
She said the government intends to incorporate franchise owners — many of whom have operated routes for years — and is leaning toward a cooperative model.
“A lot of them are franchise owners,” she said.
“They've had franchises for years, and so leaning on their expertise is important as well, but we'll be working towards getting a structure that fits the culture of The Bahamas and works and being able to improve our bussing sector definitely are
end of the negotiations, directives from the Prime Minister was to make sure that the concluded agreed documents were public for review, and for others to, I guess, have sight of what was agreed based on the energy transformation.”
She said the prime minister had already directed that the concluded documents be released and that the ministry now needed to upload them. Pressed on whether the agreement still needed to be tabled in Parliament, she said: “It could be, or it could just be loaded onto the site. It's just the transparency of having that document available for viewing. I think that's the point the prime minister wants to say that he's already given that
directive for it to become made available, and when it should have been done.”
Asked whether it was incorrect to say the agreement was tabled, she said: “ I wouldn't say it's incorrect because we got the directives, and from his point of view, it should have already been done.”
The Pike agreement transfers Bahamas Power and Light’s transmission and distribution network — the poles, substations and lines that deliver electricity — into a new majority-private company, Bahamas Grid Company, which will operate and upgrade the grid for roughly 25 years, meaning control over how power reaches homes and businesses, and a major share of the system’s revenues,
shifts from the state to a private partner for a generation.
Yesterday, Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard said Mrs Coleby-Davis contradicted the prime minister by acknowledging the contract had not been laid and was still not available in full.
“The truth is simple.
The Pike agreement has never been tabled in Parliament,” he said. “It has never been fully disclosed to the Bahamian people, and instead of correcting the record, the Prime Minister chose to insult anyone who asked for transparency. This episode fits a familiar pattern.”
He argued that while the public was told to
“wait and see” on the Grand Lucayan despite missed deadlines, the government had similarly promised openness on energy reform while withholding what he called a key document. He warned that the restructuring of the transmission and distribution network would affect the country for decades.
“Such an agreement cannot be shielded from scrutiny, and it cannot be misrepresented as already public when it is not,” he said, adding: “Transparency is not optional when public assets are involved. Accountability is not a favour granted by government; it is a duty owed to the people. It’s simple: the time for excuses is over. Philip, tell the truth.”
Plans to modernise and unify the public bus system date back nearly a decade, including a reform project developed with the Inter-American Development Bank that examined routes, fares, fleet standards and formal bus stops, but no full framework has yet been implemented.
Rudolph Taylor, president of the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union, said the union has not met with the government since 2025 and is waiting for its findings.
“There's a lot of things that they had to look into. So just, we're just waiting on what their findings on and so forth,” he said.
Asked if he remained optimistic, he said any system must reflect local realities.
“Everybody's trying to take the ideas from other countries, and we have to make it unique to us, being a very small island, which is only 21 miles by seven,” he said. “So what may work in a metropolitan area would not work for us so or might not.”
“We need to sit down and look at it in a way that will benefit Bahamians and the motoring public at large. I just ain't doing no more talking about it no more because we dealt with administration after administration on the matter but we have seen over the years where it has led.”
Mr Taylor also pointed to infrastructure shortcomings, including the lack of bus stops and lay-bys in some areas, and said Bay Street needs proper signage and covered waiting areas so passengers are not forced to stand under storefronts to avoid the sun or rain.
TRANSPORT AND ENERGY MINISTER JOBETH COLEBY-DAVIS
Rubio represents at Munich summit, while Dems attempt to answer questions
A RECENTsecurity conferencein Munich,Germany mayofferthebestrecentillustration of thechallenges and possibilities thatconfront the North AtlanticTreaty Organization (NATO), an alliance that has underpinned global post-World War II security perhaps morethan anyother international body,including the United Nations.
Asusual, theUS andthe Trump administrationare at thecentre ofanyconsiderationof therecently-concluded Munich SecurityConference. This session wasunusual because,despite Housespeaker Mike Johnsoncancelling plans fora bigcongressional delegationto theconference, several prominent American Democrats attended.
Several Democratswho were in Munichwere burnishingforeign policycredentialsasapreparationforapossible 2028 presidential run. They included California governor and early nomination frontrunner Gavin Newsom; Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego of Arizona, Chris Murphy of Connecticut; Elissa Slotkin of Michigan; Congresswoman Alexan dria Ocasio-Cortez of New York City; former Commerce Secretary and Rhode Island governor Gina Raimondo; and Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer. Whilemost ofthe Demsattended quietly, Newsom spoke out.
lievesthe USrelationship with Europecan stillbe repaired and salvaged. The implication was clearly that he is the man to make that happen.
Ocasio-Cortez, or AOC, seemsto haveinheritedthe outspoken socialist-leaning perchso longoccupiedin Democraticpolitics byVermont senator Bernie Sanders, now 84 years old.At a panel, someone askedAOC about potential deploymentof US troops in the event China launches a militaryassault to take Taiwan.
This might bethe trickiest question in American contemporaryforeign policy.Butshe didn t handle itvery well.
CNN reportedthat herresponse was um,you know,I think thatthis is sucha, you know, I think that this is a, um thisis, ofcourse,a,um, very long-standing, um, policy of theUnited States.
AndIthink whatweare hoping for is thatwe want to makesurethatwe never get to that point, she said.
AOC and other potential candidates will get ambushed by questions like this one re-
governmentand thepress throughout Europe and the US.
Rubio, who clearly wants theRepublicannominationfor president in 2028, showed why he isconstantly walking a political tightrope.
Ononehand,liketherestof the current cabinet,he needs to pleasean audienceof one –
“Um,
Europeanleaders seeusas a wrecking ball,” he said in an interviewat theconference.
“They see us asunreliable, and a lot of them think it s irreversible. They don t think we’ll evercome backto our original form.
Newsominsisted hebe-
peatedly as theUSmoves gradually towardactive presidential campaign season. She lldoubtless handleit better next time.
US Secretaryof Stateand National SecurityAdviser (amongothercurrentadministrationroles)MarcoRubioled theAmerican delegation.His words were watched very carefullyby notonly otherattendees, but alsoobservers in
Accordingly, Rubio was careful to differentiatehis remarks from the incendiary oration delivered at this same conferencelast yearbyUS VicePresident JDVance. Vance scoldedhis European audience in blunt terms over theirimmigration laxity,defencespending hesitancyand general woke fecklessness.
you know, I think
that this is such a, you know, I think that this is a, um this is, of course, a, um, very long-standing, um, policy of the United States. And I think what we are hoping for is that we want to make sure that we never get to that point."
--US Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, in response to a question about potential deployment of US troops in the event China invades Taiwan.
the president.That means hewingclosely toTrump s line on almost every issue that arises.But Rubioalsoknows thatthe president’s popularity onmanyissuesissagging,and that atleast somevoters already recognisethat Trump s generalboorishness in internationalrelations is making the US look bad.
Rubio willneed tobe able to portray himselfas a converted and loyal Trump servantfromnow untilthe2028 GOPprimary elections,but also leavehimself enough wiggle room to move strongly towardthepoliticalcentreand toward muchmore traditional Republican foreignpolicy immediately after securing the nomination.Otherwise,unless the Democratsbungle their own nominationprocess at least asbadly as theydid in 2024,RubiooranyotherGOP nominee is unlikely to win.
Olympic Snapshot
Vance s own audienceof one – Trump – applauded. Butthe Europeans were outraged. In whatcan onlybe seenas a measured,differentiated approach, Rubiotold hisaudience thatimmigration hadbecome a challenge in the US as well. And he said that together,theUS andEuropein the postwar erahad "a dangerous delusion" that they had entered "the end of history" and that"every nationwould now be a liberal democracy, that theties formedby trade andbycommercealonewould nowreplace nationhood."But the end resultwas "an unprecedentedwaveofmassmigration that threatens the cohesion ofour societies,the continuity of our culture, and the future of our people."
Rubio s conciliation got a rousing standingovation from an audience hopeful of some kind ofreturn tothe comfort
of anAmerican security shield asprotection against aggression byRussia. Still, it svery trendyamongpundits andobservers todeclare that thepost-war American security guaranteehas now been irrevocably withdrawn. Maybe. Maybe not. Trump’s particular foreign policy iscertainly differentin styleand processthanvirtually all of his post-war predecessors. But twothings are important to keepin mind. First, the president remains a transactionalpragmatistinhis own mind,prepared toadapt to changing circumstances andnotbeboundbythetenets of traditional foreign policy. It’s not impossibleto imagine him changing his mind on manythings, includinghis view of NATO.
Second, and in any case, he will not remain president beyond2028. Whilethatis three yearsin thefuture, Trump’s ability to act internationally with impunity is likely to be much more circumscribed after this November’selection, ifnot sooner. Whateverthe Supreme Court finally says about Trump’s ability to unilaterally enacttariffs without Congressional approvalwill matter. Nothing is forever. Such considerations are not persuading Germanchancellor Friedrich Merz that a profound schism has not alreadydeveloped inthe middle of theAtlantic Ocean. Widely viewed as more technocrat than demagogue, Merz spokeunambiguously inMunich.
A divide hasopened up between Europe andthe United States, he said Friday to helpopen theconference.
“The UnitedStates’ claim to leadership hasbeen challenged, and possibly lost.”
According to numerous news reports, Merzcriticised the"big powerpolitics"that hebelieves arecurrently being employed bythe US, China and Russia.
"Greatpower politicsturns awayfrom aworld inwhich increasing connectivity translates into the ruleof law and peaceful relations between states," saidMerz. "Natural resources, technologies and
supply chains are becoming bargaining tools inthe zerosum game ofthe major powers. This isa dangerous game."
Merz saidthat Europehad learnedthe lessonsfrom World WarII about"big power" dominion and he urged hisEuropean colleagues to builda new European economy that will rival thesebig powersbut maintain democratic values.
Inhiscomments,ironically, Merz perhapsinadvertently echoed one of Trump s main foreign policy themes. The US presidentconstantly rails atEuropefor“rippingoff”the American taxpayer by devotingfarlessoftheirbudgets andGDP to defence,instead relyingon anAmericanled defence shield.
"Russia's GDPis currently about 2 trillioneuros, Merz said. “The GDPof the European Union is almost 10 timesas high,but stillEurope is not10 timesas strong.Our military, political,economic, and technologicalpotential is huge, butwe haven'ttapped into thispotential fora very longtime. Sothe mostimportant thingis toturnthe switch in our minds now."
He's right.
Europe hasn t tappedits military potential since the end of World War II. But the Americans might be careful what they arewishing for. It was precisely the exercise of European militarymight that led totwo 20th centuryworld wars.
Merz acknowledgedthat the current geopolitical climate” has forcedGermany to implement changes tohow it funds itsmilitary sothat itis abletooperateat"fullspeed." Rubio acknowledged Germany’s increasing commitmentto thedefenceof Ukraine in his remarks.
Allofthis recallsaremark at the same conference 10 yearsago bythen-senator John McCain. “Irefuse to accept the demiseof our world order. I am a proud, unapologetic believer in the West. I believe we mustalways, alwaysstandupforit.Forifwe do not, who will?
South Korea will boost med school admissions to tackle doc shortage
By KIM TONG-HYUNG Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea(AP)
South Korea plans to increase medical schooladmissions by morethan 3,340studentsfrom 2027 to2031 toaddress concerns about physician shortages in one of the fastest-agingcountries in theworld, thegovernmentsaid Tuesday. The decision was announced
months afterofficials defuseda prolonged doctors’ strikeby backingawayfrom amoreambitious increase pursued by Seoul s former conservative government. Eventhe scaled-downplandrew criticismfrom thecountry’s doctors’ lobby, which said the move was “devoid ofrationaljudgment.” KwakSoon-hun, asenior Health Ministry official,said that thepresidentof theKoreanMed-
ical Association attended the healthcarepolicymeetingbutleft early toboycott thevoteconfirmingthesize oftheadmission increases.
TheKMA president,Kim Taek-woo,latersaidtheincreases would overwhelmmedical schools whencombined withstudentsreturning fromstrikesor mandatory military service, and warned thatthe government wouldbe “fully responsible for all confusion that emerges in the medical sectorgoing forward. Thegroup didn'timmediately signal plans for further walkouts. Health MinisterJeong Eun Kyeong saidthe annualmedical school admissions capwill increase fromthe current3,058 to 3,548in 2027,with furtherhikes planned in subsequent years to reach 3,871 by 2031. This represents an average increase of 668 studentsperyear overthefiveyear period, far smaller than the 2,000-per-year hike initially proposedby thegovernmentof former President Yoon Suk Yeol, which sparkedthe monthslong strike by thousands of doctors.
AP Photo: Michael Probst
AP Photo: Alex Brandon
GOVERNOR of theState ofCalifornia, Gavin Newsom speaks with the media at the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.
AP Photo: Michael Probst
SOUTH KoreanHealthMinister JeongEunKyeong,center, speaks during a briefing at the government complex in Seoul, South Korea, Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026.
AP Photo: Lee Jung-hoon/Yonhap
PIETRO Sighel ofItaly, right,leads hisheatwhile competingin themen's 1000meter short track speed skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026.
AP Photo: Francisco Seco
There should be no prohibition of public political events during Lent
thelaunch ofofficialcampaigning and the eve of Lent coincided.The FreeNational Movement (FNM)launched its GrandBahama candidates inan energy-filledeventthat exceeded theexpectations of the party, boosting the opposition. Many observersare impressed by the party s new national slate.
This past Monday the Progressive LiberalParty (PLP) launched itscampaign witha jampacked andvibrant event at BahaMar, withexcited PLPsboastingthattheyareon trackfor twostraightvictories, ending decades of no party beingreturned tooffice after a single term.
ManyinthePLParegiddily confident of victory. Many FNMs areincreasingly confident thatthey canretake the government. Bothparties are expressing confidence.
Who willknow thejoy or sorrow thatcometh inthe morning afterelection dayis in the handsof the Bahamian people,who areoften fullof surprisesand upsets,inboth senses of the word.
Prior to the Lenten season, someexpressedconcernabout campaigning duringthe 40dayobservance. PrimeMinister Philip Davisunilaterally
any political public activities during Lent.
Did Mr. Davis, an Anglican,make thisannouncement out of religious conviction, politicalexpediency,or gamesmanshipintendedto disadvantageother political parties,even asthe PLP launched its campaign justtwodaysbeforeAshWednesday?
It is possible that Mr. Davis isplayinga gameinannouncingthathis partywillnot hold public events, attempting to lure the FNM into a trap, after which hemight spring the announcement of an election right afterEaster, depriving othersof a40-day period without public events. Neither the FNM,any other party,orthepublic,shouldfall forsucha potentialtrap cum prohibition against public events during Lent. Whatever hisreasoning--or possible combinationof reasons--therehasbeendebate as to whether there should be public campaignevents duringLent.As isoftenthe case,muchofthediscussionis woefullyuninformed byhistory, and lacking a considered theological, philosophical, and rational basis. Moreover, there is a fundamentalist
mindset thathas enteredthe discussion.
This journalreported some ofthe discussion. “Some church leadershad criticised the timing, the articlestated.
“Father Roderick Bain of St Barnabas Anglican Church questionedthe messageit sendsso closeto theholy season.
The message itsends is that we can beboth Christian and democratic at thesame time, abletoengage inbothpublic religious andpolitical activity.
Why can t a good Christian worship God on a given day and express her political viewsand supportat apublic eventinthesameweekduring Lent, albeitwith certainrestraintandrespectfortheholy season?
If we re a Christian nation,” thepastor stated, “we shouldnot reallybefocusing on political things just yet, especially during Lent.” Rev. Bain scomments beg thequestion: Whatdoeshe mean by Christian nation?
The majority of Bahamians are Christian, mostlyof a narrow fundamentmentalist nature, whichsociologically dominates our culture, including politics and public policy. Sometimes for good, but toooften, fornot sogood. Still,weare asecular,pluralistdemocracywithaseparation of church and state.
We are not a theocracy.
While respectingthe reli-
aswell aspublicde bate, cannot be sidelinedby afewwho may desirecertain prohibitions.
Whycan’twefocus on political things during Lent?Politics is not inherently bad orwrong. Politicsand government are vital to the lifeof a nation, includingduringLent. Should parliament and public speeches by governmentministers,all ofwhichare political innature, also be shut down at this time?
Those whodon’t want to attend or watch certain events are free notto doso. Likewise, thosewho want to participate freely andopenly in such events should also feel free to do so.
The Tribune report continued. “Others strucka more measuredtone [onholding public politicalevents during Lent].MethodistChurchpresidentRev JamesNeillysaid theissuedependedonconduct during the season.
‘I don’t have a whole lot of problems with it,you know, for them tolaunch their campaign.I guessit’s allabout how theyconduct themselves duringtheseason ofLentand what all theyoperate, you know.
Rev.Neilly offeredabalanced andreasoned approach, likeother religiousleadersat home andabroad whodon’t propose bans or prohibitions onpublic eventsduringthis penitential season.
Somehistory. Othercountries, including the United Kingdom, amostly secular country witha longstanding Churchof Englandtradition, haveheld generalelections during Lent.
In 1968, Prime Minister Lynden Pindlingheld that year selection onApril10, whichwasinHolyWeek,four daysbefore EasterSunday. Today, out ofrespect for Holy
'Ridiculous' plan developed at Florida zoo saves wild rhino's eyesight in Africa
By CODY JACKSON and DAVID FISCHER Associated Press
WEST PALMBEACH, Fla.(AP) Corrallingawild rhinoceros into asmall chute to giveit eyedropsmight seem likea crazyplan. Butif it'scrazyand itworks,then it's not crazy. Animal behaviourists partneringwith the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society in Floridatravelled toAfrica inAugustto helpanendangered white rhino with a life-threatening, parasitic eye infection.
Daniel Terblanche, a securitymanager with Imvelo Safari Lodges, saidno one in Zimbabwewould havecome up with the plan.
“Believe me,we didn’t thinkof it;itwas acom-
pletelyridiculous ideatous," Terblanchesaid. "Butwithout trying all of thethings that we could to rectifythat situation, we wouldhave beenin trouble, I think.”
Outside of Zimbabwe’s HwangeNational Park,the Community RhinoConservation Initiative, withsupport from Imvelo Safari Lodges, engages local communities to reintroduce southernwhite rhinosto communallandsfor the first time in the nation s history. Palm BeachZoo CEOand President MargoMcKnight was visiting the area last year whenImvelo SafariLodges managing director Mark Butcher told her a health scare with a malerhino named Thuza couldjeopardise thefuture of the program.
This rhino had bleeding eyes. He was rubbing his eyes," Butchersaid. And I waslooking atapotential where this guy was gonna lose his eyesight. And this is in a pilot project that’s got fantastic vision fora future for conservation throughout Africa.”
Thadand AngiLacinak, foundersof Precision Behavior, travelled to Zimbabwe to work withthe anti-poacher scouts. They developed a plan basedon lessonslearnedat PalmBeach Zoo,whereanimals are taught tovoluntarily participate in their own care. Withthis fewanimalsin thislocationin Africa,itwas essentialthatwe saveallof them," Angi Lacinaksaid. "So when they called and said, Thuza is going tolose his eye,
a blind rhino is a dead rhino. Sono matterwhatit took,we weregoing togo overthere and try.”
Theidea wastocoax Thuzaintoa tightspacewith his favourite foodsand then to desensitisehim tohumans touchingand squirtingwater on the face.
“Within abouta week,we were actuallyputting theeye dropsstrategically inhiseyes while he held for it," Lacinak said. "And by the end of two weeks,we hadtransferred thatskill setto notonly Daniel, whowas incharge of leadingtheir guards,butto the guards.”
The conservation statusof southernwhiterhinosislisted asnearthreatened,withabout 16,000 animalsliving inthe wild. Poaching and habitat loss remain significant
Week, nopolitical partyis likely to do the same.
In 1997, Prime Minister Hubert Ingtahamcalled an election thatoccurred inLent and included avariety of public events. In 1997, neitherthe Roman Catholicnor Anglicanheads publiclystatedanydesirefora prohibition against public politicalevents duringLent. Moreover, neither tradition has theological or scriptural prohibitions against such events, althoughpolitical parties should be judicious in conducting such events.
The religious communities that moredeeply observethe penitential season ofLent are Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists, and the GreekOrthodox community, whooften observe Lent and celebrateEaster on different dates.
Theother Protestantdenominations--including the Baptist andnon-denominationalchurches--do nothave the deepLenten traditionsof the aforementioned Christian communities.
It bearsrepeating, TheBa-
constitution has a Christian reference. But thepreamble has nolegal force,andis notdispositive indeciding constitutional questions. ChapterI Article1 of the constitution, however, does have legal force. It states: “The Commonwealth of theBahamas shall be a sovereign democratic State.” Not atheocracy, not a Christian state, but a democracy Oursis asecular statewith aconstitutiondedicated toprotecting certain fundamental rights and freedoms, nota theocraticstate wherethe doctrines ofany religion or denomination reign supreme in adjudicating constitutionalorotherprimarymatters of politics and governance.
The constitution does not protect oradvance anynotion ofChristendom, inwhich Christianityis thestatereligion, nordoes it grantany religion the right to force its doctrines, will,or religious prohibitions on other citizens. As asecular state,we enjoy freedom of conscience. We enjoyfreedom ofreligion, freedom ofexpression, and freedom ofassembly, pivotal freedomsin theadvancement and sustenance of our democracy. How wonderful it is that we can openly and vigorously debate how to campaign during Lent, receiveashes onAsh Wednesday, campaignand go to apublic politicalevent duringtheLentenandelection seasons,andseek toholdfree elections ina democraticBahamas, formed byvarious Christian and other traditions. Let uspray forpeaceful elections. And, forthose who are Christians,may thistime of penance,fasting, and prayer, bea timeof spiritual growth that preparesthem for Easter and the celebration of abundant new life.
sources ofdanger.
and otherrhinos
consistently get-
ting
Photo: thays-orrico/unsplash
Photo: grant-whitty-cross/unsplash
Sowhile Thuza
continueto facechallenges inthe wild, at least the animal's eyes have been protected. “They’re
themedications intohis eyes every day," Lacinak said. "Andthe rhinosare just thrivingnow andtheyfeel really, reallyconfident that this solved their problem.”
IN thisAugust 2025 photo providedby the Palm BeachZoo & Conservation Society, Daniel Terblancheshows Imvelo Safari Lodgesstaffhowtohandle Thuza,anendangeredwhiterhino with a life-threatening eye infection, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Photo:John Towey/Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society via AP
Tribune file photos
Pintard backs NDP as bill delayed to March
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
OPPOSITION Leader
Michael Pintard offered bipartisan backing for the National Development Plan yesterday, even as chairman Felix Stubbs acknowledged the long-promised legislation to establish a statutory planning institute will not be tabled this month.
Mr Stubbs said the bill is now expected to be brought to Parliament by the end of next month, with the goal of securing its passage before the 2026 general election to help insulate it from political disruption.
Speaking following a parliamentary session on the National Development Planning Institute Bill 2026, Mr Pintard, in a rare show of bipartisanship, said the Free National Movement
remains committed to working with the governing party and other stakeholders to ensure long-term continuity in national planning. He stressed that successive administrations must adhere to the country’s agreed development priorities.
“We have suffered many setbacks in The Bahamas, and part of it has been interruption of initiatives, interruption in terms of policy interruption, in terms of legislation, oftentimes, with the change of government that's no longer committed to what they met in place,” he said.
“The National Development Plan sets a tone that puts pressure on political organisations to commit to what the majority of Bahamians say are in their best interest.”
Mr Pintard also highlighted the importance of transparency, arguing that effective long-term planning depends on access to public information.
“The reality is the ability of the Freedom of Information to impact this programme is very strong, which is why it is important for it to be implemented,” he said yesterday during the press conference. “Because if you're talking about transparency, transparency in governance is important to have access to information. So the institute, in my view, would not be in a position to fully execute its job if the various stakeholders who require information to make their day to day decision or long term planning do not have access to data that government refuses to release, or the things that motivate the decisions that
we make as policymakers behind the scenes.”
Mr Stubbs acknowledged that the draft legislation requires strengthening following consultations. He said further work over the next two weeks will include consultations with permanent secretaries and continued legal review following discussions with the Attorney General.
“I am still very hopeful that we may have an additional two weeks, and so we still can probably be the end of March deadline. From what I'm hearing, the next 40 days is quiet, so I got 40 days to get something happening. It is still my belief that will be passed before the next election,” he said.
Mr Stubbs described the initiative as a turning point for The Bahamas.
“I believe that the commitment shown from our
Deputy Head Girl leads with service and climate advocacy
By AVA TURNQUEST
DENAJAH Bodie,
Deputy Head Girl at First Step Academy, is demonstrating that student leadership goes well beyond school assemblies and prefect duties.
Through volunteer work, charitable giving and environmental advocacy, Denajah has built a platform rooted in service. Her efforts have taken her from reading to children after school to presenting her climate change initiative to the Prime Minister.
Denajah said her motivation to volunteer comes from a desire to make others feel valued.
“I love helping others, knowing that I can brighten someone’s day, even in a small way,” she said. “Volunteering has taught me that true service is not about being noticed,
but about caring enough to give your time, effort and compassion to help others.”
Recently, she donated books and volunteered her time at the Bahamas Children’s Emergency Hostel, assisting children with homework and reading after school. She has also supported the Ranfurly Home, All Saints Camp and Friends of the Environment, working alongside her mother and school to donate grocery items and reading materials. She also helped spread awareness through flyers and a television interview encouraging others to give back.
“Even small contributions can make a big difference,” she said. “When we give back, we build stronger communities and remind people that they are not alone.”
For 2026, Denajah’s platform focuses on climate change. She said
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her interest began in the classroom.
“When my teacher explained that in 50 years much of The Bahamas could be underwater, that really stayed with me,” she said. After conducting her own research, she began studying sea erosion, air pollution and carbon reduction. She also adopted a coral polyp and learned about the importance of coral reefs to marine life and coastal protection.
Denajah explained that coral bleaching affects fish habitats and threatens industries such as fishing and tourism. She said rising temperatures and excess carbon pollution can lead to stronger hurricanes and rising sea levels, while sea erosion puts homes and
buildings at risk.
“These issues affect our everyday lives, from the food we eat to the places we enjoy and live in,” she said.
Her advocacy recently reached a national audience when she presented her platform to the Prime Minister.
“It showed me that young people’s voices matter and can be heard,” she said. “You are never too young to make a difference.”
Denajah said she hopes leaders recognise that students care deeply about environmental issues and want to be part of the solution. She also hopes other young people feel encouraged to speak up about causes they believe in.
For Denajah, leadership is not defined by a title, but by action.
leaders, both political and non political, to this process by their full attendance today is an indication that The Bahamas is now seriously looking at moving forward in terms of proper planning and long term planning so that The Bahamas and Bahamians can realise their true potential,” he said. He said the draft initially focused on creating the legal structure for the institute, but will now be expanded to clarify responsibilities in law. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a National Development Planning Institute as a statutory body responsible for initiating and co-ordinating national planning, overseeing implementation of the NDP and advising the government on governance, economic,
social and environmental policy.
The NDP, branded Vision 2040, was first developed during the Christie administration following extensive national consultations. It was designed as a non-partisan, cross-party blueprint to guide The Bahamas’ development through measurable goals across four main pillars: the economy, governance, social policy, and the natural and built environment. Despite its broad support, progress has stalled under recent administration.
Officials from the Coalition of Independents were in attendance at yesterday’s parliamentary session on the National Development Plan legislation, and a member of the Coalition sits on the NDP steering committee.
DENAJAH BODIE, deputy headgirl at First Step Academy with Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and Labour Minister Pia Glover-Rolle
DENAJAH BODIE, deputy headgirl at First Step Academy.
ISBET students get real-world business lesson as MPs shop at Rawson Square expo
By DUDLEY TURNQUEST
STUDENTS at the International School of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (ISBET) showcased their skills at a student expo that attracted sales from parliamentarians and the wider public yesterday.
ISBET’s student expo comes during the school’s business week, a four day experience meant to show students a clearer view of entrepreneurship beyond the class room.
Michaela Munnings, a member of ISBET's marketing and communications team, said: “Monday was a leadership day at the school. We had professionals across various industries come and speak to them on several subject matter.
"On Tuesday we had the in-the-field visits, where the students from grades 4-12 went to different business in
New Providence to see how they operate, to see how what their doing in class, which is the theory, and now that in market experience gave them practical. She continued: "Today we have the expo where students are showcasing their products and services, from food and beverages to handmade crafts to sweets.”
Ms Munnings underscored the student expo is critical for student’s development.
"Times are changing, technology is becoming a bit more advanced, and then you have AI and you have all sorts of other facets that are making ways today. So we don't want them to just think of business and commerce as a class.”
Students were also pleasantly surprised to be visited by Members of Parliament that visited the expo near Rawson Square after the
business of the House had concluded.
Ms Munnings said: “I noticed every Member of Parliament that came over purchased at more than one booth. We are truly grateful for the support because these kids are the future and having them have that interaction one-on-one, it lets them know that what they’re doing here is valued and appreciated.”
The final event for ISBET’s business week will be a shark tank event at the Small Business Development Centre on Gladstone Road today. The sharks include Samantha Roll, from the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC); Leo Rolle, chief executive officer of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Confederation (BCCEC); Ceri Howells, the COO of CLX Logistics Bahamas, and Hollis Lightbourne from HYL Consultants.
their
held a business expo
Exuma hit-and-run boating incident trial adjourned to May
TWO men facing charges in an Exuma hit-andrun boating accident last year have had their trial adjourned until May.
Johnathan Brown and Levaughnte Ferguson were charged last summer with causing grievous harm by negligence on June 30.
The men were on a boat that critically injured Brent Slough, 42, of Prosper,
Texas, while he was snorkelling off Tar Bay Beach in Exuma on the same day.
Both men have denied the charges. They appeared in court on Tuesday, but the case was adjourned after their lawyer failed to attend.
During the hearing, the court approved for Mr Slough to provide his evidence virtually.
He was struck by a speeding boat about 20 feet from shore. Its propeller caused severe injuries to his lower body.
He was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, where he spent 27 days in intensive care and underwent two surgeries.
The case has been adjourned for trial until May 19.
PROBATION FOR ASSAULTING GIRLFRIEND WITH KNIFE
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was placed on probation after admitting to assaulting his girlfriend with a knife last week on Malcolm Road East.
Ten
pate and the top three will win cash prizes of $1,000,
Officer testifies on photos of teens killed in Yellow Elder
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A POLICE officer testified yesterday that he photographed the bodies of two teenage boys who were shot and killed in Yellow Elder Gardens in 2017 as the murder trial continued.
Detective Sergeant Javod Frazier gave evidence in the trial of Deon Scavella, 30, before Justice Jeannine Weech-Gomez. Prosecutors allege Scavella shot and killed Devonte Lindsey, 15, and Keishon Williams, 13, on March 19, 2017.
The victims’ bodies were found on a dirt road off Graham Drive in Yellow Elder. Sergeant Frazier said that on March 21, 2017, he went to the Rand Laboratory at Princess Margaret Hospital and spoke with pathologist Dr Caryn Sands. He was then shown the bodies of the teens, which had apparent gunshot wounds to the head and body. Lindsey also had a gunshot wound to the hand. Sergeant Frazier said he photographed the bodies and collected post-mortem kits from both victims. He
also collected a toxicology request form. Sergeant 244 Moxey testified that he collected a 9mm Luger pistol and 15 rounds of ammunition in connection with the incident. According to his report dated May 6, 2017, he sent the items for fingerprint analysis. He said he checked the ammunition for latent prints but found none and also swabbed the gun for fingerprints. Marianne Cadet represented the accused, while Shaneka Carey and Davina Pinder were the prosecutors.
He was informed of his right to appeal the sentence within seven days.
Inspector K Wilkinson was the prosecutor.
Davonne Fisher, 30, assaulted Nathalee Thompson during a verbal altercation on February 9. He pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous instrument before Assistant Chief Magistrate Kara Turnquest Deveaux. After apologising, he was granted a conditional discharge and placed on two months’ probation or risked two months in prison.
MAN JAILED FOUR MONTHS FOR STOLEN MOTORCYCLE
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN found with a stolen motorcycle on Prince Charles Drive on Sunday was sentenced to four months in prison yesterday.
Lorinki Fluerissant, 24, was found with a multicoloured black motorcycle reasonably suspected of being stolen and could not give a reasonable account of how he came into possession of it on February 15. He pleaded guilty
to unlawful possession before Magistrate Abigail Farrington.
After electing not to offer mitigation, the court sentenced him to four months in prison.
Assistant Superintendent of Police K Bould was the prosecutor.
Teen girl gets probation for $3 chocolate theft and assaulting cop
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 19-YEAR-OLD woman was placed on probation yesterday after admitting to stealing chocolate from a grocery store on East Street South and assaulting a police officer during her arrest on Sunday.
Anthonique Thompson stole $3 worth of Ferrero Rocher chocolates from Lil General’s on February 15. Later that day, around 5.35pm, she assaulted Police
Constable 4542 King while resisting arrest and was cursing and acting disorderly. She pleaded guilty to stealing, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, disorderly behaviour and obscene language before Magistrate Abigail Farrington. A receiving charge was withdrawn.
After expressing remorse, she was placed on one year’s probation, ordered to complete 100 hours of community service and to compensate the officer $250. Failure to comply will result in a four-month prison sentence.
Assistant Superintendent of Police K Bould was the prosecutor.
students will partici
$700 and $300.
ISBET
in Rawson Square for their students to use what they learned during
business week to make sales and earn money, and make a successful business yesterday. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
Moved bed blamed for water leak in PMH maternity ward
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
A PIPE was damaged in the maternity area at Princess Margaret Hospital after a patient moved a bed without notifying staff, prompting a temporary water leak that was quickly brought under control, Minister of Health and Wellness
Dr Michael Darville said yesterday.
Dr Darville was responding to a social media post circulating online that described the ward as being in “chaos” after water allegedly leaked from the ceiling and flooded the floor.
The message, sent to a Facebook page, claimed
that doctors had to move patients as water entered the area. Doctors reportedly instructed nurses to move patients due to potential electrical risks, and nurses were hesitant to move through standing water.
Dr Darville said the incident occurred after a patient shifted a hospital bed and damaged a pipe connected to the water system.
He said maintenance teams responded immediately and shut off the water supply to prevent the leak from affecting other sections of the ward.
“We move very swiftly to repair the pipe,” he said. “The problem is under control, and we had to shut the water off so that
the water does not leak into the antenatal area.”
Dr Darville said the damage was not extensive and repairs were completed shortly after the water was turned off.
“Shortly after, once the water’s off, our team came and our plumbers came and it repaired,” Dr Darville said.
He did not indicate that any patients were injured or that services were suspended for an extended period.
The social media post criticised the condition of the public hospital and questioned when improvements would be made. Dr Darville maintained that the matter was resolved promptly and remains under control.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS MINISTER DR MICHAEL DARVILLE
BERRY ISLANDS students showed off their talent at the E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudication at RN Gomez Comprehensive School, February 12, 2026.
Photos: Eric Rose/BIS
New Orleans celebrates Mardi Gras, the indulgent conclusion of Carnival season
By SARA CLINE Associated Press
PEOPLE leaned out of wrought iron balconies, hollering the iconic phrase “Throw me something, Mister” as a massive Mardi Gras parade rolled down New Orleans’ historic St. Charles Avenue on Tuesday.
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, marks the climax and end of the weekslong Carnival season and a final chance for indulgence, feasting and revelry before the Christian Lent period of sacrifice and reflection. The joyous goodbye to Carnival always falls the day before Ash Wednesday. In Louisiana’s most populous city, which is world-famous for its Mardi Gras bash, people donned green, gold and purple outfits, with some opting for an abundance of sequins and others showing off homemade costumes.
The revellers began lining the streets as the sun rose. They set up chairs, coolers, grills and ladders — offering a higher vantage point.
As marching bands and floats filled with women wearing massive feathered
headdresses passed by, the music echoing through the city streets, people danced and cheered. Others sipped drinks, with many opting for adult concoctions on the day of celebration rather than the usual morning coffee.
Each parade has its signature “throws” — trinkets that include plastic beads, candy, doubloons, stuffed animals, cups and toys.
Hand-decorated coconuts are the coveted item from Zulu, a massive parade named after the largest ethnic group in South Africa.
As a man, dressed like a crawfish — including red fabric claws for hands — caught one of the coconuts, he waved it around, the gold glitter on the husk glistening in the sun.
Sue Mennino was dressed in a white Egyptian-inspired costume, complete with a gold headpiece and translucent cape. Her face was embellished with glitter and electric blue eyeshadow.
“The world will be here tomorrow, but today is a day off and a time to party,” Mennino said.
The party isn’t solely confined to the parade route.
Throughout the French Quarter, people celebrated in the streets, on balconies and on the front porches of shotgun-style homes.
One impromptu parade was led by a man playing a washboard instrument and dressed as a blue alligator — his papermache tail dragging along the street, unintentionally sweeping up stray beads with it. A brass band played “The Saints” as people danced.
In Jackson Square, the costumed masses included a man painted from head to toe as a zebra, a group cosplaying as Hungry Hungry Hippos from the tabletop game and a diver wearing an antique brass and copper helmet.
“The people are the best part,” said Martha Archer, who was dressed as Madame Leota, the disembodied medium whose head appears within a crystal ball in the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disney amusement parks.
Archer’s face was painted blue and her outfit was a makeshift table that came up to her neck — giving the appearance that she was indeed a floating head.
“Everybody is just so happy,” she explained.
The good times will roll not just in New Orleans but across the state, from exclusive balls to the Cajun French tradition of the Courir de Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday Run — a rural event in Central Louisiana featuring costumed participants performing, begging for ingredients and chasing live chickens to be cooked
in a communal gumbo. Parades are also held in other Gulf Coast cities such as Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida, and there are other world-renowned celebrations in Brazil and Europe.
One of the quirkiest is an international Pancake Day competition pitting the women of Liberal, Kansas, against the women of Olney, England. Pancakes are used because they were thought to be a good way for Christians to consume the fat they were supposed to give up during the 40 days before Easter. Contestants must carry a pancake in a frying pan and flip the pancake at the beginning and end of the 415-yard (380-meter) race.
NEW JERSEY CATHOLIC DIOCESE AGREES TO $180 MILLION SETTLEMENT OF CLERGY SEXUAL ABUSE ALLEGATIONS
By MIKE CATALINI Associated Press
Bishop Joseph Williams of the Diocese of Camden, covering southern New Jersey and its Philadelphia suburbs, announced the settlement Tuesday in a letter.
“For the survivors of South Jersey, this day is
A NEW Jersey Catholic diocese this week agreed to a $180 million settlement to resolve allegations of clergy sexual abuse, a figure far exceeding agreements in some large dioceses but still dwarfed by other massive settlements.
long overdue and represents a milestone in their journey toward restored justice and the healing and recognition they have long sought and deserve,” Williams said.
Mark Crawford, state director of the Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests, said in a phone
interview Wednesday that the settlement was long overdue but he was glad the ordeal was coming to an end. He praised the bishop for listening to survivors and for pledging transparency, contrasting him with his predecessor, who fought a legal battle over a state investigation into alleged clergy abuse.
“This settlement and this bishop have acted very differently,” Crawford said. “I hope it sends a message that this is possible, that this is right.”
Greg Gianforcaro, one of the attorneys representing victims suing the diocese, credited survivors’ persistence in reaching the agreement. The diocese has said there about 300 survivors of abuse raising claims.
“It’s been an extremely
long and arduous battle,” he said in a phone interview. It’s the latest agreement in a scandal set off more than two decades ago when the scale of the abuse and the church’s effort to hide it came to light in Boston.
The New Jersey settlement agreement is more than the roughly $80 million settlements in Boston and Philadelphia, though settlements in California ranged much higher.
In 2024, the Los Angeles Archdiocese agreed to an $880 million payment.
The Camden settlement comes less than a year after the diocese withdrew its objection to the state of New Jersey’s grand jury investigation into decades of alleged sexual abuse of children by religious. The state Supreme Court
has since ruled the state’s investigation could move ahead.
The Camden diocese, like others nationwide, filed for bankruptcy amid a torrent of lawsuits after the statute of limitations was relaxed.
In 2022, the diocese agreed to pay $87.5 million to settle allegations involving clergy sex abuse against some 300 accusers, one of the largest cash settlements involving the Catholic church in the US The latest settlement announcement includes these funds, according to victims’ attorneys.
The diocese of Camden covers six southern New Jersey counties outside Philadelphia. The agreement must still be approved by a bankruptcy court.
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ZULU KING Dr Ron Tassin parades on Mardi Gras Day, Tuesday, in New Orleans.
Photo: Matthew Hinton/AP
GOVERNOR GENERAL Dame Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt made an official visit to Rebecca Zillah Rolle to congratulate her on the occasion of her 100th birthday celebration along with family members, yesterday.
Photo: Patrick Hanna/BIS
CAMPBELL TOURS NEW FREIGHT AND PASSENGER TERMINAL AT
MINISTER of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell along with govt officials toured the new freight and passenger terminal at Potters Cay Dock yesterday. The project is a joint collaboration between D&T Shipping and the Government of The Bahamas and is expected to modernize dock operations, improve efficiency, and strengthen the movement of goods and passengers throughout the Family Islands. The walkthrough was guided by Gregory Stuart, Owner, D&T Group of Companies and Michael Saunders, Project Manager, D&T Group of Companies.
Photos: Shawn Hanna