woman & health
nurses protest at ‘Foreign bias’
Union claims Bahamian graduates left waiting years for appointment
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
PRoTEST erupted outside the orientation for newly hired healthcare workers from Ghana yesterday, as about a dozen Bahamian nurses accused the government of sidelining local talent in favour of foreign recruits.
led by Bahamas Nurses Union president Muriel lightbourne, the protesters condemned the Ministry of Health and Wellness for recruiting Ghanaian healthcare workers while dozens of Bahamian graduate nurses — some allegedly working unpaid or for stipends since 2023 — remain
warrants issued for three Police after court no-show
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
THREE police officers failed to appear in court yesterday as an inquest opened into a deadly 2020 police-involved shooting, prompting Coroner Kara Turnquest Deveaux to issue arrest warrants against them.
Inspector alcott Forbes,
Corporal Kevin Greenslade Jr, and Police Constable Courtney Hall were absent as proceedings began into the shooting deaths of Deshoan “Spider” Smith, 25, Rashad Clarke, 28, and Jared Ford, 27, near Spikenard and Cowpen Roads on June 13, 2020. The confrontation, which police said followed an
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
Royal Caribbean and one of its affiliates have obtained government approval to acquire Freeport’s long-closed Xanadu
Beach Hotel and surrounding land as part of a $348m investment, it was revealed yesterday.
The Central Bank of The Bahamas disclosed that the cruise line and its high-end Celebrity Cruises affiliate have received the
a MaN believed to be in his 40s has died in a suspected suicide in the Sandyport area.
Davis administration’s permission to proceed with the acquisition of a total 40-acre site that they intend to transform into “recreational and entertainment facilities”.
THoUSaNDS of residents and businesses along Joe Farrington Road are being told to prepare for noise, dust, and detours, as a $1m infrastructure project kicks off by mid-May. The Ministry of Works announced yesterday that Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) crews will first replace 6,000 feet of ageing water mains — a crucial upgrade needed before the road can finally be repaved in august.
Chief Superintendent Sheria King last night briefed reporters outside a residence where the man’s body had been found. She said that shortly after 8pm, a concerned resident had contacted Cable Beach police station and requested a wellness check. $1M roadwork to begin on Joe farrington road Mid- M ay
bahamas Nurse Union president Muriel Lightbourne (centre) standing with nurses protesting as government imported nurses from Ghana while Bahamian nurses have been waiting since 2023 for appointment.
Photo: nikia Charlton
a hearse carrying the body of a man in suspected suicide at Sandyport last night. Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Nurses protest at ‘foreign bias’
unregularised. Ms Lightbourne called the situation “a slap in the face”.
“How are you going to assign these same nurses from 2023 in an orientation like what they’re having today, and turn around two, three years later, assign them to another orientation in the same setting like today,” she said. “God is not pleased with that.”
“The government would have housed these nurses. The government is also advancing three months salary to these nurses. And these nurses standing in the back of me, they are still waiting from 2023 for an appointment.”
that they cannot leave the clinic, that they have to work until the 20 hours withdraws at nine.”
professional exams.
“Please don’t forget about us. We are here.”
in regularising local nurses, blaming slow vetting processes by the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Public Service Commission. He said the international recruitment drive, including efforts to bring healthcare workers from India and the Philippines, is critical while local training programmes are strengthened for long-term self-sufficiency. Dr Darville said Ghanaian healthcare professionals will be deployed across The Bahamas, with placements at the Department of Health, Princess Margaret Hospital, Rand Memorial Hospital, and in the Family Islands. from page one
She alleged that the government had provided foreign recruits with housing, uniforms, and salary advances while Bahamian nurses continue to wait for basic employment.
Ms Lightbourne highlighted unsafe working conditions, pointing to a recent incident at the Elizabeth Estates Clinic where an armed assailant entered the building. Nurses were allegedly ordered to remain on duty despite no doctor or clinic administrator being present. “An assailant came into that clinic with weapons,” Ms Lightbourne said. “They telling our nurses
The protest shed light on graduate nurses trapped under lapsed “graduate intern” contracts, denied full employee benefits despite submitting required documents months ago.
“When they brought those things to me, I took those things in myself, into Human Resources, so I don’t even want to hear that story. Tell them come with something different,” Ms Lightbourne said.
Nurse Evernique Young, 31, shared her frustration over job security after years of study and
“It’s disheartening,” she said, “to go to school for five years, turn around, set a licensure exam, and then every month you call the Ministry of Health, you call Public Service, and they’re saying, ‘It coming, it coming, it coming.’”
She spoke about the personal toll of raising a daughter while working full-time hours without proper compensation.
“I want to know that I’m secure with my job, that’s it. I have a daughter to take care of. I have other responsibilities. And you can’t do it if you’re not getting your full salary. You working every day, 40 hours. Come on,” she said.
In response, Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville defended the government’s approach, citing urgent shortages and the “brain drain” of Bahamian professionals to foreign markets.
“We have massive recruitment of our healthcare professionals from developed countries,” he said. “Fast as they take off our professionals, we have to replace them, and so I’m around the world trying to find healthcare professionals who are willing to come to The Bahamas.” He acknowledged frustration over delays
One nurse at yesterday’s protest holds a sign asking ‘Has the Ministry of Health forgotten about us?’.
Photos: nikia Charlton
Pinder and Barnett-Ellis clash over promised lower BPL bills
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS
Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
Attorney General ryan Pinder and Senator Micheala Barnett-ellis clashed in the Senate yesterday over the government’s promises to lower electricity costs.
Mr Pinder accused Ms Barnett-ellis of misleading the public after she warned that, despite recent reductions, Bahamians could face rising electricity bills during the government’s energy transition. He insisted there was no official projection of higher prices, calling her remarks “highly objectionable” and demanding they be stricken from the record. the fiery exchange unfolded amid concerns about transparency as the government pushes forward with its “Securing the Bahamas’ energy Future” strategy, which includes sweeping investments in generation, transmission, storage, and smart metering across the country.
Ms Barnett-ellis criticised the administration’s record, recalling that the Progressive Liberal Party had promised lower electricity prices within 100 days of taking office — a pledge she said had not been fulfilled. While acknowledging that bills have recently decreased, she argued that the government’s own energy report indicates short-term price pressures ahead.
Mr Pinder challenged her characterisation, saying: “I will not tolerate in this place, misleading the public, and she’s communicating untruth with respect to saying that this is a get rich scheme for some of our supporters. that is highly objectionable in this place and should be stricken from the record. She has no proof.”
Defending the administration’s actions, Mr Pinder pointed to $40m in fuel savings already realised this year through new power purchase agreements that replaced costly rental
arrangements. He said projections show even greater savings ahead — $90m in 2025 and $125.6m annually by 2026 — with retail prices forecast to fall by up to 5.8 cents per kilowatt hour by 2034.
Ms Barnett-ellis later clarified she was not accusing the government of a “get rich scheme,” but maintained that public disclosure of all power purchase agreements and financial models is essential to maintaining trust. the government’s report acknowledges consumers could feel some price pressure during the 2024–2027 transition period but argues the long-term gains will outweigh the temporary impact. Additional initiatives include a $240 annual energy credit for low-income households and appliance replacement programmes aimed at improving energy efficiency.
Prime Minister Philip Davis has pledged to table the finalised agreements in the House of Assembly.
AG: MininG Bill will BrinG Much needed oversiGht to A n unreGul Ated industry
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net
Attorney General ryan Pinder yesterday defended the government’s landmark Mining Bill during Senate debate, saying it will finally impose strict oversight on an industry that has operated without clear rules for decades.
Mr Pinder said the legislation, already passed in the House of Assembly, will regulate onshore and offshore mining of minerals like aragonite, salt, sand, gravel, and stone, while ensuring that public revenues are properly protected under the national Investment Fund
Act 2022. He said the new regime strikes a critical balance between economic opportunity and environmental protection, requiring mining operators to submit environmental impact assessments and social action plans before licences are granted, and to prioritise Bahamian workers and businesses. opening his contribution, Mr Pinder warned that without a modern regulatory framework, mining could damage ecosystems, public land, and community trust — risks the government was determined to manage with strict licensing, oversight, and financial accountability. He credited technical
assistance from the Commonwealth Secretariat for helping craft a bill that meets international best practices, noting that environmental sustainability and transparency were central features of the proposed regime.
A new Department of Mining under the Ministry of environment will manage licensing, inspections, and fee collection. A public register of all licensed sites and operators will be maintained to ensure transparency.
Mr Pinder said all revenues — including royalties, profitsharing payments, and fees — would be channelled into a special natural resources sub-fund, giving the public confidence that wealth from
Govt to M eet with B A nk of t he B A h AMA s over Andros’ reduced B A nking hours
By EARYEL BOWLEG
Tribune Staff
Reporter
ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
GoVernMent offi-
cials will meet with Bank of the Bahamas executives this week amid growing outrage over drastic reductions in banking hours on Andros. economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis and Mangrove Cay, Central and South Andros MP Leon Lundy will represent the government at the talks.
Mr Lundy has criticised the government-owned bank’s decision to slash operations at its Kemp’s Bay branch to just one day per week while maintaining four-day operations at its Mangrove Cay location. He argued the move defies logic, given Kemp’s Bay serves about 3,000 residents compared to Mangrove Cay’s estimated 1,500.
Speaking to reporters, Mr Lundy said the decision blindsided government officials, who had been collaborating with the bank to expand financial services across the islands.
He voiced frustration that the decision appeared to be made from new Providence, disconnected from realities on the ground.
“these two communities share a lot. they were sharing the banking services — two days in South and two days in Mangrove Cay,” Mr Lundy said.
“So for you to kind of switch it up and put one day in South that has a larger population than four days in Mangrove Cay, it shows that you’re really not on the ground getting the proper
information.”
He also criticised the reliance on a malfunctioning AtM.
“then when you highlight that an AtM is down there, but the AtM doesn’t do deposits. then that highlights another issue — that you really aren’t familiar with being in the area,” he said.
He raised concerns that the significant reduction in banking services in South Andros could open the door to criminal activity.
He pointed out that with around 3,000 residents and numerous businesses in the area, the absence of accessible banking could lead people to resort to unsafe practices like keeping cash at home. Lundy stressed the need for consistent services to prevent potential security risks and preserve the community’s current status as a largely crime-free area.
“We’re basically a crimefree area, and we don’t want bad intentions to creep in because you understand that everybody has to go back to putting money under their mattresses — and that’s what you don’t want,” he said.
Meanwhile, Central Bank Governor John rolle said the institution remains focused on ensuring that all Bahamians have access to financial services, with an emphasis on expanding digital banking options across the country. He acknowledged that many residents are dissatisfied with declining service levels but explained that the high cost of providing banking services to a geographically
natural resources would not be mismanaged. Importantly, he said, the legislation requires mining operators to decommission sites properly, posting financial guarantees to ensure rehabilitation is completed even if an operator defaults. Addressing the political history of the bill, Mr Pinder acknowledged that the former administration initiated the idea of a mining regime but said it was the Progressive Liberal Party government that finalised and brought the legislation forward. they talk and talk and
think about it,” he said. “We on this side, a PLP government, does and sees things through.”
He said mining operations would have to give preference to Bahamian citizens for employment, use Bahamian goods and services where possible, and could be required to set up processing and refining facilities locally to boost in-country value.
In addition to the legislation, a draft national mining policy has been prepared, setting out principles to protect the environment, prevent illegal mining,
attract investment, and enhance Bahamian participation in the industry.
Mr Pinder stressed that the government’s approach was responsible, forwardlooking, and aimed at ensuring mining activity — if it occurs — benefits Bahamians first and protects the country’s long-term interests.
“We believe this approach will ensure that natural resources are properly monitored, that Bahamian people benefit, and that mining is done in a transparent, first-class regulatory environment,” he said.
scattered population presents ongoing challenges. He added that discussions
with financial institutions now centre on improving service delivery and encouraging customers to embrace digital alternatives, while ensuring no one is excluded from access to these channels.
neil Strachan, Bank of
the Bahamas’ managing director, shared a staff memo in a message to tribune Business where the bank insisted it “remains committed” to serving clients on both the Family Islands and new Providence. However, the bank
admitted that “service and delivery channels may be impacted due to operational matters”, with South Andros cited specifically. It said it was continuing to explore ways to balance customer needs with efficiency and sustainability.
Attorney GenerAl ryAn Pinder
$1m roadwork to begin on Joe Farrington Road mid-May
from page one
Officials stressed the project’s urgency, citing persistent water quality issues affecting nearly 1,000 customers and warning that conditions would only worsen without action.
The ministry is funding the entire initiative, but the first phase — the water main renewal — will be led by the WSC. After a competitive bidding process involving nine local companies, Bakerwick Construction was awarded the $1m contract for the water network overhaul.
At a press conference yesterday, WSC deputy general manager Cyprian Gibson detailed the scope of the upgrades: installation of a new ten-inch PVC main stretching the full length of Joe Farrington Road, from Bay Lilly Road to Fox Hill Road, alongside upgrades to side streets and corners.
“These upgrades will improve the reliability and performance of our network, supporting both current and future demands, while also reducing water quality concerns,” Mr Gibson said.
He added that roughly 300 customers currently require multiple filter cleanings per week to maintain service standards — a burden he said the new system would eliminate.
WSC will contribute about $300,000 in materials and oversee the project management to “ensure the highest quality of
standards.”
Homeowners and business owners are being assured that access will be maintained, although
temporary route changes, noise, dust, and heavy equipment will be unavoidable.
Works Minister
Clay
Sweeting urged patience.
“This may be a little bit painful for most,” he said.
“We’ll drive that corridor as we ensure that the road
is dug up to get the water done, and afterwards to repave the corridor there. So bear with us.” He also noted that most
of the disruptive work will be carried out overnight between 9pm and 5am to minimize impact on businesses.
Govt announces National Bridge programme
THE government has announced a sweeping National Bridge Programme that will see the construction and rehabilitation of key bridges in Exuma, Andros, and New Providence, part of a broader push to improve connectivity and safety across the Family Islands.
Touring the Ferry Bridge site in Exuma this week, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs Clay Sweeting said the initiative includes three bridges in Exuma, three in Andros, and one in New Providence linking to the LJM Maritime Academy. He said the government is partnering with a UK-based team to assess structural needs and explore solutions, including the use of Acrow bridges that have already proven
cost-effective in Abaco and Spanish Wells.
“This is an exciting time,” Mr Sweeting said, according to a press statement. “We’re partnering with a team from the UK to assess the structural needs and explore solutions, including Acrow bridges which have already proven convenient and budget-friendly.”
The project is being developed in collaboration with Amey Consulting, a UK infrastructure firm with expertise in sustainable bridge construction.
Managing Director Alex Gilbert said the team is conducting geotechnical investigations and topographical surveys to inform the bridge designs.
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, the MP for Exuma and Ragged
Island, praised the initiative and urged residents to be patient as work progresses.
“I want the people in Exuma to know that we are aware of the significant needs,” Mr Cooper said. “Whilst this will not happen tomorrow, we recognize there is a significant lead time and we want to ensure that the plan is hatched and comes to fruition in the shortest possible time frame.”
With engineering designs and renderings already completed, the ministry is awaiting final financial approvals before construction can begin.
Officials say the programme underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable development, safety, and economic growth across the country.
Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs Clay Sweeting speaks during a press conference at the Ministry of Works to announce an infrastructure improvement project along Joe Farrington Road yesterday.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Minister of Works and Local Government Clay Sweeting, accompanied Tourism Minister Chester Cooper and National Security Minister Wayne Munroe and other officials, announced a National Bridge prgramme that will oversse costruction and rehabilitation of bridges across The Bahamas.
Govt strengthens partnership with Western Atlantic Medical School
The government has signed an amended heads of Agreement with the Western Atlantic Medical School, replacing the original agreement that was established before the onset of COVID-19 and hurricane Dorian.
Minister of health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville expressed his support for the institution, stating that the updated agreement will lay the foundation for a lasting partnership. Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper hailed the signing as a significant step in the institution’s development, calling it a “green light” for expanded medical tourism opportunities.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis also delivered remarks, noting that the government will partner with the Ministry of education to offer need-based scholarships to Bahamian students. he further stated that the institution will undergo a two-fold transition as it moves into phases three and four of its development.
Man found dead at Sandyport in suspected suicide last night
from page one
Chief Supt King said: “Officers responded and gained entrance to the home where they discovered an adult male hanging from the bathroom. eMS was contacted and they examined the body and found no signs of life.”
This is the latest in a number of suicides or attempted suicides in the country, and Chief Supt King urged people to seek help.
She said police encouraged “all persons who may be going through a struggle, going through challenges, maybe even depressed to reach out to a trusted friend, colleague, pastor, someone so the proper assistance can be given to you. Those family members or friends who know a person who is struggling, check on them regularly to try and get assistance for them as we don’t want another suicide in our country.”
• In a separate incident, police reported a shooting in the Peter Street area. One male victim was to be transported to hospital, police reported. his condition was unknown, nor were further details available.
Man injured in attack by three dogs in Abaco
A DOG was shot dead after a man was attacked by three unrestrained dogs while walking in Dundas Town, Abaco, yesterday.
The 48-year-old man was attacked before 4.30am, police said. Officers from the Marsh harbour Police
station reportedly met two dogs on top of the victim. One officer discharged his service weapon, resulting in one dog fleeing and the other being killed. The injuried man was taken to a local clinic for medical treatment.
Photos: Vandyke Hepburn
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
The Tribune Limited
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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 .
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RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
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More bank frustrations, and more talk
EARLIER this year, we wrote in this space about the troubles many Bahamians experience with access to banking facilities – things are not getting any easier, it seems.
Back in March, Sir Franklyn Wilson had talked about the red tape and bureaucracy that get in the way before a decision even gets to be made on bank accounts.
He said: “The problem is they keep asking for more documents… the point is it’s the process of getting to the point where they say they have all the documents. They need this, they need a utility bill, they need so many things.”
He added: “A company I’m involved with, we employed a new senior executive, and just to get permission for him to sign the account took forever and ever. Just to add a signatory to the bank account, it went on and on. It’s crazy.”
This came as a claim was made that 99 percent of new bank account applications are approved – often “in less than a week”.
There was some skepticism about that – mainly noting that perhaps the decision only takes a week but it takes such a long time wading through paperwork and requirements before you get to the point of that decision.
PLP chairman and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell had his own choice words on the issue, saying of the claim about 99 percent of account applications being approved: “When you read the details, it said approval within six months. Problem is, we don’t
need the account within six months. We need it on the day we walk into the bank.”
In today’s Tribune, we report on continued concerns over a drastic reduction in banking hours on Andros.
Local MP Leon Lundy and Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis are to meet Bank of The Bahamas officials to discuss those concerns.
The bank’s operations at its Kemp’s Bay branch have been reduced to just one day a week. Over at Mangrove Cay, it is four days a week. Mr Lundy has a point when he questions the logic of that – when Mangrove Cay serves about half the number of residents that Kemp’s Bay has. Add to that a malfunctioning ATM and it is fair to say that residents are experiencing plenty of frustration.
Suffice to say that whether it is in New Providence or out in the Family Islands, there continues to be plenty of annoyance at the lack of timely banking services.
Back in March in this column, we questioned whether there might be a legislative solution – but there seems little sign of that. Talks and politicians asking questions are one thing, but this administration has an ample majority should it wish to do something more substantial.
It has not, as yet. As we feel the ticking of the clock towards an election, the question is will residents feel any change by the time it is time to vote, or will it all be just talk?
THE Free National Movement (FNM) was established as a result of a desire for increased accountability and transparency. On November 18, 1970, eight men courageously lit the torch to bring light out of darkness. The warmth of this torch has been felt throughout the decades that followed and now, as responsible Bahamians who love this country, we must rely on the light of the torch to help us navigate these dark times. The FNM is the movement of choice to govern the Bahamas because of its belief in Youth Empowerment, The Advancement of Women, and Upward mobility for each citizen.
Established in 1974, the Torchbearer’s Youth Association (TYA), which is the Youth Arm of the FNM, was the first youth oriented political organisation established in the Bahamas. The FNM believes in youth empowerment. This is evident in the fact that in 2017 the FNM ratified and swore in the youngest member of parliament not only in Bahamian History, but in Caribbean history in the person of Travis Robinson. Also note that Travis now serves as the National Deputy Chairman in the party indicating that there
is room for Young People to take leadership roles.
Let us not forget that TYA has groomed the next generation of FNM leaders for decades. Anyone wanting evidence of this need look no further than our own Tommy Turnquest who is the former TYA President who later ascended to National Party Leader.
The FNM has always been committed to Women’s Empowerment. In 1982, Dame Janet Bostwick became the first woman to serve in the House of Assembly, serving in the Yamacraw constituency for 20 years. In 1985, she became the first woman to serve as Attorney General.
While serving in these positions she sponsored legislation to challenge the status quo and fight for Women’s Rights with bills such as the Female Employees (Grant of Maternity Leave Act) of 1988. The FNM also boasts being home to Italia Johnson, first female speaker of the House of Assembly appointed in 1997. The FNM is committed to upward mobility which is allowing citizens to move from one socio economic class to another
by their own merit. In 2019, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest announced that tuition at the University of The Bahamas has been made free for Bahamian citizens who qualify. This allows young Bahamians to get a tertiary education which is likely to propel them towards gainful employment. During the 2017-2021 administration, the FNM approved $86 Million BSD in loans and grants for the small business development programme. This enabled Bahamians to receive needed capital in order to launch business ventures and become self reliant. The FNM now has a new leadership team ready to carry the torch. Under the leadership of our leader Michael Pintard, Deputy Leader Shanednon Cartwright, and Chairman Duane Sands, I believe it is now time to give this country back to Bahamians. I call upon all freedom fighters young and old. Let us stand together and exercise our constitutional right to bring about unstoppable change. The Bahamas is for Bahamians.
ORION BETHELL National Trustee Torchbearer’s Youth Association Nassau, April 27, 2025.
New FNM team will carry torch As economy grows all should gain
EDITOR, The Tribune.
THE government pounding its chest over the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast of 0.1 percentage point economic growth for The Bahamas should not come as a surprise.
The fact that they can achieve a positive economic outlook in the midst of what many regard as below standard governance is to their credit.
Regardless of who takes the credit, I am hoping that the IMF stingy growth projections are exceeded, as any increase in economic growth, however small, is to be welcomed.
Economic growth, being like a rising tide, is supposed to lift all boats. It is theorised that
as the economy grows, personal incomes and living standards ought to increase throughout the society and so should government tax revenue.
In so far as personal income and living standards are concerned, whether such is the case in The Bahamas, to any appreciable degree or at all, is debatable.
The task for this administration is to ensure that the gains to be had in times of economic growth makes its way to the average citizen and resident throughout our archipelago, and not obstructed by those who are capable of doing so, because of the oligopolistic position they enjoy over key sectors of the economy.
This is no time for the administration to prolong its chest pounding,
as there are too many persons living on or below the margin economically even when the economy is performing optimally because of the many other undesirable and limiting factors which obstruct the gains to be had by the average citizen. The government ought to make sure that when the economy grows, and even in times when growth is absence, the prospect for growth and improve standard and quality of living for citizens is made possible through proper policy adoption which addresses the many annoying issues Bahamians are encountering daily especially at public enterprises.
CLAUDE B HANNA Nassau, April 28, 2025.
Warrants issued for three police after court no-show
attempted ambush near a funeral, left the men dead at the scene and sparked sharply conflicting accounts between police and the victims’ families.
A five-person jury has been impanelled to determine what happened that day. Police claimed officers on mobile patrol first encountered the men’s white h onda Accord parked at the eastern section of Spikenard Cemetery. When approached, the car reportedly fled, leading officers to a second confrontation along Cowpen Road, where they alleged the men fired first, prompting officers to return fire.
Authorities said a pistol was recovered from the car and noted the deceased was known to police. h owever, relatives rejected the official account, insisting the men never fired at officers and that the vehicle was riddled with bullets.
The case carries added attention because Corporal Greenslade, one of the officers absent yesterday,
was previously linked to another controversial fatal police shooting: he and Constable Robert Young were found responsible for homicide by manslaughter during an inquest into the 2019 killing of 21-year-old Shanton Forbes in Yellow e lder Gardens. Relatives of the three men killed in the Spikenard shooting, including Ford’s aunt and girlfriend, packed the courtroom as the case reopened under fresh scrutiny. e vidence in the inquest is expected to begin today, with Angelo Whitfield serving as evidence marshal. An inquest does not determine criminal liability, but if the jury delivers an adverse finding, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would review the case to determine if charges should be brought against the officers involved. e arlier this month, another inquest jury returned a verdict of justifiable homicide in the police killing of Drexton Dominique Belony, 28, during a 2021 manhunt in Grand Bahama.
Two charged wi T h assaulT ing man wi T h a deadly weapon
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
TWO men were granted bail yesterday after being accused of assaulting an person with a handgun earlier this month.
Senior Magistrate Raquel Whyms arraigned Theron Thompson, 32, and Tenaj Thompson, 38, on a charge of assault with a deadly weapon.
Theron Thompson faced an additional charge of assault.
Prosecutors allege that on April 21 in New Providence, the pair assaulted Wenzel Richards with a handgun. On the same
date, Theron Thompson allegedly physically assaulted Mr Richards. Both men pleaded not guilty to the charges. Bail was set at $6,000 each, with one or two sureties.
As part of their bail conditions, the accused were ordered not to contact the complainant. They will also be fitted with electronic monitoring devices and must report to their local police station every Monday and Wednesday by 6pm. The defendants are scheduled to return to court on July 7. Sergeant 2257 Wilkinson served as the prosecutor.
Teen admi T s T o possession of loaded gun and drugs
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 16-YeAR-OlD boy was remanded to prison yesterday after admitting to having a loaded gun and drugs at his home on Friday.
The juvenile defendant, whose name is being withheld as he is a minor, was arraigned on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of ammunition, and possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply before Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr. he was arraigned in the presence of his guardians and charged alongside Amalia Charlton, 22, and Joel Strachan Jr, 23.
Acting on a search warrant, police reportedly discovered a black Glock 19 Gen 4 Austria 9mm pistol and 12 rounds of ammunition hidden in a pink bag under a bed at a residence on Wilton Street on April 25.
The Bahamas College of Bishops installed Bishop Walter S hanchell as its president oyesterday at ceremony held at Greater Bethel Cathedral on Faith Way.
In attendance were a number of dignitaries including the Governor General, Prime Minister, as well as a number of church and civic leaders.
The Bahamas College of Bishops (BCOB) was organized in February 2019 by Bishop hanchell and comprises 40 plus bishops from a number of churches and denominations throughout the Bahamas. The purpose of the college is to bring local bishops in fellowship and unity and to train members in the episcopacy.
The BCOB also consecrates qualified bishops when requested, but will not be involved directly in any of the various reformations.
Members of the College will address social matters that have plagued our nation and will offer solutions and spiritual guidance, speaking with
one voice in order to make a greater impact on the people of our beloved nation that we are called to serve.
Archbishop Ross Davis was elected as the first chairman of the College, which currently has over forty member bishops. Bishop hanchell succeeded Archbishop Davis as president of the College. Bishop Deanza Cunningham serves as first vice president and Bishop Wesley Thompson is the second vice president. Other members of the executive team are Bishop Valentino Williams, secretary and Bishop Arlington Rahming, treasurer. Bishop Stanley Ferguson serves as assistant secretary of the College and Bishop David Braynen is the assistant treasurer. A number of Bishops also serve on the executive council as head of various standing committees. They are: Bishop Simeon hall, Bishop Gregory Collie, Bishop Mark Knowles, Bishop Trent Davis and Bishop Jonathan Carey. Members of the executive council will also be installed.
During the search, police also uncovered 1 3/8 oz of marijuana wrapped in ten foil packets. The drugs were valued at $130. In a subsequent police interview, the teen admitted to owning the firearm, claiming he had found it in the bushes and had kept it for his protection.
The juvenile pleaded guilty to the charges, while his two co-accused pleaded not guilty. he has been remanded to the Adolescent Unit of the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. Meanwhile, Charlton and Strachan were each granted bail set at $9,500 with one or two sureties.
As part of their bail conditions, the accused must report to the Wulff Road Police Station every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday by 6pm. The accused are scheduled to return to court on May 13.
Sergeant 3004 Forbes served as the prosecutor.
m an acqui TT ed on charge of s T ealing a vehicle las T year
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN has been acquitted of the alleged theft of a car last summer in New Providence. Patrick Newman, 35, was acquitted and discharged of charges of stealing and receiving before Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr. he had been accused of stealing a white Nissan Juke, reportedly belonging to Jewelle Paul, on August 4, 2024. The vehicle was valued at $7,500.
Calvin Seymour, Mr Newman’s attorney, submitted a no-case motion, challenging the strength of the prosecution’s evidence.
Magistrate Allen ruled that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against Newman. he further noted that the prosecution only proved that Ms Paul was listed on the insurance policy and did not establish ownership of the car. As a result, Mr Newman was discharged.
Sergeant 3004 Forbes served as the prosecutor.
IN response to a call for more dialysis units to help patients in The Bahamas, the Princess Margaret hospital Foundation has donated two of the machines.
Princess Margaret hospital called for a total of 20 new dialysis machines - and two have now been donated by the PMh Foundation plus another by the Rotary Club of east Nassau.
PMh Foundation chairman Prof Dr Magnus ekedede encouraged other organisations to follow suit, saying: “We are all in this together.”
The donation from the PMh Foundation has a value of $40,000. The foundation is aiming to provide more support for the hospital in the year ahead. For more information or to find out how to donate, visit www.thepmhfoundation. org.
PMH Foundation chairman Prof Dr Magnus Ekedede, left, and fellow members of the foundation with one of the dialysis machines being presented to Princess Margaret Hospital.
BisHoP Walter Hanchell during a church service at Greater Bethel Cathedral where The Bahamas College of Bishops installed the bishop as president yesterday.
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Hypocrisy is everywhere: Monopolies
are ungodly,
The Bahamas must be the hypocritical capital of the world. We quickly point out everything someone else does but often struggle to admit our faults. It’s time we become more introspective and acknowledge our missteps. We are the judge, jury, and executioner of those who make a misstep. Our country has found ways to condemn those from other countries but would not admit that we are guilty of the same. People from one socioeconomic community look for the weaknesses of the other and would dictate how they should behave. The older, more seasoned would want our children to act like we did in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. The primitive thinking that you inherited from your grandparents cannot work today. We must hasten that our grandparents raised us from the little they knew without the luxury of being exposed to outside influence but not the luxury of contrasting points of view. Our forefathers taught us to be respectful and respect marriage’s sanctity. Still, they had full-blown families on other islands and maintained them without shame because there was no way anyone knew. The ignorance of the mothers and wives was what helped. But the fathers would pitch a bitch if they discovered that anyone in the family deviated off course. Outside children are everywhere, so much so that they bragged who had the most. having children out of wedlock was a scorn that was irreversible, but
FACING REALITY
By Ivo I ne Ingraham
all through the family, it was the norm. Men with authority, the local constable, commissioner and even pastors, did the most damage, especially since they were untouchable because of their position. As long as no one knew it, we were satisfied. To expound on blatant hypocrisy, politically, we have all become so tribalistic that we can see no wrong with the party of our choice. Tribalism in politics refers to the tendency of individuals to align themselves with a particular political party or ideology, often to the point of ignoring or excusing the party’s faults. We turn a blind eye when our party is in, regardless of what horrible mistakes made, but will holler bloody murder if the other side does something similar. however, being opposed is healthy if the criticism
designed to keep control
is healthy. But everyone would look at the complainer and see that they are not just disingenuous but downright hypocrites in the highest order.
We know how it all started. The country reformed when the old guard was replaced. The same people helped orchestrate that historical turn of events when the country experienced a change of government for the first time. The people who ruled with an iron fist found themselves on the other side of the coin. history will show that many irregularities happened unchecked up to that point, particularly during the transition from colonial rule to independence.
Since majority rule, the men who were the architects teamed up with the beaten team to challenge the championship team.
‘We turn a blind eye when our party is in, regardless of what horrible mistakes made, but will holler bloody murder if the other side does something similar.’
They took the secrets of the winners, hoping to strengthen the losers to overthrow them. hypocrisy occurs when the losing team starts criticizing and complaining about the missteps made. how could they be serious or believable when they masterminded the overthrow of the government for the first time? The opposition’s unashamedness pointed out things the world knew were being done before the dreadful beating.
Before the 1967 election, corruption had already
entered Bahamian politics.
As far back as 1962, we had already grabbed international attention about certain irregularities, such as vote-buying and intimidation. Since then, the same crew with a reputation for corruption has had the nerve to point fingers.
But accusing others all the time is counterproductive, exceedingly, because ‘all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.’
The point is that anyone who can find the nerve to criticize others for doing the same things, especially recently, would come off as
a fake and a fraud if they are guilty of the same.
Since we all agree that we want the best for the Bahamas, it’s time to stop pointing fingers and start working together. Let’s unite our efforts to correct the mistakes we’re all guilty of and find sensible solutions, which is an urgent call to action. If we don’t act now, we’ll waste valuable time we can’t afford to lose.
But we shun the glaring fact that monopolies have suffocated our economy because certain businesses have monopolized it, stashing it away from the majority. The stranglehold on shipping, wholesaling, and other advantages has prevented wealth from being distributed proportionately—the carefully orchestrated plan to keep control executed to perfection.
Bahamas National Trust hosts Earth Day celebrations
The Bahamas National Trust opened its doors for free events on Saturday as part of Earth Day celebrations. The Retreat on Village Road had a host of booths and environmental games, as well as the chance to have a close encounter with a snake. Snake handling was also on offer at the Primeval Forest National Park, along yoga, pottery, tours and more.
Photos: stephen hunt
PIcTured above l-r: Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.
Exceptional Pope who cared about everyone
So much has already been written about Pope Francis since his passing on Easter Monday that one feels emboldened to write briefly about him today, based on a variety of reports.
During his long life, Pope Francis was universally known for his willingness to reach out with an open heart to everyone. This was a key feature of his 12-year papacy. If there had ever been any doubt about this, at his emotional and highly charged funeral service on Saturday it was fully demonstrated that he had been truly a “Pope of the people”. He was known, particularly, for an endearing way of welcoming everyone with whom he came into contact and for showing mercy and compassion to all alike. He was an inspiration and guide for countless numbers of people.
The late Pope was revered for treating people the same irrespective of position or station in life and he championed the poor, the marginalised and the disadvantaged, with a message of hope for all. He preached unity but welcomed diversity as long as it was without division. He also tended to shun much of the pomp and privilege of the papacy.
The wonderfully wellorchestrated ceremony on Saturday in fine bright weather was a poignant requiem mass attended by prominent visitors from
The Peter Young column
overseas – royalty, heads of state and political leaders together with other guests and huge numbers locally (with thousands lining the streets) - and watched by millions of TV viewers around the world. The occasion was preceded by three days of public viewing of him when more than 250,000 people paid their respects. The BBC coverage of all the proceedings was, I thought, notably comprehensive and effective.
The service was clearly defined by the Pope’s legacy as someone who reached out to all. The evidence was there for everyone to see. Judging from commentary in the international press, people were engrossed and even mesmerised by the historic occasion that demonstrated
unequivocally that he was a man of deep faith and humanity who practiced humility in his own understated manner and reached out to everybody, not least so-called ordinary people, all of whom, in his words, he regarded as one human family.
Given the huge media coverage, there is no need to repeat details today of Pope Francis’s background and career. But it might
be worth emphasising that his humility and low-key approach were reflected by his funeral service in other ways, too. For example, he chose a plain and simple wooden coffin for himself while also insisting that instead of being buried in the Vatican, which has been the traditional resting place of Popes, he should be laid to rest in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, a few miles from
the Vatican where he used to go regularly to pray and where people could readily visit his tomb.
Interestingly, since the service was well attended by leading politicians from around the world, including two US presidents, there was a chance for what appeared to be some quiet personal diplomacy. The soft power of the Pope’s own diplomacy should never be underestimated.
In the lengthy and highly personal homily delivered at the funeral service by the 91-year-old Dean of the College of Cardinals, which will choose the next pontiff, mention was made of the capacity of the Pope to shed light on the problems of the world through the wisdom of the Gospel.
Significantly, on the sidelines of the funeral and just before it began, the US and Ukrainian presidents were seen in deep discussion sitting one-to-one facing each other on chairs hastily drawn up in full public view outside St Peter’s Basilica. The White House later called this 15-minute ad hoc meeting “very productive” while Zelensky said later it had the “potential to become historic.” It was Trump’s first face-toface encounter with him since the infamous showdown in the oval office in February. Who knows what might transpire from such a brief talk, but it was Winston Churchill who famously said that “jaw, jaw is better than war,
war”.
Much has been written about Pope Francis’s humility, which is, of course, in its truest sense a strength, not a weakness. According to reports, in his final Easter message he said: “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others”. It seems that he was indirectly condemning the pride, arrogance and self-importance that is all too often evident among the rich, the powerful, the successful, the famous and celebrities of different sorts, with too many people trying to put themselves on a pedestal above others. Instead, Pope Francis taught consistently that all should be realistic about themselves in relation to others; and that, without genuine humility, it was not possible to have empathy and compassion towards other people who may be less endowed or fortunate than you are but, in their different ways, possess varying gifts, qualities and capabilities that you do not. That does not imply compliance but, rather, an openness to others and their needs.
People say that this Pope was defined by his humility. He was also widely loved for it. His funeral service said it all – an extraordinary human being whose kindliness touched the hearts of so many.
India and Pakistan at loggerheads again London marathon leads the pack
IT is probably a fair bet that relatively few people this side of the Atlantic will have much knowledge of the Himalayan region of Kashmir or even any interest in it. But the sad fact is that it has been a flashpoint between the nuclear-armed nations of India and Pakistan for over six decades.
After a relatively quiet period, with Pakistan preoccupied by tensions on its border with Afghanistan and India focusing on its global role as the world’s most populous democracy, the long running dispute has flared up again with a terror attack last week in Indian-administered Kashmir that resulted in the killing of 26 Indian tourists. This was the biggest attack on civilians since 2019 when a car bomb killed 40 Indian paramilitary forces. A Pakistan-based terrorist organisation has claimed responsibility for the most recent attack though the Pakistani government has denied any involvement.
The territory of Kashmir was created when Britain gave what was known as British India its independence in 1947 and partitioned it in to two independent states - India
itself and the new state of Pakistan (with east Pakistan becoming Bangladesh in 1971). India’s population at the time was about 25 percent Muslim, with the rest mostly Hindu, but also Sikh, Buddhist and other religions. People were divided on the basis of religion. Because of growing tensions between Hindus and Muslims, who were demanding a separate state for fear of being marginalised in a single country dominated by the majority Hindus, Britain was deeply concerned about the danger of civil war. So partition followed with the Muslims given their own statehood.
History shows that this created a massive and horrific upsurge of violence, with some 15 million people being displaced through having to cross newly drawn borders, and up to a million deaths were caused by the ensuing fighting. Partition left a legacy of political and social tensions between India and the new Pakistan, particularly over the region of Kashmir in the north west. After arguments about which parts of the territory would join which country, Indian troops took over twothirds of it and Pakistan the
remaining northern area, while China occupied small eastern parts of the territory in the 1950s. So it was divided basically into two parts as India-administered and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. There have been military clashes over the years between the two countries and a “Line of Control” was agreed in the Simla Agreement in 1972. Today, the population in Indian-administered Kashmir is about ten million and in the area controlled by Pakistan approximately five million. Thus, India and Pakistan have been in dispute over Kashmir since 1947. Violence has flared up from time to time and there have been two wars over the issue. After a brief rapprochement, relations soured about ten years ago when India carried out socalled surgical strikes inside Pakistan-administered areas and, in response, Pakistan attacked Indian military facilities. In the last few years a ceasefire on the Line of Control was established. But the experts are now warning of a robust Indian military response to last week’s deadly incident followed by a strong Pakistani reaction. The Indian prime
minister, Narendra Modi, has pledged publicly to “pursue terrorists and their backers” and has placed all the blame on Pakistan. India has already diverted water flows to Pakistan from the Indus river which have been in place since the 1960s and have stood the test of time and several wars. Pakistan has declared that this amounts to an “act of war”. In addition, each country has placed various other restrictions on bilateral cooperation like suspension of visas and closure of airspace and restrictions on trade.
According to reports, in the past the US has played a significant role in lowering tensions over the Kashmir dispute – but, apparently, not this time as the president is clearly preoccupied with other well known global issues. It remains to be seen how this latest conflict may be resolved. I have not seen any reports of action Britain may be taking. But, if this develops in to a more significant confrontation between two nuclear nations, I imagine there will be pressure on the major powers for some sort of intervention or mediation – yet another active conflict in an already seriously troubled world.
INTErESTINGLy, yesterday’s UK press contained a number of reports about the success of Sunday’s London Marathon. This year’s event set a record for the number of finishers - 56,640 – which narrowly surpassed the previous record that had been achieved in the past in the New york Marathon. The event in London also attracted record crowds, with the organizers saying that about 800,000 people had cheered on the runners, though this high number was partly attributable to warm weather and a greater number of participants this time.
Everyone seems to be saying that Sunday was an extraordinary occasion of people coming together in the sunshine and supporting one another in their efforts to cover 26.2 miles. others add that it is all about “celebrating humanity” since many people were participating in order to raise money for specific charities.
A little research reminds one that the London Marathon – in addition to the other five World Marathon Majors in New york, Tokyo, Chicago, Boston and Berlin – was founded in 1981 by British olympic athletes Chris Brasher and John Dyson. Their vision was that the event’s success would encourage the public to take up sport. At the same time, it would generate funds to provide grants for sporting and recreational facilities in the capital. Brasher, whose son is now reported to be responsible for the London Marathon, was also famous for being one of two pacemakers providing support for roger Bannister who made history at oxford University in 1954 by becoming the first person in the world to run a mile in under four minutes. This had become known as “the four-minute barrier” – and history shows that Bannister’s winning time was 3 minutes 59.4 seconds.
PoPe Francis.
Photo: Jeon Han
KasHmiri villagers inspect the debris of the blown-up family home of Ahsan Ul Haq Shiekh, a militant who officials say is involved in the deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, at Murran village in Pulwama, south of Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Photo: Dar Yasin/AP
sabastian Sawe of Kenya reacts after he crossed the line to win the men’s race at the London Marathon, Sunday.
Photo: alberto Pezzali/AP
Indian military says Pakistani troops fired at positions along the border in disputed Kashmir
INDIA Associated Press
PaKisTani soldiers fired at indian posts along the highly militarized frontier in disputed Kashmir for a second consecutive night, the indian military said saturday, as tensions flared between the nucleararmed rivals following a deadly attack on tourists last week. india described the massacre, in which gunmen killed 26 people, most of them indian tourists, as a “terror attack” and accused Pakistan of backing it. Pakistan denies the charge. The assault, near the resort town of Pahalgam in india-controlled Kashmir, was claimed by a previously unknown militant group calling itself the Kashmir Resistance. it was the restive region’s worst assault targeting civilians in years. in the days since, tensions have risen dangerously between india and Pakistan, which
have fought two of their three wars over Kashmir. The region is split between them and claimed by both in its entirety. The indian army said saturday that soldiers from multiple Pakistani army posts overnight opened fire at indian troops “all across the Line of Control” in Kashmir. “indian troops responded appropriately with small arms,” the statement said. There were no casualties reported, the statement added. There was no comment from Pakistan, and the incidents could not be independently verified. in the past, each side has accused the other of starting border skirmishes in the Himalayan region.
Markets and bazaars were open in Pakistanadministered Kashmir on saturday, and there was no sign of evacuations from villages near the Line of Control.
after the tourist attack, india suspended a crucial water-sharing treaty and
closed the only functional land border crossing. it revoked visas issued to Pakistanis with effect from sunday. Pakistan retaliated by cancelling visas issued to indians, closing its airspace to indian airlines, and suspending trade with its neighbour. nationals from both sides began heading to their home countries through the Wagah border near Pakistan’s eastern city of Lahore on Friday.
Pakistani Prime Minister shehbaz sharif on saturday vowed the government would respond “with full force and might” to indian attempts to stop or divert the flow of water.
He also said Pakistan was open to participating in any “neutral, transparent and credible investigation” into the tourist attack.
On saturday, a Pakistani official from the disaster management agency, saeed Qureshi, accused india of suddenly releasing large amounts of water into
Canadians vote in an election dominated by Trump’s trade war and bluster
TORONTO Associated Press
Canadians voted Monday on whether to back their new prime minister, Mark Carney, and extend his Liberal Party’s decade in power or hand control to the Conservatives and their populist leader, Pierre Poilievre. But the election was also a referendum on someone who isn’t even Canadian: donald Trump.
The Us president trolled Canadians on election day by suggesting on social media that he was in fact on the ballot and repeating that Canada should become the 51st state, incorrectly claiming the Us subsidizes Canada. it makes no sense unless Canada is a state!” Trump wrote. Poilievre, who has been criticized for not taking a firmer stance against Trump, responded with a post of his own.
“President Trump, stay out of our election.
The only people who will decide the future of Canada are Canadians at the ballot box,”
he posted. “Canada will always be proud, sovereign and independent and we will nEVER be the 51st state.”
Until Trump won a second term and began threatening Canada’s economy and sovereignty, the Liberals looked headed for defeat. But Trump’s truculence has infuriated many Canadians, leading many to cancel Us vacations, refuse to buy american goods and possibly even vote early. a record 7.3 million Canadians cast ballots before election day.
Trump’s attacks also put Poilievre and the opposition Conservative Party on the defensive and led to a surge in nationalism that helped the Liberals flip the election narrative. “The americans want to break us so they can own us,” Carney said recently, laying out what he saw as the election’s stakes. “Those aren’t just words. That’s what’s at risk.” Election day came as the country grappled with the fallout from a deadly
weekend attack at a Vancouver street fair that led to the suspension of campaigning for several hours. Police ruled out terrorism and said the suspect is a local man with a history of mental health issues.
Trump became the main issue
Poilievre and his wife walked hand-in-hand to vote in their suburban district near the nation’s capital, Ottawa. “Get out to vote for a change,” he implored voters.
Poilievre had hoped to make the election a referendum on former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose popularity declined toward the end of his decade in power as food and housing prices rose and immigration surged.
But then Trump became the dominant issue, and Poilievre’s similarities to the bombastic president could cost him.
“He appeals to the same sense of grievance,” Canadian historian Robert Bothwell said of the Conservative leader.
“it’s like Trump standing there saying, ‘i am your
the Jhelum River, raising fears of flooding in parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. authorities told residents living along the riverbank to evacuate, Qureshi said. a spokesman for india’s External affairs Ministry was not immediately available for comment.
new delhi describes all militancy in Kashmir as Pakistan-backed terrorism, a charge Pakistan rejects. Many Muslim Kashmiris consider the militants to be part of a home-grown freedom struggle.
Rebels have been fighting indian rule since 1989 for uniting the territory, either under Pakistani rule or as an independent country.
With tensions high, iran offered mediation, while Us President donald Trump said he expected them to work out their differences.
“Tehran stands ready to use its good offices in islamabad and new delhi
to forge greater understanding at this difficult time,” iranian Foreign Minister syed abbas araghchi said on Friday.
“india and Pakistan are brotherly neighbours of iran. Like other neighbours, we consider them our foremost priority,” araghchi wrote in a social media post.
Trump on Friday said “there’s great tension between Pakistan and india, but there always has been.”
Trump, who spoke on board air Force One, did not answer when asked by reporters whether he would contact leaders of the two countries, but said “they’ll get it figured out one way or the other.”
The Us has long called for calm between india and Pakistan, and mediated during a major border skirmish in 1999. Us intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard expressed solidarity with india in its hunt for the perpetrators of the recent attack.
retribution.’”
“The Liberals ought to pay him,” Bothwell added, referring to the american president. “Trump talking is not good for the Conservatives.”
Foreign policy hasn’t dominated a Canadian election this much since 1988 when, ironically, free trade with the United states was the prevailing issue.
Canada has been dealing with a cost-of-living crisis for some time. and more than 75% of its exports go to the Us, so
Trump’s threat to impose sweeping tariffs and his desire to get north american automakers to move Canada’s production south could severely damage the Canadian economy.
Both Carney and Poilievre said that if elected, they would accelerate renegotiations of a free trade deal between Canada and the Us in a bid to end the uncertainty hurting both of their economies. Carney has notable experience navigating
after Tuesday’s assault, indian forces intensified a crackdown in the Kashmir Valley, the heartland of anti-india rebellion. They detained and questioned at least 1,500 people, three police officials said. Troops detonated explosives in the family homes of at least three suspected militants in southern Kashmir Friday night, residents said. in one such incident, dozens of other houses also suffered damage, with their windowpanes shattering and walls cracking due to the impact of the blast.
The police officials insisted on anonymity, in keeping with their departmental policy, while the villagers feared reprisals from authorities.
Early Friday, troops also destroyed the family homes of two suspected militants they accused of being involved in Tuesday’s attack. indian troops demolish homes as a common antimilitancy tactic in Kashmir.
economic crises after running Canada’s central bank and later becoming the first non-UK citizen to run the Bank of England.
Trump dialed back his talk of Canada becoming the 51st state during the campaign until last week, when he said Canada “would cease to exist as a country” if the Us stopped buying its goods. He also said he’s not just trolling Canada when he says it should become a state. in response to the threats to Canadian sovereignty, Carney pleaded with voters to deliver him a strong mandate to deal with Trump.
“President Trump has some obsessive ideas, and that is one,” Carney said of his annexation threat.
“it’s not a joke. it’s his very strong desire to make this happen. it’s one of the reasons why this crisis is so serious.”
Reid Warren, a Toronto resident, said he voted Liberal because Poilievre “sounds like mini-Trump to me.” and he said Trump’s tariffs are a worry.
“Canadians coming together from, you know, all the shade being thrown from the states is great, but it’s definitely created some turmoil, that’s for sure,” he said.
A KAshmiri villager stands amid the debris of the blown-up family home of Ahsan Ul Haq Shiekh, a militant who officials say is involved in the deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, at Murran village in Pulwama, south of Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, Saturday.
Photo: Dar Yasin/AP
ConservAtive Leader Pierre Poilievre, right, and his wife Anaida Poilievre cast their votes in the federal election in Ottawa, Canada, yesterday in Ottawa. Photo: Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press/AP
We don’t just need more teachers, we need to keep the ones
By ALLANDRA RUSSELL
WHEN asked why they chose a profession like teaching, most teachers give a noble and heartfelt response: to make a difference. They enter the field with passion, purpose, and the bold intention of changing the world.
However, many are unaware that their expectations are often shaped by an idealistic perception. Entering wide-eyed and filled with eagerness, they face a culture shock where they must grapple with the ideals they hold onto and the existing reality. This shift highlights the urgency in addressing the systemic issues that contribute to the declining retention rates among teachers.
Recently, there has been growing awareness and increasing dialogue on the teacher shortage crisis. It is a global concern, with impacts stretching from Australia to Europe, Africa, America, and even to our archipelagic islands called The Bahamas. International reports indicate that 44 million teachers worldwide will be needed by 2030.
The Ministry of Education in The Bahamas has acknowledged the urgency of this issue and has announced plans to recruit more educators, particularly in critical subject areas. While this is a positive step, it remains a band-aid approach to an issue that requires a comprehensive, long-term strategy.
Recruitment efforts may temporarily alleviate the shortage, but without meaningful change, it is like pouring into a bucket with holes.
Sustainable and forwardthinking solutions require not only attracting new teachers but also ensuring that we support and provide
transformative opportunities for existing educators. The biggest issue remains: how can we, as an education community, retain the teachers being hired?
Global attrition rates among primary teachers have doubled between 2015 and 2022, with many leaving the profession within their first few years of practice.
Based on international research studies, teacher attrition is primarily driven by five key factors: poor working conditions, low compensation and limited career growth, high stress and burnout, lack of administrative support, and classroom management challenges. As active as we are in recruiting, we must remain equally committed to retaining quality educators by deliberately addressing these issues.
Education departments globally are actively developing strategies to improve teacher retention. Schools in the United Kingdom have committed to flexible working conditions in response to reports of high stress levels, allowing teachers to plan and mark outside of school hours or take career breaks. In Australia, the number of
teacher assistants and professional support staff has increased to help address the growing number of new teachers leaving the profession within the first few years. The United Arab Emirates offers competitive salaries, strong opportunities for professional growth, and a high standard of living to attract and retain educators.
In The Bahamas, a Teacher Morale Committee has been established, with recommendations focused on professional development, financial incentives, and improved compensation packages. It is a positive step forward and some initiatives have been well received.
However, conversations with several educators continue to reveal deep concerns and persistent feelings of burnout. I remain hopeful that the full impact will soon be felt, though many teachers have yet to experience it.
With teacher shortages at an all-time high globally, countries are now committed to recruiting quality talent from all parts of the world.
This past month, I received invitations from
EMPOWERING BOYS AND GIRLS
By FAY SIMMONS
Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
THE Boys and Girls Empowerment Club at LW Young Junior High School recently held its 4th Annual Empowerment Seminar, part of an ongoing initiative to inspire students to pursue their goals and build leadership skills.
Students received messages from Adrianna Fox, co-founder of the Fox Foundation, Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell and Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal Keith Bell. The guest speakers urged students to stay focused, believe in themselves, and embrace opportunities despite the obstacles they may encounter.
Founded in 2015 by Anita Wilmott, the Boys Empowerment Club was originally created to support young boys facing social challenges, particularly those struggling with conflict resolution and gang involvement. The programme brought in local leaders for bi-weekly lunchtime seminars, offering guidance and mentorship.
Following its success, female students voiced their interest in having a similar space for empowerment and growth. This led to the creation of the Girls Empowerment Club in 2019, which has since expanded to over 100 active members.
Ms Wilmott, who continues to lead the initiative, expressed pride in the programme’s impact and her hopes for its lasting influence on students. “I want them to grow to become real men and women of virtue who will make good choices and have a positive influence on others,” she said.
Stressing the importance of equipping students with interpersonal tools, she added: “Social skills such as manners, respect, and consideration for others are necessary for today’s society.”
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
we have
two international organizations seeking experienced educators to fill urgent vacancies, highlighting the global demand.
While The Bahamas may not be at the forefront of the global talent war, we are very much involved. Our nation is known for producing some of the greatest talent, and without intention, we risk our top educators being poached, much like the ongoing recruitment of trained nurses.
That being said, the teacher shortage crisis in The Bahamas is not solely a government or Ministry of Education issue; it is a national crisis, as the standard of education remains the foundation of national growth and the development of future generations.
The shortage of educators places a significant burden on those who remain, impacting the quality of education our students receive and, consequently, the strength of our future workforce. What may seem like someone else’s problem now may trigger a domino effect on a business owner who hires someone with inadequate skills or a consumer who must deal with
an employee who lacks the necessary expertise. Education is everyone’s business. As parents, educators, and members of the community, we all have a role to play in addressing the teacher shortage crisis. Community partnerships with schools, investing in teacher development, and offering support can go a long way in helping to retain quality educators. If we do not act urgently, the long-term consequences will impact all sectors of society. We must take responsibility now to attract and retain the best talent, ensuring the success of our future and the nation’s goals.
Allandra Russell is an educator with nearly two decades of experience in The Bahamas, currently teaching at Queen’s College. She holds degrees in general and special education and is the owner of Turning Pages Literacy Centre and founder of The Teachers’ Hub. Passionate about literacy, student success, and teacher empowerment, she equips educators with transformative training to foster growth, innovation, and purposeful learning.
STEM STARS SHINE
SEVENTY students from schools across Grand Bahama were honoured for their outstanding performance in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) during a recent pinning ceremony.
Representatives from Eight Mile Rock High, Sister Mary Patricia Russell Jr High, St George’s High, and Jack Hayward Junior and Senior High schools proudly received their pins in recognition of their academic excellence.
Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, officiated and personally pinned each student.
“Did you know that earning an A in the national mathematics and science examination is no small feat?” she said.
“This accomplishment reflects your hard work,
dedication and the bright future ahead for each of you.”
The minister referenced Innovate242, an initiative that seeks to position The Bahamas as a regional hub for technological advancement and innovation. As part of that effort, she announced the upcoming launch of the Young Innovators Club.
“The students being honoured today are exactly the kind of bright thinkers this initiative aims to support,” she said.
“You live in a world driven by innovation and I cannot emphasise enough how important science, technology, engineering and mathematics is to the development of Grand Bahama and the entire Bahamas,” Mrs Moxey added.
ALLANDRA RUSSELL
Classic cars shine at Antique Car show
Am A zon l Aunches its first internet s Atellites
Associated Press
AmAzon’s first batch of internet satellites rocketed into orbit monday, the latest entry in the mega constellation market currently dominated by spaceX’s thousands of starlinks.
The United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket carried up 27 of Amazon’s Project Kuiper satellites, named after the frigid fringes of our solar system beyond neptune. once released in orbit, the satellites will eventually reach an altitude of nearly 400 miles (630 kilometers).
Two test satellites were launched in 2023, also by an Atlas V. Project officials said major upgrades were made to the newest version. The latest satellites also are coated with a mirror film designed to scatter reflected sunlight in an attempt to accommodate astronomers.
stargazers oppose the fast-growing constellations of low-orbiting satellites, arguing they spoil observations. others fear more satellite collisions.
Founded by Jeff Bezos, who now runs his own rocket company, Blue origin, Amazon aims to put more than 3,200 of these satellites into orbit to provide fast, affordable broadband service around the globe. Elon musk’s spaceX already has launched more than 8,000 starlinks since 2019. The company marked its 250th starlink launch sunday night. more than 7,000 starlinks are still in orbit some 300-plus miles (550 kilometers) above Earth.
The European-based oneWeb satellite constellation numbers in the hundreds in an even higher orbit.
Amazon already has purchased dozens of rocket launches from United Launch Alliance and Blue origin for Project Kuiper, as well as others.
“There are some things you can only learn in flight” despite extensive testing on the ground, said Rajeev Badyal, the project’s vice president.
“no matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey,” he said in a statement ahead of the evening liftoff.
The AnTique Auto Club of The Bahamas held its auto show at Arawak Cay on Saturday. As well as antique cars on show, there were appearances by the RBPF, the K9 unit, as well as music. Photos: Stephen hunt