04302026 NEWS

The Tribune OBITUARIES

WIPING BPL BILLS

‘MAKES NO SENSE’

Former CEO asks ‘why now?’ after some Abaco residents debt cleared

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

Chief Reporter

FORMER Bahamas

Power and Light CEO Whitney Heastie has rejected the Davis administration’s rationale for wiping out electricity bills for Grand Cay and Moore’s Island residents, saying the decision “makes no sense” and contradicts how relief was handled in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian.

His comments came after the electricity bills for residents of Grand Cay and

Moore’s Island were zeroed days after Prime Minister Philip Davis visited the area and promised relief. Some residents reported that their debts as high as $13,500 had been reduced to zero.

The government attributed the decision to disruptions following Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic, saying normal billing and collection operations were disrupted while residents faced hardship, limited

BILLS - SEE PAGE THREE

COI leader faces perjury claim over conflicting wealth records

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Digital Editor aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

COALITION of Independents leader Lincoln Bain is facing a court action to have him prosecuted for perjury, with a creditor alleging his sworn testimony about his finances was contradicted by his recent election disclosures.

In filings submitted yesterday, Zinnia Rolle claims Mr Bain made “wilful and corrupt” false statements during an April 1 court examination into his ability to pay outstanding debts. The application points to the statutory declaration Mr Bain filed on April 16 under the Parliamentary Elections Act, arguing it shows he had income, business revenue

and assets at the time that were not disclosed in his sworn evidence.

Ms Rolle is asking the court to direct that Mr Bain be prosecuted under Section 82 of the Penal Code for perjury. She is also seeking an order requiring him to pay the remaining $85,000 owed within seven

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor

A 550-room Hilton branded resort will form the core of the Grand Lucayan resort’s $700m redevelopment, it was revealed yesterday, amid assertions the project will transform Freeport into a “tourist mecca” to complement “the

Sebas reveals over 20 government contracts in election public filing

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE scale of Sebas Bastian’s business dealings with the government has been disclosed as he seeks to become MP for Fort Charlotte, with more than 20 contracts and agreements spanning direct arrangements with public agencies and commercial leases

for property and vehicle rentals. The filings come alongside similar disclosures from senior party figures, including Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, as candidates comply with constitutional requirements to declare interests in government contracts.

Mr Bastian’s disclosure, published under Article 48 of the

Former BPL GM Whitney Heastie

COI LEADER LINCOLN BAIN

Bannister: ‘The worst’ election handouts ever

banking access, and restrictions on travel and business activity.

It also said it had been advised that, under the former administration, residents were told they would not be required to pay. He said the approach was to give customers some relief by postponing arrears while requiring them to remain current on new bills.

“The way that would have worked was they needed to keep current and then work on the arrears and pay arrears off, and I don’t honestly remember whether or not it was 90 days, 120 days, or come into the office and work out a payment plan, but you stay current with your current bill and then you work your arrears off,” he said.

Mr Heastie said the debt issue should have been resolved much earlier in the government’s term rather than now and questioned “why now?”

Former Works Minister Desmond Bannister backed Mr Heastie’s account, saying only he or the prime minister at the time could have authorised residents not to pay their bills but no such directive was given.

Mr Heastie also questioned why similar relief was not extended to other communities devastated by Dorian, including mainland Abaco and East Grand Bahama.

“If you want to forgive those, why are you picking on those individuals there?” he said. “Why not pick on the mainland of Abaco, which really got shapped. We had to rebuild the entire distribution and transmission network in northern Abaco. Why not pick on those individuals and forgive all of them?”

“I would have envisioned that the government would have stepped in on behalf

of the residents of East Grand Bahama and done something similar as they did for the cays. I mean, that’s the first thing. The second thing for me is why now.”

The government vaguely said it decided to absorb eligible balances through an offsetting arrangement with BPL.

Mr Heastie said: “Nothing in life is free, so how does BPL, who was barely

breaking even at the time that I left, right now pay for all of this?”

The episode has raised questions about vote buying, with some invoking provisions under the Parliamentary Elections Act that prohibit inducements intended to influence voters.

Mr Bannister called this election “the worst” he has ever seen in terms of handouts aimed at influencing

voters.

“You see on Facebook and on the social media, you see politicians trying to outdo each other with what they could give out,” he said.

“What that means is that the politicians and the Bahamians and the voters don’t realise that that cheapens their vote, and it causes some serious challenges with respect to public policy.”

Munroe dismisses FNM claims over voter register flaws

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said concerns about people accused of fraud remaining on the voter register will be addressed at polling stations, arguing that party agents are there to challenge any suspicious voter when names are called.

Responding to claims by Free National Movement candidate Heather Hunt, who has highlighted people charged with fraud whose names remain on the register, Mr Munroe said the system relies on party representatives to act in real time rather than sit back and complain.

“They’re going to sit down when the name is called and watch that person be given a ballot and watch that person be given a ballot?” he said during a press conference yesterday at the Office of the Prime Minister.

“Her agent is going to sit down and watch that? My agent will not sit down and watch that. The COI's agent will not sit down and watch that. The FNM is making excuses.

“They're saying they're not going to bring it to the attention of the parliamentary register, and their agency will be completely delinquent? Things that they know about they're not going to do anything about? Well, if their people are delinquent, they should choose better agents.”

During an FNM rally on Tuesday night, Ms Hunt raised concerns about the integrity of the voter registry, citing cases of people allegedly involved in fraudulent activity who remain listed.

“We were walking in Elizabeth when we knocked on the door,” she said. “You heard about it

on social media. You read about it in the newspaper. We found a foreign national with two voter cards. She was charged, she was fined, she was barred from voting in the election and barred from ever registering for the next three years. But guess what? Today, her name remains on the parliamentary registry.

“We opened social media and found a wanted poster of a person registered in Elizabeth, wanted in relation to fraudulent passports, wanted in relation to fraudulent documents. Guess what? He was charged on Friday, out on bail, and guess what, FNMs? His name remains on the parliamentary registry.”

Mr Munroe, on the other hand, said Bahamians participating in the advance poll should have full confidence in a system whose “record speaks for itself.”

He said safeguards include ID checks, matching voters to the official register, trained election workers, party agents at polling stations and international observers.

He said errors can be documented and corrected through established procedures and stressed that deceased people or anyone using a fraudulent voter’s card cannot cast a ballot because voters must appear in person and be properly identified.

“What sets a serious democracy apart is not the absence of errors, but the presence of safeguards to catch and correct it,” he said. “Ours have those safeguards. They have worked election after election under both PLP and FNM administrations, a fact that former prime ministers from both parties have publicly affirmed.”

He urged Bahamians to raise concerns through proper channels and said stealing an election would

require a massive conspiracy involving election workers, party agents and observers.

“That means the agent of the PLP, the agent of the FNM, the agent of the coalition, and the agent of the independent and then they would also have to be conspiring with all of the foreign election observers that have been bought in. That's a fanciful tale,” he said.

FNM candidate Travis Robinson has said approved voters in his constituency were left off the advance poll register days before voting.

He estimated nine people — including three expected to be overseas on Election Day — were omitted despite receiving certificates authorising them to vote.

Yesterday, the Parliamentary Registration Department said voters whose names do not appear on the list should ensure they present a valid Form L, adding that those still awaiting the document will receive it before polling.

Meanwhile, Progressive Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell said the party supports the Parliamentary Commissioner and staff and has seen “nothing nefarious” in the process.

“What we see is the typical response of a desperate organisation that believes it's about to lose, and what they want to do is to try and set up a pretext for their lack of support in the population by spinning these yarns about problems with the electoral process,” Mr Mitchell said.

He said administrative and technical issues can arise, but are routinely resolved and noted PLP representatives have raised concerns with election officials and seen them corrected.

Mr Mitchell also pointed

to remarks by former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, urging FNM supporters to focus on turnout rather than claims of a stolen election.

“What we don't understand is why, in God's name, as a major party in this country, you've depended on the electoral process all of these years, you helped to design the present legislation, it has worked for you, your own former prime minister and former leader, Hubert Ingraham, told you that the guardrails are there and to drop this farcical nonsense that you're going on with, but you keep doing it.”

“What you're doing is you're sending information overseas that's undermining the very democracy that you say that you support. So it's childish, it's petty, it's silly, it doesn't make any sense. It's illogical.”

He said the system is not perfect but is functioning properly and will deliver a free and fair election http://192.168.2.148/i4/ IDSN/workspace/Pages# reflecting the will of the Bahamian people.

“If you want to set up a pretext for why you're losing, that's your

business,” he said. “But do not undermine the democracy which we have by competing by parroting this nonsense about something being wrong with the electoral process, that's our view.”

Congratulation to Sinse Stubbs. Pan American International 2025. Four medal winner in weapons and creative forms.

Giving thanks to my late Sinse Henley Hepburn, 2001 Pan American International State Champion. may he rest in peace and rise in glory

FORMER BPL

WHITNEY HEASTIE

NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTER WAYNE MUNROE

Candidates disclose ties to government contracts and agreements

valued at about $160 million, wealth he does not control.

Constitution, outlines both direct and indirect interests, including agreements with Bahamas Power & Light, the Water & Sewerage Corporation, and the National Insurance Board related to the provision of electricity, water and social insurance services tied to employment.

It also details indirect interests through commercial lease arrangements involving office and warehouse space rented to public agencies, including the Public Hospitals Authority, the National Insurance Board and the Bahamas Bureau of Standards.

The filing lists contracts tied to EV Motors Ltd, including vehicle lease agreements with the Ministry of Finance, BPL and BTC for periods of up to 60 months. One agreement covers the lease of 62 vehicles to the Ministry of Finance.

It further outlines insurance brokerage arrangements through BMGIA Insurance Ltd, acting as broker of record for several public sector entities, including the Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, the Public Hospitals Authority, Nassau Flight Services, Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre and the Bahamas Union of Teachers.

A heads of agreement dated October 25, 2022, involving Venetian Village Holdings Ltd and related entities, is also disclosed, with concessions of up to 20 years. The timeline aligns with the $200 million Venetian Village development in western New Providence previously reported by Tribune Business. The filing also references an agreement with the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs for the construction of a thoroughfare tied to development activity.

Earlier this month, Mr Bastian disclosed that a substantial portion of wealth linked to him is held in trusts

He reported $28,945,545 in total assets, $930,000 in income and liabilities of $175,000, placing him among the highest-declared earners in the race.

In a rare note attached to his declaration, which he said was intended to boost transparency, Mr Bastian said he is a beneficiary—but not the sole beneficiary—of several trusts established before his entry into public life.

He said the trusts hold a substantial portion of his family’s assets and business interests but that, as a discretionary beneficiary, he has no legal ownership or control over them and does not include them in his personal declaration.

Mr Cooper’s filing, meanwhile, disclosed interests in office space rental agreements and insurance-related arrangements involving entities such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nassau Airport Development Company, the Education Loan Authority and the Disaster Risk Management Authority. Mr Cooper has reported a $28m net worth, up from $14.8m in 2021 and $7.9m in 2017. He is one of the principal owners of BAF Financial & Insurance (Bahamas), the former British American Insurance Company of The Bahamas.

Marco City candidate Edward Whan II listed agreements for janitorial services across 14 locations, along with warehouse and office rentals involving Control Chemicals Freeport Ltd, the Grand Bahama Health Services/Public Hospitals Authority and the Ministry of Public Service, with contracts running from July 2025 to June 2030.

He also disclosed a financial interest in Cash N Go Ltd, which holds collection agreements with agencies including BTC, BPL, the Water & Sewerage Corporation, Bahamasair, Bahamas Immigration and DigiPay.

SEBAS BASTIAN

CHESTER COOPER

EDWARD

WHAN II

Creditor seeks perjury charge against Bain

In her affidavit, she alleges Mr Bain knew his statements were false and intended to “mislead the court and the judgment creditor as to his true financial position”.

The filing centres on four statements he allegedly made during the April 1 proceedings about his finances and assets.

According to the affidavit, Mr Bain told the court his last asset was $5,000 in savings, that he had no interest in any other assets, including those held at a credit union, and that he earned $20,000 a month.

He also allegedly told the court: “I have no bank account with Commonwealth Bank with zero or very low balance. I don’t keep anything in it. After the 2021 election I surrendered it to bank. No banker would give a business account with me. Even the Coalition of Independents bank account, I am not on that”.

However, in financial declarations submitted two weeks later to the Parliamentary Registration Department and published in The Tribune, the Pinewood aspirant reported a net worth of $1.5m, down from $1.8m declared in 2021. He listed total assets of $1.5m, income of $360,000 and liabilities of $85,000.

A draft order attached to the application asks the court to forward the transcript of Mr Bain’s April 1 evidence to the Director of Public Prosecutions for investigation and possible prosecution.

It also seeks to require him to enter into a $10,000 recognisance for his appearance in the Magistrates Court if proceedings are initiated.

The latest filing stems from a long-running dispute between Mr Bain and Ms Rolle over a failed investment arrangement dating back to 2010. The courts ultimately ruled in Ms Rolle’s favour, with the Court of Appeal awarding $64,000 and the Privy Council later adding $26,000 in costs, bringing the total to $90,000. Partial payments of $5,000 have been made, leaving $85,000 outstanding. The application comes as Mr Bain is already facing a potential bankruptcy action tied to the same debt. A Debtor’s Summons issued earlier this month warned that failure to pay could constitute an “act of bankruptcy”.

COI LEADER LINCOLN BAIN

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 .

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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Who will pay for cleared debt?

THE swift decision to zero the electricity bills for residents in Grand Cay and Moore’s Island has already attracted plenty of attention – and in today’s Tribune, a former Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) chief has declared the decision “makes no sense”.

Whitney Heastie was previously the CEO for BPL – and whatever you may think about our nation’s power provider, he certainly has the expertise and the experience of the sector to take note of his comments.

As The Tribune reported yesterday, the decision to wipe out the bills of residents came after Prime Minister Philip Davis visited the island last week.

He promised relief to residents with high bills there, with the government saying it intervened to resolve a long-standing electricity billing issue affecting residents, blaming Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic for disruptions. According to the government, regular billing and collection was disrupted, while residents faced hardship and limited banking access, as well as an inability to travel and conduct business. Now, these latter things are certainly true, but it is remarkable that the government has found its way to swiftly deal with the matter only days after the PM’s visit, and only a few more days before residents in those communities, along with the rest of the country, will be going to the polls.

Through this entire administration, it went unresolved until this last-minute pre-election decision. It has been a long time now since Hurricane Dorian and the height of the pandemic – there were plenty of opportunities to deal with this before now.

The sums involved are not small. Some of the residents had bills running to many thousands of dollars.

Mr Heastie had direct experience of how BPL responded in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian – and he says the relief measure contradicts how such things were handled after the storm.

The government said residents had been told they would not be required to pay their bills – but Mr Heastie rejects that, saying no such instruction was ever given.

He said the approach at the time was for BPL to postpone arrears while requiring customers to stay current on payments for new bills.

“You stay current with your current bill and then you work your arrears off,” he said. And as he said, any debt issue should have been resolved much earlier in the government’s term, and asked “why now?”

At the time, Desmond Bannister was the Works Minister, and he backed up Mr Heastie, saying no such directive was

ever given for residents not to pay their bills.

As for Mr Heastie, he also pointed at other areas that were badly affected.

“Why not pick on the mainland of Abaco, which really got shapped?” he asked, adding: “We had to rebuild the entire distribution and transmission network in northern Abaco. Why not pick on those individuals and forgive all of them?”

He added: “I would have envisioned that the government would have stepped in on behalf of the residents of East Grand Bahama and done something similar as they did for the cays. I mean, that’s the first thing. The second thing for me is why now.”

Why now, indeed, with an election so close? We can speculate, but we are sure people are filling in the blanks already on that one.

The other question is how will it be paid for? The answer to that of course is from the rest of us. BPL has to pay its own bills. A shortfall of income or expected income means that money has to be written off or raised from elsewhere. That means the rest of the country, either through increased payments, tighter enforcement of debts elsewhere, or an increase in government subvention. Whichever way, it means the money coming from other people’s pockets.

Now whether or not the people of the area deserve assistance is a different matter. Perhaps they do. It is a strange mechanism where those who may have made headway in lowering their outstanding bills will receive less of a reward than those who have let the bill run wild. Equally, if this action was needed since Dorian, timing it right before the election unsurprisingly raises suspicions, even if the intent was to be completely innocent.

What other gifts will be made in the coming days that have the potential to sway voters? No matter what the party, if the intent is indeed to influence the vote, that is illegal. The question is whether illegal actions will be tackled by the authorities – while the reality is that we see candidates boasting about how much they are giving away to communities.

The decision for who to vote for should not be about how much they can give you in the final days of the campaign – it ought to be about how much they can deliver for the nation in the years ahead.

Getting lost in the pursuit of one’s immediate pocket will end up with the policies and the fitness of the candidates being overlooked.

The nation is what matters. As people go to the advanced polls to start the election ball rolling, we hope that is to the front of their minds.

Corrupting the will of the voter

EDITOR, The Tribune.

IF what has been reported in the media concerning the payment of electricity bills for residents in Grand Cay and the distribution of vouchers to residents of Abaco at the expense of the public treasury is true, it would represent one of the most brazen and unethical attempt to overcome the will of the voter and corrupt the electoral process. Not to mention the abuse and inappropriate use of the public treasury.

It is even more unethical and clearly wrong for the government to have allowed these residents to endure four plus years of hardship and stress over an inaccurate electricity bill, and unrepaired homes and only on the eve of an election conveniently find it necessary to render relief. If this was an attempt to demonstrate an act of genuine concern, it fell short and this sort of manipulative and unethical behavior needs to be called out for what it is because we are a better people than this and so should those who govern us. And this applies equally to the Free National Movement lot if they were in government.

Media reports also suggest that there are individual candidates from both of the major parties (PLP &FNM) who are engaged in similar unethical practices and they too should be called out. Candidates who stand under the bright lights on a public podium at night asking for voters support and before the break of dawn, openly and offensively, seek to gain an unfair and improper advantage by gaming and cheating the electoral system through the use of cash and other rewards are unworthy of support. They are showing you how their moral and ethical fiber is woven and you ought to believe what you see rather than what you are told.

CLAUDE

B HANNA Nassau, April 29, 2026.

The impact that a Ray can have

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I RECALL the days when there seemed to be a dark cloud of heaviness hovering over HMBS Coral Harbor and many of its members appeared despondent, disconnected, disassociated and quite possibly disillusioned with the idea that there is a power that is greater than them, that this power required of them and that they all had a duty to look after more than just their bodies, but that there was an equal obligation to look after their minds and their souls. Strangely, life has this interesting way of letting us all see some things if we live long enough and since January 12 2004, was just over 22 years ago; it means that I am now senior enough to recall the days when the ship was saddled with a Prince that brought NO Peace.

While I will admit my absolute ignorance as to why the military values having a Chaplain so much that it wrote the appointment of one into the 1979 Act of Parliament, then gave the chaplaincy a very specific set of functions, powers and privileges, to have and to execute; what I am aware of is, during my life’s history I have witnessed the tenure of two Chaplains of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and similarly, I am not entirely sure what were the considerations that went into picking the most recent past Chaplain, but what I think we can all agree is certainly his appointment brought “A Ray of Hope” back to Coral Harbor. I watch as he not only participated as their Chaplain but as their Military Operations Platoon Pastor almost. He became one of them and appeared continuously to demand of them greater. He ran beside them; marched among them, carried out operations with them and still ensured he prayed for them and over them. In civilian language, Apostle Raymond Wells will go down in history quite possibly as the most quintessential chaplain of the Force’s history; but among the men who serve, he will easily be considered the tracer shot for chaplains to follow.

He was irregular, unordinary and seemingly inimitable. What Chaplain Wells accomplished in four years is both the indescribable and the undeniable. He ‘Inspired’ the troops both through his actions and deed. He ‘Mentored’ the broken and those that had lost faith in God and men like him who were responsible for man’s soul salvation. Wells ‘Portrayed the Power that Participation has on the mind of men of war.’ He did not merely bother himself with playing dress up, (which he would have been within his right to do)

instead. He participated in their evolutions, in their ceremonies, in their mess areas and in their operations. He became something they could respect in a way that was so masterful that simultaneously his voice became one they all seemed to involuntarily gravitate toward. Wells, were both apart from them and a part of them all at once. Chaplain Wells was ‘Accessible’ and to my minds view, he was in many instances so accessible that his visibility permitted us out side of Coral Harbor an opportunity to see, watch and know the goings on of the organization. This accessibility, tore down many invisible barriers that service members will never admit exist but that I have watched them feverishly uphold over my 22-year involvement with the organization. Before Chaplain Wells, many of my old battle buddies could honestly think of nothing more a Chaplain could do for their betterment other than to get away from them, both in quicktime and at the high-port. Editor, I assure you; “Ray’s Impact,” changed that. He was the people’s chaplain it seems and they all were happy to own him. He proved to have a genuine ‘Concern’ for the organization and was careful about learning the language, the ranks and rates as well as what each ribbon, medal or dressing meant. His concern for the organization however was only a mirror of his concern for those who serve. He seemed to blend almost seamlessly his messages about what the organization needed from its men, while never letting it be lost that those same men also needed some key things from their organisation. He was a truth divider and a chaplain with a discerning spirit. It was as if he knew that the best way to be sure he was praying for their problems correctly was to practice their protocols and participate in the things they deemed painful, traditional or operational, which are the only three languages the marine speaks and understands.

Doctor Wells, was ‘Tactful and Trustworthy’ and marines knew they were safe with Ray! They knew that there existed a space where they could go to decompress. A space that I am advised was often times strategically set up for them; that was away from the base, away from the eyes, away from the assumptions and from the criticism soldiers sometimes visit upon each other unnecessarily, when they believe one of them have broken and needed to

go cry on the Padre’s shoulder. Ray provided peace; he provided comfort of mind all while restoring hope and belief in the chaplaincy. He mentored other ministers, to be tentacles of the chaplain aboard the ship and at our detachment sites, knowing that they could reach into areas he simply could not. Ray brought a calmness and a shepherds like anointing. He brought a peaceful disposition with some kind of unspoken authority that was unfamiliar or unlike what we saw in the past. Simply put, Ray brought hope and that hope impacted the ship in a meaningful or dear I say a meritorious way. Dear editor, he has transitioned now and the sun has set on his tenure as chaplain. He leaves in his wake, a legacy that anyone who follows it would be bound for success. He leaves relationships mended, accountability restored and he leaves a concept with a group of men that are all trained to kill; that sometimes it is ok to not be ok and whenever you get there, your chaplain is a safe space to turn.(even if all you want to do is cry on his shoulder)

The whispers of the wind have suggested to me that he has the Christian Counsel Presidency at the fore of his mind these days. To that all I want to say is, the Prime Minister was right for choosing Ray to be the military’s chaplain and I fully believe that the Christian church would do well to take the PM’s lead on this and select Ray as their president as well. You see Editor, some men just have that thing! The thing none of us can see, none of us can quite touch and neither can we explain it but what we can equally also not do, is deny when we find someone who has it. Doctor Wells is perfect for this position and while all 12 of the presidents past have brought splendid things I am sure to the counsel over its history, I am of the view that Ray brings new hope. Ray brings new light. More importantly, Ray brings new life! Judging from his performance over the past four years, I believe that we may all very well be amazed over the next three years, by the impact a Ray can have, over the church, over government policy, over Christian mindset and messaging and on this nation. Who knows, maybe like it did onboard Coral Harbor; “A Ray of Hope” may soon hit the Christian Counsel and his name is Doctor Raymond K Wells; an Englerstonian in whom I am well pleased.

Three cheers for this Minnie Street Boy!

LEYVON A MILLER III, Nassau, April 28, 2026.

No stamps at Post Office

EDITOR, The Tribune. A TIDBIT shared on Social Media today. Lady posts “Our daughter went to the Shirley Street Post Office to mail something –they were out of stamps!. Told her to go to Town Center Mall”

You couldn’t make it up! MONKEEDOO Nassau, April 28, 2026.

Man shot and killed in Mount Pleasant ambush

A MAN believed to be in his 40s was shot and killed after being ambushed by gunmen outside his home in the Mount Pleasant area last night.

Police responded to reports of a shooting on Hamilton Road shortly after 7pm.

When officers arrived, they found the victim lying at the scene with apparent gunshot injuries. He was later pronounced dead.

Preliminary information indicates that the man was exiting his home when gunmen in a small Japanese vehicle pulled up and opened fire, fatally wounding him.

Chief Superintendent Sheria King could not say whether the victim was known to police, adding that investigations are continuing.

FNM Deputy Leader and

St James candidate Shanendon Cartwright was also among those at the scene, offering condolences to the victim’s family. He said he knew the victim as well as his family.

"This really hit home tonight," Mr Cartwright told reporters on scene.

"I grew up out here in Mount Pleasant. I knew the family personally and the person who was killed tonight, I knew him personally."

"This does not happen in a small community like Mount Pleasant village so this is something that has really touched the heart of every community and it is felt by every home here in Mount Pleasant."

This latest killing has pushed the country's murder count to 22 for the year, according to the Tribune's records.

12-YEAR-OLD RAPED IN SCHOOL CLASSROOM BY TWO MALES

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

A 12-YEAR-OLD girl was sexually assaulted by two males who did not attend her school after being lured by a female student who did, police say. Authorities said they were informed of the incident at 7pm on Tuesday by the victim’s mother. According to the complaintant’s daughter, she

was waiting for her ride at around 3pm when she was led to a classroom by a female student of the same school.

In the classroom, two males dressed in white shirts and black pants proceeced to engage in sexual intercourse with her, police said, adding that investigations into the matter are being conducted by the Sexual Offences Unit of the RBPF’s Central Investigation Department.

THE BODY of a man shot and killed in an ambush outside his home in the Mount Pleasant area is removed from the scene last night. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr

A memorable Correspondent's Dinner Trump, officials the likely targets of gunman

HO HUM. Another dull week unfoldedin Washington inthepast sevendays.And hardly anything ofnote concerned USpresident Donald Trump.

Except, ofcourse, everything.

The mostnoteworthy event was a dinnerparty celebrating a 105th anniversarythis year. Firstheld in1921,the White House Correspondents Association Dinneris anannual black-tieevent notionallycelebrating theFirst Amendment that guarantees toall Americanstheright offreespeech, journalism inparticular, and democracy in general.

Mostof thetime,this dinnerbrings togethertheUS President, topofficials from hiscabinet andthepolitical opposition of the day, non-political celebritiesand media, allinorder toraisefundsfor journalism scholarships.An invitationtothis eventisalways highly sought,and extensivetelevisioncoveragereveals the lofty social standing of thoselucky enoughto be pictured in attendance.

The Correspondents’ Dinner has nowachieved a distinctive standing in the ongoing, evolvinghistory of Donald Trump in the spotlight of American politics. Trump has attended the dinner occasionally, includingon Saturday night, when it certainly seems that someonetried to assassinate him.And 15years earlier,whenhewassubjected to a public dressing-down that many people believe fueled bothhis hatredof hispredecessor and hisultimately successful drive to succeed him.

Moredetails areemerging everyday, butit seemspretty clearthatagunmanfromCalifornia managedto evadethe USSecretServicepresidential protective teamand getclose enough to the hotel ballroom and tothe presidenthimself that whenhe firedoff several shots, a full-blown emergency response ensued. Trump, his wife, Vice President JD Vance and hiswife wereall hustled backstage and whisked off to safety,as dozensofstunned guests droppedto thefloor in fear for their lives.

Thewould-be assassinhas now been formally charged with several serious felony offenses and anFBI investigationhas revealed--insomeof hissocial mediapostsand other writings--hisviews that certainly reflect ahatred for the president.

This is whenthe frenzied atmosphere that prevails around Trump and seemingly every singlething hedoes took over the internet. Accordingto newsreports, shortly after the chaos erupted on Saturday night, social media platformswere overwhelmed with conspiracy theories about the attempted assassination.As onewireservice described events, as is nowcustomary aftersuchincidents,prominentinfluencers filledthe informationvacuum withspeculation ina bidfor attention and followers.”

How

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Various characters from across thepolitical spectrum werefueling theconfusionon platforms likeX, Facebook, andTikTok. Someusers claimed thatthe attackwas “staged,” suggesting, without anyconclusive evidence,that it waspart of anapparent plot by Trump or others to distract fromhis badpollingnumbers due to the warwith Iran, gas prices, or theEpstein files. Thereis noshortage ofcomplaints that can be laid at Trump’s doorstep these days. The term staged was reportedly usedin morethan 300,000 posts on X alone by midday Sunday.A leftleaning friend, who is not ordinarily givento hyperbole, jumped allover suchspeculation. “I knowthissounds crazy,butI reallybelievethat this wholesordid episodewas justanother fake, she huffed indignantly. “Trumphas kidnappeda foreignleader, pickeda fighthe cannotpossiblywinwithIran,threatened to wreck the world economy, triedtoscuttleourmostsecure anddurableallianceinNATO, and now he has staged an attempt on his own life with one single purpose: hewants to distract attention from how poorly heis handlinghis job.”

It's interesting tonote that news coverage ofthis particular conspiracy theory always modifies it withwords most often associatedwith claims advanced by the president himself.This‘fake’assassination, the stories dutifully report, represents “a claim without factual basis.

It’shighly unusualthese days forsuch wordsto beassociated withanti-Trump assertions, but the evolution of thisparticular eventcertainly demonstrates what an incoherent mess isAmerican political life in these times.

Saturday’s attemptedassassination alsoserves asa bookend for an event 15 years ago, when Trump was a celebrity guestat theCorre-

spondents’ Dinner table sponsored by The Washington Post, long before the newspaper was purchased by Amazon founder and trillionaire Jeff Bezos.

In 2011, Trump was still hostinga wildly popular TV show called The Apprentice, an American reality television series that judged the business skills ofa group of contestants.Itran in various formatsacross 15seasons on NBC from 2004 to 2017, andTrump servedas hostfor almostallthose years.Hebecame famousfor bellowing “you’re fired” at contestants whose business plans he and other panelists found insufficient to warrant investment. Barack Obama was the Americanpresident in2011. Hehadbeen thesubjectofrepeated claims, “without factual basis, that Obama had really beenbor--not in Hawaii,as hisauthenticbirth certificate stated--but rather in Kenya, the land of his father s birth.Trump,offeringanearly demonstration of his uncanny abilityto graspand holdonto awild,attention-grabbingmoment, was perhaps the leading proponent ofthis conspiracy theory.

At the dinner 15 years ago, Trumpwas sittingwithwife Melania whenObama offered some humorous remarks. Included wasthe followingdig at Trump: “Donald Trumpis heretonight!Now,Iknowthat he’s takensome flaklately,

father and daughter duped NYC's art world with fake Warhols and Banksys

By JAKE OFFENHARTZ Associated Press

NEW YORK(AP) A littleover ayear ago, theNew YorkCity artdealerRobert Rogalreceived avisit tohis privateshowroom froma young woman, who seemed eager to offload a family heirloom.

Introducing herself as Karolina Bankowska, she carried a framedpainting signed by Andrew Wyeth,resembling thewatercolor landscapesthe celebratedartisthadcompletedearlyinhiscareer. Intrigued, Rogalaccepted the pieceon consignment,figuring itmightfetchbetween $20,000to $30,000 at auction.

"The provenance was a little fuzzy," he said. "Butshe seemedcredible.Itwasn't anobvious counterfeit."

Infact, Rogalnowbelievesthe paintingwasa fake one of at least 200 carefully designed imitations that federalprosecutors say Bankowska, 26, and her father ErwinBankowski, 50, tried to pass off to unwitting buyers.

On Tuesday, the duo pleaded guilty to defraudingtheir victims includingsome ofNew YorkCity's mostprominentfine artauction houses of at least $2 million. Thecounterfeits, whichwereforged inPoland byan unnamedco-conspirator,were oftenreproductionsoflesser-knownworksbyprominentand prolific artists,like Banksyand AndyWarhol, prosecutors said.Their mostprofitable fake,purportedlyby theartistRichardMayhew, wassold by theauction houseDuMouchelles lastOctober for $160,000.

A representativefor DuMouchellessaid they had cooperated with federalauthorities but were notauthorized todiscuss thesale further.Several otherauction housestargeted inthe scheme,includingBonhams, Phillips,Freeman's andAntique Arena, either declined ordid not respond to inquiries. The father and daughter Polish citizens livinginNewJersey facechargesofwirefraud conspiracy and misrepresenting Native American–producedgoods,a chargestemmingfrom their duplication of theLuiseño artist, Fritz Scholder. Theyfacethepossibility ofmorethanthree years in prison underfederal guidelines, in addition to $1.9 million in restitution and possible deportation to Poland. In court on Tuesday, Bankowska told a judge thather"conductwaswrongandIamguilty."Her attorney, Todd Spodek, saidhis client had placed more than $1 million in an escrow account. ThroughaPolishinterpreter,ErwinBankowski also apologized. His attorney, Jeffrey Chabrowe, addedthathisclient had"regrettablymadeaterrible decision in an effort to support his family."

As newsof thefakes reverberatedaround the artworld, expertsdescribed thescheme asa classic of the genre one that is far more prevalentthansomein theindustrywouldliketo admit.

"Theonlyunusualthing aboutthiscaseisthat theforgers gotcaught," saidErin Thompson,a professorof artcrime attheCity Universityof New York.

butno oneishappier, noone is prouder to put this birth certificate matter to rest than The Donald.Andthat’sbecausehe can finally get back to focusingon theissuesthat matter – like, did wefake the moon landing?” But theworst wasto come. Thedinner oftenfeaturesa monologuedelivered bya popular comedian, featuring jokes designedto skewer politicians of bothparties and someof theircelebrityguests aswell. SethMyers didthe honorsinn 2011.Myershas hosteda late-nightcomedy show for the past dozen years, andworked at Saturday Night Live.’ Here’s Myers’ most memorableline from that evening: “Donald Trump is sayinghe s goingto runfor president asa Republican, which issurprising becauseI thoughthe wasrunning asa prank.

Nearly a decade later, Myers wasunrepentant about his appearance that evening. I don tthink that anything Idid was outof line.

Lestanyone forget,Trump wasn’t just an ordinary citizen who just happened to have a seat atthat dinner. Hewas a birther, justbasically banging the drum on the idea that the president wasn t from this country, whichis asracist today as it was then.

Trump’s furious, red-faced reactionwas recalledby someone sitting close to his table. I could see Trump turn like a very intense shade of purple. Ithink thecliché is beet red, butactually, it was like I’d neverseen ahuman turnthatcolor. WhatIremember mostclearly about that nightwas that itwas the people laughing the loudest were not Democratsor journalists. Itwas theRepublicans. Because theyall felt like, hey, thisguy is dragging downour party.He s taking up all of our oxygen and he’s making us look stupid. Who knewwhat thefuture would hold?

According to many reports atthe time,Trump didn’t remainto socializeafterthe

speeches ended. He basically heexited immediately,” another guestsitting nearby later reported. He rosefrom thetable,took Melaniabythe arm,andmade abeelinefor the exit. Hedidn t say goodnight, he shot out of the room. It wasn’tjust thatObama ripped him,Seth Meyerslacerated him, too. It was humiliating.” On Tuesday,Trump certainlyappeared sereneashe hosted Britain’s King Charles III,a manwhose royalstatus thepresident reportedlyaspires to emulate.The king, whose health is frequently the subject of speculation now, struck aconciliatory note evenas Trumpcontinuesto lambaste the UK prime minister for his lack of support for America s war with Iran.

Theking remindedusall thatBritainand theUShave supported each otherin two world wars, the Cold War, Afghanistan, and moments that havedefined ourshared security. These are strong foundations onwhich tocontinue to build.

"Peoplethinkoftheartworld asagenteel placefullofculturedpeoplewho justwantto share the wonderof beautiful art,"sheadded."Youshouldassumethereare alotmorefakes out there."

Prosecutors saidthe father and daughterbegan commissioningaPolishartistin2020to create the fake artworks. Using antique paper, they also forged

stamps toattach tothe paintings, adopting thenames of since-shuttered gallerieswhere a given artist might have plausibly shown their work.

Itwasn'tlongbeforethesales began to drawscrutiny. In March2023,representativesfor the artistRaimonds Staprans caught wind ofa forged painting,"Triple Boats,"for sale by an auction house. A few

daysaftertherepscontactedthe auction house, the painting sold toabuyerfor$60,000,prosecutors said. Thompson,the professorof artcrime, noticedotherirregularities aswell. Thegallery stamp onthe backof thefaked Wyeth,for example,listedits year as 1976, but included a zoning address number that had been phased out in 1962.

Above: Secret service agents respond during the White House Correspondents Dinner, Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Washington.

AP Photo/Tom Brenner

Top left: US Secret Service agents surround President Donald Trump before he was taken from the stage after a shooting incident outside the ballroom during the White House Correspondents Dinner, Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Washington.

Left: Members of law enforcement control shooting suspect Cole Tomas Allen during the White House Correspondents Dinner, Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Washington.

AP Photos/Alex Brandon

A suspected forgery of an Andrew Wyeth painting is seen at RoGallery in New York, Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

AP Photo/Jake Offenhartz

The joy of openness to growth

IN1941,inhisearly70s, after anextraordinary careerand adozen yearsbeforehisdeath at84,the brilliantFrenchartistHenri Matisse underwentsurgery following adiagnosis of abdominal cancer.He was left bed-and chair-ridden. Sculpturing andpainting were nowtoo physically challenging.

With the help of assistants, Matissereturned to paper collages or decoupage,a mediumhepreviously employeddecades before. Onepublication outlined his new routine.

He would cut sheets of paper, pre-painted with gouache by his assistants, into shapes of varying colors and sizes,and arrange themto formlively compositions. Initially, thesepieces weremodest insizebuteventuallytransformed intomurals or room-sizedworks. Theresult wasa distinctand dimensional complexity an art formthat wasnot quite painting, but not quite sculpture.”

With hisnew useof this technique Matisse observed: Anartist must never bea prisonerof himself,prisoner ofastyle, prisonerof areputation, prisonerofsuccess.…”Essentially, artists,and human beingsin general, mustbeopentoconversion and transformation – open to growth.

Handicapped, then liberated by hisnew limitation, Matisse gave full flight to hisimagination inthedesign for the Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence (Chapel of theRosary). Thechapel, built for Dominican nuns, is found in Vence, a town on theFrench Riviera.Matisse regardedit asone of his masterpieces.It’sa monument to the human capacity forgrowth and change at any stage of life.

Preparatory schools run by theRoman CatholicSociety of Jesus--the Jesuits-have aprofile ofwhat they desire from graduates of highschool, astheypreparefortherestoftheirlife journey.

A primarycharacteristic is:open togrowth.Walsh Jesuit HighSchool inthe United States is typical. TheWalsh JesuitHigh School student, atthe time ofgraduation, hasmatured as a person emotionally, intellectually, physically, socially,religiously to a level that reflectssome intentional responsibilityfor one’s own growth. The

graduate is beginning to reach out in hisor her development, seeking opportunitiesto stretchone’s mind, imagination, feelings,and religiousconsciousness.”

Just in his mid-30s, Jorge Mario Bergoglio became Jesuit Provincial in Argentina. By his own admission, the future Pope Franciscame tosuchhigh leadershiptoo young,too inexperienced, tooimmaturein termsofunderstandingthe needtobalance theactive exercise and restraint of power, something many young leaders often get wrong. Though popular and well-liked bymany, Bergogliowas toodogmatic andauthoritarian andalienated anumberof fellow Jesuits.After his tenure asProvincial he was side-linedand essentiallysentinto asortof

exile inthe moreremote Argentinian cityof Cordoba. It becamea blessed

exile.

Bergoglio’stimeinCordoba was oneof deep reflection andpurgation, in which he facedone of life’sgreatest struggles:a true reckoning ofwho one is as ahuman being with one sgifts andtalents,as well asweaknesses, patterns ofsin, andoften paralyzing flaws.

Thoughoften saidtobe melancholic and even at times depressed during this period, Bergoglio founda deeperinterior freedom,a deeperopennesstogrowth thatisthe precursor to human transformation.

He did not become paralysed by his failures nor did he succumb to the temptationto excusethem withall mannerofrationalizations and the suppression of thetruth about himself.

By the timehe became Auxiliary Bishopof Buenos Aires, Bergoglio s conversion was bearing deeper fruits. He became morecollegial,abetterlistener, more discerning, more empathetic, more open to dialogue, and more committedto solidarity withand greater serviceto thepoorand those suffering injustice.

The mercy ofGod he found in Cordobais the mercy hedemonstrated as Pope.In hisnewministry, Bergoglioseemed tobe seekingredemptionbefore God andothers forhis ownadmitted sinsand failures, reconcilingwith himself inthe remaining years of his life.

purposes, she called herself “Nina Simone.” Nina Simonewas oneof the more brilliant and soulfulartistsofhergeneration, asconversant atthe piano with Bachas with the Blues. With training fromthe JulliardSchoolof Music, shewas afine classical pianistwith avocal range thatalso madeher one ofthe greatestvocalists of her generation. She wastransformed by the civilrights movement, lending her voiceand her anger to the fight for racial equality. Though often brutalized by domestic abuse, racismand sexism, andoften paralysedby whatwouldlaterinherlife be diagnosed asa bipolar disorder anddepression, Eunice Waymoncontinued totransformherselfintoan extraordinary artist.

Beingopen togrowthis not fundamentallyabout one’s age.There areyoung peoplewho, astheygrow older, remainessentially thesame, withseemingly littlecapacity todiscover new landsor vistaswithin thegeographyoftheirown imagination or soul.

Then there areflights of the imaginationand willpowerby peoplelike Mohandas Gandhi,the prophetofnonviolenceand Indian independence leader,who claimedthat oneofhisgreatestachievements was mastery of his appetites and habits.

Eunice Waymonwas borninthesouthernUnited States in 1933,an African Americanchild whoearly experienced thevicious sting of racism that was pervasive inAmerican society.Ata youngage,her extraordinary musical talent wasencouraged throughtraining inclassical piano. Her familymoved north so shecould developher talent.To helppayexpenses, Eunicetook ajob at anAtlantic Citynightclub. Theowner wasimpressed by herskills and range atthe piano.But this was anightclub andhe neededhertosing.Though untrained as a singer, she began singingpopular tunes to which she brought what wouldbe hersignature voice and expression. Itwas butone ofthe many moments in her life whenshewouldbeopento the newpossibilities that often lieundiscovered or untapped or unmotivated. Because shewas froma deeply religioushousehold, Eunicedid notwant hermother toknowthat shewas singingin anightclub.So, foradvertising

There is today a fetish of youth, whichdeems that youth isto bepreferred in various areasof national life, such as politics, as an end in itself.

Politics maydemand newenergy andyouthful voices. But italso requires experienceandthewisdom born offailure andmistakesbythosewho,asthey age,offerlifelessonsthose too younghave yetto fully learn.

Yetlongevity doesnot necessarily translate into wisdom, andmany who lived longyears often evince anincapacity for growth.

What Matisse said of artists – “Anartist must neverbeaprisonerofhimself, prisonerof astyle, prisonerof areputation, prisoner of success”– resonates forus all.Such growthhelps ustoflourish and to be endlessly creative inour vocationsand avocations.

Growth andconversion are life-long adventures and are essentialfor interiorfreedom. Nomatter our age,the possibilityof growthis aneverpresent joy.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio, AKA Pope Francis

Photo: Korea.net /Korean Culture and Info Service/wikipedia

Henri Matisse Photo: Self Portrait, 1918, sobrefrancia, Public Domain/wikipedia

Eunice Waymon, AKA Nina Simone

Photo: Gerrit de Bruin/wikipedia

Union calls on government to resolve stalled BTVI talks

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Union of Allied Public Employees (BUAPE) is calling for urgent government intervention in an ongoing labour dispute involving its members at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), warning that prolonged negotiations have failed to produce meaningful results.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, BUAPE said discussions with BTVI management, which began in November 2025, have yielded “nothing substantial” to date, leaving staff and middle managers

increasingly frustrated.

BUAPE President Ernesto Williams defended the union’s position, insisting its demands are reasonable and reflect standards already established across the public service and other quasi-government organisations.

“BUAPE is not being unreasonable in our demand for BTVI employees who work hard just like the faculty to make BTVI what it is today,” the statement read. “We have been in negotiations since November 2025, and have nothing substantial yet to bring back to our members. BUAPE is not being unreasonable!”

The union outlined four priority areas: permanent appointments for long-serving employees, improved salary scales, equitable vacation benefits, and structured career advancement for all categories of staff.

A key concern for BUAPE is the status of 17 line staff members who have reportedly completed two or more years of continuous service with satisfactory performance but have not been made permanent. The union argues that granting permanent establishment is both fair and beneficial to the institution.

BUAPE is also advocating for salary scales that properly recognise

employee contributions and for vacation leave provisions that align with those in the public service. Additionally, the union raised concerns about limited career progression opportunities, noting that only certain staff groups currently benefit from structured advancement pathways.

The union maintained that its requests are fundamental rather than excessive.

“We are tired of negotiating with people who have absolutely no intention on changing

the status quo, especially when they are one of the major reasons why our members are disenfranchised today. The institution must not forget, and our government must be aware that executive management didn't achieve our newfound fame through accreditation on their own. It was the hard work of all employees, including our members,” the statement read.

“So give our members all that they deserve, and stop treating these good Bahamian employees

and their families like they don’t matter while you reap benefits off the backs of their labour and service. We are asking for our government to intervene and resolve these issues today!”

The union’s statement comes amid ongoing concerns about labour relations at BTVI, with dissatisfaction among staff over employment conditions and disparities in treatment, adding context to the union’s current stance and underscoring the seriousness of the dispute.

Man accused of indecently assaulting 16-year-old gets bail

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN accused of indecently assaulting a 16-year-old girl in New Providence was granted bail yesterday. Prosecutors allege Kingsley Gibson, 56, inappropriately touched the teenager on April 2. Gibson pleaded not guilty to a charge of indecent assault before Magistrate Abigail Farrington. He was granted $6,000 bail with one or two sureties. As part of his conditions, he must sign in at his local police station on the last Sunday of every month.

He was warned not to interfere with the complainant or any witnesses or risk having his bail revoked. Gibson returns for trial on July 1.

Assistant Superintendent of Police K Bould prosecuted the case. Dr K Melvin Munroe represented the accused.

23-year-old sentenced to 30 months for firearm possession

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN found with a loaded gun in his waistband outside a business on Prince Charles Drive on Monday night was sentenced to 30 months in prison yesterday.

Stephon Macena, 23, was found with a black Ruger P345 .45 pistol and three rounds of ammunition after officers saw him acting suspiciously near a vehicle at 1am on April 27. Macena pleaded guilty to possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition before Magistrate Lennox Coleby.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Lincoln McKenzie, the prosecutor, asked for a strict sentence to deter firearm-related offences.

Macena was sentenced to 30 months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

37-year-old remanded over Andros teen assault charges

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl three times in Andros over three months was remanded to prison yesterday.

Prosecutors allege Philip Sweeting, 37, had unlawful sexual intercourse with the underaged girl on February 24, April 22, and April 23 in Morgan’s Bluff, Andros. Sweeting was not required to enter a plea to three counts of unlawful sexual intercourse before Magistrate Abigail Farrington. He was informed that the matter will proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment.

The accused was told he has the right to apply for bail in the higher court. Sweeting was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until service of his voluntary bill of indictment on August 10.

Assistant Superintendent of Police K Bould prosecuted the case. Terrell Butler represented the accused.

DPA announces new chapter –with launch of new books division

WITH decades of experience in telling Bahamian stories, the public relations and marketing firm

Diane Phillips & Associates (DPA) is preparing for a new chapter – the launch of a books division.

The announcement comes amid celebrations for World Book Day on April 23 – with DPA eager to help Bahamians share their voices with the world.

DPA Books & More will offer services that help shape, design and promote Bahamian books as well as organising book launches.

“Telling other people’s stories has always been at the heart of DPA,” said company founder Diane Phillips. “We have shared your stories on the pages of our nation’s newspapers, on TV and radio, on social media and to listeners and readers far beyond our borders.”

Now, she said, both the time and the team are right to boost books and authors with a story to tell, giving life to everything from the short story to the full-length epoch, inviting readers to hear the tales of individual, corporate and institutional stories.

The firm has expanded with skilled graphic artists and creative social media content specialists. Most recently, DPA landed former Tribune managing editor Stephen Hunt, who has published 16 books in recent years.

“We cannot wait to hear from people who want their stories heard,” he

said. “Our team is full of book lovers – for World Book Day on April 23, our team shared the books they love on our social media. We are writers, designers, social media experts – but also readers, book club members, and devotees of the written word. Follow us, and share the stories you love too. We look forward to hearing from you.”

That range of expertise in the team bolsters the reputation built over decades at DPA.

“I did it the hard way and learned the right way, as a journalist for many years,” said Phillips. “Now I am surrounded by talent in the office every day as we tell others’ stories and the book division is a natural step in the journey.”

DPA has been in business more than 35 years, winning numerous awards and commendations, and building long-term relationships with clients.

“We have helped paint a picture of life in The Bahamas from the underbelly of poverty to the pinnacles of commercial success, but there are a thousand untold stories that deserve to be heard and we are excited to let the stars of those stories shine.”

Diane Phillips is a familiar name in The Bahamas. A former journalist with a career ranging from daily broadsheets to the National Enquirer along with magazine writing and editing, she spent the 90s as executive director of two national tourism

boards. More recently, she’s written more than 300 columns in The Tribune. She’s a past radio co-host on Guardian Talk Radio and GEMS, adjunct professor at UB, Paul Harris Award recipient for community service, director of NGOs, and organiser and emcee of national press conferences and events. In 2025, she was recognised for her contributions and awarded National Honours. Although she has marched for Freedom of Information and campaigned successfully to protect sea turtles and introduction of Sunday shopping, when asked what she does, she says simply, she writes.

“We are always looking for new ways to share people’s news – and there are so many talented silent storytellers in The Bahamas,” said Paula Welch, DPA chief operating officer.

“We look forward to helping them find their voice and their audience, to connect with readers and have their stories heard. Diane has been doing that for years, working with local authors, writing forewords to books and sharing stories that matter. This new division opens the door for others, as well as building the community of authors here in The Bahamas.”

The full details of the new division will be announced in the near future – but those interested are encouraged to contact dpa@dpa-media.com to register their interest.

MURDER SUSPECT FINED OVER 105-DAY BAIL BREACH

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN awaiting trial for a 2021 murder was fined $2,500 yesterday for breaching his bail for 105 days.

Andrew Knowles, 37, failed to sign in at his local police station for 105 days between October 22, 2025, and April 22. Knowles was on Supreme Court bail for charges of murder and attempted murder. He is accused of shooting and killing Denis Cash

near Shoal Restaurant on Nassau Street on November 11, 2021.

Knowles pleaded guilty to violating his bail conditions before Magistrate Abigail Farrington. He was ordered to pay a $2,500 fine or face six months in prison.

In addition to a warning to take his bail conditions more seriously, he was placed on one year’s probation. A breach would result in a six-month prison term. Assistant Superintendent of Police K Bould prosecuted the case.

Bahamas Goombay Punch celebrates 70th NFIR with exciting prizes and donations

BAHAMAS Goombay Punch idonated $3,700 donation to the 70th National Family Island Regatta (NFIR) in Georgetown, Exuma.

Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, kept competitors and attendees refreshed with an in-kind donation of 720 bottles of Dasani water and Bahamas Goombay Punch at the event.

Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director for CBC, spoke to the company’s continual support for the regatta.

“Bahamas Goombay Punch is more than a beloved local brand—it’s a vibrant part of our cultural fabric,” he said. “Just like sailing, our national sport, it carries a rich legacy that spans generations. Recognising this shared history, we’re proud to support initiatives that celebrate and advance Bahamian culture.” Bahamas Goombay Punch engaged attendees each day in the beautiful Elizabeth Harbour with the opportunity to partake in spinning the wheel to win exciting prizes. Items such as branded tumblers, beach pouches, shades, buoyant keyrings and much more were highly sought after during the regatta festivities.

In addition to family-friendly fun, the NFIR served as the second round of competition for the fourth annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup.

The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup competition is an initiative developed by Caribbean Bottling Company to further the advancement of sailing and Bahamian culture through monetary and social support. The competition judges the skipper's performance across three Regattas: The Best of the Best, the National Family Island, and the Long Island Regattas. This season is focusing on skippers in the E-Class category. The winner, who will be announced at the end of the Long Island Regatta, will receive a $5,000 award, an $8,000 stipend towards the junior sailing club of the winning island, and a firstplace commemorative limited-edition Bahamas Goombay Punch can featuring the winning sloop’s design.

his sloop a second-place finish at the NFIR.

“The competition at this year’s NFIR was intense. The E Class was especially competitive with four different winners in our four races! Heading into Long Island, I’m not counting anyone out, including my little brother, Emit, and Skipper on Mako. I made a few mistakes in this regatta that I’m going to learn from, and try to finish stronger at this next one,” he expressed.

Sailing enthusiasts will also get to watch fierce competition between the E-Class sloops as they fight for the first-place title of the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup during the final round of competition in Long Island.

Joss Knowles, one of the skippers on Lady Kayla, a participating boat in The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup, shared his experience in Exuma, which earned

For more: details on the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup, new products and promotions, visit Caribbean Bottling Company’s website at www.cbcbahamas.com today.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla honour 9/11 victims on New York visit

NEW YORK Associated Press

KING Charles III and Queen Camilla paid tribute to victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks during a busy swing through New York City on Wednesday — the first visit to the city by a reigning British monarch in 16 years.

Charles laid flowers at the National 9/11 Memorial and the royal couple spoke with victims’ relatives, first responders and local dignitaries before traveling to other events midway through a four-day diplomatic trip to the U.S. to mark 250 years of American independence. Charles’ mother, Queen Elizabeth II, travelled to New York in 2010. The king and queen were accompanied by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg while walking to one of the memorial’s two pools, where parapets bear the names of the victims of the

attacks. Charles placed an arrangement of flowers on a parapet before the couple silently bowed their heads in a moment of reflection. They then met with about 90 guests, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries. Some victims’ relatives held up photos of their lost loved ones. Also among the crowd were New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill and other dignitaries. The gathering came ahead of the 25th anniversary of the attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania, including 67 British nationals. The visit to the memorial took place under the usual security precautions New York affords visiting world leaders and heads of state. Police snipers perched on rooftops. Heavy trucks were used as blockers to close off intersections. The large memorial plaza and the

streets surrounding it were closed to the public.

Small throngs of onlookers gathered at police barricades outside the secure perimeter, though it was hard to see the royals. The king and queen got in and out of their motorcade inside a tent, out of public view.

Meeting New York’s mayor Mamdani — who was born in Uganda, a former part of the British Empire, to parents from India, which achieved independence from British rule in 1947 — shook hands with the king, and the two appeared to greet each other warmly. They spoke only for a few seconds.

Earlier in the day, Mamdani said he hoped to keep the event’s focus on the victims of the “horrific terror attacks” and not try to pursue a political conversation. But pressed by a reporter, Mamdani had said that if he were to speak with Charles at a different place

and time, “I would probably encourage him to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond.”

The gem, one of the largest cut diamonds in

the world, is part of the Crown Jewels. Seized by the East India Co. after the Second Anglo-Sikh War of 1849, the gem was given to Queen Victoria and is on display in the Tower of London. Countries including India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan have claimed ownership.

Spending time with 9/11 victims’ loved ones

Anthoula Katsimatides was among the Sept. 11 victims’ relatives who spoke with the royal couple. Her brother, John Katsimatides, was a broker for Cantor Fitzgerald and died at the World Trade Center.

“I found it extremely sweet that I was allowed to hug the queen,” she said.

“She was quite endearing, as was the king. I also told him that I thought he was adorable.”

She said Charles told her he was surprised at the memorial site’s transformation since he last visited about 10 years ago. She said Camilla asked her if she came to the memorial often.

“I said that I do because I find it to be a place of peace and calm and also remembrance,” she said.

Before leaving the memorial, Charles and Camilla did not give any public remarks. The plaza has generally been off-limits to speeches by politicians or other public figures, with the annual commemoration ceremonies there featuring remarks only by the families and friends of the victims.

King visits an urban farming program

The king also toured an after-school, urban farming effort in Harlem that works with young people affected by food insecurity, and later planned to meet with business and financial leaders in Manhattan.

At Harlem Grown’s 134th Street Farm, Charles planted lavender and mustard seeds with primary school children and visited a chicken coop. He watched a live food demonstration that educated children about food and nutrition while showcasing vegetables harvested at the farm.

“I like your hair,” a student told the king, who replied, “Do you? Good.”

Later, the king attended a gathering of business leaders at Rockefeller Center, including executives from top American companies, including Google, OpenAI, JPMorgan Chase, and Comcast.

The queen, meanwhile, visited the New York Public Library, where she chatted quietly with actress Sarah Jessica Parker during a walk through the building as a crowd of onlookers watched from behind barricades across Fifth Avenue.

Camilla delivered a new Roo doll to add to the library’s famed collection of Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed animals, as the beloved children’s character turns 100 this year.

The five dolls currently on display — Winnie-thePooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore and Kanga — were the inspiration for the characters in A.A. Milne’s children’s books. They were owned by the English author’s son, the real-life Christopher Robin, in the 1920s. The dolls were donated to the library in 1987 and are a centrepiece of the library’s collection of children’s literature. Roo, in the books, was a small brown kangaroo and the son of Kanga. The royal couple then attend a reception for the King’s Trust, a charity Charles founded in 1976.

The four-day trip is Charles’ first state visit to the U.S. since he became king. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, made four state visits to the U.S. Monday, the king and queen joined President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump for tea at the White House.

On Tuesday, Charles and Trump had a closed-door meeting in the Oval Office. The king then delivered a rare speech before Congress -- the first by a British monarch since his late mother in 1991 -- followed by a formal state dinner at the White House. The monarchs are also expected to make stops in Virginia before wrapping up their U.S. visit back at the White House on Thursday with a formal farewell from Trump. Charles then travels solo to Bermuda on his first visit as king to a British overseas territory.

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Former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg, from left, Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit the 9/11 Memorial, yesterday in New York.

Photo: Seth Wenig/AP

Interna t lanoi Decn a y Parade

THE WORLD Dance Council Nassau Section celebrated International Dance Day with a vibrant parade from Pompey Square to Rawson Square. Students from across The Bahamas filled the streets to present their artistic talents and cultural diversity yesterday. As a UNESCO partner, the council organized this event to promote cultural exchange, creativity, and unity through dance.

Shawn Hanna

Photos:

The UAE's departure from OPEC shakes up the alliance that influences oil prices worldwide

By DAVID McHUGH AP Business Writer FRANKFURT, Germany

(AP)

Thedecision by the United Arab Emirates toleavetheOPECoilcartel shook up the 65-year-old alliancethatproducessome 40% ofthe world'scrude oil and exerts major influenceover theprice ofenergy around the globe.

The UAE said in the announcement Tuesday that when it leavesOPEC this Friday, it plansto carry on with its long-heldgoal of increasing crudeproduction "ina gradualand measured manner, aligned with demand and market conditions."

Right now,that's academicas faras oilprices go, since Iranis still blockingthe Straitof Hormuz, whichmeans muchofthe oilfromPersianGulfproducerssuchas the UAEcannot beexported. Butthe departure couldhave long-termeffects on oil prices.

Here's what to know about theUAE's decision to leave OPEC:

OPEC hassought to manage the price of oil

The Organizationof the Petroleum Exporting Countries was formed in Baghdad inSeptember 1960 by Iran,Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabiaand Venezuela. Ithas 12members counting the UAE thatholdmorethan80% oftheworld'sprovenoilreserves. Other members are Algeria,EquatorialGuinea, Gabon,Libya, Nigeriaand the Republic of the Congo.

The group, headquartered in Vienna, aims to regulateoil pricesbycoordinating increasesor decreases in production.

The goal hasbeen to keep prices highenough so member governmentscan balance their budgets and reap the benefitsof their naturalresources butnot sohighas tocausearecession inconsuming countries or to halt energy-consuming activity,a phenomenonknown asdemand destruction.

That approachhas sometimes drawnpushback fromleaders intheU.S., where the price of gasoline is highly political. President Donald Trumpat one point accused OPEC of "ripping offthe restof the

world,"andhispredecessor JoeBiden alsobadgered OPEC to produce more oil. OPECsays itsobjective is "to coordinate and unify petroleum policiesamong membercountries, inorder to secure fair and stable prices forpetroleum producers; anefficient, economicand regularsupply of petroleumto consuming nations;andafairreturnon capitaltothoseinvestingin the industry."

The creationof OPEC signaleda changefroma worldin whichWestern companies dominated the oilmarkettoonewherethe countries with the reserves took more control over their resources and profits. At times, OPEC's productionmoves havehad large effectson theglobal economy. In1973, itsArab members imposed an oil embargo on theU.S. and othercountries thatsupportedIsrael duringthe Yom KippurWar. Oil prices quadrupled, and longlines appearedat American gas stations. In2016, OPECjoined with another 10 oil-producing countries,the largest of which is Russia, to forman allianceknown as OPEC+.

The UAE chafed at the cartel's restrictions on production

The UAEis seeking

more independence in how much oil it sells. Cartels keeppriceshigher,butthey restrict members'earnings andmarket shareagainst non-cartel members.There hasbeen longstandingfriction between theUAE and SaudiArabia, thebiggest OPEC producer and de facto leader of the cartel.

One reasonfor producing morenow: Experts thinkoil consumptionwill peakincomingyearsasthe world transitionsto renewable energy sourcesthat do not emit carbon dioxide, the greenhouse gas that fuels climate change.

That means barrels underground could be worth moretodaythantheymight belater,whenoilconsumptiondeclines,sorestraining production might mean losing out on profits.

OPEC mightlose some of its leverage over prices

The UAE'swithdrawal removesone ofOPEC's few members with the ability toquickly increase production the mechanism through which the cartel managesoil prices, said Jorge Leon,head of geopolitical analysisat Rystad Energy.

"A structurallyweaker OPEC,with lesssparecapacity concentratedwithin the group,will findit increasingly difficult to calibrate supply and stabilize

3, 2022.

AP Photo/Lisa Leutner,

prices,"Leonsaid."Thenet effectpointstoamorefragmented supply landscape and a potentially more volatile oil market over time as OPEC'scapacity to smooth imbalancesdiminishes."

Departurewill notadd oil tothe marketwhile the strait is blocked IranisblockingtheStrait of Hormuz, the passage for tankers carrying a fifth of theworld'soil andgassupplies.That preventsmuch of theoil producedby Persian Gulfcountries suchas SaudiArabia andtheUAE fromgetting tocustomers. For theshort term,that's thebiggest issueaffecting oilprices,whichhaverisen sharply as a result.

If theUAE achievesits goalof producingmoreoil after thewar, thatcould speed a returnto prices levels more inline with thosebefore thewar,said Michael Brown,research strategist at Pepperstone foreign exchange brokerage.

"Asfor crudein thehere andnow, allthatreally matters iswhether the StraitofHormuzisopenor closed,"he said."Atpresent, it's essentially shut, tightening supplyconditionsday byday andprobably seeingbenchmarks continue togrind higheron a daily basis as well."

Hundreds march in Johannesburg against illegal migration as shops shut over looting fears

By MOGOMOTSI MAGOME and MICHELLE GUMEDE Associated Press

JOHANNESBURG (AP)

Hundreds ofSouth Africans took to the streets of Johannesburg on Wednesday to protest high levelsof illegalimmigration, which has fueled tensions betweenlocals and foreign nationals. The demonstration is part of abroader waveof protests, including in the capital, Pretoria,on Tuesday. Anti-immigration groupsare callingforthe strict enforcement of immigrationlaws andmassdeportations.

Asone ofAfrica'smost industrialized economies, South Africaattracts migrants both thosewho entered the country legally and illegally in searchof opportunities.

Theprotests inJohannesburg resulted inthe closure ofmany shops,ownedby both localsand migrants, dueto fearsofpotential

participated in the march.

Estimates ofmigrants who arein SouthAfrica illegally varysignificantly, with figures often cited of 3 to5 million.Accurateupto-date figures are contested as many of the foreigners lack legal status.

Anti-immigration groups argue that illegal immigrationcauses urbanovercrowding, labortensions, taxrevenue loss,andcrime and bordersecurity threats ina countrywhereunemployment exceeds 30%.

In some instances, antimigration groups have chased foreign nationals away from public health facilities, claimingthey were contributing toa shortage ofmedication andovercrowding.

The secretary-general of theUnited Nations,AntónioGuterres, recentlyexpressedconcern overreportsof xenophobicattacks and acts ofharassment and intimidation against migrants and foreign nationals in parts ofSouth Africa, including inKwaZulu-Natal

is part of a broader wave of protests, including in the capital, Pretoria, on Tuesday.

looting or opportunistic crimes.

Organized bythe anti-immigrationgroup Marchand March, it also attracted similar organizations, including Operation Dudula and politicalparties ActionSAand Patriotic Alliance.

"We arenot xenophobic, we just wantthe right thing to be donein South Africa, toput theSouthAfrican first.Wedo wanttolive with foreigners in our country,butthoseforeigners mustbe legallyinthe country," saidThemba Mabunda of ActionSA, who

AP

and Eastern Cape Province. An anti-migration march inEastern CapeProvince last month resultedin the violenttorching ofminibus taxis and public infrastructure,while allegedattacks onGhanaian nationalsin KwaZulu-Natal sparked a diplomaticincidentthatsaw South Africa's ambassador to Ghana summoned to explain the attacks.

South Africa deported 109,344 immigrantsliving inthe countryillegallyover the past twofinancial years as itramps upimmigration enforcement.

The logo of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is displayed outside of OPEC's headquarters in Vienna, Austria, March

File

South Africans protest against illegal migration, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

AP Photo/Themba Hadebe

South Africans protest against illegal migration, in Johannesburg, South Africa. The demonstration

Photo/Themba Hadebe