June 27th, 1929-May 12th, 2010
Decision Day: Bahamians head to polls to choose next govt
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMIANS go to the polls today to decide whether Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis secures the rare mandate for a second consecutive term, or whether they return the Free National Movement to power, extending the political ping-pong that has defined modern Bahamian elections.
The vote comes after a short, sharp campaign that exposed unease about the cost of living, immigration, election integrity and public accountability.
The Progressive Liberal Party enters the election asking voters to judge it on what it calls a record of economic recovery, improved international confidence, new investments, expanded opportunities and unfinished work. The Free National Movement is asking voters to deny the PLP a second term,
arguing that the Davis administration has failed to deliver promised reforms, failed to ease pressure on ordinary Bahamians and failed to govern with enough transparency.
The election will be fought across 41 constituencies after the addition of St James in western New Providence and Bimini and the Berry Islands. More than 209,000 Bahamians are registered to vote, a record figure that reflects both the stakes of the contest and the surge in late registrations that followed the prime minister’s decision to dissolve Parliament on April 8 and call an early election.
Mr Davis, who led the PLP to victory in 2021, called the election months before it was constitutionally due. That decision gave the governing party a chance to seek a fresh mandate while the economy is showing stronger headline indicators, including improved credit ratings and continued tourism-driven recovery.
But those national indicators sit beside the daily frustration many voters still feel over grocery prices, rent, light bills and healthcare strain.
The Davis administration has leaned heavily on the argument that the country is moving in the right direction. The PLP’s “Blueprint for Progress” has promised expanded worker protections, tighter immigration enforcement, a migrant health insurance scheme, a focus on artificial intelligence, more training opportunities, housing support and other programmes tied to the prime minister’s message of helping Bahamians “learn, earn and own”.
Mr Davis has framed the election as a choice between continuity and regression. In the campaign’s final stretch, he cast the FNM as unfit to govern and argued that the opposition lacks both the temperament and ideas needed to run the country.
Mr Pintard has tried to turn that attack back on the government, presenting the FNM as a cleaner, humbler and more accountable alternative. The FNM’s manifesto promises to
Officials promise smoother voting process at the polls
By LEANDRA ROLLE
ment officials say they expect voting to run more smoothly today than last month’s chaotic advanced poll, with enough results expected by 9pm to show how the next government is taking shape.
Geoffrey McPhee, the department’s election consultant, said officials have expanded voting locations, increased staffing and spread voters across more polling places after the advanced poll was marred by long lines and extended waits.
He said New Providence alone will have nearly 340 polling places today.
Mr McPhee said there could still be “surprises” that slow the process, but he expects enough results to be available tonight to show the direction of the election.
He urged voters to remain patient and respectful, saying wait times should be shorter than
those experienced during the advanced poll because voters will be spread across more locations and more election officials will be available to assist them.
Mr McPhee admitted officials underestimated turnout at last month’s advanced poll.
“We hear words like chaos, but those of us who witnessed it figured it was a difficult situation,” he said. “Yes, we probably could have designed something larger to accommodate many more persons, but to ramp up that quickly, it's easy to find buildings. It's not easy to find trained personnel to deal with voters as we expect them to.” Today’s general election follows weeks of complaints from the Free National Movement about the electoral process, voter fraud and the integrity of the voters register, concerns government officials have repeatedly dismissed.
Several people have been arrested in matters involving fraudulent identification. Government officials have said such concerns
can be addressed at polling stations, where party agents can challenge suspicious voters when names are called.
Addressing those concerns yesterday, Mr McPhee said identifying fake documents is not solely the department’s responsibility, but staff have been trained to spot irregularities and report suspected fraud to the relevant government agencies.
He said anyone who presents fraudulent documents will immediately be referred to police.
“We do our best and we do a very good job of identifying passports that are fraudulent, even the newer ones. We've been trained and when we do find them, basically report that back to the department of the government that's responsible for it.”
Officials have previously said they expect high voter turnout, with 209,264 people listed on the register. Nearly 40,000 voters have received biometric voter cards, according to the department.
remove VAT from everyday essentials, medical costs and educational supplies; introduce a national lottery; build at least 5,000 homes; hire 100 doctors and 200 nurses; expand healthcare; strengthen immigration enforcement; and begin rolling out the Freedom of Information Act within its first 90 days in office.
That FOIA pledge is politically potent because transparency has become one of the softest parts of the PLP’s record. The Davis administration came to office promising reforms, but several of the country’s long-discussed accountability measures remain incomplete or unimplemented. The prime minister has defended himself by framing transparency and accountability as matters of character and trust, but the opposition has used the delays to argue that the government has no serious appetite for scrutiny.
The campaign also unfolded against a troubling backdrop of fraud allegations and concern about the voters’ register. Over the last several months, several cases involving foreign nationals accused of possessing fraudulent voter cards or other government
documents reached the courts. Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson has repeatedly defended the integrity of the register, while opposition figures and third-party activists have continued to raise concerns. Those concerns intensified after long lines and administrative problems affected the advanced poll. PLP chairman Fred Mitchell rejected claims of chaos but conceded that waits were unacceptable and that election officials failed to properly calculate the number of booths, rooms and workers needed. International observers will be watching today’s vote. The campaign has not been without other controversies.
The Tribune reported that more than $200,000 in gift certificates distributed to Abaco residents in the names of PLP candidates and officials as Hurricane Dorian relief payments were funded by the Ministry of Finance, according to Premier Importers chief executive officer Chris Lleida.
The controversy was followed by reports that electricity bills for residents
of Grand Cay and Moore’s Island were wiped to zero two weeks before the election after Mr Davis visited the island and promised relief. The government said it intervened to resolve long-standing billing problems tied to Hurricane Dorian and the COVID19 pandemic. Critics called the timing suspicious, while former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham accused the PLP of trying to buy votes. The election has also exposed strains inside and around the two major parties.
Former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is running as an independent in Killarney after being denied an FNM nomination, while former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham returned to the campaign stage for the FNM and aimed some of his sharpest criticism at the possibility of PLP Fort Charlotte candidate Sebas Bastian rising in the party’s future leadership. The Coalition of Independents, led by Lincoln Bain, has tried to position itself as a break from the PLP-FNM cycle, though no third party has ever formed the government in an independent Bahamas.
PLP leader Philip ‘Brave’ Davis seeks to be returned as Prime Minister while FNM leader Michael Pintard asks to replace him.
PARLIAMENTARY REGISTRAR HEAD HARRISON THOMPSON
Davis urges voters to 'choose progress' at PLP’s final rally
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
THE Progressive Liberal Party closed its campaign last night with a final rally at Montagu Park as Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis made his last appeal before today’s general election.
Mr Davis, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, St Anne’s candidate Keno Wong, Centreville MP Jomo Campbell and Carmichael Road MP Keith Bell attended the event.
Several other party figures were absent, likely occupied with last-minute campaigning before voters head to the polls.
Mr Davis urged Bahamians to give the PLP another term to complete the work it started over the past four and a half years.
He thanked supporters and Bahamians for
backing him over the years, saying their prayers had helped sustain him during his tenure as prime minister.
“At the heart of our democracy is the ability to make a choice. And tomorrow the choice is clear: You can Choose Progress and Vote PLP,” he said.
“Or you can choose ‘Reset’ and go back. Over the many days and weeks of this campaign, we have shown you what we have achieved over the past four and half years.”
“We’ve told you of our plans and shown you what comes next and we’ve invited you to join with us, to partner with us, to build a better future for The Bahamas. My friends I trust you will do the right thing. I trust that you will choose progress.”
He welcomed the observers and said international groups had supported Bahamian elections for decades.
“I am happy and proud to say that they continue to be impressed with the strength of our democracy. They see the passion and respect that Bahamians bring to the process,” he said yesterday.
The rally ended with Mr Davis and a small group of his colleagues joining hands on stage while “Sign of a Victory” by R Kelly played.
Former Prime Minister Perry Christie also joined party members on stage in prayer as supporters celebrated and called for victory.
Mr Davis said he met over the weekend with international election observer groups from the Caribbean Community, the Commonwealth of Nations and the Organization of American States, which together represent 78 countries monitoring the election process.
PRIME Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis speaks at final rally before the general election. Photos: Shawn Hanna
Pintard promises change at final FNM rally
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
FNM leader Michael Pintard closed the party’s campaign last night with a sweeping pitch for change, opportunity and accountability, telling Bahamians on the eve of the general election that the Free National Movement offers “a different path to not only rescue a nation, but to create opportunities for thousands of Bahamians” struggling under the Davis administration.
Addressing a rally near the former Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre, Mr Pintard said the FNM’s central mission was to restore trust in government and give Bahamians a government that is honest, transparent and focused on improving their daily lives.
“Tonight, we’ve come to make the case that things can in fact be different,” he said. “We are asking you once again to invest your trust in a team that promises to serve you in humility, to be honest in the conduct and presiding over your affairs, and to be open and transparent with you about how decisions are made.”
Mr Pintard challenged the Davis administration over the billions collected in value added tax, questioning what Bahamians have received in return.
“They’ve earned a tremendous amount of money and we are left to ask: What have they done with the
money? What can we touch and feel that has made a difference in the most fundamental areas of our lives?” he said.
The FNM leader framed the election as a fight over opportunity, particularly for young Bahamians, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs and struggling families.
Speaking personally about growing up in a single-parent household and attending public schools, Mr Pintard reflected on his upbringing and credited his mother with helping shape his character and determination.
“I had no idea that one night I’d be on a stage at the last rally before a poll in one of the greatest countries on this side of glory,” he said.
Mr Pintard said government has a “duty of care” to help children and young people inherit a better future. He also warned against creating a society where success depends on political connections.
He highlighted the FNM’s plans to create 5,000 homes over five years, expand healthcare staffing with 100 additional doctors and more than 200 nurses, strengthen entrepreneurship through grants and loans, and diversify the economy beyond tourism and financial services.
Mr Pintard also emphasised food security, fisheries protection, technology development and economic opportunities in the blue and green
economy.
“We believe this country can grow on more than just tourism and financial services,” he said.
On governance, Mr Pintard pledged greater transparency and accountability, including implementing a Freedom of Information Act.
“I’m not scared of freedom of information because we ain’t going to be doing no crookedness,” he told supporters.
He also spoke forcefully on border protection and sovereignty, promising that Bahamians would receive
priority for jobs and eco-
nomic opportunities.
“We will never displace Bahamians who should have first option — first dibs — on all things in our country,” he said.
Mr Pintard urged supporters to remain committed at the polls, presenting the election as a defining moment for the country’s future.
Before Mr Pintard took the stage, former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham then urged Bahamians to vote the Davis administration out of office so a new government can examine
the country’s finances and citizenship records.
Mr Ingraham accused the Progressive Liberal Party administration of failing to address concerns about governance, public spending, fraudulent Bahamian passports, strained healthcare services and no-bid contracts.
The former prime minister asked whether the government had earned a second term.
“They haven't earned it, don't give it to them,” he said. “They have failed to properly address multiple allegations against
their governance, fraudulent Bahamian passports, excessive unexplained public expenditure, healthcare system in crisis, inadequate and inefficient public services."
He also said the government’s inability to consistently pay its bills and the award of “large numbers of no bid contracts for suspiciously exorbitant sums of money to a favored few are all good reasons” to deny the PLP a second term.
“It's time for someone else to check our books," he stressed. "Someone needs to check the books, the treasury, and somebody needs to check our citizenship record. If for no other reason, you vote tomorrow, vote for somebody else to have a look at the books."
Mr Ingraham also defended Mr Pintard against criticism that he lacks the experience to lead the country, arguing that most first-time prime ministers entered the post without experience in the top job.
He dismissed claims that Mr Pintard is not qualified to lead the country, noting that the FNM leader served in two Cabinet posts.
“I hear some of them talking about experience, and how critical it is for a prime minister to have experience,” Mr Ingraham said. “Well, the first thing is, nobody who gets elected for the first time has any experience as prime minister.”
FNM leader Michael Pintard gives his final speech prior to the general election. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
The Tribune Limited
NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI
“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH,
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
Publisher/Editor 1972-
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It’s time to do your civic duty
By Robert D Carron
SOME 63 years ago, the late crusading Editor & Publisher of The People’s Paper, Sir Etienne Dupuch, wrote, “Yesterday, I gave away the last of my three daughters. (referring to Eileen Dupuch-Carron) Today, I feel like the ‘father of the bride’.....the day after the night before”.
“If you have ever had this happy......but exhausting experience,” exclaimed Sir Etienne, “you’ll know what I’m taking about. If not, well........to hell with it.”
NO EDITORIAL NEEDED
Hope for a new Bahamas
EDITOR, The Tribune.
THE recent discourse surrounding Ingraham’s comments on Sebas has been widely misinterpreted. Far from being an attack, his speech serves as a somber confirmation of warnings issued by Myles Munroe and generations of philosophers: when evil and corruption infiltrate a nation’s governance and seize control, the country enters a terminal decline from which recovery becomes nearly impossible. Nigeria stands as a cautionary tale in Africa, and closer to home, Haiti offers a devastating example of this same truth. In the Bahamian context, Leslia represented the test; Sebas is the inevitable culmination. The facilitator of this crisis has been the Brave Davis administration and the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), whose governance has enabled a deeper rot. What I have labeled as the two criminal entities - the so-called Numbers Mafia and the Energy Mafia - have consolidated their power, and their combined effect on the Bahamas has been more destructive than slavery itself. Unlike the chattel slavery of the past, which extracted labor, these organisations have systematically drained the nation’s emotional, material, and - most critically - spiritual wealth. The mechanics of this extraction are tangible. Majority owners of oil companies have become among the largest landowners in the country, with both major political parties taking their side and refusing to extend justice to the citizenry. Now, the “numbers boys” have risen as the newest oligarchs, becoming the largest landlords to the very government that should regulate them. They acquire land through both purchase and grant, having effectively held previous administrations hostage. The wealth extraction is not a conspiracy theory; it is a lived reality. Yet, within this darkness, a flicker of possibility remains. One might call it divine intervention or simply a fortunate twist of fate. A new FNM administration led by a figure not directly tied to either of these new oligarchies may be the answer the Bahamas desperately needs. This would be a “Joshua moment” - the emergence of a leader willing to cross the Jordan River into a new Bahamas. Having worked alongside Michael Pintard personally over the years, I have found him sincere in his actions. We have labored together on volunteer projects where neither of us sought nor accepted recognition. I
believe that genuine change is possible under his leadership.
In his later years, Hubert Ingraham is evolving into a true statesman. He sees the dangerous trajectory of the nation and wishes to halt it. Age and experience may finally be bringing him to a maturity that prioritises country over party.
The Opposition must rally behind Pintard - not as a savior, but as a catalyst - and unite to hold him accountable to his promises. The PLP administration under Brave Davis has proven repeatedly that it does not listen to the public. This is no time for theatrics or political posturing; it is a moment for unity.
What is required is a fresh start and a hands-on approach to governance. Whether many accept this revelation or dismiss it, I believe we are witnessing the beginning of a new revolution - one that could match the transformative energy of the 1960s in the Bahamas.
The choice is clear: remain captive to the twin mafias of energy and numbers, or cross the Jordan together into a new, liberated nation.
A voter that believes in faith.
RABBI COMMON
ZENSE
Freeport, Grand Bahama May 7, 2026.
Difference between noise and leverage
EDITOR, The Tribune. MY fellow Bahamians, If power ignores protest… What actually forces it to listen?
We are living in a defining moment—one that calls not just for opinions, but for action rooted in unity, vigilance, and conviction. Public expression matters. Our voices matter. When we speak, when we gather, when we stand, we signal that we are watching—that we care deeply about the direction of our nation. Voices raised. Streets filled. Attention drawn. This is not meaningless. It is a visible challenge to the status quo. It is the sound of a people, refusing to be silent in the face of uncertainty. But let us be clear—systems do not only respond to visibility. They respond to pressure. Because attention and pressure are not always the same thing. There is a difference between noise and leverage. When daily operations continue as normal— when participation remains passive—the system absorbs the noise. It adjusts; it deflects; it carries on. But when citizens become fully engaged—when we actively protect the integrity of our democratic process—when
we refuse deception, reject manipulation, and demand accountability—the impact becomes immediate.
This is where we must shift.
We must raise our voices—but also anchor them in action. We must ensure that every vote cast reflects truth, fairness, and transparency. That no darkness, no hidden agenda, no force of division or wickedness in high places is allowed to corrupt what rightfully belongs to the people. We call for every scheme rooted in deception to be exposed, and every attempt to undermine our democracy to be cancelled and brought to light. We must acknowledge this truth: Bahamians are no longer asleep, no longer blindly loyal, and no longer falling for politricks dressed up as promises. The days of automatic allegiance are fading. People are thinking, questioning, and demanding better—and that shift must be protected, not discouraged. This is not a call to chaos. It is a call to order—a higher order of accountability, unity, and national responsibility.
So, the question before us is not just what is seen—but what is done.
What changes perception—
And what changes conditions?
Because both exist. But they operate differently. Now is the time to unify—not along party lines, not along personal interests—but around the shared principle that our elections must remain sacred. That the will of the people must not be diluted, bought, influenced, or stolen.
We must stand together—not divided by rhetoric, but strengthened by purpose.
Let this be the moment we choose vigilance over complacency.
Truth over convenience.
Unity over division.
Let this be the moment we move beyond noise— and become the leverage that ensures justice, integrity, and fairness prevail. The future of The Bahamas is not decided in silence. It is secured by a people who refuse to be deceived. Stand firm. Stay alert. And above all—stand together.
A PROUD BAHAMIAN Nassau, May 8, 2026.
Minister of Health must go
EDITOR, The Tribune.
MR Ortland Bodie’s published in the Tribune on 5th May, lists “the Fabulous 7” current cabinet ministers whom Mr Bodie recommends be returned to power.
One of Mr Bodie’s nominees for this privilege, is the Minister of Health. The Ministry of Health in the last four years, has been plagued with shortages of staff, medical supplies, ambulances, salary issues, lack of maintenance in medical facilities, health and safety issues in the medical facilities, lack of space/ beds in medical facilities, and non-functioning equipment, to name some of the problems reported in the media.
After his Four Years or so in office, what improved under Dr Darville’s watch in the Ministry of Health?
Take the PMH A&E facility for instance, where it has been “temporarily” situated in the main building for the past several years. When you enter there are a few corridors, and one room with perhaps 6 hospital beds.
The rest of the sick and wounded lie in back- toback gurneys along the narrow corridors. They may stay there moaning and groaning for up to two days, perhaps more. Men in some state of undress in the corridors try get out of the gurney
to go relieve themselves, but then are put back in the gurney. Some are restrained by having their arms tied to the gurney. They are waiting to be admitted to a ward. But there is no place on the public ward.
The temperature in these corridors is very cold, perhaps to combat germs and odors, and the patients disappear under blankets, head and all, if they are lucky enough to have them.
The medical staff attend to the patients as best they can, but there seems to be insufficient staff for the number of patients, or the space or equipment to provide care. And the caregivers or the patients themselves, start to complain about “nobody cares”, referring to the medical staff.
But the real the question is: did the Minister of Health care? Did the Prime Minister care?
With that thought, the nearly -dead in A&E rose to life, the mutes began to talk, and curses rained on our elected leaders. When the waiting game in A&E is no longer viable for the patient, for a price, you can be transferred to the private surgical ward. The Medical Staff in A&E are good at assisting with this. But this is not always a quick fix. On one occasion, the patient on their gurney was “lost in transit” in the labyrinth of PMH.
Fortunately search and rescue teams were sent out, and lost patient was found some hours later. By then, the emergency which brought the patient to A&E has gone to the next level.
How many patients who are admitted to A&E, die there, without receiving attention?
How many die when they are finally admitted to a Ward, because help comes too late?
How many are irreversibly harmed for lack of timely care? The Ministry of Health Budget received for 2024/2025 was $385,734,491: or Three-hundred and eighty-five million, Seven hundred and Thirty- four thousand, Four hundred and Ninety-one dollars. A $37.6 million increase to support Public Health programs and the Public Health Authority. How was this money applied? And how effective was it at saving or improving lives? In the private sector, employees who underperform are liable to be dismissed. Likewise, Government Ministers who fail to improve health care to save and protect lives, must also walk the plank. We deserve better. We deserve to have our tax money work for us.
VENI VIDI Nassau, May 5, 2026.
Man acquitted of sexually assaulting his young niece
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 29-YEAR-OLD man was acquitted yesterday of sexually assaulting his 11-year-old niece in 2021.
The defendant, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the minor, was found not guilty of incest in a 7-1 jury verdict before Justice
Darron Ellis. He was also found not guilty of indecent assault in a closer 6-2 jury verdict.
The defendant appeared relieved after the verdict and exchanged words with his counsel. The judge told him he was free to go.
The defendant was accused of having unlawful sexual intercourse with his niece at her grandparents’ house sometime in
October 2021. He was also accused of touching the girl’s private parts on December 13, 2021.
T’Shura Ambrose and Tylah Murray represented the prosecution. Dr K Melvin Munroe represented the accused yesterday, holding brief for defence attorney David Cash, who represented him during the trial.
Man remanded after shootout with off-duty police officer
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN accused of robbing and shooting at an off-duty officer outside a convenience store on Carmichael Road West last month was remanded to prison yesterday.
Prosecutors allege that Carlos Butler, 33, while armed with a handgun, robbed off-duty officer Sergeant 860 Lavardo Davis of $16,833.32, belonging to Abba Convenience Store, and his black 2013 Nissan Murano around 8pm on April 24. The accused allegedly shot at the officer after Sergeant Davis drew his service weapon and fired at him. Sergeant Davis was not injured during the exchange of gunfire, but the suspect received gunshot injuries to his legs, right arm and back. He was treated in the hospital. The officer’s vehicle also suffered gunshot damage. Butler was not required to enter a plea to charges of attempted murder, armed robbery and possession of a firearm with intent to put another in fear when
he appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Ancella Evans.
The accused was informed that his matter would proceed to the Supreme Court by way of a voluntary bill of indictment.
He was told of his right to apply for bail in the higher court.
Butler was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until his VBI is served on August 13.
Ciji Smith-Curry represented the accused. Inspector Deon Barr prosecuted the case.
Man sentenced to 18 months for Eleuthera police escape
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN who admitted escaping from an Eleuthera police station last week was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Travis Saunders, 26, escaped from the Bluff Police Station around 3pm while in custody in connection with a causing harm matter. Police had released a wanted poster for Saunders in connection with armed robbery and escape.
A 40-YEAR-OLD Eight Mile Rock woman was hospitalised on Sunday after she was found drifting in and out of consciousness in a bathtub following an apparent suicide attempt, police said.
According to initial reports, officers were alerted just before noon after an unidentified man contacted police and said his girlfriend had sent him
a text message indicating she had taken a significant amount of medication.
Police responded to a residence on Bartlett Hill, where they discovered the woman lying in a bathtub partially filled with water.
Officers said the woman told them she was ovearwhelmed by several personal challenges, including unemployment and learning that her 16-year-old daughter was pregnant. She allegedly admitted to ingesting prescribed pain medication in an attempt to escape her problems.
Emergency Medical Services personnel responded to the scene, administered medical assistance and transported the woman to hospital for further treatment and evaluation.
AMERICAN DROWNS WHILE SNORKELLING IN BIMINI
A 69-YEAR-OLD American tourist died on Sunday after becoming unresponsive while snorkelling in waters off Bimini, police said.
According to police, officers at the Alice Town Police Station were alerted shortly after 12.20pm by a ship agent who reported that a male passenger had become unresponsive during a snorkelling excursion and was transported to the local clinic.
Initial investigations
A CORRECTIONS
officer told police he struck an alleged gunman with his vehicle after the man reportedly opened fire on him outside a business establishment on Prince Charles Drive early Monday morning.
revealed that around 9.30am, the captain and crew of a snorkelling vessel departed a marina with 30 passengers for an excursion about four nautical miles south of South Bimini.
Police said that around 10.30am, during the excursion, one of the male passengers was discovered floating motionless in the water. The victim was immediately pulled from the water and several passengers,
firearm and discharged multiple shots in his direction.
who identified themselves as medical doctors, administered CPR as the vessel returned to shore. He was later taken to the local clinic, where resuscitation efforts continued. However, despite those efforts, he was pronounced dead by a physician shortly before noon.
Police said foul play is not suspected at this time. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
injuries to his right leg and neck.
Police said the officer then entered his grey Nissan Cube and struck the suspect with the vehicle, causing the firearm to land on the hood of the car. He subsequently drove to the police station, where the incident was reported and the weapon confiscated as evidence.
He was sentenced to 18 months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services for escape. He was also sentenced to six months for causing harm, to run concurrently. Inspector K Wilkinson prosecuted the case.
Last week, Raymond Hudson, 54, the man who allegedly helped Saunders escape, was charged and granted bail. Saunders pleaded guilty to escape and causing harm before Assistant Chief Magistrate Kara Turnquest-Deveaux.
Two men remanded over $6.4m Andros marijuana bust
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
TWO men were remanded to prison yesterday after they were accused of involvement in a $6.4m drug bust in waters off Andros last week.
Prosecutors allege that Dwayne Forbes, 52, and Yoshiko Baker, 32, conspired to import and imported 2,576lbs of hydroponic marijuana into The Bahamas between April 1 and May 4.
The drugs have an estimated street value of $6,440,000.
The accused were allegedly found with 86 crocus sacks containing the drugs in waters near Mars Bay,
Andros, and Green Cay at 2am on May 4. The defendants pleaded not guilty to possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply, conspiracy to possess dangerous drugs with intent to supply, importation of dangerous drugs and conspiracy to import dangerous drugs before Senior Magistrate Raquel Whyms.
The prosecutor, Sergeant 2257 Wilkinson, objected to bail because of the seriousness of the offences and the scale of the drug seizure.
The accused were remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services and told of their right to apply for bail in the Supreme Court.
The accused will return to Magistrate’s Court for mention on Friday. Ian Cargill represented them.
According to police, shortly after 1am, the serving member of the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services reported to the Elizabeth Estates Police Station that he became involved in an argument with a man who allegedly produced a
A short time later, a red Honda Fit carrying three men arrived at the station. One of the occupants was identified as the alleged shooter and complained of
A 44-YEAR-OLD man was stabbed multiple times and left in critical condition on Sunday after a violent confrontation with a relative in the Chippingham area, police said.
Police said the injured man arrived at the Nassau Street Police Station shortly after 5pm seeking help after the altercation. Emergency Medical Services treated him at the station before transporting him to hospital, where he
remains detained in critical condition.
According to police, the victim told officers he had been involved in an altercation with a male relative who lives at the same residence, along with two other men known to him.
While investigating at the residence on Albury Street, officers were approached by a man who claimed he became involved in a confrontation with the father of one of his siblings after the
The three men, ages 24, 27 and 34, were arrested and cautioned in connection with the incident.
Emergency Medical Services personnel responded to the station and examined the injured suspect before transporting him to hospital under police guard for further medical treatment. He is listed in fair condition.
Police are investigating the matter as a case of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
PRISON OFFICER STRIKES GUNMAN WITH CAR MAN ALLEGEDLY STABBED BY FAMILY MEMBER
man allegedly confronted his mother while armed with a sharp object.
The man told police the victim had a history of assaulting his mother and alleged that he intervened by disarming him during the dispute. During the struggle, he reportedly stabbed the man with the same weapon. Police said the suspect later handed over the sharp object to officers and was arrested and cautioned.
Sister demands answers after brother dies from bar beating
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
A MAN who returned home badly injured after an alleged attack at a bar off Faith Avenue, suffering extensive internal injuries and trauma throughout his body, died 13 days later in the hospital.
Demetrius Turnquest’s sister, Demertria, 31, said the 29-year-old was allegedly attacked by five men at a bar he frequented sometime between March 13 and March 14.
“It was bad. It was terrible,” she said of his condition.
Ms Turnquest said her brother returned home after the incident and told her and another sibling what happened.
“The quickest thing, the easiest thing to do was to call for an ambulance and try to figure out what was going on with him,” she said.
Mr Turnquest spent 13 days in critical condition on life support before he died.
Ms Turnquest said the family initially believed he might survive because he appeared to respond while in hospital.
“We had hopes that he was going to make it because, you know, when we talked to him, he would shake his head or blink his eyes or something or hold on to our hands”, she said. She said only one suspect is in police custody, while four others remain at large.
Ms Turnquest alleged the attack stemmed from a traffic accident involving one of the suspects about ten years ago. She said the men knew each other before the accident and lived in neighbouring subdivisions.
Frustrated by what she described as limited progress in the investigation, Ms Turnquest said the family turned to social media for information and support.
“I have persons texting me and sending messages on Facebook and WhatsApp,” she said.
“A lot of persons have been reaching out to me, and I’ve been gathering information.”
She said one of the alleged suspects contacted her on Sunday with information and said he wanted to clear his name.
Ms Turnquest said she gave police screenshots
and voice notes, but does not know what investigators have done with them.
She also said suspicious vehicles have been seen around the family’s home, leaving relatives uneasy.
“It's been a lot of suspicious vehicles coming around the yard and stuff. The police is aware of this
but never came in and said, ‘Oh, let them patrol the corner or anything of that sort’. So I feel like they're very nonchalant because it's not their family.”
Ms Turnquest said the family had already planned to relocate next year after her expected graduation from university.
She said she and her brother hoped to split their time between the United States and Canada while launching skincare manufacturing businesses. She described her brother, a freelance construction worker who also worked at fast-food restaurants, as a source of support for her business plans.
Ms Turnquest said his death devastated the family because it was unexpected.
Mr Turnquest had no children.
The Tribune contacted police for comment, but none was received up to press time.
Caribbean Princess passengers denied entry over Norovirus
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
PASSENGERS and crew aboard the Caribbean Princess were not permitted to disembark at the Nassau Cruise Port after Bahamian health officials confirmed an increase in onboard gastrointestinal illnesses linked to Norovirus infection, according to the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
The ministry said the National Communicable Diseases Surveillance Unit confirmed “an increase in onboard gastrointestinal illness and laboratory results indicating Norovirus infection” aboard the vessel.
Officials described the move as a precautionary measure intended to protect Nassau Cruise Port employees, tourism workers, and the wider Bahamian public while transmission
onboard remains under investigation.
The ministry described Norovirus as “highly contagious”, noting that it commonly spreads through contaminated hands, food, water, and surfaces.
“Norovirus is one of the most common viral causes of gastroenteritis worldwide and symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and low-grade fever,” the statement read.
Health officials encouraged members of the public to practice proper hygiene, including washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces using bleach solutions or other approved disinfectants.
The ministry also confirmed that one non-resident passenger was transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital for “an unrelated non-infectious medical condition” under
“strict infection prevention and control protocols”.
Officials further stressed that the matter is unrelated to hantavirus and has no connection to the MV Hondius, the cruise ship at the centre of a recent global hantavirus alert. Last week Friday, Health
and Wellness Minister
Dr Michael Darville said Bahamian officials were monitoring a World Health Organization alert after an outbreak aboard the MV Hondius reportedly left three passengers dead from suspected hantavirus infections.
At the time, Dr Darville said the vessel was not scheduled to visit The Bahamas or any Caribbean port and noted that no Bahamians were identified among passengers or crew.
Health officials said hantavirus is primarily spread through exposure to particles from rodent droppings and urine and is not easily transmitted from person to person, although international media reported the outbreak involved the Andes strain, which has been associated with human-to-human transmission.
DEMTRIUS TUNRNQUEST
CARIBBEAN Princess cruise ship at port at a Caribbean destination.
Ivoine
Ingraham • Facing Reality
We don’t need to be loud to be seen
All we need to be is polite and we would be remembered
THE true strength of a country is not measured by the height of its buildings, the size of its economy, or the influence of its politicians. The real strength of a nation is found in its people — ordinary citizens who understand that every action, every interaction, and every public display of behaviour contributes either to the peace and progress of the country or to its decline.
The Bahamas belongs to all of us equally.
It doesn’t belong to one class, one race, one political group, one island, or one social circle. Every Bahamian has an equal stake in this nation and an equal responsibility to preserve its dignity. That means every citizen must do their part to create an atmosphere where people feel safe, respected, comfortable, and proud to call this country home.
No one should feel intimidated to go anywhere in The Bahamas. No one should feel unwelcome because of where they come from, how they speak, what community they live in, or what social status they hold. A peaceful society is built when people can move freely without fear of humiliation, aggression, or harassment. That sense of ease and comfort is one of the greatest signs of a healthy nation.
At the same time, guests who visit our shores must also govern themselves accordingly and contribute positively to the country that hosts them. Hospitality does not mean surrendering our standards or tolerating disrespectful behaviour. Visitors should enjoy our islands, our culture, and our people, but they should also understand that maintaining peace, cleanliness, civility, and mutual respect is everyone’s responsibility.
Respect must go both ways. The law, above all else, must apply equally across the board. A nation begins to decay when people believe that certain individuals are above the law because of money, influence, politics, or social standing. Justice cannot survive where favouritism thrives. The rules must be for all people, under all circumstances, without exception. No one should receive special treatment while others are punished harshly for the same offences. Equality before the law is not merely a slogan, it’s the foundation of national stability.
A country cannot prosper when its citizens feel cheated by double standards. If laws are selectively enforced, resentment grows. Trust disappears. People begin to feel alienated from
their own institutions. But when citizens see fairness applied con sistently, it strengthens national unity because people feel protected rather than targeted. Patriotism is not only waving flags during cel ebrations, or shouting political slogans during election season. Real pat riotism is guarding the reputation of the country every single day. It means understanding that our behaviour reflects on the nation as a whole. Every rude encounter, every public disturbance, every act of aggression, every display of disorder creates impressions that linger far beyond the moment. In a tourism-driven country like The Bahamas, this is especially important. Millions of people visit our islands seeking peace, relaxation, warmth, beauty, and hospitality. They do not travel here to witness chaos, hostility, or uncontrolled public behaviour. They come looking for serenity. They come to escape stress. They come because The Bahamas has long been associated with warmth and pleasantness. Unfortunately, there are moments when boorish conduct damages that image. Loud, aggressive, and boisterous behaviour in public spaces should never be celebrated as entertainment or mistaken for strength. There is nothing admirable about disturbing public peace, intimidating others with aggression, or creating unnecessary tension in shared spaces.
That statement is not simply an old saying, it’s a truth that societies ignore at their peril.
Noise without purpose, confrontational attitudes, public vulgarity, and reckless behaviour create discomfort not only for visitors but for Bahamians themselves. Civility matters. Decorum matters.
Self-control matters.
A peaceful atmosphere is one of the greatest gifts a country can offer its people and its guests.
Many people underestimate how deeply public behaviour affects national perception.
Tourists remember how they felt in a place far more than what they saw. A visitor may forget the exact details of a hotel room or a restaurant meal, but they will never forget whether they felt welcomed, safe, relaxed, and respected. Likewise, they will remember if they felt uneasy, harassed, or
atmosphere created by its people. Politeness, courtesy, calmness, and respect are among the most powerful economic assets any tourism destination can possess. This is why behaviour in public matters so much. The way we speak to each other, the way we conduct ourselves in stores, on buses, in parking lots, on beaches, at events, and in our neighbourhoods, all contribute to the national environment. A pleasant society does not happen accidentally. It’s cultivated intentionally through discipline, mutual respect, and social standards that discourage conduct that disturbs the peace.
Parents, schools, churches, civic organisations, and
community leaders all have a role to play in teaching these values. Children should grow up understanding that manners are not signs of weakness. Courtesy is not outdated. Respecting public spaces is not optional. Learning how to communicate without hostility is a national
Too often, societies begin to glorify confrontation and confusion. People mistake loudness for confidence. Aggression becomes entertainment. Public disturbances become social media spectacles. But nations that normalize disorder eventually pay a price for it — socially, economically, and psychologically. Peaceful societies are not built by accident. They are built by people who consciously reject behaviour that creates instability. They are built by citizens who understand that every person has a duty to preserve harmony in shared spaces. They are built by leaders who promote unity rather than division. They are built by communities that value calmness over chaos.
The Bahamas has always possessed the ingredients for greatness: natural beauty, resilient people, cultural richness, and strong spiritual foundations. But
preserving that greatness requires vigilance. It requires us to guard not only our physical environment but also the emotional and social atmosphere of the nation.
Preservation is not only about protecting beaches and historic sites. It’s also about preserving civility, respect, order, and national pride. A dirty environment affects the spirit of a country, but so does a hostile atmosphere. A society where people constantly feel tense, disrespected, or intimidated cannot truly flourish.
Nothing beats a pleasant atmosphere. There is tremendous power in simple kindness. A smile, patience, respectful speech, and consideration for others create a ripple effect that spreads far beyond individual encounters. When people feel respected, they are more likely to extend respect to others. That’s how healthy societies sustain themselves.
The Bahamas should strive to become known not only for its beauty but also for its refinement, warmth, discipline, and civility. We should aspire to be a country where people feel peace the moment they arrive — not just because of the ocean breeze, but because of the conduct of the people themselves.
Every Bahamian has a role in shaping that future. We cannot leave national development solely in the hands of politicians or government agencies. Nation-building begins with ordinary people making conscious decisions every day to contribute positively to the environment around them.
Facing reality, the future of The Bahamas depends on whether we embrace that responsibility. Do we want to become a society known for courtesy, peace, fairness, and dignity? Or do we allow disorder, aggression, disrespect, and division to define us?
The answer lies not in grand speeches, but in daily conduct. A country moves forward when its people understand that peace is precious, respect is essential, and civility is strength. The Bahamas deserves nothing less.
Photo: Polina Tankilevitch/pexels
Man charged in White House correspondents’ dinner attack pleads not guilty
By MICHAEL KUNZELMAN Associated Press
A MAN accused of storming the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner while armed with guns and knives pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges that he attempted to kill President Donald Trump and fired a shotgun at a Secret Service officer who tried to stop the attack. Cole Tomas Allen was handcuffed and shackled and wearing an orange jail uniform when he appeared in federal court for his arraignment. Allen didn’t speak during the brief hearing. One of his attorneys entered the plea on his
behalf. Allen’s lawyers are asking US District Judge Trevor McFadden to disqualify at least two top Justice Department officials from direct involvement in prosecuting him because they could be considered victims or witnesses in the case, creating a potential conflict of interest.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and US Attorney Jeanine Pirro were attending the event when Allen ran through a security checkpoint and fired a shotgun at a Secret Service officer, authorities said. In a court filing last week, Allen’s attorneys argued that it creates at least the appearance of a conflict of interest for
Blanche and Pirro to be making any prosecutorial decisions in the case.
McFadden, a Trump nominee, didn’t rule from the bench on that question but asked Allen’s attorneys to elaborate on the possible scope of their recusal request. Defense attorney Eugene Ohm said the defense likely would seek to disqualify Pirro’s entire office from involvement in the case. Ohm acknowledged that a bid to disqualify the entire Justice Department would be unlikely.
“That would be quite a request,” the judge said.
McFadden gave prosecutors until May 22 to respond in writing to the defence’s request. The judge asked the government to specify whether it believes Pirro and Blanche could be considered victims in the case.
“That might add some clarity here,” McFadden said.
In their filing, Allen’s attorneys suggested that the appointment of a special prosecutor might be warranted. Allen is scheduled to return to court on June 29.
A Secret Service officer was shot once in a bullet-resistant vest during the April 25 attack at the Washington Hilton hotel, which disrupted and ultimately prompted an early end to one of the highest-profile annual events in the nation’s capital. The officer fired five shots but didn’t hit anybody, authorities said.
Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, was injured but was not shot.
Besides the attempted-assassination count, Allen also is charged with assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon and two additional firearms counts. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted of the attempted assassination charge alone.
Allen was placed on suicide watch after his arrest, but jail officials removed him from that status after several days. Allen’s attorneys complained that he had been unnecessarily confined in a padded room with constant lighting, repeatedly strip searched and placed in restraints outside his cell.
Allen told FBI agents that he didn’t expect to survive the attack, which could help explain why he was deemed to be a
possible suicide risk, a Justice Department prosecutor has said.
Allen was outfitted with an ammunition bag, a shoulder gun holster and a sheathed knife when he took a photo of himself in his room at the hotel just minutes before the attack, according to prosecutors. In a message that authorities say sheds light on his motive, Allen referred to himself as a “Friendly Federal Assassin” and alluded obliquely to grievances over a range of actions by Trump’s Republican administration. Authorities have alleged that Allen on April 6 reserved a room for himself at the Hilton where the event would be held weeks later under its typical tight security. He travelled by train cross-country from California, checking himself into the hotel a day before the dinner with a room reserved for the weekend.
Trump was rushed off the stage by his security team at the Saturday night event and appeared at the White House two hours later, still in his tuxedo, to talk about the attack and the suspect. “When you’re impactful, they go after you. When you’re not impactful, they leave you alone,” the president said. “They seem to think he was a lone wolf.”
This image contained in a court filing by the Department of Justice, April 29, 2026, shows Cole Tomas Allen, left, inside his hotel room, on Saturday, April 25, 2026 in Washington, using his cellphone to take a photograph of himself in the mirror. An enhanced version of the image is right. Photo: Department of Justice/AP
SPORTS
‘Jazz’ battling through difficult start to season
By JONATHAN BURROWS
Sports Reporter
JASRADO “Jazz”
Chisholm Jr continued to battle through a difficult start to the 2026 Major League Baseball season Monday night, going 1-for-4 with an RBI double as the New York Yankees fell 4-3 to the Milwaukee Brewers on a walk-off finish at American Family Field.
The Yankees dropped to 26-15 after Milwaukee completed the comeback victory in the ninth inning despite New York collecting six hits and drawing five walks.
Chisholm, batting out of the middle of the Yankees lineup, delivered one of the club’s key offensive moments with an RBI double that accounted for one of New York’s three runs.
He also struck out twice as the Yankees’ offence struggled to consistently generate pressure against Milwaukee pitching.
Aaron Judge supplied the Yankees’ biggest hit of the night with a solo home run, his 16th of the season, while Cody Bellinger scored once and reached base twice with a pair of walks.
Trent Grisham, Judge, Bellinger, Chisholm, Oswald Peraza and Jorbit Vivas each recorded hits for New York though the Yankees finished 0-for-several in key late-game opportunities and stranded multiple runners after Milwaukee’s
‘The
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor
bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
WHILE the men’s national basketball team is basically set for the final legs of the FIBA World Cup Qualifier, the wheels are now in motion for the women’s national team for the 2026 Centrobasket Tournament. The Bahamas Basketball Federation is working on the final touches for the men's national basketball team as they prepare to host Jamaica on Friday, July 3, and Puerto Rico on Monday, July 6, at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. The team is expected to be without the services of Chris DeMarco, who is now the head coach of the Women's National Basketball Association’s New York Liberty, featuring Grand Bahamian Jonquel Jones.
But it is anticipated that NBA players Chavano “Buddy” Hield, Deandre Ayton and Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe, along with Eric Gordon, Kai Jones, Dominic Bridgewater and Franco Miller Jr will lead an all-star
up over the final innings. Milwaukee was led offensively by Brice Turang, who
cast of players for Team Bahamas. It will be the first time since the last round of the qualifying tournament for the Olympic Games in Valencia, Spain, in 2024 that the BBF has assembled the majority of the top talent available in the country. The Bahamas lost out to Spain in the final for the final spot. The women’s national team, on the other hand, will be coming together since its third place finish at the Caribbean Basketball Championships in Guyana where the team finished third.
Yolett McPhee-McCuin, head coach of the University of Mississippi women's basketball team, is expected to return to coach the team, along with Donnie Culmer,. McPhee-McCuin coached the women's national team to the CBC title in 2016. In her absence, Culmer
coached the women's team to their third place finish at the 2025 CAC in Georgetown, Guyana. Now it's on to the Centrobasket Tournament, which is the first step on our road toward Olympic qualification, just like the men did in their quest in 2024. From the Centrobasket Tournament, scheduled for Managua, Nicaragua,
walks.
The Brewers struck for three runs in the fourth inning to erase an early Yankees advantage before
eventually winning it in the ninth.
New York starter Clarke Schmidt kept the game manageable through the middle innings, but the bullpen could not hold on late. David Bednar was charged with the loss after surrendering the winning run in the ninth inning.
For Chisholm, the performance represented another mixed outing during what has become an increasingly frustrating contract year.
The Bahamian second baseman entered the season openly discussing massive expectations for himself, including ambitions of a 50-home run, 50-stolen base campaign while also targeting a contract in the $350 million range as he approaches free agency. Instead, the early returns have been far below both his standards and the Yankees’ expectations. Following Monday’s game, Chisholm is hitting just above the Mendoza Line (.207 for the season) with only four home runs and modest run production despite already stealing 11 bases. While his speed has remained an impact tool, nearly every other offensive category has dipped sharply compared to last season. The underlying numbers have added to concerns surrounding his slow start.
Chisholm has ranked near the bottom tier of the league in several advanced offensive categories, including hard-hit percentage, barrel rate and average exit
MLB - SEE NEXT PAGE
July 12-18, the women can secure their qualification for the 2027 FIBA AmeriCup in San Salvador next July.
The Bahamas has been placed in Group A along with the Dominican Republic, Nicragua and Mexico. Group B will feature Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Guyana and the Virgin Islands.
Culmer, who is scheduled to begin practice 8pm Thursday at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium, said it's going to be a tall order to get the team ready, but he and the players are up to the task.
"The sky's the limit, but this is a big tournament," Culmer pointed out.
"We have Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and the USVI. They are all going to be competitive.
“We just have to prepare and go out there and let the chips fall where they may. We might be small, but we feel we can put together a solid team. Our guard play will be tremendous, but we will have to work on some size."
"We have a number of other players coming home for college later this month, so we should have a solid squad," said Collins, who will run the practice sessions until McPhee-McCuin joins them.
“As we continue this journey, we are inviting corporate partners and sponsors to join us in supporting the growth of our national programme. This is an opportunity to align with a team that represents pride, ambition, discipline, and the future of basketball on the regional stage.” The federation noted that partnership support will play a critical role in helping their athletes prepare and compete at the highest level while also creating meaningful visibility and community impact for sponsoring organisations. "We believe the future is bright for this team, and we welcome partners who want to be part of something special as we pursue success on the international stage," said BBF president Eugene Horton.
Culmer said Valerie Nesbitt and Lashann Higgs, who provided a 1-2 punch for Team Bahamas at the CBC Tournament, are expected to be out for practice along with collegiate sensation Rhema Collins.
bullpen tightened
went 2-for-4 with a home run and RBI, while rookie outfielder Blake Perkins added a two-run single that
proved decisive. William Contreras reached base three times with a hit and two
TOUGH START: New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge (99) reacts with Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr., centre, and Amed Rosario, right, after his home run during the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, May 10, 2026, in Milwaukee.
(AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps)
‘From the sporting arena to the political platform’
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
AS the doors open for the general election today, many eyes and ears will be opened to see and hear who transcended from the sporting arena to the political platform.
There are a number of sporting personalities who have made the threshold in their bid to offer themselves as political candidates with either the ruling Progressive Liberty Party, the opposition Free National Movement, the Coalition of Independents or as independents.
In some cases, there are enough candidates to form a basketball team, as well as there are some others who can carry their weight as individuals in sports such as track and field.
When it's all said and done, it will be interesting to see who emerged from the list where there are some key match-ups as well as some solo participants.
Here's a look at how they stack up:
Garden Hills
PLP - Mario Bowleg
Incumbent Member of Parliament, who served as the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture. He was a former basketball player at AF Adderley turned outstanding high school and men's national team coach as well as in the Women's New Providence Basketball Association
before becoming the immediate past president of the Bahamas Basketball Federation.
FNM - Ulrich ‘Rick’ Fox Former basketball player at Kingsway Academy who went on to play at Warsaw Community High School and then North Carolina where he was selected in the first round of the 1991 NBA draft by the Boston Celtics. As a small forward, he played with the Celtics until 1997 before he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers where he went on to win three NBA titles from 2000-2002. He played until he retired in 2004.
Bains & Grants Town PLP - Wayde Watson Although he was born in the constituency, Watson made his mark as a former high school basketball player in Grand Bahama before he got into coaching where he excelled at CC Sweeting and the Cybots in both the New Providence Basketball Association and the Bahamas Government Departmental Basketball Association. He also served as an assistant coach on the men's national basketball team and was a coach in the WNPA.
FNM - Jay Philippe Philippe, a native of the constituency, began his career playing for CC Sweeting and then recruited to play for Sunland Baptist in Grand Bahama He went off to play college basketball at Webber College and on his
return home, he began his coaching career at Sunland leading them to numerous titles, including the prestigious Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic. Philippe also served as coach on the Bahamas junior national basketball team and was a news editor at the Broadcasting Corporation of the Bahamas where he was a Sport360 talk show host. He also served as an assistant manager at the Ministry of Tourism where he was engaged in getting a number of international sporting events to come to The Bahamas.
South Beach
PLP - Bacchus Rolle
The incumbent MP for the constituency was a former Saints softball and basketball player at Kingsway Academy School before he attended the College of Charleston. On his return home, he continued to play both sports, in addition to baseball, and he eventually got into coaching with his first stint at his alma mater at Kingsway Academy. He is currently the head coach of the Mingoes men's basketball team at the University of the Bahamas where his wife and former outstanding basketball player Kiimberley Rolle is the athletic director.
Fox Hill
COI - Robert 'Bob' Brown Brown was a former sprinter for AF Adderley. He went on to Matando
State where he continued to compete. However, on his return home, he ventured into powerlifting. Brown became one of the top powerlifters in the country, competing alongside former international powerlifting champion Kevin 'One Ton' Woodside, albeit in different weight classes.
Central Grand Bahama
COI - Iram Lewis
The incumbent MP for the constituency when he was elected under the FNM where he also served as a former Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, was a renowned sprinter.
The former standout at Freeport High and Tuskegee University, was a member of the Bahamas' team at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia in the 100m and a member of the men's 4 x100m relay team at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia.
North Andros PLP - Leonardo Lightbourne
The incumbent MP for the constituency is a native of Andros, who became one of the island's biggest athletic stars both locally and internationally playing basketball.
The graduate of Liberty University was a former member of the men's national basketball team and he also played professional basketball in South America and Europe.
St James FNM - Shanendon
Cartwright
The outgoing member of Parliament for St Barnabas and the Deputy Leader of the FNM, began his career playing for St Augustine's College before he continued to excel as a point guard at Franklin Pierce University. He played sparingly on his return home before he ventured into business and then politics.
COI - Latoya Bain
A former middle distance runner at CC Sweeting, Bain went on to compete at the CARIFTA Games before enrolling at Oral Roberts University.
On her return home, she began teaching and served as a long-time coach at Claridge Primary. She also served as the immediate past president of the New Providence Public Primary Schools Sports Association.
Southern Shores
PLP - Obie Roberts
During the heydays of the Commonwealth American Football League, Obie Roberts played as the backup quarterback on the Citibank Pros, the most dominant team in the league, led by QB Michael Foster.
Pinewood
FNM - Denari Rolle
Although he wasn't a dominant figure, Rolle played at both the high school and in the NPBA in basketball. He was also a member of the Golden
Gates Native Baptist Church teams in the Baptist Sports Council. Mangrove Cay and South Andros
FNM - Julian Gibson
While he wasn't an ace on his team, Gibson pitched for a number of teams in the Eleuthera Softball Association. He eventually became a stringer for ZNS sports for the islands.
Golden Gates COI - Sharmaine Adderley
In her second go-around as a candidate, Adderley made her contributions as an all-round athlete coming out of CC Sweeting. She also played sparingly in various leagues in basketball, volleyball and softball.
St Barnabas
Independent - Michael Butler
A versatile player who excelled in just about every sport he competed in, Butler is now a certified coach in tennis and baseball, the latter of which he got to serve as the manager of the Bahamas Baseball Association men's national team that finished as the runners-up in 5-1 loss to Curacao at the 2025 Caribbean Baseball Cup in December at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium. There are some others, including incumbent Prime Minister and MP for Cat Island Philip 'Brave' Davis, who played some softball and baseball, back in the day.
Chisholm Jr battling through difficult start to MLB season
appeared determined to bet on himself heading into 2026.
velocity. His swing-andmiss numbers have also climbed significantly, with strikeouts continuing to pile up during key at-bats. Those struggles have started to carry over defensively as well. Widely viewed as one of the more athletic middle infielders in baseball, Chisholm has already posted negative defensive metrics this season after showing flashes of steadier play in 2025.
The contrast from last year has been significant as a season ago, Chisholm produced one of the best all-around campaigns of his career, blasting 31 home runs while stealing 31 bases and finishing with an OPS north of .800. That production helped fuel optimism that he could emerge as one of the Yankees’ long-term cornerstones entering this season.
Instead, the pressure surrounding his contract situation and public expectations may now be becoming part of the story.
At 28 years old and entering free agency, Chisholm
But through the first stretch of the season, opposing pitchers have consistently attacked holes in his swing while limiting the hard contact that powered his breakout stretches in previous years.
Even with the disappointing numbers, the Yankees continue to rely heavily on Chisholm’s athleticism and defensive versatility.
His speed remains a game-changing weapon, and New York still believes his offensive ceiling is too high to ignore.
But with top prospect George Lombard Jr continuing to develop in the minors and the Yankees chasing another postseason run, attention surrounding Chisholm’s future in the Bronx is beginning to grow louder.
There is still ample time for him to reverse course before the season reaches its midpoint.
However, performances like Monday night continue to reflect a
still searching for
in
player
rhythm
one of the most important seasons of his career.
NEW York Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr catches a fly ball during a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Friday, May 8, 2026, in Milwaukee.
(AP Photos/ Aaron Gash)
JAZZ Chisholm Jr., left, jumps out of the way after tagging Brewers’ Sal Frelick out at second base.
JAZZ Chisholm Jr. throws to first base against the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday, May 8, 2026, in Milwaukee.
Sorority honours topperforming young women with awards, scholarships
NASSAU — In a powerful celebration of academic excellence, leadership, and promise, the Eta Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® proudly recognized 45 of the nation’s top-performing 12th grade young women during its 48th Annual Honours Day Scholarship Programme.
Representing schools and islands across the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, these exceptional honourees participated in a transformative week of empowerment activities designed to prepare them for the next phase of their academic journeys.
Held under the theme “Future in Bloom,” the week featured a Leadership Summit and College Experience Workshop, Speech Competition Finals, and national engagement activities, including visits to the House of Assembly and the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. These experiences were intentionally curated to build confidence, expand exposure, and inspire purposeful leadership.
The chapter also welcomed distinguished international guests who shared in the week’s activities, including Quianna E.E. Christian and Karla Hall. Their presence added a global perspective to the programme and provided invaluable encouragement to the young women.
The week culminated in a grand Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the University of The Bahamas Performing Arts Center, where more than $500,000 in scholarships, book grants, and prizes were awarded.
Among the distinguished awardees were several standout young women whose achievements captured the spirit of excellence and service:
Vinceyah Burton of Grand Bahama Academy emerged as one of the programme’s most decorated honourees, earning the Linda Higgs-Swann Memorial Scholarship Award the Soaring in Leadership Award, and multiple academic recognitions, along with a scholarship to Florida Memorial University.
Uriel Knowles of C.R. Walker Senior High School secured a full tuition scholarship to Benedict College, while also demonstrating leadership in environmental stewardship.
Xaria Ingraham of Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Academy and Jacquay Saunders of Akhepran Academy were also awarded full tuition scholarships to Benedict College. reflecting their outstanding academic achievement.
Amanda Delhomme of St. John’s College received the Thomas Mason Scholarship to Philander Smith University, a full tuition award
recognizing her promise and potential.
In the area of service and innovation, Madison Carey of Bishop Michael Eldon School earned both the Muriel Eneas Community Service Award and the Soaring in STEM Award highlighting her commitment to community impact and scientific excellence.
Alexis Roberts of St. Augustine’s College was recognized with the Soaring in Sports Award, while Jaa Rolle of Aquinas College received the Soaring in the Arts Award and Yolanda Knowles of C.V. Bethel Senior High School was honoured with the Soaring in Entrepreneurship Award The spirit of sisterhood was exemplified by Ziarre Darville of St. George’s School, who received both the Sisterly Spirit Award and the Thelma McMillan Participation & Engagement Award, while Sierra Saunders of Jack Hayward Senior High School was named recipient of the Janet Jones Ballard Outstanding Family Island Award
Delivering an inspiring keynote address was Toni Seymour, Chief Executive Officer of Bahamas Power and Light (BPL). As the first Bahamian woman to hold this prestigious role in the company’s nearly 70-year history, Ms. Seymour represents a significant milestone in advancing women in STEM and leadership.
In her remarks to the honourees, Ms. Seymour encouraged them to embrace both courage and curiosity as they pursue their goals.
“Do not allow fear to limit your future. Walk boldly into every room, own your voice, and never underestimate the power of your potential. The path may not always be easy, but it will always be worth it.”
Her message resonated deeply with the young women, reinforcing the importance of resilience, innovation, and purpose.
This year’s Honours Day programme was expertly steered by D'Asante Small, who served as Chair, alongside Co-Chairs Gabrielle Conliffe and Krysti Campbell. Their leadership ensured a seamless and impactful experience for all participants, reflecting the chapter’s continued commitment to excellence in youth development.
Chapter President, Mrs. Ramona Wells, emphasized the broader impact of the programme, noting that Honours Day is about more than recognition.
“This programme ensures that every young woman leaves with opportunity, support, and a renewed sense of purpose. We are not just celebrating achievement—we are investing in the future of The Bahamas.”
For decades, the Eta Psi Omega Chapter has remained committed to
empowering young women through education and service. The Honours Day Scholarship Programme continues to serve as a flagship initiative, impacting generations through meaningful investment in academic success.
As these 45 honourees return to their respective schools and islands, they carry with them not only awards, but the confidence, exposure, and opportunities to lead and succeed.
St Augustine’s Sands earns Valedictorian
ACADEMIC excellence, leadership, and determination earned Jayden Sands, a 12th-grade student at St Augustine’s College, the distinction of valedictorian at the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Honours Day Convocation.
The achievement placed Jayden among the country’s top-performing male students after a competitive programme that brought together more than 70 young men from public and private schools across New Providence and the Family Islands.
The Honours Day Convocation is recognized as one of the Bahamas’ premier academic enrichment programmes for young men.
Throughout the weekend, participants engaged in fellowship activities, attended church services, and completed examinations in a variety of academic subjects
designed to challenge and assess their abilities.
For Jayden, the experience represented more than academic competition. He described the programme
as an important opportunity for students from different backgrounds and islands to connect, learn from one another, and build lasting relationships.
A well-rounded and highly motivated student, Jayden plans to pursue a degree in Accounting and Finance after graduating this year. His strong academic record has already earned him acceptance into several universities, including the University of The Bahamas, Drake University, St John’s University, Saint John's University, and the University of Florida.
Jayden also earned an impressive SAT score of 1470 and is preparing to sit 10 BGCSE examinations along with Advanced Placement courses in English Language and Composition and Calculus.
Beyond academics, he has remained actively involved in school and community life. His extracurricular activities include participation in the Gentlemen’s Club, the Build-a-Bridge Competition, Peer Tutoring,
the Student Christian Movement, and the Big Brother Programme. These activities reflect not only his academic discipline, but also his commitment to leadership, mentorship, and service.
Jayden’s accomplishment also continues a strong tradition of academic excellence at St Augustine’s College. He becomes the second consecutive student from the school to be named valedictorian at the Honours Day Convocation. Last year’s honouree, Daunte Butler, is currently studying biomedical engineering at Tulane University.
Jayden’s success highlights the growing achievements of young Bahamian men who continue to excel academically while making meaningful contributions to their schools and communities.
