woman & health
VENDORS EXCITED FOR LUCAYAN DEAL
Govt expects to sign on Thursday for sale of Grand Lucayan
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter
dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
AFTER years of economic uncertainty and repeated disappointments, Grand Bahama is bracing for what could be a pivotal turning point this week involving a potential sale of the Grand Lucayan Resort.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis is expected on the island on Thursday to announce the signing of a long-anticipated Heads of Agreement for the sale of the hotel property on the Lucaya strip. Representatives at Port Lucaya Marketplace have expressed excitement over the news and
SEARS TELLS SUPPORTERS HE WILL NOT SEEK RE-ELECTION
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor
rrolle@tribunemedia.net
IMMIGRATION Min-
ister Alfred Sears has told key supporters and members of the Progressive Liberal Party’s Fort Charlotte constituency association that he will not seek re-election, The Tribune understands.
Mr Sears, 72, revealed this to them last Tuesday during a meeting. The Tribune understands that former Bain and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson has been working to build support in Fort Charlotte and is the party’s front-runner for the nomination there.
No sign of investigation by govt agencies over foodborne illness
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
NEARLY two months after the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) publicly announced an investigation into a suspected foodborne illness — one linked to a viral video and an alleged death — no agency is taking responsibility, and it remains unclear whether any investigation ever actually occurred. In a March press release, the MOHW appeared to assign the probe to the Department of Environmental Health Services
Munroe: Insurance covers damages and loss of life if police are at fault
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe says third-party insurance will cover any damages or loss of life if police are found at fault in a traffic collision in Grand Bahama that killed a woman. He told The Tribune the police vehicle involved in Saturday’s crash had minimum third-party coverage, which includes property damage and bodily injury. If the officer is found
Magic Johnson makes surprise visit to young men’s mentorship programme
A MENTORSHIP programme for young men had a surprise guest on Saturday - NBA legend Magic Johnson.
The NexGen Young Men Mentorship Programme welcomed the sports star and business mogul, Earvin Johnson, better known as Magic, to the workshop on Saturday.
Mentees at the workshop, founded by Senator Ronald Duncombe, gathered for what they thought would be an ordinary session. Organisers said: “But when Mr. Johnson stepped
into the space, the atmosphere shifted—erupting into cheers, gasps, and standing ovations. His presence brought more than celebrity—it brought hope, purpose, and the reminder that greatness is within reach.”
Mr Johnson talked about overcoming adversity, building his business legacy, and embracing core values such as discipline, education and belief in oneself.
He said: “Your circumstances don’t define you—your choices do. Success starts with believing
that you belong in the room—and I’m here to tell you, you do.”
Among those in attendance were Minister of Education Glenys Hanna Martin, FNM leader Michael Pintard, South Beach MP Bacchus Rolle and Senator Darren Henfield.
Senator Duncombe said: “This was more than inspiration — it was transformation. We created NexGen not just to mentor, but to awaken the potential inside each young man. Today, Mr. Johnson didn’t
just speak to a room — he
sparked a revolution in the hearts of future trailblazers.
Our boys didn’t just meet a legend; they were reminded that they, too, are destined for greatness.”
All the mentees and government officials received a signed Lakers jersey as Mr Johnson posed for photos with those present. In his parting words, he said: “The world needs your greatness. Walk boldly in your purpose.”
For more information on NexGen, visit www.nexgenyoungmenprogram.com.
Vendors excited for Lucayan deal
said celebrations are being planned for what is hoped will be the beginning of an economic revival for the island and its tourism hub.
The news has been especially uplifting for straw vendors and tenants at Port Lucaya Marketplace (PLM), who have struggled for years amid Grand Bahama’s stagnant economy.
“There is a buzz in the air at the marketplace,” said Lorenzo McKenzie, president of the Straw Vendors Association at Port Lucaya Marketplace. “We are so excited about what’s going to happen for us in Port Lucaya and Grand Bahama on the whole. This is welcome news to know that we finally have a deal that is going to close at the hotel and that is going to bring business for the straw vendors and stores in Port Lucaya.”
The Grand Lucayan Resort has been the sole anchor property in Grand Bahama’s tourism industry since 2018, when it was initially sold to Hutchison Whampoa. However, the once bustling property, comprising of three hotels, has remained dormant following extensive damage by Hurricane Matthew in 2016.
In 2018, the Minnis-led Free National Movement government purchased the Grand Lucayan for $65 million with plans to resell it quickly.
In 2020, a deal was announced with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and the ITM Group to redevelop the property into a world-class resort. However, when the Progressive Liberal Party
took office in 2021, the Davis administration cancelled the agreement, saying it was not in the best interest of Bahamians and promised to find a more beneficial investor.
In 2022, the Davis administration announced a $100m purchase offer by Electra America Hospitality, but that deal fell through after the investors, described by DPM Chester Cooper as “good for Grand Bahama,” failed to meet the required due diligence deadline.
With Thursday’s anticipated signing, vendors are feeling hopeful again.
“Some are keeping their fingers and toes crossed,” said Mr McKenzie. “When things have not been happening for us as vendors for so long, for decades from Jeanne and Frances, and to hear that somebody is getting ready to do an investment in Port Lucaya, it is overwhelming. We don’t have no room for doubt because we have been doing bad for so long.”
Third-generation straw vendor Beverley Gray of Divine Crafts is cautiously optimistic.
“I have faith in God and I believe in God, but I am tired of hearing of potential sale,” she said. “When I see a copy of the deed and they show something on TV with the deed that it is sold, then that’s when I will believe it is sold,”
For longtime vendor Dorothy Pratt Bain, the news is a reason to celebrate.
“I am just overwhelmed over the sale of the Grand Lucayan that my
government is doing,” she said. Scieska Jones, Port Lucaya marketplace entertainment and marketing manager, invites residents throughout the island to come to the marketplace on Thursday evening when the Prime Minister makes the announcement. She said the Prime Minister would rush along with the Swinger’s Group, the New Year’s Day parade junkanoo winners, from the hotel’s Manor House to the market square. Entertainment will
include
“In October 2016,
ricane
Grand Bahama Island, in particular, the
area. As a result, the
ories Resort and
and the Grand Lucayan
and Golf Resort were forced to close their doors,” she said.
Port Lucaya Marketplace lost many of its tenants and many of the shop spaces there are vacant.
the Top Tier Band, DMAC, Limbo and Fire dancer Rocking Robin, as well as a spectacular fireworks show.
Hur-
Matthew devastated
Port Lucaya
Mem-
Casino
Beach
PORT Lucaya Marketplace vendor Dorothy Pratt Bain says she is excited by the anticipated announcement of the signing of a heads of agreement this week by the government for the sale of the Grand Lucayan Resort. Photo: Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport Reporter
Munroe: Insurance covers damages and loss of life if
police are at fault
The fatal collision happened as officers were responding to a drowning call. Their patrol unit collided with another vehicle on Queen’s Highway.
Althea Lashanda Mitchell, 30, was driving home from work. The impact mangled her vehicle, trapping her inside. Firefighters spent hours using hydraulic tools to recover her body. She died at the scene.
All officers in the patrol unit sustained injuries and were hospitalised.
Mr Munroe said a road traffic investigation is underway to determine liability. If warranted, charges will be filed and brought before the court.
He stressed that police are held to the same legal standards as civilians.
“There’s an ordinary investigation where they will come, they will photograph the scene, they will do a plan of the scene, and they will document their findings,” he said. “If there were people who were conscious on the scene, they
would have interviewed them at the time and people were injured and taken to the hospital, they will interview them once they are able to be interviewed.”
When asked about compensation, Munroe said: “That’s the purpose of insurance. Insurance indemnifies a driver against any liability for the consequences of an accident.”
He added: “Third party insurance deals with repairing a car, paying if there’s injury, damages for pain, suffering, suffering, loss of amenity, and the usual damages for injury to the person. If there’s a fatal accident, it pays for loss of dependency. So it just steps and whatever judgment the court would render on the driver, the insurer then steps in and pays.”
Ms Mitchell’s family voiced outrage at the emergency response time, saying she remained trapped in the wreckage for nearly five hours.
Mr Munroe said he had no information on how long it took to extricate her body.
SUMMARY JUDGEMENT DENIED FOR WOMAN CLAIMING INJURY ON JOB LEFT HER DISABLED
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor
A FORMER employee of Nassau Flight Services Ltd has sued the company, alleging she was left 100 percent disabled after being struck in the face by malfunctioning equipment, an incident she claims occurred because she was forced to perform a twoperson task alone during a staffing shortage.
The case unfolding in the Supreme Court centres on a workplace injury Mordina Ferguson sustained on June 28, 2018.
Ms Ferguson alleges she was seriously injured when the park brake handle of a faulty air conditioning unit “forcefully struck her to the right side of her face” as she attempted to mount it onto a tractor, a task she says she should not have been performing solo.
She contends that the incident was caused by the employer’s failure to provide adequate staffing, maintain safe equipment, or ensure proper safety protocols, including flagging malfunctioning machinery. Her claim is built on both negligence and alleged breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act, which mandates employers to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of their workers. In an affidavit, she claims
Nassau Flight Services paid for her medical treatment for roughly three years, sent her to doctors of their choosing, and only ceased support after a medical report declared her permanently disabled. She now argues that the company’s actions amount to an implicit admission of liability and says that the continued litigation has left her unable to pay for necessary further treatment.
Nonetheless, Justice Leif Farquharson denied Ferguson’s application for summary judgment last week, saying the defendant has demonstrated a real prospect of defending the claim at trial.
“The court is not entitled on an application for summary judgment to conduct a trial on documents without disclosure or crossexamination,” he noted, referencing English case law that supports the need for a full trial in complex factual disputes. Ms Ferguson’s legal team had argued that the company’s conduct and admissions effectively conceded liability and that only the quantum of damages remained at issue.
The defence, led by Roger Minnis and Roger Minnis II, maintains that her injury either did not happen in the manner alleged or may not have happened at all. They assert that maintenance records showed the equipment was
in working condition and that Ms Ferguson was not working alone, citing internal emails from a company investigation and eyewitness accounts.
The company further argues that its previous financial support was not an admission of responsibility but an act of compassion.
General manager Ricardo Rolle, in an affidavit, dismissed the claim that the company’s conduct amounts to an acknowledgement of liability.
He said the internal investigation, conducted shortly after the incident, concluded that the brake in question was functioning properly and suggested that if any injury occurred, it resulted from Ms Ferguson’s negligence in failing to secure the brake before walking away.
Ms Ferguson relies in part on medical evidence from Dr Clyde Munnings, who supported her claim of total disability. The defence, however, has not submitted its medical expert and questions the objectivity of Dr Munnings’ findings.
Ultimately, the court ruled that there are multiple unresolved factual and legal issues, including whether the accident happened as described, the extent of the claimant’s injuries, and the condition of the equipment involved, that must be determined at trial.
BREEF marks Earth Day with snorkel and beach clean-up
T HE Bahamas Reef
Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) held a community snorkel and beach clean-up on Saturday, April 26, at Saunders Beach.
The event was in collaboration with Beachlink 242 and the Sustainable Development Goals Unit Ambassador and Climate Change Ambassador and was to mark Earth Day.
Using detailed surveys, volunteers recorded the
most common items, with plastic debris—especially bottle caps—being the most frequently collected waste. Participants also learned about local fisheries regulations, invasive species, and coastal degradation. Heather Brockbank, BREEF’s outreach officer, said: “This Earth Day we are taking the initiative to support our planet by cleaning up our coasts and our beaches
and bringing together our communities for a common purpose. These BREEF snorkels emphasise the importance of protecting our coasts and being engaged in really understanding how we are protecting our environment.”
Following the cleanup, snorkellers took to the water to explore the water off Saunders Beach. To learn more, follow @ breef242 on social media.
NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTER WAYNE MUNROE
Sears tells supporters he will not seek re-election
The Tribune could not reach Mr Sears yesterday.
“Look here, there’s been a lot of speculation,” he told Eyewitness News when asked about his political future last week. “I have no comments about any of the speculation. All I say is watch me.”
Asked if he was still thinking about it, he told the reporter: “No comments is no comments. However you phrase it, however you formulate the question, it’s no comment. Just watch me. Watch the community. The future will always be brighter than the past. That’s the commitment I have, and that’s the commitment we’ve made.”
MICAL MP Basil McIntosh and North Eleuthera MP Sylvanus Petty are the only PLPs to publicly confirm that they will not seek re-election. House of Assembly Speaker Patricia Deveaux, the Bamboo Town MP, has said she
is unsure about running again. Mr Sears entered frontline politics in 2002, winning the Fort Charlotte seat for the PLP. He served as Attorney General and Minister of Education, Science and Technology during that term. In 2017, former Prime Minister Perry Christie crushed his leadership ambitions, defeating him by receiving 87 percent of the vote. He has kept a low profile in the Davis administration. He was initially appointed Minister of Works and Utilities. In a Cabinet reshuffle in September 2023, he was appointed Minister of Immigration and National Insurance.
Prominent PLP supporters in Fort Charlotte were tightlipped yesterday about the future of their constituency representation. Those who spoke to The Tribune praised Mr Sears’ representation but said he lacked adequate support from the party.
No sign of investigation by govt agencies over foodborne illness
(DEHS), citing their jurisdiction over environmental and sanitation matters. But when a Tribune reporter visited DEHS yesterday, a secretary there first said the director
had no comment, and later redirected all inquiries to the Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority (BAHFSA) — a body that had never been publicly named in connection to the case.
Contacted by The
Tribune, a BAHFSA board member and its director both claimed to be unfamiliar with the investigation and did not respond to further questions before press time.
BAHFSA, which typically oversees agricultural
imports and food safety standards,not clinical cases. The MOHW’s original March statement mentioned that clinical matters were under its remit, and sanitation under DEHS, but it has yet to clarify who
— if anyone — is actively investigating. Eric Gibson Jr, whose business was targeted in the viral video, said he was never contacted by any authority, nor were any samples collected from his establishment.
He maintains the accusations are malicious and offered a $5,000 reward for information about the video’s origin. In April, he repeated his frustration over the lack of clarity regarding the supposed investigation.
FNM’s Fire service plaN called ‘political showMaNship grouNded iN Fic tioN’
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net
THE Davis administration sharply rebuked FNM Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright’s proposed $10m fire reform plan yesterday, calling it “political showmanship grounded in fiction” and “laughably inaccurate”.
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe and Minister of State Leon Lundy slammed the FNM’s plan to deliver 25 fire trucks and a firefighting aircraft as “wildly off
base”, saying the Opposition never consulted the agencies responsible for frontline emergency response before making their announcement.
The ministers offered cost breakdowns to refute the FNM’s estimates: a single aerial ladder truck exceeds $1.2m USD; pumpers range between $700,000 and $800,000 each; and a full package of 21 trucks under current procurement totals $14.7m USD.
A basic aerial firefighting aircraft, the Air Tractor AT-802F, costs around $3m, while more
advanced amphibious models like the CL-415 SuperScooper range from $30-45m.
Mr Cartwright’s plan includes creating a stand-alone fire department reporting directly to high-level leadership, developing a trained volunteer brigade, and instituting a “five-minute response time” model, funded by cutting luxury government travel and scrapping the Prime Minister’s private plane.
But Mr Munroe and Mr Lundy pushed back hard, warning that Mr Cartwright’s plan lacks
technical and operational grounding.
“Sound public policy cannot be shaped in the absence of technical advice, operational knowledge, or real data,” their statement said.
The ministers emphasised that the Davis administration is pursuing a structured national upgrade of fire services
based on “real numbers, professional assessments, and strategic planning,” and reiterated their commitment to supporting the Royal Bahamas Police Force Fire Branch with new training and resources.
“The Bahamian people expect mature leadership and serious proposals — particularly when dealing
with critical national infrastructure,” they said.
“While the Opposition is free to make suggestions, those suggestions must be rooted in fact, grounded in consultation, and aligned with the country’s fiscal and operational realities. Unfortunately, this recent announcement by the FNM fails on all counts.”
IMMIGRATION MINISTER ALFRED SEARS
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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Where does the buck stop?
WHEN Fred Canfil visited the Federal Reformatory at El Reno, Oklahoma, in the 1940s, something caught his eye.
Canfil was a US Marshal in Missouri, and he saw something that he thought would suit his friend Harry. It was a sign. Canfil asked the warden at the reformatory if one could be made for his friend. So said, so done, and the sign, mounted on a walnut base was sent to Canfil’s friend.
The sign read “The buck stops here”, and that friend, Harry, was better known as President Truman.
That sign took its place on the president’s desk, and became something he would refer to from time to time.
In 1952, he said: “You know, it’s easy for the Monday morning quarterback to say what the coach should have done, after the coach should have done, after the game is over. But when the decision is up before you – and on my desk I have a motto which says ‘The Buck Stops Here’ – the decision has to be made. “
On another occasion, he said: “The President – whoever he is – has to decide. He can’t pass the buck to anybody. No one else can do the deciding for him. That’s his job.”
As far as President Truman was concerned, the buck passing ended at his desk, and decisions were made.
In today’s Tribune, you can read of a remarkable example of buck passing. You may remember that back in March, a claim circulated about a case of serious foodborne illness – even a death was alleged on social media.
One business, Bahama Grill, lashed out at “petty-minded cowards”, claiming that false and malicious information was being spread. The Ministry of Health and Wellness said it was investigating. The Department of Environmental Health Services seemed to be the ones who would be
handling the probe. So what happened next?
When The Tribune asked yesterday, first we were told no comment and then told that actually, all inquiries must go to the Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority.
No one had even mentioned that authority before – as opposed to the one specifically names which now seemed to be, you guessed it, passing the buck.
Off we went to the agricultural authority, where a board member and its director shrugged and said they knew nothing about it.
Who is actually investigating? Trying to find out seems to have unearthed a host of Shaggy tribute acts saying “it wasn’t me”.
Where does the buck stop? There’s no sign of it stopping moving yet.
The business that lashed out at the rumours is run by Eric Gibson Jr, who has said he was never contacted by any authority nor any samples collected from his restaurant.
There are two things here – first of all, what kind of world is it where a business can be subject to such unsubstantiated allegations and have to defend itself, while the government announces a probe, lending some air of authenticity to the claims, which it then never bothers carrying out?
And secondly, what if there is a real investigation that needs to take place? How can we be confident of our food safety when an officially announced probe ends with a collection of pointing fingers and shrugging shoulders?
Eric Gibson Jr deserves an apology from authorities for leaving him hanging without a response, and the Bahamian public deserves to know that allegations over food safety are taken seriously.
Who will offer that reassurance? Well, let’s see where the buck stops.
Trade services
EDITOR, The Tribune.
PICTURE OF THE DAY
Predicting PLP win over FNM
EDITOR, The Tribune.
TWO of our more prominent political figures passed away in recent times: the Hon John Henry Bostwick, KC and former FNM Senator Rodney Moncur. Mind you, all of us who are currently living in this dispensation, will eventually die’ if The Lord continues to tarry. Physical death is inevitable and unavoidable. There are other categories of “death” that exist in the human realm. Physical death may be peaceful, where one dies in his or her sleep in their or someone else’s bed. Others might die while undergoing medical procedures and others, unfortunately, many simply die as a result of an unexpected stroke or seizure. Many more will die a violent death as a result of crime or a homicide. Which ever way it comes, we are all on that road into eternity. Human beings who are “right” in their minds seek to “avoid”, in vain, death like the plague. Most of you reading this want to get to Heaven but few of you all would elect to die so as to get there. We should be aware of what we have here on Earth as opposed to going across The Jordan to be, possibly, disappointed in the fabled amenities over there. It is very seldom that one commits, deliberately, suicides. The political death which looms large in the near future of the once “unbeatable” FNM is, in my view, just around the
corner. The current de facto “leader” of the FNM, Michael Clifton Pintard (FNM-Marco City), et al, has indicated in no uncertain terms that Dr Hubert A Minnis (FNM-Killarney), the current MP for a major New Providence based constituency; former leader of the defunct FNM, de facto and de jure and a former Prime Minister will not be granted or warded a renomination by “his” party. Dr Minnis, on the other hand, has indicated that come hell or high water, he will offer again in Killarney. The stage is being set for political blood to flow on the Moon and elsewhere. No one in the FNM’s crumbling leadership ranks has ever explained why Dr Minnis has been denied or will be a re-nomination. If this is, in fact, the case, it would be unprecedented in the annals of Bahamian politics. No former leader cum Prime Minister of any political party has ever been treated so shabbily in public. Minnis is being treated worse than a stepchild. What are the options for Minnis? Not many.
Minnis could simply pack up his Georgie bundle; exit the FNM and offer as an Independent. If the FNM were to run an opposing candidate, as well as the
Coalition of Independents and the PLP, the PLP, more than likely, will, finally capture Killarney. The broken doors of the FNM have been shut tight right in front of Minnis’s face. It is unlikely that Mr Lincoln Bain and the COI would embrace Minnis, much less Minnis embracing them. The PLP, with all due respect, does not want to align with Minnis and, in fact, there is no room in the PLP for him. As an Independent, Minnis will capture a large number of voters but not enough to deny a victory to the Davis led PLP in Killarney. There will be political bloodletting within the FNM and there will, I submit, figuratively, be “blood” on the Moon.
Minnis has enjoyed a charmed political life and deserves to be treated with decorum and respect, despite his sometimesabrupt mannerism. Based on my observations on the ground here in New Providence, the PLP will carry 18 to 20 constituencies. The party would need only to secure seven or eight seats in The Family Islands to ensure that it is reelected to a second consecutive term in office if the bold agenda set out by the Hon Philip “Brave” Davis, MP, KC (PLP-Cat Island) is to be achieved. To God then, in all things, be the glory.
in need of regulation Happy for Grand Lucayan sale
I WRITE to you today as a concerned and frustrated homeowner, but more importantly, as a citizen who believes that urgent reform is needed in how trade services are regulated and delivered in our country. This morning, I was met with a shocking increase in the cost of a service I had recently received a quote for—tripling in price without explanation. Unfortunately, this experience is not uncommon. Across The Bahamas, many residents—especially women—are being targeted and taken advantage of by unregulated trade providers. Whether it’s electricians, plumbers, mechanics, HVAC technicians, gas technicians, auto mechanics, roofers, carpenters, AC & Refrigeration Technician, or tilers, we are all at the mercy of arbitrary pricing and inconsistent service quality. What’s even more troubling is that homeowners are often forced to pay twice or even three times for the same service, as each new worker discredits the work of the last. There is no central standard, no quality assurance, and no
accountability. This results in financial exploitation, poor workmanship, and eroded trust in the trades as a profession. This lack of regulation: Harms consumers, both financially and emotionally. Undermines the professionalism of skilled Bahamian tradesmen who do try to do the right thing. Discourages trust and long-term relationships between service providers and homeowners.
In most developed nations, trade professionals must: Be certified through accredited training programs, Complete annual professional development, Adhere to regulated pricing structures, and Be held accountable through licensing boards or consumer protection agencies. The Bahamas urgently needs the same. We must establish a formal regulatory framework that governs pricing, qualifications, and service standards across all trades. This would not only protect consumers but also uplift the trades as a professional and respected career
path.
Additionally, I urge the Ministry to spearhead a national campaign encouraging more young Bahamians to pursue careers in the trades. Today, we are witnessing a troubling trend: more foreigners than Bahamians are entering and dominating this space, while local talent is either overlooked or not encouraged to pursue these valuable and very lucrative careers. This not only affects our economy but also compromises national pride and sustainability in workforce development. The trades are essential to our country’s infrastructure and future. It is time we treat them with the dignity, structure, and oversight they deserve.
I am prepared to lend my support, time, and voice to this cause in any way necessary. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your leadership in creating a more fair, professional, and accountable trade services industry in The Bahamas.
TANYA RAHMING Nassau, May 6, 2025.
EDITOR, The Tribune. I CANNOT tell you how elated and cautiously optimistic I am after hearing about the announcement that the Progressive Liberal Party government will be signing a head of agreement with a prospective purchaser of the Grand Lucayan Resort in Freeport. If this deal is a bonafide, legitimate one, it might just possibly revitalise Port Lucaya and the entire Freeport area. Since its opening approximately 25 years ago under the auspices of Hutchinson Whampoa, the Grand
Lucayan Resort has never lived up to its potential like its counterpart the former Princess Resort and Casino. Coupled with the soon to open Carnival Key and the planned development of the old Xanadu Beach Resort by Royal Caribbean International and the planned development of a $80m cruise port and water park at Freeport Harbour by MSC and the ITM Group, Freeport seems poised to explode into an economic boom - the likes of which that city hasn’t experienced since the 1960s when it was dubbed the Magic City
ORTLAND H BODIE, Jr Nassau, May 9, 2025.
under City founder Wallace Groves. If Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis is able to get these deals up and running, he would have accomplished what former Prime Ministers Hubert Ingraham, Perry Christie and Dr Hubert Minnis were all unable to do, which is to revitalise a dying Grand Bahama economy. If Davis turns Freeport around, he will make a believer out of this writer.
KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama May 11, 2025.
THE ATALA butterfly, Eumaeus atala, is a small colourful butterfly in the family Lycaenidae. The species almost became extinct, but now is being reintroduced to the environment. Photo: Wagner
Moncur: A rare realist
A LYRICIST wrote, “They don’t know you until you’re dead,” which is most appropriate for our departed brother and activist, Senator Rodney Moncur. People say the nicest things after you are gone, but you cannot hear them.
For decades, Senator Moncur fearlessly championed the cause of low-income people, often standing alone in his fight. His courage, alongside his comrades Nicola Jacques, Neil Stubbs, and others from “Black Village”, formed a united front. Despite being dismissed as a group of grass-heads, their unwavering determination was a beacon of inspiration.
He brought colour to his TV audience, bold enough to recant the dates of incidents and kept receipts of names. These actions unmasked those careless with the truth and caused many to run for the hills. He exposed those masquerading as “holier than thou” because of their superiority complex and false social status.
Moncur’s famous quote, “They were not saved”, incinuated that the people less qualified to judge others should keep quiet. They even labelled him as bipolar, of which he joked that he did not buy any polar.
But Moncur soldiered on, displaying the courage that has escaped most men in public life in The Bahamas today. Many have sacrificed their testicular fortitude for a bowl of porridge and genuflected to saying yes when they meant no while hiding behind people’s bad memories.
Rodney skillfully disguised his wealth of knowledge, sometimes giving the impression that
FACING REALITY
he was joking. He knew more law than many who wore the white wig. Many loved him, but maybe the same number hated him, especially when he publicly castigated his party. On the other hand, some objected to his appointments for petty political reasons. Moncur was bold and calculating, expressing his thoughts and the consensus of many who were afraid to speak. He screamed at the top of his lungs, “Hang murderers”, a position that the majority of the country wants, but are simply cowards and would suffer in silence because they did not want to offend the powers that be. Moncur was adamant that three older men, world apart, should not have the power to make decisions for The Bahamas. The unpopular subject lost its public support for hanging because few wanted to show support for him. Moncur said that the only way the killings would stop would be to hang a few to discourage the practice of man’s inhumanity to man. Still, some justified that it was not a deterrent.
Moncur even took on those who kept clamouring for marital rape to be given a more serious attention. He said emphatically that a wife must submit to her husband. He believed it was biblical and that the woman had no more say because, “and the two shall become one”. There seemed to be some dragging of the feet; he never let it die by bringing it up often on his show, sparking meaningful conversations about gender equality and women’s rights. Moncur swam against the tide. Although some pretended to support him, he knew they never accepted him in their social settings. They talked about him as if he were less than. Many would want us to believe that he was deranged. Still, soon, he proved that he was more astute than they were willing to accept and exceptionally knowledgeable
MAN ACCUSED OF UNLAWFUL SEX WITH TEEN GIRL
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 35-YEAR-OLD man was remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of sexually molesting a 14-year-old girl on four occasions over the past month.
Rashad Troy Rolle was arraigned on three counts of unlawful sexual intercourse before Senior Magistrate
Algernon Allen Jr. He is alleged to have engaged in unlawful sexual intercourse with the underage girl on four separate occasions between April 1 and May 8 in New Providence. Rolle was not required to enter a plea. He was informed that the case would proceed to the Supreme Court via a Voluntary Bill of Indictment (VBI).
about the Constitution.
On many occasions, Moncur quoted the law and even exposed how little some sitting lawyers knew. Moncur referred to himself as a “Justice of the Peace” and sarcastically threw that in the faces of those with a superiority complex.
In the later years, we all realised and appreciated that many prominent people consulted and confided in him. But Rodney had difficulty keeping some information if pressed to prove his statement was true.
We should not forget when Loretta Butler-Turner, in the face of the norm, destroyed the status quo by appointing Rodney Moncur, whom many treated with contempt, to the senate. Some even doubted ButlerTurner’s mental state when making such an appointment, which was a big blow
He was also advised of his right to apply for bail through the higher court.
The accused will be held at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the VBI is potentially served on August 6 before Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans.
Sergeant 3004 Forbes served as the prosecutor, while Alphonso Lewis represented the defendant.
TWO CHARGED WITH DRUG AND FIREARM POSSESSION
By PAVEL BAILEY
Tribune Staff Reporter
TWO men were granted $12,000 bail yesterday after being accused of possessing two firearms, ammunition, and a large quantity of drugs discovered at their Parkgate Road residence last week. Adrian Ferguson, 27, and Amieh Simmons, 26, were arraigned before Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley. They faced charges of possession of unlicensed firearms with intent to supply, possession of
ammunition with intent to supply, three counts of possession of ammunition, cultivation of dangerous drugs, and two counts of possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply.
Prosecutors allege that during a search of the defendants’ residence on May 9, police found a black Glock .45 pistol, a black P80 9mm pistol, 42 rounds of 9mm ammunition, three .40 rounds, eight 7.62 rounds, nine .45 rounds, and three 12-gauge rounds. The defendants were also allegedly found with seven grams and eight
ounces of marijuana packaged separately, along with a marijuana plant.
Both accused pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Inspector Deon Barr, serving as the prosecutor, confirmed that neither defendant had any prior convictions.
Bail was set at $12,000 each, with one or two sureties. As part of their bail conditions, the pair will be fitted with electronic monitoring devices and must report to the Wulff Road Police Station every Friday by 6 p.m.
The trial is scheduled to begin on August 19–20.
MAN ACCUSED OF SEXUALLY ASSAULTING WOMAN
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 24-YEAR-OLD man was remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of sexually assaulting a 27-year-old woman last week.
They looked at him and laughed in his face, less than human. He knew who the three players were, but they miscalculated him and his potential. He knew what they said behind his back, but held his hand close to his chest. They did not see him coming. He skillfully rubbed shoulders with the most powerful but kept his common touch.
While few political figures can claim to have truly fought for the people, Rodney Moncur was a rare exception. In his unique way, he demonstrated his love for the downtrodden daily. His unwavering commitment to advocacy earned him the people’s trust, and his legacy inspired hope for a more just society. He graciously led “the women’s dem”.
to the elitism plaguing the Bahamas. Rodney was not from one of the familiar families or any prestigious organisations, so how could he be allowed to rub shoulders with aristocrats? He didn’t belong there. Rodney joked about his ascension to the senatorship and his experience with so much food in the smoker’s gallery. His mental state far surpassed that of many who came into his space. He was light years ahead of many, but they could not appreciate it because he was not dripping with the pieces of paper that some would die for hanging on their walls. Moncur played the game; they thought little of him, so he acted the part and laughed out loud because the joke was on them.
Our society has done a significant job categorising people. They treat us with a great degree of disrespect.
Rodney Moncur is a living example of what it truly means to serve the people. His unique contributions, which no accolade can fully capture, have left an indelible mark on our community. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us; we are eternally grateful.
Our interactions were sometimes confrontational, with strong opinions clashing. Still, facing reality, there were times when I found myself in agreement, and many more when I did not. Yet, in the quiet moments of reflection, I always appreciated his unwavering commitment to truth-telling, which earned my respect. It takes a lot to impress me, and Rodney Moncur was one of the few who did so. His wealth of knowledge and pure and unfiltered expressions left me in awe. He was a rare breed, a man with the courage of a lion. A void is left.
Welkendy Knowles was arraigned before Senior Magistrate Kara Turnquest-Deveaux on a charge of rape. He is alleged to have raped the woman in New Providence on May 5. Knowles was not required to enter a plea. He was informed that the case would proceed to the Supreme Court by way of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). He was also advised of his right to apply for bail through the higher court. Knowles will remain in custody at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until his VBI hearing, scheduled for August 6 before Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans.
Assistant Superintendent of Police S. Coakley is the prosecutor in the case.
BY IVOINE INGRAHAM
RODNEY MONCUR
ANN MARIE DAVIS, of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, addressed the Fifth Annual Resilience Angel Mixer at Pelican Bay Hotel on Thursday, held to honour its many volunteers and sponsors. Mrs. Davis was patron of the event.
Photo: Andrew Miller/BIS
VE Day celebrated - but Europe under new threat
HAVING been directly responsible for the detailed organisation of the events in Britain for the 50th anniversary of VE Day in 1995, it was fascinating to watch last week’s commemorations and celebrations on the occasion of its 80th anniversary. As a reminder, VE Day on May 8, 1945, marked the victory of the Allies over Germany after nearly six years of the Second World War. The conflict against the Japanese in the Pacific did not end until August that year.
Following Germany’s unconditional surrender, celebrations took place in Britain and the wider Europe with street parties, dancing and singing. It was described as a joyous occasion after so much prolonged hardship and pain.
The commemoration and celebration of VE Day was also a sombre reminder of the immense loss of life. Victory over Germany was a triumph over dictatorship, hatred, territorial expansionism by the Third Reich and horrific crimes against humanity.
By all accounts, the events in Britain over the course of last week were impressively well organised and the whole programme was judged to have been a tremendous success. It culminated in a moving and emotional speech by King Charles at the concert on the final evening on London’s Horse Guards Parade. This was mainly a tribute to the veterans. It also harked back to the speech by King George VI on May 8, 1945, in which he expressed his profound relief that the war in Europe had finally
The Peter Young column
ended.
This time, the King highlighted the profound impact of the Second World War – now often referred to as WW2 - on virtually everyone and the debt those left behind owed to those who lost their lives in the conflict. He also emphasised the importance of unity among nations, races, religions and ideologies and called for new commitments to peace and diplomacy together with increased efforts to prevent conflict, with the world becoming rededicated to the cause of freedom. Meanwhile, the sad fact is that not all countries in Europe necessarily wished to celebrate VE Day in this way. For some, in the words of one former senior NATO figure, it was more like a funeral. While in Britain, the US, France, and other like-minded nations, VE Day represented a welcome return to liberty, democracy and an end to
the Nazi threat, people living in central and eastern Europe emerged from German occupation only to end up under communist regimes - for example, the western part of what was then Czechoslovakia was liberated by US troops, but the rest of the country was overtaken by those of the Soviet Union. Moreover, history shows that the pledge by the USSR leader, Joseph Stalin,
Emergence of a new Pope
HOW interesting it was to watch live on the BBC last week the white smoke emerge from the chimney of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel signifying that the period of waiting for the huge crowd in St Peter’s Square, estimated to be more than 50,000, was over. A new Pope, the first American pontiff in history, had been elected as the successor to Pope Francis in the traditional fashion by a College of Cardinals. This was a significant moment for the rest of the world as well as the Catholic Church because the Pope is a major figure globally.
History shows that these conclaves are famously unpredictable. The one last week was said to be the most diverse in recent times which indicated a new era for the Catholic Church. But, reportedly, the election of Pope Leo XIV, who was born in Chicago but has lived much of his life overseas, was achieved after only four ballots by a consensus – a required twothirds of the vote - of the 133 cardinals; and, apparently, this was considered quite a fast process. It was a significant
occasion, too, for the city of Rome itself given that the Pope is also its Bishop. Standing on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica in front of the crowd in the square below him, the new Pope delivered his first address, surely directed as well to the 1.4 billion Catholics around the world. He spoke of peace, dialogue, and working together, building bridges and helping people who are suffering. His subsequent remarks during the last few days also suggest that he will continue the work of his predecessor by becoming very much a “People’s Pope”. Since his election last week, there has been so much media coverage of the new multilingual Pope, who is generally considered to be most capable and experienced and a safe pair of hands, that there is no need for more comment about him today. It might be worth mentioning, however, that commentators agree that he seems to be the sort of person with whom others will be able to relate because he possesses the same personal qualities as Pope Francis and believes in the importance
of treating others with dignity and respect.
One aspect of his life that does not seem to have attracted much publicity in the US media is the fact that, according to the Vatican News, Robert Prevost is the first Augustine friar to become Pope. This is considered by some commentators to be a surprise because, reportedly, he held several leadership roles within the Catholic Order of St Augustine, which is said to be a small Order with members in some forty-five countries. Apparently, an Augustine friar normally serves with humility inside his own country and is unlikely to take on a major responsibility in the upper echelons of the Catholic Church, let alone become Pope. It is clear that the election of a new Pope has generated huge global attention. It seems that people worldwide will now be eager to see how the new pontiff will lead the Catholic Church as he embarks on his new role – not only how he handles current issues but also how he shapes the Church’s future direction.
friend of the West – and, significantly, between them they could not even agree when to mark VE Day. The latter has always celebrated it a day later on May 9. Indeed, that day is the country’s most important state holiday when it honours its forefathers who defeated Hitler in what the Russians call “The Great Patriotic War”, during the course of which, following Nazi Gernany’s invasion in 1941, 27 million Russians perished, including both military and civilian casualties.
This year’s celebratory event in Moscow was a huge, triumphalist parade of military hardware and marching troops showing off Russia’s military might; and this inevitably posed questions about its inability to defeat Ukraine’s armed forces.
that the post-war US policy towards Europe - and, indeed, the wider world as, for example, many years later in Vietnam - was based on the need, as Washington saw it, to ward off expansionism by the USSR and by home-grown communist parties. The Marshall Plan to rebuild the shattered continent and the creation of NATO quickly followed the war. It was against this background that the rulesbased order for the world was also created, with the US as the anchor of the whole system.
at the Yalta Conference in 1945 to allow free elections in Poland, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria, as well as Czechoslovakia, was not honoured and the Soviet Union effectively took over Eastern Europe.
After WW2, the idea of a “West” made up of countries sharing security goals and values was born. Despite being on the same side during the war, the then Soviet Union was no
Putin was able to show off his military muscle and convey his country’s deep sense of national pride to foreign dignitaries since some twenty international leaders were present, including China’s Xi Jinping who was on a state visit and the prime minister of Slovakia who was the only EU leader to attend. This representation contrasted with the absence of any such dignitaries in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine. It is therefore seen by many as an indication that Putin has successfully worked his way back onto the world stage. Looking at the broader picture and going back more than 80 years, strong transatlantic bonds were forged during and after WW2. Historians maintain
Until now, European nations have viewed the US as their closest friend on whom they could rely as the leader of the socalled free world. But, under President Trump, all that has changed. Public opinion in some Western countries now even regards the White House as a threat to peace and security in Europe.
One reason for this view is a fear that Trump’s public attitude towards Putin may embolden him to attack other countries mainly within Russia’s sphere of influence. But it goes wider than that as people cannot understand why the US appears to be turning its back on its own creation and shaping of the rules-based order. This is widely seen in Europe as an extraordinary turnaround.
There is insufficient space to analyse this subject further today. But it is such a serious issue that – depending on other developments - it might be worth returning to it separately in a future column.
FURTHER STRENGTHENING OF GOOD RELATIONS
THE Bahamas National Family Island Regatta held annually in George Town, Exuma, is said to be the oldest and largest regatta in the country. As the most prestigious sailing event where sailors from every major island gather to compete, it is claimed to represent traditional Bahamian sloop sailing at its best, and it brings together the communities of Exuma along with national and international visitors for days of sloop sailing competition.
The evidence suggests that the festive spirit of the event fosters community spirit and helps to inspire young people to engage in sailing which, as everyone knows, requires skill, discipline and perseverance. It has deep roots in Bahamian culture and is now, of course, the country’s national sport.
It was, therefore, most interesting to receive a press release from the British High Commission about its own participation in the 69th annual Exuma Regatta in the last few days of April.
At this year’s event, the High Commission hosted its third annual British Pavilion which created a welcoming space for sailors, visiting government ministers and others to gather. Interestingly, these included Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fred Mitchell, Minister of National Security, Wayne Munroe and John Pinder, MP for Central and South Abaco.
The event was also a fitting opportunity to celebrate “The Independence”. This is the E-Class sloop donated by the High Commission in honour of The Bahamas’ 50th Anniversary of Independence two years ago. High Commissioner Thomas Hartley commented that it was a joy to see the
vessel sailing again in Exuma’s glistening waters and this was a testament to the enduring friendship between The Bahamas and Britain. He also said the High Commission was “committed to supporting initiatives that celebrate the country’s cultural heritage and foster youth empowerment. The regatta exemplifies the value of tradition and camaraderie that resonates throughout the Islands”. He went on to say that “the High Commission was honoured to have been able to participate in the Exuma Regatta and “looks forward to further opportunities to celebrate the Bahamas’ vibrant heritage”.
As so often in this weekly column, there is insufficient space to do justice to subjects about which there is so much to write. But, at the risk of exceeding my allocation, I should like to draw attention to the effective series of initiatives Thomas Hartley has taken to foster cooperation between The Bahamas and the UK and to congratulate him. I have already written separately in this column about some of these and I understand there are new ones in the pipeline.
As well as representing their country in appropriate ways, the role of diplomats is to promote and protect the interests of their own country acrossthe-board. In doing this, they not only conduct their government’s business with the receiving country but are always looking for ways to provide more substance to, and improve, the bilateral relationship at every level.
The Exuma Regatta is a good example – and people will surely be looking forward to the promise of other initiatives to come.
BRITAIN’s King Charles III salutes military personnel at the presentation of the New Standards at Windsor Castle, Windsor, England yesterday.
Photo: Chris Jackson/AP
POPE Leo XIV appears at the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica for his first Sunday blessing after his election, in St Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Sunday.
Photo: Gregorio Borgia/AP
US and China reach a deal to slash sky-high tariffs for now
GENEVA Associated Press
THE United States and China agreed Monday to slash their massive recent tariffs, restarting stalled trade between the world’s two biggest economies and setting off a rally in global financial markets.
But the de-escalation in President Donald Trump’s trade wars did nothing to resolve underlying differences between Beijing and Washington. The deal lasts 90 days, creating time for US and Chinese negotiators to reach a more substantive agreement. But the pause also leaves tariffs higher than before Trump started ramping them up last month. And businesses and investors must contend with uncertainty about whether the truce will last.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the US agreed to drop the 145% tax Trump imposed last month to 30%. China agreed to lower its tariff rate on US goods to 10% from 125%.
A DEAL AVERTS A TOTAL BLOCKADE
Greer and Treasury
Secretary Scott Bessent announced the tariff reductions at a news conference in Geneva.
The officials struck a positive tone as they said the two sides had set up consultations to continue discussing their trade issues. Bessent said that the triple-digit tariffs the two countries imposed on each other last month — in an escalation of tensions Trump started — amounted to “the equivalent of an embargo, and neither side wants that. We do want trade.’’
The delegations, escorted around town and guarded by scores of Swiss police, met for at least a dozen hours on both days of the weekend at a sunbaked 18th-century villa that serves as the official residence of the Swiss ambassador to the United
Nations in Geneva.
At times, the delegation leaders broke away from their staffs and settled into sofas on the villa’s patios overlooking Lake Geneva, helping deepen personal ties in the effort to reach a much-sought deal.
FINALLY, A DEAL
The 30% levy that America is now imposing on Chinese goods includes an existing 20% tariff intended to pressure China into doing more to prevent the synthetic opioid fentanyl from entering the United States. It also includes the same 10% “baseline’’ tariff Trump has slapped on imports from most of the world’s countries. The 30% tax comes on top of other levies on China, including some left over from Trump’s first term and kept by former President Joe Biden.
Trump had ratcheted the combined tariff to 145% last
month, furious that China was retaliating, before backing down Monday.
China’s Commerce Ministry called the agreement an important step for the resolution of the two countries’ differences and said it lays the foundation for further cooperation.
“This initiative aligns with the expectations of producers and consumers in both countries and serves the interests of both nations as well as the common interests of the world,” a ministry statement said.
China hopes the US will stop “the erroneous practice of unilateral tariff hikes” and work with China to safeguard the development of economic and trade relations, injecting more certainty and stability into the global economy, the ministry said.
The joint statement by the two countries said China also agreed to suspend or remove other
measures it has taken since April 2 in response to the US tariffs. China has increased export controls on rare earths, including some critical to the defence industry, and added more American companies to its export control and unreliable entity lists, restricting their business with and in China.
Markets rally as two sides de-escalate
The full impact on the complicated tariffs and other trade penalties enacted by Washington and Beijing remains unclear. And much depends on whether they will find ways to bridge longstanding differences during the 90-day suspension.
Bessent said in an interview with CNBC that US and Chinese officials will meet again in a few weeks.
But investors rejoiced as trade envoys from the world’s two biggest
economies blinked.
Futures for the S&P 500 jumped 2.6% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 2%. Oil prices surged more than $1.60 a barrel, and the dollar gained against the euro and the Japanese yen.
“This is a substantial de-escalation,” said Mark Williams, chief Asia economist at Capital Economics. But he warned “there is no guarantee that the 90-day truce will give way to a lasting ceasefire.”
Dani Rodrik, an economist at Harvard University, said that the two countries had stepped back “from a needless trade war’’ but that US tariffs on China remain high at 30% “and will mainly hurt US consumers.’’
“Trump has obtained absolutely nothing from China for all the chaos he generated. Zilch,’’ Rodrik wrote, posting on Bluesky. Craig Singleton, senior
director of the China program at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said the speed at which the agreement came about suggested that “both sides were more economically boxed in than they let on.”
“For China, the economic pain was real: Rising unemployment, capital flight, and export orders falling at their fastest rate in nearly two years,” Singleton said. “For Trump, markets mattered, and this deal gives him a win without abandoning leverage.”
The announcement by the US and China sent shares surging, with US futures jumping more than 2%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index surged nearly 3%, and benchmarks in Germany and France were both up 0.7%
“The drop from skyhigh to merely high tariffs, along with the uncertainty about the path of future tariffs, will still serve as a constraint on trade and investment flows between the two economies,” said Eswar Prasad, professor of trade policy at Cornell University.
“Nevertheless, it is a positive omen for the world economy that US tariffs might eventually end up as significant trade barriers but not unsurmountable walls,’’ he said.
Jay Foreman — CEO of Basic Fun, the Floridabased company behind such toys as Care Bears and Tonka trucks — said he was relieved to see the tariff rate on Chinese goods now down to 30%. But he wants that to drop to 10%.
Foreman said he’d just advised his team in China to release its toy shipments, which had been paused since early April. Before Monday’s deal, he said, he thought he’d have to double prices — but they’ll still go up, by 10% to 15% for the third and fourth quarters.
“It’s like they tried to feed us a rotten egg sandwich and hope we’re happy to drink spoiled milk instead,” Foreman said.
Trump signs executive order setting 30-day deadline for drugmakers to lower prescription drug costs
WASHINGTON Associated Press
PRESIDENT Donald Trump on Monday signed a sweeping executive order setting a 30-day deadline for drugmakers to electively lower the cost of prescription drugs in the US or face new limits down the road over what the government will pay. The order calls on the health department, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to broker new price tags for drugs over the next month. If deals are not reached, Kennedy will be tasked with developing a new rule that ties the price the US pays for medications to lower prices paid by other countries.
“We’re going to equalize,” Trump said during a Monday morning press conference. “We’re all going to pay the same. We’re going to pay what Europe pays.”
It’s unclear what — if any — impact the Republican president’s executive order will have on millions of Americans who have private health insurance. The federal government has the most power to shape the price it pays for drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid.
Trump’s promised new — but uncertain — savings on drug prices, just hours after the Republican-led House released its new plan to trim $880 billion from Medicaid.
Taxpayers spend hundreds of billions of dollars on prescription drugs, injectables, transfusions and other medications every year through Medicare, which covers nearly 70 million older Americans. Medicaid, which provides nearly-free health
care for almost 80 million poor and disabled people in the US also spends tens of billions of dollars each year for drugs.
Top US drugmakers say Trump’s order is bad for patients
The nation’s pharmaceutical lobby, which represents the top US drugmakers, immediately pushed back against Trump’s order, calling it a “bad deal” for American patients. Drugmakers have long argued that any threats to their profits could impact the research they do to develop new drugs.
“Importing foreign prices from socialist countries would be a bad deal for American patients and workers,” Stephen J. Ubl, the president and CEO of PhRMA, said in a statement. “It would mean less treatments and cures and would jeopardize the hundreds of billions our member companies are planning to invest in America.”
Trump’s so-called “most favoured nation” approach to Medicare drug pricing has been controversial since he first tried to implement it during his first term. He signed a similar executive order in the final weeks of his presidency, which called for the US to only pay a lower price that other countries pay for some drugs — such as injectables or cancer drugs given through infusions — administered in a doctor’s office. That narrow executive order faced hurdles, with a court order that blocked the rule from going into effect under President Joe Biden’s administration. The pharmaceutical industry argued that Trump’s 2020 attempt would give foreign governments the “upper hand” in
deciding the value of medicines in the US
Trump says other countries are to blame
Trump repeatedly defended pharmaceutical companies, instead blaming other countries for the high price Americans pay for drugs, during a wide-ranging speech at the White House on Monday. The president was flanked by Kennedy, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, Food and Drug Administration commissioner Dr. Marty Makary and National Institutes of Health director Jay Bhattacharya.
He did, however, threaten the companies with federal investigations into their practices and opening up the US drug market to bring in more imported medications from other countries.
“The pharmaceutical companies make most of their profits from America,” Trump said. “That’s not a good thing.”
Trump played up the announcement over the weekend, boasting in one post that his plan could save “TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS.”
But on Monday, the White House offered no specifics for how much money the administration anticipates it could save.
The health department’s top leaders will be meeting with drug company executives over the next 30 days to offer new prices on drugs that are based off what other countries pay, Oz said on Monday.
Americans are unlikely to see immediate savings
Americans are unlikely to see relief on rising drug costs quickly because of the order,
said Rachel Sachs, a health law expert at Washington University.
“It really does seem the plan is to ask manufacturers to voluntarily lower their prices to some point, which is not known,” Sachs said. “If they do not lower their prices to the desired point, HHS shall take other actions with a very long timeline, some of which could potentially, years in the future, lower drug prices.”
The health department has the most authority to change the prices of drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid because it can set regulations. Even still, the agency’s power to do so is limited. Congress just approved in 2022 a new law that allows Medicare to negotiate the price it pays for a handful of prescription drugs starting in 2026. Before the law, Medicare paid what the drug companies charged. Drug companies unsuccessfully
sued over the implementation of the law.
The price that millions of Americans covered by private insurance pay for drugs is even harder for the agency to manipulate.
The US routinely outspends other nations on drug prices, compared with other large and wealthy countries, a problem that has long drawn the ire of both major political parties, but a lasting fix has never cleared Congress.
Trump came into his first term accusing pharmaceutical companies of “getting away with murder” and complaining that other countries whose governments set drug prices were taking advantage of Americans.
Trump says he’ll ‘do the right thing’ Ahead of the announcement, Trump puffed up his rhetoric toward the industry again on social media,
writing that the “Pharmaceutical/Drug Companies would say, for years, that it was Research and Development Costs, and that all of these costs were, and would be, for no reason whatsoever, borne by the ‘suckers’ of America, ALONE.” Referring to drug companies’ powerful lobbying efforts, he said that campaign contributions “can do wonders, but not with me, and not with the Republican Party.”
“We are going to do the right thing,” he wrote.
Several pharmaceutical companies gained ground in the stock market on Monday morning. Merck, a company that made $64.2 billion last year with the help of its cancer treatment Keytruda, jumped 3.9%. Pharma giant Pfizer, which notched $63.6 billion in revenue in 2024, rose 2.5% while Gilead Sciences rose 5.8%.
PRESIDENT Donald Trump’s plan to change the pricing model for some medications is facing fierce criticism from the pharmaceutical industry before he’s even signed an executive order he says will lower the costs of drugs.
Photo: Elise Amendola/AP
SHIPPING containers are seen ready for transport at the Guangzhou Port in the Nansha district in southern China’s Guangdong province, April 17, 2025.
Photo: Ng Han Guan/AP
Up, up and away
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
BRITTANY Ford and Aysia Thurston, pictured right with Dr Kenneth Romer, are flying high as they pursue their dreams of becoming commercial pilots—making history as the first Bahamians to study at the Qatar Aeronautical Academy in Doha, Qatar.
During a recent visit to Qatar, Director of Aviation Dr Kenneth Romer met the pioneering students and held discussions with officials from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority and the Aeronautical Academy. Dr. Romer applauded their achievements and the significance of their presence in the international training institution.
“We are proud of Brittany and Aysia who continue to distinguish themselves with Bahamian exceptionalism, while paving the way for additional matriculation opportunities for emerging and existing Bahamian aviation professionals in Qatar, around a myriad of academic disciplines and certifications,” said Dr Romer.
The students expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Bahamian people for their continued encouragement, and to the government for securing the educational opportunity through international collaboration.
The Bahamas Department of Aviation’s Aeronautical Academy partnered with the Qatar Aeronautical Academy to provide scholarships for Bahamian students to study in Qatar,
with the first cohort beginning in January 2024. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Aviation and Investments, Chester Cooper, praised the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of aviation in The Bahamas.
“This initiative showcases our commitment to advancing women in aviation, nurturing local talent, and propelling the youth toward exceptional opportunities,” said Mr Cooper.
The Department is also working to expand educational access further through new Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with aviation tertiary institutions in the United States, Europe, Asia, Canada, and the Caribbean.
YOUNG REPORTER WINNERS NAMED
THE Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) recently hosted the 2025 Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) National Competition.
Dejanique Turnquest, 22, a student at the University of The Bahamas, earned first place for her article examining the environmental, economic, and cultural value of The Bahamas’ blue holes. Her work also raised awareness of the growing threat of marine pollution to these natural wonders.
Courtney Thomas, 14, of Lyford Cay International School, received second place for her podcast highlighting the harmful effects of climate change on mangroves. She collaborated with classmates Azariah Sweeting and San’aa Demeritte to emphasize the crucial role mangroves play in coastal protection and climate resilience.
Third place went to London Knowles, 11, of Hillcrest Academy, for her video reportage addressing ocean pollution and its impacts on marine life. Her project brought attention to the urgent need for improved waste management and public responsibility in preserving ocean health. Additional recognition was given to runners-up Victor Cartwright (22), Makayla Kerr (19), both from the University of The Bahamas; Kaylee LaRoda (17), from St Anne’s School; and Matteo Davies (13), from Bishop Michael Eldon School in Grand Bahama.
This year’s competition theme, “Ecosystem Restoration,” inspired a range of entries focused on restoring and protecting natural habitats. Submissions showcased students’ research, storytelling, and advocacy skills through various media formats, including articles, podcasts, videos, and photographs.
Top prize winners received an iPad, iPad Mini, and underwater camera. Runners-up were awarded BREEF merchandise and ocean-themed gear. Additional prizes were generously donated by The Sports Centre
and Heatwave in support of healthy, ecoconscious lifestyles.
All winning entries will be submitted to the YRE International Competition.
Hillcrest Academy was also honoured for submitting the highest number of entries from any single school and will receive a Junior Science Weather Kit to support its Eco-School Club activities.
To learn more about the YRE Programme or to participate in future competitions, visit BREEF online or follow @breef242 on social media.
Student spotlight
SIERRA Blair, a student at Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina, is blending her passion for food and business with standout academic performance and entrepreneurial drive.
Majoring in food and beverage entrepreneurship, she currently maintains a 4.0 cumulative GPA and is actively building a career that blends culinary skill with business innovation.
Before enrolling at JWU, Sierra completed an Associate of Applied Science in culinary arts at the University of The Bahamas. Her current semester has been filled with dynamic experiences that showcase her versatility and ambition.
She recently participated in the JWU Homecoming Cook-Off — her first culinary competition — where she and a fellow student prepared a three-course dish for judges. On the entrepreneurial side, Sierra competed in Shark Fest, a Shark Tank-style pitch competition, where she earned second place and secured a $2,000 cash prize. She presented her business concept, Blair’s Bakeshop, a commercial kitchen based in Nassau designed to offer hands-on cooking classes for kids, families, and tourists. The kitchen would also serve as a rentable space for local food entrepreneurs preparing for large events. Sierra has also been selected to attend the Charlotte Center City Partners’ 2025 Vision Awards, providing her with the opportunity to connect with community and business leaders. Looking ahead, she plans to continue working in the food and beverage space, with an eye toward sustainability. This summer, she will resume production of ROMANGOES, an all-natural mango juice brand she launched during the COVID-19 lockdown using fruit grown in her backyard.
NATIONAL Competition school winners Hillcrest Academy Eco-Club.
BREEF Young Reporters for the Environment winner Dejanique Turnquest.
Androsians showcase their talents for National Arts Festival adjudications
REVEREND Euthal Rodgers Primary School students, from Deep Creek, recently joined students from High Rock Primary and South Andros High Schools for the combined E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival South Andros adjudications. The event, held at the Marion E Forbes Youth Centre in Kemp’s Bay, was an avenue for them to showcase their talents in singing, dancing, playing musical instruments and drama. Of special note was a Bahamian song played on the hand bells. Among those is attendance were district administrator for South Andros Leonard Dames; chief councillor Joshua Rolle; Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture representative on South Andros Angela Rolle; and Tasha Ferguson, a representative for Member of Parliament and Minister of State with responsibility for Disaster Risk Management Leon Lundy.
Photos: Eric Rose/BIS