Issuu

$290m hospital loan ‘this close’

Darville confident Chinese funding to be approved soon

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor

nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

a CaBInET minister yesterday revealed “we’re this close” to finalising the $290m financing for new Providence’s new hospital even though this was not included in the 2025-2026 Budget.

Dr Michael Darville, minister of health and wellness,

told Tribune Business that the proposed loan facility from the China Export-Import Bank, the state-owned Beijing lender that financed Baha Mar’s construction, was not incorporated into the Davis administration’s spending plans because the details were not completed in time for the Budget’s presentation.

Illarney and Golden Isles const I tuencIes face chanGes

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

PrESSUrE is mounting for boundary changes in the Killarney and Golden Isles constituencies, with Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) supporters insisting that voter parity must be addressed before the next general election.

although party officials expect changes, no official from the government or the Constituencies Commission has confirmed any changes or even updated the public on their deliberations. Sources close to the matter told The Tribune the commission is expected to meet this week.

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net

ST BarnaBaS MP Shanendon Cartwright says prosecutors have found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing during his time as executive chairman of the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches authority,

Sear S won’t run - as MP ho P efuls v I e for h I s s P ot

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

SEVEraL high-profile figures — including a sitting senator and the head of The Bahamas’ top athletic body — are emerging as names being floated for the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) nomination in Fort Charlotte, according to several sources. among those whose names are being raised are Barry Griffin, PLP Senator, and Drumeco archer, president of the Bahamas association of athletic associations (Baaa). While speculation about

Major: I dId not say that (yes, he dId)

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

hitting back at long-standing allegations tied to his tenure.

“I have been reliably advised that, in October of last year, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions concluded its findings into the inquiry into the operations of the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches authority during my tenure,” Mr Cartwright said during his contribution to the budget debate yesterday.

“It concluded Madame Speaker in clear, concise and definitive terms, that in my capacity as executive chairman, there was no evidence of actions, activities,

SOUTHErn Shores MP Leroy Major yesterday denied publicly criticising internal dynamics within the Progressive Liberal Party, claiming in the House of assembly that his remarks in a recent interview were misunderstood and misrepresented. Mr Major’s comments came in response to a Tribune article published on June 4 under the headline “PLP backbenchers don’t get fair play.” In Parliament,

Photo: Chappell Whyms

RBDF commissions four new safety boats

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force commissioning ceremony for four new Safe Boats, recently acquired by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force from Safe Boats International, took place on May 30, 2025 at the RBDF Harbour Patrol Unit, East Bay Street. Photos: eric Rose/BIS

Killarney and Golden Isles constituencies face changes

New voter registration data shows Golden Isles with 7,524 registered voters and Killarney with 7,082, making them the most populated constituencies in the country.

While Bahamian law doesn’t fix a specific voter count per constituency, the Constitution requires boundaries to reflect population size and demands that any major imbalances be backed by compelling practical reasons.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, while in opposition, supported redrawing the lines in Golden Isles and Killarney — not adding new constituencies but

rebalancing the existing ones.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to be more constituencies, just has to ensure that the lines are redrawn to ensure parity and if that is possible by the present numbers then you have no issues,” he said then.

Killarney MP and former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis remained noncommittal yesterday, saying he awaits the commission’s findings.

Free National Movement (FNM) chairman Dr Duane Sands acknowledged hearing rumors. He deemed potential changes reasonable, but challenged the underlying motives.

“They can do that but bear in mind that that

strategy has not been effective in terms of changing the outcome of elections but if it’s being done to provide equity and fair play then certainly it’s not unreasonable,” he said.

Demetrius Wallace, a PLP executive in Killarney, said boundary cuts are overdue to correct imbalances.

“When a constituency is grown too large and they are parallel to each other they have to make a cut,” he said. “Whenever the cut is made, I think it’s going to favour Mr (Ronald) Duncombe.”

Golden Isles PLP supporter Fredrick Rolle echoed the sentiment, pointing to the MP’s limited reach in such a large

constituency.

“It’s the biggest inside New Providence and the budget for all constituencies is still the same, so you make it difficult for it to touch everybody.”

Resident Lashanda Riley agreed, suggesting that a split would enhance local representation.

“If they split, it makes sense because we will have more leaders do more,” she said.

Residents have long voiced frustration about decline and neglect in Golden Isles, raising the stakes for upcoming changes.

Sources told The Tribune that boundary adjustments are also under consideration in other areas, such as West Grand

Bahama and Bimini, the latter reportedly growing due to job opportunities.

That constituency now has 6,070 registered voters. Other densely populated constituencies include Central Grand Bahama, Marco City, East Grand Bahama, Carmichael, Fox Hill, and Tall Pines — each with more than 6,000 voters. In stark contrast, Long Island has only 1,773; Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador, 1,609; and the Mayaguana-InaguaCrooked Island-Acklins cluster just 1,340.

Under the previous Minnis administration, a permanent voter register was introduced due to the COVID-19 crisis. But as election season looms and Prime Minister Davis

urges citizens to get ready, doubts about the register’s integrity are intensifying.

Dr Sands cast doubt on whether any real audit has taken place.

“We’ve had no evidence that that has actually happened,” he said.

He also criticised the government’s handling of citizenship approvals.

“When we look at what has happened with the former minister Bell and the reckless approach that he took to the administration of his post, only to get slapped on wrist and just moved around,” he said.

“So you wonder whether or not the public’s interest is being protected.”

“All of these things are questions that needs to be answered.”

Sears won’t run - as MP hopefuls vie for his spot

whether Island Luck co-

founder and prominent businessman Sebas Bastian could become a contender is mounting in some PLP circles, Mr Bastian did not respond to inquiries from The Tribune to address such reports.

Senator Griffin also declined to discuss his electoral intentions.

Mr Archer, however, acknowledged his deep connection to Fort Charlotte, saying he’s ready to serve if called upon.

“I think that we all bring very different skill sets to the body of politics, and I believe that I am someone who is deeply rooted to the community and people, and I love the work that I do,” he said. “Whether it is for childhood or anywhere else, I believe that I can leave a positive impact on the community.”

Mr Archer was the Free National Movement’s (FNM) candidate for Fort Charlotte in the last general election, a history that adds complexity to his current ambitions. Raised in the constituency, he claims strong familiarity with

Major:

residents and their needs. The contest was thrown wide open after long-time Fort Charlotte MP Alfred Sears formally confirmed he would not seek re-election. In an address in House of Assembly yesterday, Mr Sears said: “For the past 25 years, I have had the distinct honour of serving the people of Fort Charlotte, a community that welcomed me into their homes and entrusted me with their dreams and aspirations. I thank them sincerely.”

Mr Sears’ political career spans over two decades, having first won the seat for the PLP in 2002. He served as Attorney General and later as Minister of Education, Science and Technology. His leadership ambitions were quashed in 2017 when then-Prime Minister Perry Christie overwhelmingly defeated him. In the Davis administration, he kept a relatively low profile, most recently serving as Minister of Immigration and National Insurance.

As the PLP prepares for a transition in Fort Charlotte, its constituency branch chairman has remained tight-lipped about the

nomination process.

On the ground, residents have called for former Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Dr Daniel Johnson to enter the race. While Dr Johnson confirmed receiving such appeals, he clarified that party officials haven’t approached him and is not actively seeking a nomination.

Meanwhile, the opposition FNM appears to be consolidating its efforts behind former Bain and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson, who is reportedly building strong support in Fort Charlotte and is seen as the party’s leading contender for the seat.

I did not say that (yes, he did)

St Barnabas MP Shannendon Cartwright referenced the piece, quoting directly from it to highlight concerns raised about the distribution of government resources.

Mr Major pushed back, claiming the article’s interpretation of his remarks did not reflect his position.

“That interview was totally about Leroy Major and Southern Shores,” he said. “It had nothing to do with any other MP.”

He added: “Whatever that reporter said about me and my colleagues is incorrect.”

He urged Mr Cartwright not to press the issue further, stating: “Do not go down a train. Please. Do not do that.”

However, The Tribune is standing by its reporting, which is supported by audio of the interview in which Mr Major expressed clear concerns about disparities within the party, particularly regarding how resources are allocated between Cabinet ministers and backbenchers.

“There’s got to be fair play to the backbenchers whose voices are not heard around the table,” Mr Major said in the recorded interview.

“I think they use what is

available to them for their advantage when it should be used for a national advantage.”

He pointed to a $20m flood mitigation budget in Pinewood Gardens — represented by Minister Myles LaRoda — as an example of what he called unequal distribution. He contrasted that support with the lack of funding for similar issues in his own constituency.

“Myles is a minister,” he said. “He sits around the table and that is again, offered to him but there are some of us who are not around the table, having the same problem, you see, and that’s where fair play comes in.”

In Parliament, Mr Cartwright told MPs he cited

the article so “the Bahamian people do not think I was pulling this out of the air”.

The interview also addressed speculation about Mr Major’s future as the PLP’s candidate for Southern Shores. The Tribune reported that the local

branch is reportedly considering alternative nominees, including deputy chairman Obie Roberts and businessman Joseph Johnson.

Mr Major confirmed he was aware of these rumours but said the party had not provided him with any formal update.

Drumeco Archer

SenAtor BArry Griffin

Southern Shores MP Leroy Major.

Sears: Repatriation costs exceed $1.5m but migrants in custody drops to 50

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

REPATRIATION costs have exceeded $1.5m over the past 11 months, but the number of irregular migrants held in custody has dropped to just 50, marking a major operational shift for the Department of Immigration, Minister of Immigration and National Insurance Alfred Sears revealed during his 2025/2026 Budget Communication yesterday.

“The cost of repatriation is a significant expense of the Bahamas Immigration Department and it exerts a tremendous burden on the public purse,” Mr Sears said in the House of Assembly.

He credited a more streamlined approach for the department’s increased efficiency, saying: “The level of efficiency in repatriations by the Bahamas Immigration Department has allowed us to significantly lower the population of irregular migrants housed at the Detention Centre. As of today’s date, fifty irregular migrants are housed at the Detention Centre.”

A total of 2,910 foreign nationals were repatriated in 2024; of those, 2,196 were Haitian nationals.

This is down from 4,594 in 2023 and 4,748 in 2022, a sharp decline which signals what Mr Sears described as a more coordinated,

multi-agency enforcement strategy.

He also noted that the Refugee Administration Unit processed more than 100 asylum applications during the fiscal year. However, only five individuals were granted permission to remain in The Bahamas while their refugee claims are under review.

Mr Sears also revealed that the Department of Immigration recorded that between July 2024 and May 31, 2025, the department collected $123,770,590, up from $97,658,050 over the same period in the previous fiscal year.

“It is estimated that revenue for the month of June of 2025 will exceed $11m. Madam speaker, it is projected that we will surpass $140m in revenue for the fiscal period 2024/25,” he said yesterday.

Mr Sears said the department pursued aggressive investigations, targeted delinquent accounts, and made deliberate efforts to recover outstanding payments throughout the 2024/2025 fiscal period.

Looking ahead, the department is preparing to implement a comprehensive succession plan to address long-standing imbalances in senior and command ranks.

Additionally, he noted long-awaited promotions across all ranks will soon be finalised as last promotions exercise occurred

over three years ago and was retroactively dated to July 1, 2019. Since then, attrition from retirements, terminations, resignations, and deaths has depleted the department’s human capital.

“The time has come, Madam Speaker, for us to reward our hardworking men and women and encourage them in a very tangible way,” he said, thanking Minister of the Public Service Pia GloverRolle, Chairman Father James Moultrie, and the Public Service Commission for their role in the process.

In terms of infrastructure development, Mr Sears announced several projects, including the construction of a new K9 facility adjacent to the Carmichael Road Detention Centre, a new detention facility in Freeport, renovations to the New Providence Detention Centre and Immigration Safe House, and plans for a combined detention facility and hurricane shelter in Inagua.

He also confirmed that the department would expand its presence on Long Island and Cat Island, with new offices to be established. Immigration staffing will also increase on Grand Bahama, Exuma and its cays, Eleuthera, and Abaco, in line with the government’s wider focus on economic development across the Family Islands.

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS

Tribune Staff Reporter

lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

MORE than $1.7m in outstanding contributions has been clawed back from employers in Abaco and Eleuthera since the start of the year, as the National Insurance Board (NIB) ramps up its nationwide campaign to crack down on non-compliance and strengthen its revenue collection efforts.

The ongoing initiative, which forms part of a wider interagency enforcement strategy, targets employers who have failed to register, submit wage records, or make required payments to the fund. According to National Insurance Minister Alfred Sears, $1.275m was collected from employers in Abaco between January and April 2025, while $493,332.72 was recovered during the first phase of operations in Eleuthera from May 5 to 10.

In Abaco, the operations were executed in three phases. Phase one, held from February 17 to

22, resulted in the recovery of $600,322.92 from 11 employers who failed to submit contribution forms or employee wage records, 21 who failed to register with NIB, and two who failed to pay their contributions.

Phase two, conducted from March 10 to 14, recovered $555,159.36 from 30 non-compliant employers, two unregistered employers, and two that had failed to make payments. Phase three, which took place from April 7 to 11, brought in $120,329.35 from 25 employers who had not submitted records, three unregistered businesses, and one employer who had failed to pay.

In Eleuthera, nine employers had failed to register, 22 had not presented wage records or contribution forms, and an undisclosed number had failed to make payments.

Mr Sears explained that the operations in both islands are part of a broader interagency initiative through the Revenue Fortification Task Force, which includes the Ministry of Finance, NIB,

the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Immigration, Customs, the Defence Force, and the Port Department.

“This multi-agency collaboration is about more than money—it’s about accountability, sustainability, and protecting the dignity of Bahamian workers,” Mr Sears said. “This partnership is not only a financial success, but also a policy success, showcasing the importance of aligned mutual agreements.”

Delivering his 2025/2026

Budget Communication in Parliament yesterday, Mr Sears reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the National Insurance Fund. He noted that the contribution rate increase of 1.5 percent, implemented on July 1, 2024, is now generating an additional $4m in revenue each month. Still, the Fund faces a projected deficit of $32m for 2025.

“More than half of that deficit, approximately $16.85m, is due to a structural imbalance between what we collect and what we pay out,” Mr Sears

said. “We are working to close that gap through stronger enforcement, targeted audits, and improved employer engagement.”

Between January and May 2025, NIB paid out $156.3m in long-term benefits—including retirement, invalidity, survivors, and assistance—compared to $141.1m during the same period last year. Short-term benefits, which include sickness, maternity, funeral, injury, and unemployment, rose from $17.3m to $19.1m.

Mr Sears revealed that nearly 51,000 Bahamians are now receiving monthly pensions, with the average retirement pension standing at $711. Contributory

pensions — benefits earned through regular National Insurance contributions by workers and their employers — accounted for $150.2m. Non-contributory pensions, which are assistance payments provided to elderly, invalid, or survivor claimants who did not meet the minimum contribution requirements, totalled $6.1m.

“NIB remains dedicated to supporting its more than 51,000 pensioners by ensuring the timely and consistent payment of pensions, amounting to more than $28m per month,” he said. Mr Sears also announced that a new Compliance

Performance and Recovery initiative will be fully launched by the end of June 2025. Monthly field operations will target “red zones” in Eastern, Western, and Central New Providence, where compliance levels have historically been low. Teams of redeployed inspectors will carry out business inspections, recover outstanding contributions, and register unreported businesses.

“NIB is coming to you,” Mr Sears said. “This is not a one-time sweep—it is a sustained national effort, and similar operations will continue across The Bahamas for the remainder of the year.”

Minister of iMMigration and national insurance alfred sears

FNM deputy: My name is cleared

from page one

or decisions that violated any criminal statute of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.”

Mr Cartwright said he welcomed the inquiry “in the spirit of transparency and accountability”.

“I always knew that, in time, truth would rise above propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation,” he added.

His comments followed an investigation and audit into the authority’s operations under the Minnis administration. The Davis administration cancelled all contracts at the authority just four months into its term, citing lapses in oversight. An audit by K Christie & Co. reportedly flagged overspending without clear need, unfiled VAT returns, and inconsistencies in contract signatures. Police later confirmed they were in the “advanced stages” of a criminal investigation and interviewed Mr Cartwright over a weekend. At the time, it was not clear whether he was a subject of that

investigation. Mr Cartwright did not comment then but has repeatedly defended his record and called the allegations “laughable”. Yesterday, he credited the investigators for their work.

“I commend those involved in the inquiry for their fair, comprehensive, and meticulous work, and for their commitment to uncovering the truth,” he said. “To God be all the glory.”

He also acknowledged the toll of public service under scrutiny. “Since entering elected office, I have come to accept that the bright lights which bring public recognition and acclaim also cast shadows of intense scrutiny both fair and unjust,” he said. “That is why, in life, I was taught and have always maintained, not to be easily swayed by either the jeers or the cheers. It is in the stillness of such moments that character is revealed.”

Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Fraizer did not respond to requests for comment yesterday.

Victim of child prostitution recounts horrific childhood

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter

A 44-YeAr-olD woman says she is still healing from the childhood trauma of her uncle entering her bedroom every night to finger, grope, and force himself on her, while her mother turned a blind eye in exchange for money.

The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, told The Tribune in an emotional interview yesterday that she felt herself reliving the pain after hearing mothers are still actively prostituting their daughters in the country. last week, Minister of Social Services Myles laroda said the ministry had observed a rise in cases of mothers prostituting their daughters — some as young as 14 — in exchange for money to pay household bills.

Now a mother herself, the victim said she would never let her children endure the abuse she suffered from ages 9 to 18.

“This abuse was happening every night. As long as my period wasn’t on, it was happening every night,” she said in a shaking voice.

“I feel worse than a cheap cloth,” she said, describing the past pain.

“You carry this child for seven to nine months, you feel pain for this child – and you put her on display just for the sake of a couple of

dollars.”

The victim said her mother’s brother constantly molested her. Despite her cries for help, her mother never acted and dismissed the abuse. As a teenager, she spent days being stripped naked and beaten as punishment for trying to speak out. She said she told other family members about the abuse, only to later find out her uncle had sexually abused them too. Growing up, she lived with her younger sister, mother, and uncle.

Although her parents were separated, her father ensured household bills were paid so they could live comfortably.

The victim believes her mother’s past drinking and gambling problems led her to accept money from her uncle to indulge those habits. She believes her uncle was paying her mother to sexually abuse her.

“At the age of 16, my uncle inserted his penis in me,” she said. “Shortly afterwards, I can’t remember the day, but I know that Friday when he got paid –my mom had money in her hand.”

Years of sexual abuse led her to run away from home several times, attempt suicide, and struggle mentally. She said she could not bear to tell her father about the abuse because she knew he would have been outraged. However, she eventually

found the courage to speak out to some of her father’s relatives, who helped her.

At one point, she lived with her grandmother for a month. After her uncle stopped giving her mother money, her mother quickly brought her back home, restarting the cycle of abuse.

When asked if she sought help outside her family, she said she reported her uncle to Social Services. When officials visited her home, she said her mother downplayed the situation and told them she was just “acting out.”

The victim said since accepting Christ into her life, she has been able to forgive her mother and that they now have a good relationship.

In her community work, she has counselled other young girls who have been prostituted by their mothers. She said she also knew other girls growing up who were going through the same abuse. She called on mothers to protect their children rather than put them in danger.

Charlemae Fernander, director of Social Services, said sadly this form of child abuse is not new to the country. Ms Fernander highlighted that boys are also prostituted by their own parents. She added that many people hesitate to report cases because they lack proof of abuse.

“A lot of boys are

victims of sexual abuse, and they’re a lot less likely to report it because of shame,” she said. She continued: “I think

child protection is everybody’s responsibility. That’s what I want the public to know. Whether it’s in your household or your

family, or you even believe or suspect something is happening, you have a responsibility to report the matter.”

FNM deputy leader ShaNeNdoN Cartwright

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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Election spending has begun, but...

IN all the talk of when an election will be called, there are some basic functions that still need to be carried out before we get to that point.

One of those is the work of the boundary commission – which is still in the process of examining whether or not.

That could see some changes in current constituencies – perhaps splitting them up or reorganising them, which could lead to new constituencies with new MPs to represent them.

That will take time – and it is unlikely that any administration will jump the gun on that deliberation process without very good reason.

Then there are the internal party processes to select candidates – and for the chosen candidates to build up a head of steam in their constituencies and make sure people put their X next to the candidate’s name. Get ready for a bunch of would-be new best friends knocking on doors.

We are also seeing what looks to be a significant potential turnover in sitting candidates. We have heard Alfred Sears yesterday confirming he will not be running again. Previously Basil McIntosh and Sylvanus Petty have said they will not be running. Speaker Patricia Deveaux is unsure. Iram Lewis has quit the FNM and will be hoping a COI nomination will be enough to see him return. Dr Hubert Minnis is being denied a nomination for the FNM, and Adrian Gibson too, it seems.

There are other candidates rumoured to be facing the chop –some who are MPs who have been voted in and spent their time in office with little impact, some whose performance has been said to be disappointing. That is always to be expected to some extent – but it will mean fresh group of faces knocking on doors and asking for support as opposed to returning candidates who have already earned it.

And yet, in the rush and excitement of the parade on Labour Day, there was a feeling that something was far more imminent than those processes would allow.

Certainly some of the spending has begun. On shirts, on signs, on the first pieces of party paraphernalia. But we have not hit the road yet.

Prime Minister Philip Davis dangled the prospect of an election call again at the Labour parade – but he knows what is in his mind when it comes to a date.

One of the few advantages an incumbent leader has is that they can choose the battleground – a date for the election that suits them best. By teasing a date, they might get an opponent to waste resources needlessly. When those candidates start falling into place, when politicians are seen more often out on the street than in the walls of Parliament, that is when you can anticipate the election bell might ring. We are not there yet.

PLP should

spectate Labour Day

EDITOR, THE TRIBUNE, L ABOUR Day … parade or not to parade? Fact the PLP is not a Trade Union...so where is their place in the Labour Day Trade Union Parade? On sidelines as spectators.

Year after year we have watched the yellow shorts take the parade over. Union members come in all colours - every political organisation, every denomination, but essentially they are Members of a Trade Union.

TUC congrats on taking this stand, now make sure

your membership still do not march on what will now be the PLP Labour Day march.

TUC hold a meeting gathering on RM Bailey and do your thing without the yellow or red shirts.

R SMITH Nassau, June 1, 2025

Picture of the day

Is budget lacking in substance?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

PRIME Minister Philip Davis’s 2025/2026 Budget Communication and Contribution may well be the final major fiscal blueprint of his current term. It arrived with the familiar flair of statesmanship, lofty promises, and economic optimism. And yet, when the applause quieted and the rhetoric settled, many Bahamians like myself were left wrestling with two uncomfortable metaphors: a Tale of Two Cups - Clean Water in a Dirty Cup, and Dirty Water in a Clean Cup.

Let me explain.

Clean water in a dirty cup

In fairness, parts of the Budget speech offered policies that, some of which have been made before, if executed well, could benefit the country. Investments in small businesses, digitisation, renewable energy, and housing reforms are the kinds of clean water this nation needs to drink. These proposals address long-standing structural gaps and offer support to sectors in need of inclusion.

Unfortunately, this clean water is being served in a dirty cup - an inefficient system plagued by distrust and a troubling lack of transparency. For too long, successive administrations have viewed national budgets as political theater instead of operational mandates. Promises are made, targets are missed, reports go unpublished, and procurement remains opaque.

Good ideas in a bad system do not inspire confidence. If the vessel is tainted, the people will not drink, no matter how pure the contents appear.

Dirty water in a clean cup

Then there’s the opposite problem: policies that sound appealing at first but begin to fall apart under scrutiny. During his address, the Prime Minister unveiled initiatives that lacked a clear implementation framework, a cost-benefit analysis, and measurable goals. Smooth delivery cannot compensate for cloudy policies. That’s dirty water in a clean cup. Too often, budget speeches are designed to impress rather than inform. But Bahamians are no longer persuaded by performance. They are looking for proof, proof of outcomes, proof of delivery, and proof that past promises were more than just political rhetoric.

The people’s thirst remains

The truth is, Bahamians, I among them, are thirsty, but we are not desperate. We desire clean policy delivered through trustworthy systems. We are tired of choosing between good ideas and bad execution, or strong words and weak follow-through. We want both. We deserve both.

What this country needs - what it has always needed - is Clean Water in a Clean Cup: well-structured, people-centered policy implemented by accountable, modern institutions with integrity and urgency, governed by leaders offering clean water in clean cups.

Final thought

Prime Minister Davis has spoken often about his commitment to national development and social equity. If this was truly the final budget of his term, the real test won’t be the speech - it will be the scorecard. Will this be remembered as a turning point, or just another episode in the great Bahamian budgeting tradition: full of sound, fury, and little lasting substance? Considering, in the very words of the Prime Minister, he has recently said that he has significant things to complete in his touted and often referenced Blueprint for Change and from his previously announced agenda, an early election, as political pundits are projecting, would show that this Budget Communication may truly be just more Dirty Water in a Dirty Cup. That decision now rests in the hands of those tasked with implementation, and in the eyes of a people who are no longer satisfied with sips from stained vessels.

EDEN MERRY JOHNSON Freeport, Grand Bahama June 9, 2025.

Christ Church Cathedral.

Photo: Nicolette Archer

Two teens accused of murder of Philip Ferguson and other charges

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

TWO 17-year-old boys were brought before the Magistrate’s Court on Monday to face a series of serious charges, including murder, attempted murder, and firearms offences.

They appeared alongside Eric Simms, 22, and Arthur Ferguson, 31, before Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen.

The minors are accused of multiple violent offences connected to incidents that occurred on June 1 and 2, 2025, in New Providence.

They face one count of murder for the alleged

unlawful and intentional killing of Philip Ferguson on June 1.

The teenagers are also charged with three counts of attempted murder, accused of trying to cause the deaths of Delanzo Cartwright, Jason Woodside, and Deangelo Bastian.

Additionally, they face four counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, three involving handguns and one involving an assault rifle allegedly used in relation to Mr Bastian.

Mr Ferguson and Mr Simms are charged with conspiracy to commit murder and attempted

Accused of Attempted unl Awful sex with 13-ye A r-old girl in gB

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A 28-yEAR-OLD man appeared in Grand Bahama’s Magistrate’s Court on yesterday, facing serious allegations involving a minor.

The accused was charged with attempted unlawful sexual intercourse and indecent assault of a 13-year-old girl. The matter was heard before Magistrate Uel Johnson, with Corporal

Kenton Smith serving as the prosecutor. An interpreter was provided to ensure the accused fully understood the charges and proceedings. He was not required to enter a plea. The case will proceed by way of Voluntary Bill of Indictment and is being transferred to the Supreme Court. The accused has been remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until August 20.

mA n ch A rged with unl Awful sex with 14-ye A r-old girl

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

A 32- y EAR - OLD man has been formally charged with unlawful sexual intercourse involving a 14-year-old girl.

Deangelo Holbert was arraigned before Senior Magistrate Kendra KellyBurrows yesterday.

mA n

According to court records, the alleged incidents occurred on January 1 and May 3 this year. Holbert was not required to enter a plea due to the nature of the charge, and bail was denied. The case has been adjourned to July 21 for the presentation of a Voluntary Bill of Indictment.

A ccused of c A using dA ngerous h A rm to wom A n

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

A 28-yEAR-OLD man has pleaded not guilty to a charge of dangerous harm.

Travis Taylor was arraigned yesterday before Senior Magistrate

Aniska Isaacs. Court documents allege that on June 6, Taylor unlawfully caused dangerous harm to Roshara Hepburn. He was granted $5,000 bail and ordered to wear an ankle monitor. Taylor is scheduled to return to court on September 24.

murder, as well as possession of a firearm with intent to endanger the life of Deangelo Bastian.

Mr Simms also faces two counts of accessory after the fact to attempted murder.

One of the minors faces further charges stemming from a separate incident on March 2, 2025. He is accused of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life for allegedly attempting to kill Shelton Knowles, David Wallace, Job Williams, and Henry Bethel while acting in concert with others.

None of the accused were required to enter a plea. Bail was denied. All four

are scheduled to return to court on August 22 for the presentation of a voluntary bill of indictment.

One of the teens also faces charges related to a series of thefts in April 2025 in New Providence.

Prosecutors allege that, acting in concert with others, he stole a silver 2013 Nissan Cube valued at $5,500 from Jacklyn Lewis on April 25, a burgundy 2013 Nissan Cube valued at $6,000 from Agatha Delancy, and a black 2013 Nissan Note valued at $6,000 from John Rolle on April 24.

He is further charged with receiving the stolen silver

Prosecutors allege that on June 2, Mr Ferguson was found in possession of a black AM-15 rifle, a black and brown Draco AK-47, a Micro Draco AK-47, a tan and black AR-15 DB rifle, and a tan and green Austria Glock 23 Gen 4 pistol—none of which he was licensed to hold.

Also recovered was 18.3 pounds of hydroponic Indian hemp. Bail was denied in this matter as well, which will proceed by voluntary bill of indictment.

Nissan Cube on April 26, knowing it had been unlawfully obtained. He denied the theft charges. Bail was denied, and he is due back in court on October 8. In a separate matter, Mr Ferguson appeared before Senior Magistrate Lennox Coleby to face an array of weapons and drug charges. He has been charged with nine counts of possession of component parts of a firearm, six counts of possession of ammunition with intent to supply, and five counts of possession of prohibited weapons. He also faces charges for possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of ammunition, and possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply.

Governor General Dame Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt (centre) welcomed Terry Kemp and executive members of CC Sweeting Senior High School Class of 1985 on June 4, 2025 during a courtesy call at Government House.

Photo: Patrick Hanna/BIS

Labour Day and partisan mockery

Year after year, the Progressive Liberal Party sours national holidays that commemorate major achievements of the Bahamian people by claiming ownership, taking up an ordinate amount of space, and attempting to make them partisan.

Moments in Bahamian history are reduced, again and again, to a political party that relies heavily on its history— a far cry from its current state and demonstrated values—to maintain its fanbase and try to attract others. Majority rule Day, Labour Day, and Independence Day all suffer the consequences of a political

By Alicia Wallace

party—and a government administration—that prioritises being credited for historic milestones over national celebration, as one people, and creating opportunities for young people to learn more contemporary history of The Bahamas and for residents to advocate for the realisation of the benefits those achievements

should have brought.

It is a loss for everyone when any political party seeks to dominate important days in the calendar year or tries to downplay the national significance of these holidays—days of observance—which is the repeated loss of opportunities to build a collective spirit, respect for our history and the

people who made their mark on it, names known and unknown, and foster a culture of action by the people to create the change we need.

On Labour Day, it would be appropriate to acknowledge the wins of the labour movement and raise awareness of and garner support for actions as prioritised by workers. What issues still exist in the workplace? What are the issues that are emerging now as society significantly changes, often outpacing the systems in place in the workplace? What needs of workers remain unmet? Which conversations have been “tabled” and never considered again? What are the relatively small demands that can be championed and actioned?

Labour Day is political. It ought to be political. The issue is that it is made into a partisan mockery, used to gain points and, near to general elections, to gain votes or excite party followers without doing an ounce of work.

In response to a question about social movements at a time of “american global hegemony, neoliberal economic relations, militarised counterinsurgency at home, and racial ‘colour blindness,’” speaking to both the US and global political climate in 2020, angela Davis said, “I suggest that we need movements that pay as much attention to popular political education as they pay to the mobilisations that have succeeded in placing police violence and mass incarceration on the national political agenda. What this means, I think, is that we try to forge an analysis of the current conjuncture that draws important lessons from the relatively recent campaigns that have pushed our collective consciousness beyond previous limits. In other words, we need movements that are prepared to resist the inevitable seductions of assimilation.”

This is, of course, focused on the state of the US, yet we can take the recommendation that is at the root of the response. Popular political education is requisite to sustained organising. People need to have

an understanding of the conditions we live within, beyond the individual experience. Workers’ demands are not about the realities of one workers, the inequalities in one workplace, the violence of one employer, or the instability of one industry. It is about the ways that workers are regarded as a class and the understanding (and acceptance) of what is and is not considered work, what is and is not considered productive, what is and is not considered valuable, how value is assigned to tasks and the people who do them, who does and does not share in the profit, and what is and is not a safe environment.

a strong, sustainable labour movement spreads across industries, generations, and income levels, relying on political education to connect people. When systemic issues are identified and their characteristics known, the analysis of capitalism, racism, sexism, and xenophobia and their impact on labour is necessary, productive, instructive, and motivating.

The conversation is no longer about remote and hybrid in isolation, but about the commitment to systems that demand that employers or their agents lord over workers, controlling their tasks, the way they perform their tasks, and what they do beyond their tasks should they have the misfortune of appearing idle for five seconds.

This is not solely a drive toward greater productivity, but a breaking of will and conditioning of the worker to accept the dominance of another which is rooted in “isms” so many try desperately to ignore, pretending they are inconsequential in this place.

Collective consciousness does not just come about one day. It has to be built. It has to be nurtured. It comes from an understanding of history and the fact that the strides may in the 50s, 60s, and 70s were never meant to be the final steps. They were not the end of struggle, and they were not the last wins. They were always foundational, meant to be built upon by people who have information about what was done and how, now equipped with greater access to

information and new technology to enable deeper analysis, more direct demands, and targeted actions to apply pressure to decision-makers.

On a podcast in 2022, Davis said: “I’m aware of the ways in which, especially in capitalist societies, there’s a tendency to focus on the individual at the expense of allowing people to understand that history unfolds, not as a consequence of the actions and the words of great individuals, but rather as a consequence of people coming together, joining hands, and uniting with their differences—not across their differences, but with their differences—in a quest to create more freedom and more happiness in the world.”

One of the stumbling blocks in any movement for change is the inability to work with differences. There is the refusal to acknowledge differences, there is the reluctant agreement to work together despite differences, and there is the alienation of people who are different in particular ways. Working with differences is not easy. It requires, to an extent, solidarity. It demands that everyone face their own privilege and acknowledge the violence that others face as a result of the hatred of difference. Standing together is a requirement. across fields of work and across party lines, we must see the possibility of unity and the responsibility we have to build it. We must acknowledge it as a requirement for progress. We have more common with one another than we do with the beneficiaries of capitalism and (low-)wage labour, and the differences among us are what show us all of the systems at play so we can develop tactics that target them all and benefit us all. We must submit ourselves to the learning process and be bold enough to engage in learning in public ways, enabling others to learn with us, grow with us, and join us in creating discomfort for those who are far too comfortable with the separation and the profit it drives to them every day.

Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and party members and supporters march together on Labour Day on Friday.

Apple underwhelms at World Wide Developers Conference

Associated Press

AFTeR stumbling out of the starting gate in Big Tech’s pivotal race to capitalize on artificial intelligence, Apple tried to regain its footing Monday during an annual developers conference that focused mostly on incremental advances and cosmetic changes in its technology.

The presummer rite, which attracted thousands of developers from nearly 60 countries to Apple’s Silicon Valley headquarters, was subdued compared with the feverish anticipation that surrounded the event in the last two years.

Apple highlighted plans for more AI tools designed to simplify people’s lives and make its products even more intuitive. It also provided an early glimpse at the biggest redesign of its iPhone software in a decade. In doing so, Apple executives refrained from issuing bold promises of breakthroughs that punctuated recent conferences, prompting CFRA analyst Angelo Zino to deride the event as a “dud” in a research note.

More AI, but what about Siri?

In 2023, Apple unveiled a mixed-reality headset that has been little more than a niche product, and last year WWDC trumpeted its first major foray into the AI craze with an array of new features highlighted by the promise of a smarter and more versatile version of its virtual assistant, Siri — a goal that has yet to be realized.

“This work needed more time to reach our high-quality bar,” Craig Federighi, Apple’s top software executive, said Monday at the outset of the conference.

The company didn’t provide a precise timetable for when Siri’s AI upgrade will be finished but indicated it won’t happen until next year at the earliest.

“The silence surrounding Siri was deafening,” Forrester Research analyst Dipanjan Chatterjee said. “No amount of text corrections or cute emojis can fill the yawning void of an intuitive, interactive AI experience that we know Siri will be capable of when ready. We just don’t know when that will happen. The end of the Siri runway is coming up fast, and Apple needs to lift off.”

Is Apple, with its ‘liquid glass,’ still a trendsetter?

The showcase unfolded amid nagging questions about whether Apple has lost some of the mystique and innovative drive that has made it a tech trendsetter during its nearly 50-year history.

Instead of making a big splash as it did with the Vision Pro headset and its AI suite, Apple took a

mostly low-key approach that emphasized its effort to spruce up the look of its software with a new design called “Liquid Glass” while also unveiling a new hub for its video games and new features like a “Workout Buddy” to help manage physical fitness.

Apple executives promised to make its software more compatible with the increasingly sophisticated computer chips that have been powering its products while also making it easier to toggle between the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

“Our product experience has become even more seamless and enjoyable,”

Apple CeO Tim Cook told the crowd as the 90-minute showcase wrapped up.

“Liquid Glass” applies a translucent design aesthetic to the entire company’s lineup of platforms. It’s primary attribute adds transparency to menus and toolbars, allowing icons and open panes to refract and reflect whatever’s behind it. On larger platforms, it also allows for more resizing options for app displays. Icons also recieve a more curved look than before.

IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo said Apple seemed to be largely using Monday’s conference to demonstrate the company still has a blueprint for success in AI, even if it’s going to take longer to realize the vision that was presented a year ago.

“This year’s event was not about disruptive innovation, but rather careful calibration, platform refinement and developer enablement —positioning itself for future moves rather than unveiling game-changing technologies,” Jeronimo said.

Apple’s next operating system will be iOS 26

Besides redesigning its software. Apple will switch to a method that automakers have used to telegraph their latest car

models by linking them to the year after they first arrive at dealerships. That means the next version of the iPhone operating system due out this autumn will be known as iOS 26 instead of iOS 19 — as it would be under the previous naming approach that has been used since the device’s 2007 debut.

The iOS 26 upgrade is expected to be released in September around the same time Apple traditionally rolls out the next iPhone models.

Playing catchup in AI

Apple opened the proceedings with a short video clip featuring Federighi speeding around a track in a Formula 1 race car. Although it was meant to promote the June 27 release of the Apple film, “F1” starring Brad Pitt, the segment could also be viewed as an unintentional analogy to the company’s attempt to catch up to the rest of the pack in AI technology.

While some of the new AI tricks compatible with the latest iPhones began rolling out late last year as part of free software updates, the delays in a souped-up Siri became so glaring that the chastened company stopped promoting it in its marketing campaigns earlier this year.

While Apple has been struggling to make AI that meets its standards, the gap separating it from other tech powerhouses is widening. Google keeps packing more AI into its Pixel smartphone lineup while introducing more of the technology into its search engine to dramatically change the way it works. Samsung, Apple’s biggest smartphone rival, is also leaning heavily into AI. Meanwhile, ChatGPT recently struck a deal that will bring former Apple design guru Jony Ive into the fold to work on a new

device expected to compete against the iPhone. Regulatory and trade challenges

Besides grappling with innovation challenges, Apple also faces regulatory threats that could siphon away billions of dollars in revenue that help finance its research and development. A federal judge is currently weighing whether proposed countermeasures to Google’s illegal monopoly in search should include a ban on long-running deals worth $20 billion annually to Apple while another federal judge recently banned the company from collecting commissions on in-app transactions processed outside its onceexclusive payment system.

On top of all that, Apple has been caught in the crosshairs of President Donald Trump’s trade war with China, a key manufacturing hub for the Cupertino, California, company. Cook successfully persuaded Trump to exempt the iPhone from tariffs during the president’s first administration, but he has had less success during Trump’s second term, which seems more determined to prod Apple to make its products in the US

The multidimensional gauntlet facing Apple is spooking investors, causing the company’s stock price to plunge by 20% so far this year — a decline that has erased about $750 billion in shareholder wealth. After beginning the year as the most valuable company in the world, Apple now ranks third behind longtime rival Microsoft, another AI leader, and AI chipmaker Nvidia.

Apple’s shares closed down by more than 1% on Monday — an early indication the company’s latest announcements didn’t inspire investors.

Video game performers on strike for almost a year oV er ai issues reach a tentati V e deal

Associated Press

The union for hollywood’s video game performers has reached a tentative contract with several video game companies that may bring an end to an almost year-long strike tied to the use of artificial intelligence.

Members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists went on strike in July 2024 after negotiations with game industry giants came to a halt over artificial intelligence protections.

SAG-AFTRA said that the unregulated use of AI posed “an equal or even greater threat” to performers in the video game industry than it does in film and television because the capacity to cheaply and easily create convincing digital replicas of performers’ voices is widely available.

The performers were worried that unchecked use of AI could provide game makers with a means to displace them — by training an AI to replicate an actor’s voice, or to create a digital replica of their likeness without consent.

“Patience and persistence has resulted in a deal that puts in place the necessary AI guardrails that defend performers’ livelihoods in the AI age, alongside other important gains,” SAGAFTRA National executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said in a statement.

The union had been negotiating with an industry bargaining group consisting of signatory video game companies, including divisions of Activision and electronic Arts. Those companies include Activision Productions Inc., Blindlight LLC, Disney Character Voices Inc., electronic Arts Productions Inc., epic Games Inc., Formosa Interactive LLC, Insomniac Games Inc., Take 2 Productions Inc., and WB Games Inc.

SAG-AFTRA said that it anticipates that the terms of a strike suspension agreement will be finalized with the companies soon. Union members will remain on strike until such an agreement is reached.

The tentative contract deal still needs approval by the National Board and ratification by union membership.

Video game performers had previously gone on strike in October 2016, with a tentative deal reached 11 months later, in September 2017. That strike helped secure a bonus compensation structure for voice actors and performance capture artists.

Attendees watch a presentation during an event on the Apple campus in Cupertino, California, Monday.

Photo: Jeff Chiu

Trump says he will ‘liberate’ Los Angeles

FORT BRAGG Associated Press

President donald trump called protesters in Los Angeles “animals” and “a foreign enemy” in a speech at Fort Bragg on tuesday as he defended deploying the military on demonstrators opposed to his immigration enforcement raids.

trump, in his most aggressive language yet regarding the protests in Los Angeles, used a speech ostensibly supposed to be used to recognize the 250th anniversary of the Us Army to denounce the demonstrators while repeating his false statements about the 2020 election being rigged and attacking the previous commander-inchief, former President Joe Biden.

the republican president, who sees the military as a critical tool for domestic goals, has used the recent protests in Los Angeles as an opportunity to deploy the national Guard and Us Marines over the objections of California’s democratic governor to quell disturbances that began as protests over immigration raids. While protesters blocked a major freeway and set cars on fire over the weekend in Los Angeles, the demonstrations in the city of 4 million people have largely been centred in several blocks of downtown.

“We will not allow an American city to be invaded and conquered by a foreign enemy. that’s what they are,” trump said tuesday. trump’s heated rhetoric came has he’s left open the possibility of invoking the insurrection Act, one of the most extreme emergency powers available to the president. it authorizes him to deploy military forces inside the Us to suppress rebellion or domestic violence or to enforce the law in certain situations.

the president also called Los Angeles “a trash heap” with “entire neighbourhoods under control” of criminals and said the federal government would “use every asset at our disposal to quell the violence and restore law and order.”

“We will liberate Los Angeles and make it free, clean, and safe again,” trump added.

trump also announced his administration was restoring the names of seven military bases that were given the monikers of Confederate leaders until being changed by the Biden administration. Fort Pickett, Fort Hood, Fort Gordon, Fort rucker, Fort Polk, Fort AP Hill and Fort robert e. Lee will have their names changed back, trump said.

defense secretary Pete Hegseth already brought back the names of Fort Bragg and Fort Benning in Georgia.

“Can you believe they changed that name in the last administration for a little bit?” trump said.

“We’ll forget all about that.”

Before he spoke, trump watched the Us Army demonstrate a missile strike, a helicopter assault and a building raid, a preview of the kind of show of American military might he’s expected to display in the nation’s capital for a massive military parade this weekend.

Fort Bragg, which is located near Fayetteville, north Carolina, serves as headquarters for Us Army special Operations Command. Highly trained units like the Green Berets and the 82nd Airborne are based there. the atmosphere resembled a state fair with military flair. inflatable slides and attractions for children were set up in a field, with artillery, trucks and helicopters parked on

another section of the lawn. right outside the security checkpoint — but still on the base — two stands were selling trump political hats, t-shirts and other paraphernalia.

Hegseth and Army secretary dan driscoll were also at tuesday’s event, along with service members, veterans and their families.

Hegseth, who has said he’s ridding the military of “woke,” told the crowd at Fort Bragg that the Us is “restoring the warrior ethos” to its armed forces.

“We’re not a college or a university. We’re not interested in your woke garbage and political correctness,” Hegseth said, drawing cheers.

driscoll, who spoke to the crowd earlier in the afternoon, called trump “the greatest recruiter in our Army’s history.”

trump has promoted the Army’s anniversary as a reason to hold a military parade in Washington on saturday, which is also his 79th birthday. tanks and other vehicles will roll down city streets in a reminder of how the republican president is reshaping the armed forces after returning to the White House this year.

trump has authorized the deployment of 4,000 national Guard soldiers to the city over the objections of California Gov. Gavin newsom, a democrat. About 700 Marines were deployed to the Los Angeles area, but had not yet been sent to respond to the protests.

California sued trump over the deployment, with the state attorney general arguing that the president had “trampled” the state’s sovereignty. California leaders accused trump of fanning protesters’ anger, leading crowds to block off a major freeway and set self-driving cars on fire.

President Donald Trump observes a special operations command demonstration at Fort Bragg, yesterday at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Photo: Alex Brandon/AP

LOM Financial donates $6k to BNT for mangrove restoration

IN recognition of World Oceans Day, LOM Financial (Bahamas) Limited has donated $6,000 to the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) to support mangrove restoration at Bonefish Pond National Park (BPNP), a key conservation site in southwestern New Providence.

The national park is home to the island’s last intact tidal mangrove ecosystem and has been a central focus of the BNT’s environmental efforts, including volunteer work and fundraising campaigns aimed at habitat protection and restoration. The park has faced ongoing challenges from illegal dumping and development, prompting long-term rehabilitation strategies.

LOM Financial’s donation will fund mangrove planting activities, with the company indicating plans for employee involvement in the handson restoration process.

The financial gift follows the BNT’s Pig Roast 2025 fundraiser, which raised $100,000 for infrastructure projects at BPNP, including the development of a

welcome centre.

“Mangroves are crucial in the fight against climate change, acting as natural carbon sinks and providing coastal defence,” said Chantal Curtis, BNT parks planner and New Providence parks manager. “It is important for us to raise awareness of the value of what we’re trying to protect and how it benefits us all as Bahamians.”

The BNT is currently leading a 30-year restoration plan at Bonefish Pond that includes mangrove planting, coastal cleanups, and the removal of invasive species to

mitigate environmental degradation caused by past and ongoing illegal activities.

LOM financial director Craig Lines emphasised the importance of ecosystem protection. “Mangroves are not just trees—they are lifelines for coastal resilience, marine biodiversity, and a sustainable future,” he said.

The BNT acknowledged LOM Financial’s contribution as part of broader community and corporate engagement essential to the success of its restoration efforts.