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DECISION DAY SET FOR FNM

Party to hold one-day convention to choose new leader on Nov 27

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net THE Free National Movement’s central council agreed last night to hold a one-day convention on November 27th to settle the party’s leadership contest, according to FNM chairman Carl Culmer.

Although the council had passed a resolution last month to host the convention in November, there was controversy last night

THE Free National Movement has criticised the Speech from the Throne, saying the promise to reduce value added tax to 10 percent across the board will lead to a loss of $800 million in government revenue over five years.

In a statement issued yesterday, the FNM said the speech contains promises that will mean significant government expenditure, however, there has been

no explanation about how these plans will be paid for.

The party also questioned how the government will fund its promised pension increases for senior citizens and catastrophic healthcare at a time when the country’s finances are strained.

“The speech fails to address the seriousness of our fiscal situation,” the FNM said.

SEE PAGE THREE

- SEE PAGE EIGHT

STEPSON SHOT DEAD BY POLICE OFFICER AS HE THREATENS MOM

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

A MAN who threatened his mother with a knife during an argument at her home was fatally shot by his police officer stepfather on Wednesday night, police said.

According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Audley Peters, sometime before 11pm the young man arrived at his mother’s home off St Alban’s Drive and was let in.

SEE PAGE FOUR

when the convention committee recommended a delay in that timeline.

Sources said the committee’s recommendation that the leadership race take place on December 4th and not in November was the subject of passionate debate inside the Holy Trinity Anglican Church where the three-hour plus meeting was held.

Many members were convinced it was important SEE PAGE THREE

FNM: VAT CUT WILL COST $800M OVER FIVE YEARS

NAUGHTY: SEAT AT THE TABLE FOR FITZGERALD

‘HUGE DREAMS’ SNATCHED AWAY IN SHOOTING DEVANNO WHITFIELD, an employee at Muffler World who was shot dead last week, had “huge dreams”, his mother told The Tribune yesterday, and was planning to attend Florida International University and play American Football. See PAGE FOUR for the full story.

FAMILY ISLAND AIRPORT UPGRADES UNDER REVIEW

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

SOME $400m worth of airport upgrades are under review to determine if the process as designed aligns with the Davis administration’s strategy, a top aviation official said yesterday.

Algernon Cargill, director of aviation, told Tribune Business that he and his officials “will have an answer soon”

DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper. from Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister, and his team on whether the Grand Bahama and six Family Island airport

public-private partnership (PPP) bidding processes will launch as envisaged by the former administration.

Describing this review as a normal procedure any prudent incoming administration would initiate, given the sums of money involved and importance to Bahamian infrastructure and tourism, Mr Cargill said it was “not on the backburner” and officials will “determine the exact course FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

COURT CHAOS AS PROSECUTOR WASN’T APPROVED FOR PRACTICE

By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net

SUPREME Court judge Deborah Fraser yesterday ruled that a rape accused’s voluntary bill of indictment was not valid as it was signed by an African prosecutor who was rejected for practice at the Bahamas Bar. Her ruling could result in several court cases being sent back to Magistrate’s Court if the VBIs the accused were served were signed by Ugandan native David Bakininga or another African prosecutor working in the Department of Public Prosecutions, neither of whom have been approved by the Bahamas Bar Association for practice.

SEE PAGE SEVEN

THE TRIBUNE RETURNS ON TUESDAY AFTER THE HOLIDAY

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 8, 2021, PAGE 3

Decision day set for FNM from page one to stick with the date originally announced to the media and public. Ultimately, about 70 percent of members voted to have the leadership contest in November, The Tribune understands.

Other matters typically addressed at conventions will be dealt with at a later date, likely in February.

Last night’s decision comes amid speculation that former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis may still vie for leader even if he does not directly offer himself for the role.

In an interview with Eyewitness News that aired Wednesday night, Dr Minnis declined to say if he would accept a nomination for leader if he is nominated.

Asked whether Dr Minnis’ future in the party was discussed during last night’s meeting, Mr Culmer said: “None of those things were discussed tonight. At the end of the day persons are

free to nominate. Nomination will close on the Saturday before and so they have between 9 and 5 each day. Preparations will be made for ballots and nominations and so at the end of the day persons will have the opportunity to nominate.”

Asked about the possibility that Dr Minnis could still return as leader, Mr Culmer said: “That’s up to the council. I will not want to speculate. I don’t believe in speculation.

“I believe that at the end of the day the process should take place and whatever the outcome is, we go from there.”

By contrast, Mr Culmer told reporters last month that Dr Minnis indicated he will not offer himself up for leadership at the convention.

“We will have an opportunity to choose another leader,” he said.

“Dr Minnis also pledged to work with (the new) leader, whomever he may be, so that the FNM will be battle ready for the election whenever it is called.”

FNM chairman Carl Culmer.

FNM: VAT CUT WILL COST $800M OVER FIVE YEARS from page one

“It does not address the ongoing necessity for tax reform and for reform of the state owned enterprises that are critical to fiscal consolidation over time.”

The opposition party said the Davis administration has promised to reduce value added tax “without providing any clear plans on how the reduced revenue will be replaced” and failed to provide a timeline on when this will be done.

“The reduction in VAT will result in an estimated $160m annual revenue – or $800m over five years – at

a time when the country’s resources are strained. The PLP policies have only signaled more and more spending but have been silent on how it is to be paid for. The government must account to the people and is required by law how (to state how) they intend to justify the reduction (in) revenue.

“The PLP seems determined to pursue fiscally irresponsible policies to accomplish a reduction in value added tax, further reduction in business related taxes to be provided as incentives and proposed social and infrastructure spending,” the FNM said.

Regarding the

government’s promise to increase old age pension benefits, the FNM questioned how this will be funded.

“Do they intend to increase NIB rates? Why didn’t they say so?

“The PLP has promised to introduce a catastrophic health insurance plan. Do they intend to have all Bahamians pay a monthly insurance premium to cover this insurance? Why didn’t they say so?

“The speech also provides for exponential increases in expenditure without a clear plan or even mention on how they are going to pay for such a dramatic increase in

expenditure. The PLP government has put together plans to add hundreds of millions of dollars in spending during its term while seeking to cut hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue at the same time.

“It is an impossible calculus that speaks to their irresponsible approach to governance. The government appears to be making promises it cannot or has no intention of keeping.”

The FNM said the Davis administration appears to be heading for a drastic shift away from the fiscally responsible policies that are required for a robust recovery.

The FNM said the speech did not mention the critical reforms needed to state owned enterprises, which are a drain on the public purse.

While the new administration said it will restart the government’s house construction programme, the FNM said it is concerned that past practices “which led to great abuse and corruption in housing construction, and the sale of overpriced poor-quality homes” will return. The FNM also said it supports the government’s plans to continue with programmes the Minnis administration had left in place or proposed such as expunging of

criminal records; the regulatory framework and draft legislation for the marijuana industry left in place; the digitization programme in the public service; advancement of renewable energy; further strengthening the scope of the Fiscal Responsibility Act; strengthening the Sovereign Wealth Fund legislative regime; and draft legislation to replace Emergency Orders, among others.

“All of these are FNM initiatives. We are pleased that the government will continue on with them despite the failure of the PLP administration to give the FNM credit for same,” the FNM said.

THOMPSON: DON’T DELAY GRAND BAHAMA INVESTMENTS

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

EAST Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson is urging the government not to delay the various investments in Grand Bahama that were already approved under the former Minnis administration.

In addition to the Grand Lucayan deal — which has not yet been finalised — he mentioned plans for a new medical school, cruise port, and hospital projects, among proposed plans.

“I urge the government to move without delay on investments in Grand Bahama, such as the West Atlantic Medical School, Doctors Hospital Project, the Grand Lucayan deal, the Carnival Cruise Port project, and the Grand Bahama Shipyard project and the creation of a Maritime Centre for the Americas,” said Mr Thompson.

He stressed that the new government met “a recovering economy” when it came to office.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the former minister of state for finance said there were indications that the domestic economy had started to show signs of slow recovery.

“The PLP government met a recovering

economy,” he said. “Indications are that the domestic economy began a slow pace of recovery, despite the ongoing spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

This has been confirmed by the Central Bank of the Bahamas’ monthly economic report.”

He said the Davis administration is well aware of the progress.

“It should be noted that the Central Bank has confirmed that the Minnis administration has not only left in place strong foreign reserves near $3bn but also significant revenue increases well above 2021/22 budget projections,” he added.

Additionally, he said the new government has also been left with a working economic plan called the Accelerated Bahamas Recovery Plan, which has already provided positive results.

“The PLP government will also have the benefit of major investment projects in process. The minister responsible for investments has stated that there was a significant number of investments in process,” Mr Thompson said.

He said the Minnis administration approved numerous investments that are vital to the country’s

full recovery, including projects such as the $37m Sandals redevelopment, $75m Aqualina project, and others.

He also urged the government to continue the implementation of Invest Bahamas.

He explained that Invest Bahamas was a recommendation of the Minnis administration’s Economic Recovery Committee to reform the Bahamas Investment Authority.

“Implementation process has already begun, and this is vital to continuing the forward movement of investments in the Bahamas,” Mr Thompson said.

He also mentioned that a borrowing plan was also in place and should benefit the new administration.

“The PLP government has the benefit of a clearly laid out borrowing plan which has been approved and published. This includes using a mixture of domestic and external facilities such as the IDB guarantee which will result in reduced costs and interest payments,” Mr Thompson said.

Mr Thompson said the Minnis administration’s economic policies have started the country on the path of recovery, and “we stand ready to assist in any way to achieve our full recovery.”

PUNCH CLOSING DOWN AFTER FOUNDER’S DEATH

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Punch, a media staple in The Bahamas for decades, is shutting down following this week’s death of longtime editor-in-chief and founder Ivan Johnson.

The tabloid appeared to announce the news in yesterday’s edition of the paper. Employees of the company confirmed to The Tribune that the publication is calling it quits.

Johnson died in hospital on Monday after suffering a sudden heart attack.

The Punch said yesterday: “We are immensely grateful to you, our loyal readers. It is because of you we have had this amazing, adventurous ride for the past 31 years. You have ridden this roller coaster with us and it has been a

blast! This ride was not for the faint of heart, it was fast paced, constantly changing and its unpredictability made it exciting.

“Sometimes you held on for dear life, sometimes you screamed with excitement, other times, died in laughter, but you stayed, seat-belt fastened and enjoyed it with us, and we are grateful.”

Mr Johnson was rushed to Doctors Hospital after the heart attack Monday morning, where he was put on life support.

Through his controversial tabloid, he was a force in Bahamian media for decades. The Bahamas Press Club honoured him for his contributions in 2018 with the Pioneer Award.

His publication frequently drew the ire of politicians for stories and allegations published about them.

“On Monday October 4, 2021 the man with the fine-point pen penned his last issue and how fitting he had every single social media platform shut down worldwide in his honour, true Ivan Johnson fashion,” the tabloid said yesterday, referring to the global shutdown of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp on Monday due to a system’s issue.

“He lived his life his way and would have had it no other way.

“It is with heavy hearts and a grateful spot that, on behalf of Ivan Nicholas Johnson, our editor-in-chief, we bid you farewell. May The Punch and the imprint it has made in our lives live on forever. In the words of Ivan, cheers Bahamas!” declared the tabloid’s final edition.

PAGE 4, Friday, October 8, 2021

THE TRIBUNE

FOUR MORE COVID DEATHS CONFIRMED

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES BACK TO NASSAU

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net THE Bahamas recorded 60 new cases of COVID19 and another four virus-related deaths on Wednesday, according to data released by the Ministry of Health yesterday.

Of the 60 cases, 48 are in New Providence, three in Grand Bahama, six in Eleuthera, and one new case each in Exuma, Andros and Mayaguana.

The tally has pushed the nation’s case count to 21,518. Of this, 1,145 cases are still active.

The number of hospitalisations has risen to 162 — 18 in intensive care. On Tuesday, there were 141 people in hospital with the virus. Ninety-one patients are being treated at Princess Margaret Hospital, 36 are at Doctors Hospital, 26 at Grand Bahama Health Services and nine at South Beach Acute Care and Referral Centre.

Four Grand Bahama women died between September 22 and October 3, pushing the nation’s death toll to 586. The victims include a 61-year-old who died on September 22, a 42-year-old who died on September 26, an 88-yearold who died on October 1 and a 67-year-old who died on October 3.

Between Monday and Tuesday, there were 23 COVID-19 deaths reported as well as 96 new infections.

Sixty-two deaths are currently under investigation.

Those deaths took place between August 10 and October 2.

The latest deaths come as overall virus cases continue to trend downward.

However, despite the declining COVID numbers, health officials said it is still too early to tell if the country is nearing the end of the third wave. Residents are reminded of the following: if you have symptoms, contact your health provider; while home remedies may work for a period it is important to get tested and receive the proper care before symptoms become too difficult to manage; if you have been asked by the Surveillance Unit to get tested for COVID-19, please follow the advice and take the gold standard RT-PCR test.

Employees are also encouraged to work from home.

IT had been coming - but when Southwest Airlines touched down at 2.20pm at Sir Lynden Pindling International Aiport yesterday, it marked a return of a vital air link to Fort Lauderdale.

The Tribune had previously reported that the airline would return on October 7 - and it lived up to the promise.

The company said the move came with “demand for beach and leisure destinations continuing to increase” after the shutdown caused by the pandemic.

‘Huge dream’s snatched away in deadly shooting

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

A RELATIVE of a Muffler World employee who was shot dead last week said he was planning to attend Florida International University before he was killed.

Devanno Whitfield played American football in high school and had “huge dreams”, his mother said.

“He had two offers,” she told The Tribune. “He had Florida Atlantic College

and he also had Florida International University.

So he chose Florida International University. He was given the offer because of the financial stability you know we were dealing with that process. Then he would’ve continued on with his offer to enter into the college to be able to start what they call D-1 division football.”

She said the family is in “great distress” and are grieving over this “huge loss”.

The 21-year-old’s mother recalled that he

had a football MVP award while he was a student at McArthur High School in Florida where he finished his education.

However, he had to return home to The Bahamas in 2019 and was awaiting a visa and paperwork. The football player had been working for the car repair shop for a year as a service helper and welder.

His dreams would come to an end on October 1 when he was murdered.

Officers were alerted to a shooting at a Muffler World on Robinson Road

shortly after 8am that day.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Audley Peters said the victim was entering the shop when a single gunman approached him and fired multiple shots into his body.

His mother recounted what she was told happened to her son.

“He went to work that morning,” she said. “His coworker and him along with the boss and cashier opened up. Then he proceeded in and out the office door.

And there was a guy that sneak from behind, walked

up to him from the back and shot him.”

He was shot outside of the shop’s entrance.

She said her son told her about an incident that happened to him recently, however it is unclear if it is related to his killing.

“He said he was accosted by some guys while getting lunch a while back, but nothing where as he thought he would be innocently killed.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 919, 502-9991 or 328-TIPS (8477).

STEPSON SHOT DEAD BY POLICE OFFICER AS HE THREATENS MOM from page one

An argument reportedly followed and an off-duty police officer in the home is said to have witnessed his stepson holding a knife to his mother’s throat.

ASP Peters said the officer called for back-up, but shot the victim before the reinforcement arrived.

When officers arrived at the apartment where the incident occurred, they saw a man with apparent gunshot wounds. The man, who was in his early 30s, later

died at hospital.

“Preliminary findings are that there was an altercation at a residence where an adult male came to the residence and then was allowed in and an argument ensued with him and his mother.

As a result, an officer who was in his room at the time heard the argument and came out,” ASP Peters said at the scene on Wednesday.

“When he came out of the room, he noticed a young man brandishing a knife on his mother. As a result he then called for some assistance, but prior

to the assistance arriving the officer had to use his firearm and shot the victim, who while travelling to the hospital, succumbed to his injuries.”

A police crime report noted that the deceased had a knife “at his mother’s throat.”

Asked if the person brandishing a weapon was under the influence of a substance or had mental health issues, ASP Peters said it was too early in the investigation to tell.

The officer went on to explain a section in the

Penal Code that refers to the use of force.

“Section 1.03 of the Penal Code outlines the degree of force that an individual, not simply just an officer, can use when necessary to (quell) any force that is used against them and in this instance, the officer had to use deadly force to assist in the prevention of a life being taken in his presence.”

Yesterday, ASP Peters confirmed that the officer involved is married to the deceased’s mother. He said the officer in question was

at home when his stepson arrived and used his personal issue weapon during the incident.

“He was at home with his wife, there was a knock at the door, it was her son, she let him in. He was at home the whole time.”

Asked why the officer chose to use deadly force, ASP Peters said yesterday: “The investigations will reveal all of that. He indicated to the investigators some information and all that will be dealt with.”

An investigation is continuing.

INCREASE IN MAMMOGRAM SCREENINGS THIS MONTH

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

WARDRINA Wright, president of the Cancer Society of the Bahamas in Grand Bahama, says they have seen a boost in mammogram screenings on Grand Bahama in October during Breast Cancer

Awareness Month.

A database was created after more than 300 women signed up for mammogram screening last year, according to Ms Wright, who says the screenings are free through their organization.

“We try not to turn patients away and we try to assist them the best way we

can,” she said.

Ms Wright believes that their initiatives, along with campaigns by other local organizations, are sensitizing women about the disease, and making a difference.

“October is important for women because it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month,

Memorial Service For

Carlos Sidney Alexander Wells, 47

a resident of Brooklyn Avenue will be held on Friday, October 8th, 2021, 11am at Berean Baptist Church, First Corner West of Southwest Plaza, Carmichael Road. Officiating will be Pastor Gary A. Watkins, assisted by other clergymen. Cremation was held.

Carlos was predeceased by his father: Colin Wells Sr.

Left to cherish his memories are his mother: Sybil Wells; sons: Dequan and Justin Wells; brothers: Christopher and Craig Wells Sr.; sister: De Andre Wells; aunts: Enid Loneice Pawar, Patrice Wells, Leonie De Irish, Minerva Johnson, Daphne and Valerie De Irish, Sandra Spence and Pamella Kerr; uncles: Roger, Alphonso, Andre and Ivor De Irish, Philbert and Denham Stennett and John De Irish; nephew: Craig Wells Jr.; cousins too numerous to mention; Sister-in-law: Latoya Wells; special thanks to: the Pawar family, Lujayn Hawari and the Nurses and Doctors of the Medical and Surgical wards of the Princess Margaret Hospital.

May his soul rest in peace.

but due to COVID we had to cut down certain initiatives, such as our pamphlet distribution in the local stores,” she said.

Ms Wright said that the free screening is one of their main initiatives during October. “We had an overwhelming number of women that turned out for mammogram screening and because the number was so huge last year, we decided to set up a database, and we are trying to narrow down our numbers by taking women from that database and giving them

mammograms,” she said.

She said those women who have never had mammograms would get preference over those that have received the screening before. “Then, we will go to those who have not had it for a certain amount of years as the next priority as we move through our database.”

“In October, we try to screen as many women as we can, and the donations we receive also help us to assist patients going into Nassau for treatment.”

Ms Wright indicated that

Death Notice For

Virginia Emily Ferguson Deveaux, 60 a resident of Mitchell Street, died at her residence on Thursday, September 23rd, 2021.

She is survived by her sons: Toma Ferguson, Edwardo Deveaux, Alcott Forbes, Kevon Knowles; daughters: Menatte Storr, Lahoma Ferguson, Stannell Forbes-Butler, Kevonia Knowles; 18 grandchildren; sisters: Rosalie Miller, Tryphemia Meadows; brothers; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral arrangements are being finalized and will be announced at a later date.

continued support from corporate donors is needed to assist the Cancer Society of the Bahamas with its various initiatives. “We need persons and companies to support us because Cancer every day someone is diagnosed with the disease,” she said. She noted that they have seen a diagnosis in someone as young as in the late ‘30s to early 40s.

There is also an increase in patients going to Nassau for treatments, she said.

When asked about an oncology clinic in Grand Bahama, Ms Wright indicated that it is still something they are agitating to see. “We had meetings about it and it is a process, and it is something that is still being looked at as we speak,” she said.

To raise awareness, Ms Wright said the Cancer Society is promoting rock your socks Fridays and selling raffle tickets for the month.

She said persons can purchase the tickets and socks from the Cancer Society at the MSC Building on Logwood Road.

Ms Wright stated that they have also partnered with local companies and organizations such as Bootleg Chocolate, The Chocalatess, Atya McIntosh, and with Pinktober, the Rotaract Club. She said they would have their Pink Buckets at various store locations for the public to donate funds. They are also partnering with schools.

Mary Star of the Sea is asking students to wear pink on Fridays and to give a donation of $1 which would go to the Cancer Society of the Bahamas.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 8, 2021, PAGE 5

MOORE: WHY ISN’T GENDER EQUALITY A TOP PRIORITY FOR NEW GOVT?

Irie the Cat Woman tells of her passion for caring

By TANYA SMITHCARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@ tribunemedia.net IRINA Creaser, affectionately known as “Irie the Cat Woman”, has dedicated her life to taking care of felines.

She not only takes care of stray cats but is also a volunteer groomer for the Bahamas Humane Society.

Having taken in about 60 cats over a two-year period, Ms Creaser is the founder of “Catatonic Cat Lovers” which has attracted some 900 members thus far.

The journey for her has a span of some 40 years that started when she was a mere child.

“It all came about me being an actual cat breeder and a cat lover for the past 40 years,” the “Cat Woman” said. “I had my first cat when I was 11 years old and I’ve always been a cat lover.

“I started breeding Persian cats in The Bahamas since 1995 under the mentorship of Dr Basil Sands.

He has been my closest friend and mentor. He taught me a lot about medicine and how to help cats

and steer them in the right direction.”

Ms Creaser is a native of Germany. She moved to the United States at the age of 17. While living there she met and married her late husband who was an American. She came to The Bahamas in 1993 and is now a permanent resident.

“Because of my own cats, eventually I have donated my services starting at least ten years ago to Bahamas Humane Society as a professional groomer.

“So whenever they need cats or dogs to be washed or anything to do with grooming, I donate my services to help them. My name is listed so any adoption cat that comes from the Humane Society can come straight to me for a free bath,” she said. “I make sure that people enjoy kitties without fleas or anything. I weigh the cats, I take care of them and give people advice on pet care.”

It’s all about the cats for Ms Creaser who not only rescues and grooms them, but makes sure they are spayed and neutered.

“I rescue cats as well,” she said. “I do everything from taking in fosters from BHS

SOME of the cats cared for by Irina Creaser.

IRINA Creaser with one of the cats she cares for.

Photos: Donovan McIntosh/Tribune Staff and BAARK (Bahamas Alli- long. I have been trained ance for Animal Rights and enough to give some good Kindness) that just don’t have advice. They ask me quesspace when they are going on tions and I tell them what flights to Canada or America. to look out for. I teach a lot I take them in until they are of pet care. Lots of people ready to go. My name has are lacking the education on kind of spread around to a what cats really need. lot of people who basically “Cats are not just needdo not know what to do with ing food and water. This is their cats. They just show up not a country that is very at my doorstep. kind to animals in general “Any cat that shows up at and even less to cats. So my doorstep finds a home. it’s really important that we Over the last two years I’ve understand what cats need picked up and ‘rehomed’ and how to read the manat least 60 cats on my own. nerism of cats to find out Dr Solomon on Carmichael what the cat needs to live a does spay and neuter. He happy and long life.” gives me a special there. I Ms Creaser gave The am a strong supporter of Tribune a first-hand account spay and neuter, trying to of her passion. help to decrease the stray “A cat can live comfortpopulation in general. ably for up to 17 years, but “I often have people who that’s if they live mostly are kind and leave me a indoors,” she said. “If they small donation which I save are outdoors, it shortens up for people who cannot their lives tremendously up afford spay and neutering to five years. I breed Perand I will actually pay for it.” sian cats, but I am not your It takes a special kind of everyday kind of breeder person to give their hearts because I don’t believe in totally to the care of fur breeding for income. My babies and Ms Creaser is cats are truly a passion, not definitely one of those spe- an income. cial people. Even though “I believe with different she cares for so many cats breeds come different perwho eventually will be re- sonalities and just like some homed to other people, she people love a rambunctious has cats of her own. short-haired kitty that is “I have 15 Persian cats of very energetic, there are my own,” Irie said. “Cats are also some people that like a my life. I live and breathe more passive cat. There are cats. The more people come certain cats who are just laid and need me, the happier I back which would be ideal am. The phone rings all day for easy going people.”

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

A DAY after the government laid out its legislative agenda in the Speech from The Throne, the founder of a women’s rights group said it was surprising that the issue of a referendum for gender equality was not one of the top priorities in the speech.

Prodesta Moore, president and founder of Women United, told The Tribune yesterday that this inequality is a “huge disadvantage” for women.

“It was very surprising that that was not one of the top priorities in the speech and we plan to make the courtesy call very soon to the new prime minister to see how important this aspect is with having so many women now they are representing and in these top positions we’re hoping it’s more favourable to us this time around. So definitely that’s a huge concern for us not having that as a priority on the list coming out of the gate,” she said.

Children born outside of the country to a married Bahamian woman and a foreign man are not automatically granted Bahamian citizenship and thus must apply to receive it.

In 2016, a gender equality referendum asked the electorate whether they would support four constitutional amendments. One of those questions included Bahamian women being afforded this same right as their male counterparts, but it was rejected.

Ms Moore questioned the need for another referendum.

“I don’t even know if you need to go at the point of holding a referendum,” she said. “I believe… that this is something the government can make a priority because to go now and to

PRODESTA MOORE spend taxpayers’ money having another referendum unless there is public education involved it’s going to be a waste of time. Something that the government needs to look (at is to) see how we can have this path without having to go to a referendum if necessary. If that’s possible I’d like to see that happen as a priority in Parliament.”

She highlighted the impact this inequality has on families.

“One of the disadvantages for women what we don’t understand is that it affects the entire family. If you are married to a foreign national and you have children, now those children are disadvantaged. They can’t get the type of support that the family deserves.

So this is definitely a priority for women across the board, so we’d like to see that happen and be taken very seriously,” Ms Moore said.

“There are instances where this can be an advantage for The Bahamas once we allow persons to come in as they are regulated in the proper format. We’re not saying sell citizenship, but we say give them where it’s due. If you can pass it on to the man, you definitely can pass it on to the woman.”

STRAW VENDORS WANT TALKS ON REOPENING MARKET

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE association representing straw vendors says it wants the new administration to engage vendors in discussions on the re-opening of the Nassau Straw Market after months of being left in limbo on the market’s return under the former government.

Straw Vendors Advancement Association President Celestine Eneas told The Tribune yesterday that more than a year later, workers still have no clue what the future holds for them as there was little to no communication with the previous government about the market’s reopening.

She said the group only hopes the new Davis administration does not follow in the footsteps of its predecessor and will better communicate with vendors going forward.

“I haven’t heard anything from the new administration as yet but hopefully, going forward I hope that we would be able to get something,” Ms Eneas said in an interview with The Tribune yesterday.

“Vendors are important to this economy. We have to fight hard to distribute the money through The Bahamas. Everybody (is) trying to say that straw vendors need to go back and sell what we used to sell but the market was closed for 20 months, 20 months.”

She added: “I want to know how we’re going to pay our rent. How we gonna pay our mortgage and how we’re going to do these things. . .and I call upon this government to consider us. People are losing their houses left right and centre. People are losing their cars. Families have to move in with other

families and it’s going to go on and on and on.

“I just heard a story of another straw vendor who got put out their house and if you have been out of work for 20 months and your mortgage is $1,000 of $1,500 you tell me how you’re supposed to make it?”

The association president said it’s unfair that other businesses can benefit from the tourists visiting downtown while the straw vendors can’t because their place of employment remains closed.

“The (foreigners) have taken over Bay Street and they’re selling souvenirs and nobody, the Bahamian people ain’t even complain about that and they’re wide open. The government even open them up on Sunday and all and they can work every day and nobody is concerned about us,” she said.

“The straw vendors are the only ones who I know is closed and maybe the jet ski operators and all of us are poor people but the rich man came in here and get some Bahamian to put the franchise in their name and they’re open.”

Ms Eneas said after being “disrespected” over the last year, it’s time for workers to have a seat at the table and get their concerns addressed.

“Discussions with the previous administration was not good at all with us.

They did no dialogue with us whatsoever. You would call and everything would fall on deaf ears and like I told the people I supported the (former) government until they was voted out but they did not give us a piece of the pie,” she added.

“We didn’t get the respect that we deserve and I’m hoping that it will be different with this government.

I am hoping that we have a seat to the table where we could discuss and come back owners and not workers.”

Former Works Minister Desmond Bannister, who had responsibility for the Straw Market, attributed low vaccination numbers among vendors as one of the reasons for the market’s continued shutdown.

However, it is not clear how many workers have been vaccinated to date, with Mrs Eneas telling The

Tribune she could not say.

She said: “I don’t know what the vaccinate (rate) is but I know one thing but this new government could come and speak to find out how many persons are vaccinated and who ain’t vaccinated.”

According to Ms Eneas, more than 300 workers have been negatively affected due to the downtown site’s continued closure.

She said many of those workers have no plans to return to the market because of old age and

“mistreatment” by management.

“Out of the 360, I think they told me it was 24 vendors who died but I know of 18 or 19 vendors who died but plenty of the vendors say they won’t be coming back because we have a lot of old people in there and then some of them was on the verge of giving up even before the COVID because of the harsh way they were being treated in the market so plenty won’t be coming back,” Mrs Eneas said.

On Wednesday, Minister of Works Alfred Sears said there is a need to get the market reopened. He said he recently met with the market’s management team.

“The Straw Market has been closed for well over a year now, so we have to get that open and it has to be done in a manner that’s consistent with the COVID protocols and the conditions that the Ministry of Health has imposed on them,” Mr Sears said.

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PAGE 6, Friday, October 8, 2021

THE TRIBUNE

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Date set - now FNM must choose THE date has been set.

On November 27, the FNM will hold a one-day convention to determine who will be the leader of the party.

More than that, that person will be the leader of the Opposition – who will lead the challenge to government in Parliament.

That role, held so recently by now Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, is so often underplayed in its importance, but it gives the people of the country a voice in Parliament to call the government to account.

Can it be seen as purely adversarial?

Absolutely. But in the ideal world it should serve to point out flaws in legislation or problems that need to be addressed. In short, a strong Opposition can make our government better. Notice that word “can”, whether it does or not depends on who fills the role, and the government’s willingness to listen.

The FNM can do nothing about the latter, so it must do what it can to choose the best person for the job of leader.

There is speculation about the possibility of Dr Hubert Minnis continuing in the role. He has said he will not offer himself directly for the role, but has declined to say whether he would accept a nomination for leader if he were nominated.

Dr Minnis offered himself for leadership as recently as last month – of the nation, rather than the party – and was roundly rejected.

If Dr Minnis wants to continue as leader of the FNM, he will have to do some serious convincing that he can turn around that landslide result.

More than that, had he been elected this time around, this would have been his final term as Prime Minister if he held to his promise of no more than two terms in the post – so his original plan was to be stepping down around the time of the next election anyway, by which time he would be in his 70s.

Any failings that the new PLP government identify with the previous FNM administration will also sit squarely on his shoulders as he tries to stand in Opposition.

Those are the challenges he faces.

Other candidates will face their own hurdles to clear, including some who might want the role but who do not have a seat in Parliament.

We wish the convention would arrive sooner – waiting until the end of November is a long time for the FNM to lack a clear direction in Opposition. But a choice has to be made, not just for the sake of the party, but for the country.

We await the party’s decision.

The legacy of Ivan and The Punch EDITOR, The Tribune.

THERE will be a lot of powerful people such as politicians and the likes taking a collective sigh of relief on the death of Ivan Johnson.

The Bahamas is riddled with corruption and hypocrisy in equal measures and an intellectual such as Ivan took great pleasure in exposing both. He was utterly unfazed about the subsequent outcome.

He received death threats for his honesty in exposing some of the skullduggery which is to a degree the

norm here. The Bahamas was founded by pirates and we have plenty still here alive and well.

He found via his vast network of contacts mountains of dirt on the rich and famous and various politicians.

Traditionally the PLP is a breeding ground for corrupt politicians so they got his full attention. In fairness, however, he would be equally virulent in his condemnation of any FNM who stepped out of line.

A classic cartoon in the Punch summed up Ivan. It shows a fuming Bahamian

vexed by a bikini clad girl on P3 whilst non plussed by rape, child molestation, crime, ignorance and incest and the likes. Perfectly exposing the undercurrent hypocrisy of The Bahamas.

He will be greatly missed, investigative reporting and his type of journalism may well disappear from the Bahamas and as a society we will be the worse for it.

Who now will keep the rich and powerful in check?

RIP Ivan.

THE REALIST Nassau, October 7, 2021.

Have cake and eat it EDITOR, The Tribune.

ALL this tireless and seemingly senseless argument about vaccinating or testing hotel employees before they can be employed as a safety measure against this terrible epidemic that is terrorising the world and turning people’s lives upside down, is a mystery to me.

The logic seems simple.

A pandemic has put its ugly arms around the world, threatening all of its human inhabitants. So far the only known way to escape it is to put on the mask, lock yourselves in your homes with no outside contact and hibernate until the all clear is given. As this is not feasible, alternatives have been suggested.

For hotel workers, whose jobs can continue only if the hotel can remain open by assuring their guests that as far as is humanly possible they will be safe in their establishment, the workers will have to make a simple decision. They can get a COVID vaccination free of charge, or, if they object, they will have to take a

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net daily test to make certain that they are not infected before they can enter the hotel to do their job. However, for this they will have to pay. The choice is theirs.

But, oh no, they not only want their cake, but they want to eat it too. Well, my friends, it just ain’t like that!

If your job is important to you, you will take the vaccination, which is free, and get on with the job, or you will insist on the daily test for which you will have to pay. If you can’t afford to pay, then get the vaccination — which I can assure you does not hurt. But, don’t be stupid – get on with the job.

And don’t come crying to the public about you lost your job, when the decision is in your own hands. I can assure you you won’t get much sympathy out here because we are all in the same boat and having to make the same unpleasant decisions. You know we ain’t

fool. Go and take your vaccination so that you too can move around more freely and will not present a medical threat to the rest of us.

Tourism is the Bahamas’ life blood and so our hoteliers have to guarantee that as far as possible their establishments are safe places to book, eat meals and generally feel secure.

To guarantee that their guests are welcome to an establishment that is offering them a safe place in which to relax and forget their worries and the fear that they might be contaminated by COVID, the hotel staff must also be medically safe.

The hotel employees, if they want their jobs will have to fully cooperate or the hotel might be forced to close and then there will be no job to talk about.

So either get vaccinated for free, or pay for a daily test and stop crying about not being able to afford it.

Please show some common sense.

A LOYAL BAHAMIAN Nassau, October 6, 2021.

Tribune242 readers have say READERS on www. tribune242.com have been having their say on issues in the news.

After Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said that he did not know Wayne Munroe had represented two deputy commissioners in a 2019 lawsuit seeking to quash Charles Murphy’s appointment as commissioner of corrections before Mr Murphy was placed on administrative leave last week by the now Minister of National Security, readers expressed their opinions.

John wrote: “Justice was not be done, but must be seen to be done. Do not deny this man the opportunity to retire after years of dedicated service

and receive his financial rewards. Especially if it is based of a personal desire to even a score. What is worse than victimiation is when it is tit for tat or is done by someone who should know better.”

Stillwaters added: “I think Wayne is now realizing how easy a job he had when he just needed to run to the news outlets complaining about....and denouncing everything..... he has a tougher job now on

the other side of the fence.”

TigerB said: “The PM must not live here, he had much to say when those assistant comissioners were released by the then minister.”

Moncurcool said: “Davis really take the Bahamian for fools and donkeys! I guess he does not read the newspaper of listen to the news media he talks to.

And I guess he also did not know Munroe represented the 3 Assistant COP’s that he also sent back to police headquarters. New Day, Same Ole Crap!”

While Thisisours had advice for Mr Munroe, saying: “Davis really take the Bahamian for fools and donkeys! I guess he does not read the newspaper of

listen to the news media he talks to. And I guess he also did not know Munroe represented the 3 Assistant COP’s that he also sent back to police headquarters.”

After former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis refused to say whether he would accept or reject a nomination for leader of the Free National Movement at the party’s convention, tribanon said: “THE HUGE MISTAKE made by the executive board and council of the FNM party in allowing disgraced Minnis to be opposition leader has already come home to roost. LOL.” Proguing said: “Noooooo ooooooooooooooooooooo ooooooo...

“This can only take place

because a duopoly governs the Bahamas.

“Minnis knows that in the next elections Bahamians will vote out the PLP and it does not matter who will be leading the FNM. They could have Donald Duck and win.” jackbnimble added: “Why is anyone shocked.

I tell you if it acts like a snake and crawls like a snake, guess what? It IS a snake.”

Bahamianson added: “Wait, are we crazy or what? Did Brave Davis not lose an election in a disgraceful fashion? Did Fred Mitchell not lose?

Did Obie not lose before?

All of them lose and comeback, and I am not supporting anyone. It is

what it is. But no one can say that a candidate cannot come back if she or he loses.it is up to the person and the voters.”

Tribanon replied: “Yes, but Davis, Mitchell and others like them were not PM at the time they suffererd their embarrassing defeats at the polls in past general elections. The political career ending tarnishing for a disgraceful shellacking at the polls is rightfully always reserved for the sitting PM at the time whether or not he is able to retain his own seat in parliament.”

• You can take part in the discussion at www.tribune242.com. Log on and have your say.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 8, 2021, PAGE 7

Gibson asked for WSC notes COURT CHAOS AS PROSECUTOR WASN’T APPROVED FOR PRACTICE from page one In July attorney David Cash challenged the validity of his client’s VBI after arguing that Mr Bakininga, who is the assistant director of public prosecutions, erred in law when he signed the VBI of his client, Cannes Villus, who is charged with four counts of unlawful sexual intercourse.

Yesterday, Justice Fraser noted that Mr Cash’s submissions highlighted the fact that the Criminal Procedure Code stipulates that only the attorney general or a legal practitioner acting on his behalf can sign Voluntary BilIs of Indictment. She said Mr Cash contended that because Mr Bakibinga has been denied the right to practice by the Bahamas Bar Association, he could not be considered a legal practitioner in the country.

“It is clear from the words of the relevant statutes...considered by this court that the intention of

Parliament was to ensure that the person who exercises functions under section 258 of the CPC are appointed in accordance with the Constitution,” she said.

“The court finds that section 258 of the CPC is not in contravention of the Constitution. “Therefore, in order for the VBI to have been signed in accordance with the laws of this jurisdiction, the person who signed the same ought to have been the director of public prosecutions, or a person (acting on behalf of) the director of public prosecutions who is a legal public officer or legal practitioner in accordance with the CPC.” Justice Fraser said in view of this fact, the court found that the person who signed Villus’ VBI “could not validly sign the same” as he did not possess the qualifications specified under the country’s laws.

“The matter is therefore remitted to the Magistrate’s Court,” she ruled.

MAN ‘HIT HIS BABY IN FACE WITH BEER BOTTLE’

By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net

A MAN accidentally struck his baby in the face with a beer bottle after he stalked and tried to assault the young child’s mother earlier this year, a court was told.

The accused — whose name has been withheld to protect the identity of the one-year-old child and his mother — is currently on trial before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle Davis.

He denies the allegations.

The child’s mother said in July, she was a passenger in a car that was travelling on Sir Milo Butler highway when the accused followed her. The woman said while her male companion was driving, she was seated in the passenger seat breastfeeding her infant. She said while on the highway, she noticed that her car door swung open. She said when she “looked to the left”, she saw the accused had reached over and opened the door after pulling alongside her vehicle in another car. The woman said after the driver she was riding with “swerved” to get her car door to close again she locked it, but her

child’s father continued to pursue them and “chase them through traffic”.

“As we turned off Fire Trail Road, he still followed us,” she said. “It was a dead end so him and the people he was riding with sped up in front of us and come out of the car. One of them throw a Guinness bottle which hit me in the head. My baby daddy threw another bottle which hit my baby on top of his eye.”

The woman said after the glass bottle made impact with her baby’s face she started “screaming and panicking” because her child “blacked out”.

“I shaked him because he was unconscious,” she said. “We ended up going to Princess Margaret Hospital.

I got a scar, but my baby eye was swollen and the doctor said the impact was hard (because) he required a CAT scan.”

Although the accused claimed to be represented, his defence counsel was not present during the proceedings.

As a result, Magistrate Rolle Davis adjourned the case to give the accused an opportunity to seek legal representation.

The case continues December 12.

PAIR ACCUSED OVER GUNS AND DRUGS

By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net

TWO men and a woman who denied being in possession of two loaded firearms and a quantity of marijuana will stand trial later this year.

Lloyd Minnis, Lavardo Paul and Antoinette McPhee were arrested after police alleged they found them with a silver and black .21 glock, a black shotgun as well as 10 ounces of Indian hemp on October 5.

Officers said they recovered nine rounds of .40 ammunition and six shotgun bullets from the accused that day.

During their hearing before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt Evans, the three pleaded not guilty to two counts each of possession of an unlicensed firearm and illegal ammunition and a single count of

simple possession.

As a result, their case was adjourned to December 9 for trial.

In the meantime, Minnis and Paul were each granted $10,000 bail for the drug offence and another $7,000 bail each for the firearm charge.

Because Paul was convicted and sentenced for a gun offence in 2017, the prosecution objected to him receiving bail.

In response, his attorney, Wendawn Frazier, argued that it has been nearly five years since Paul had committed the crime. She also contended that there was no indication that he would reoffend in the future.

After listening to submissions from both sides, Magistrate Vogt Evans said she would accede to the application of the Crown.

This means that Paul will remain in custody until his trial.

$100K OF MARIJUANA FOUND GRAND Bahama police discovered more than 100 pounds of suspected marijuana worth over $100,000 in Freeport this week.

Police said Drug Enforcement Unit officers arrested two men on Wednesday in connection with the matter.

DEU officers, acting on a tip, went to the Caravel

Beach Subdivision, where they conducted a search at a residence on Lady Fish Court.

Police found three bags containing 19 packages of suspected marijuana, weighing 103 pounds.

Police said the drugs have an estimated street value of $103,000.

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

PUBLIC Works Minister Alfred Sears said he has requested “turnover notes” from Water & Sewerage Executive Chairman Adrian Gibson to view the state of the corporation.

While he said he did not want to single out Mr Gibson and WSC, Mr Sears said he will be reviewing the activities at all government entities under his remit.

Mr Gibson has not formally resigned.

The Long Island MP came under fire in August after leaked documents showed a company, Elite Maintenance, was awarded contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars

by WSC. It was claimed the company director has the same name as a person with whom Mr Gibson had earlier had a relationship.

Asked about it on Wednesday following the opening of Parliament at Baha Mar, Mr Sears said: “Well with respect to the Water & Sewerage Corporation, I called Mr Gibson myself and he indicated to me that he has not been in the office since the election, and he has no intention. He has been very cooperative.

“He has committed to providing turnover notes for me and I spoke to him today (Wednesday) and he has indicated that commitment will be forthcoming.”

Asked if there were plans to probe the contracts facilitated to Elite, Mr Sears

said: “I would not want to prejudge anything. Right now, I am asking for turnover notes.”

Asked if he would review Mr Gibson’s actions during his four-year tenure at WSC, Mr Sears said: “The thing is we have to review what has happened at all of the corporations and I would not simply single that one out. I know the issue is in the public domain but when I assume a position I have to come with an open mind and not come with a preconceived notion. My job is to get proper turnover notes, so I know what is the state of play in the corporation and not come with any preconceived notion.

“Once we have everything it’s going to be reviewed so that we know

how to best serve the interest of the Bahamian people.”

Mr Gibson did not respond to messages or calls yesterday.

In a statement in August, Mr Gibson denied any beneficial interest or any interest at all for that matter in Elite.

However, he did not make clear whether Alexandria Mackey, listed as a director of and who signed as “contractor”, is the same Alexandria Mackey who he listed as his fiancée in a 2020 police report, which was also leaked.

In a separate statement issued by WSC General Manager Elwood Donaldson, it was said Alexandria Mackey acted as legal agent for the company.

GOVT HOUSE REPAIRS DUE BY FIRST QUARTER OF NEXT YEAR

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

REPAIRS at Government House now have a completion date of sometime within the first quarter of 2022, according to Public Works Minister Alfred Sears.

The work at Mount Fitzwilliam was to be completed by the end of this year, but Mr Sears said crews carrying out the work ran into challenges.

He said of ongoing projects, “I’ve also visited some of the projects underway which are important for the national institutions, the functions one is the House of Assembly.

“I went and saw the work being done down there. I spoke with Pastor Roker, and another is Government House and Mr Wilmott who is the contractor and also Mr Pickstock who is the project supervisor for the ministry.

“Basically, he showed me the challenges they have encountered which is not unusual in a historically significant place 100 or so years old. They have encountered problems with the plumbing mechanical structures, which has caused the scope of the work to be expanded.

“Mr Wilmott gave me a conditional commitment to have it done by January, I think the first quarter

of next year,” he said on Wednesday.

Mr Sears said he plans to visit various Family Islands to view the progress of ongoing work.

“We have projects in Long Island, there’s a bridge. We have airports in Exuma (and) in Grand Bahama and all of these docks being repaired and built and, of course, roads.

So, the whole built infrastructure on the public side we are reviewing.”

PAGE 8, Friday, October 8, 2021

THE TRIBUNE

Graveside Service For Jewel Sherell Munroe, 37

of Sandilands Village, will be held on Friday, October 8th, 2021, 1:00 p.m. at Eastern Cemetery, Dowdeswell Street. Officiating will be Pastor Vaughan Cash and Pastor Dave Cash assisted by Pastor Keno Smith.

Due to current Government regulations in respect to Covid-19, masks and physical distancing are required.

Jewel was preceded in death by her mother: Angela Munroe; father: Glen Munroe; aunt: Winifred Adderley; Uncles: Douglas Adderley and Centel McKenzie.

She will forever be remembered and live in the hearts of her children: Jamal Jr. and Jasmine Lowe, Tristan Ferguson; grandmother: Eloise Adderley; grandfather: George Munroe Sr.; siblings: Mario and Shikera Munroe, Sandy Jean-Charles, Santio and Sanika Munroe, Travis and Omar Clarke; brother-in-law: Evens Jean Charles; aunts: Daisy Munroe, Maria Adderley, Winnifred Munroe; uncles: Ron Munroe, Raymond Adderley, Lamatt Munroe, Calvin Pinder; grand uncles: Lay Minister Luther Kemp, Hilary ‘Tips Bain (Miriam Bain) and McFarlin Bain of Cocoa Florida; nieces: Jada Cleare, Ticoya Munroe, Maddison Jean-Charles; nephews: Trae Butler, Jaden and Davyon Munroe, Franklyn Ferguson, Miguel Jean Charles; cousins: Shonell and Brandino Brown Sr., Shane Minns, Erica and Tevin “Tubba” Wilkinson, Samantha, Douglaria and Damian Adderley and Tanisha Inghram, Brandino Jr, Branelle and Branneque Brown, Raynardo and Leanna Dean, Cornello and Kamari Minns, Waldon and Willette Poitier, Kenyatta Joseph of Los Angeles, Joseph Jr, Sidney and Frederick Poitier of Cocoa, Florida, Garvin, Monique and Kishon Bain, Shantell Chipman; god children: Trinity, Jasmine and Leanne; special friends & family: Terrence Ferguson and Family, Barbara Harvey and Family, Shekera Rolle and Family, Davyvonne Butler Ferguson and Family, Markel Grant and Family, Christa Bowles and Family, Edricka Munroe-Frazier and Family, Shenika Sands and Family, Shenik Sands and Family, Jamal Lowe Sr. and Family; other relatives and friends: Antoinette Culmer and Family, Tanya Ferguson and Family, Drexel and Lolita Marshall and Family, Thomas Minns and Family, Janet Munroe and Family, Debbie, Doria and Helena Poitier and Family, Cora Kemp and Family ,Gavin and Acklins Mackey and Family of New York, Margaret Lightbourne and Family, Geniece, Maxine, Vera Brown and Family, Michelle Simmons and Family, Marilyn Munroe and Family, Apostle Patrick Kemp, Suzette and Terry Kemp and Family, Margreth Munroe and Family, The Kemp Family of Lower Bogue Eleuthera, The Munroe Family of Current Island, Eleuthera, Pastor and Sis Vaughan Cash and the entire Evangelistic Temple Family, Jasmine Williams and Family, Sis Phenny McPhee and Family, Sis Alice Adams and Family, Sis Marsha Saunders and Family, Sis Mizpah Johnson and Family, , The Calvin Street Family, The Ingraham Family of Turnquest Alley, The e R.M. Bailey Graduating Class of 2001, the staff of Tint Vision including Gregory Cooper, Jared Cooper, Desmond Hepburn, Daniel Taylor, Irvin Sands, Vincent Gardiner, Lorenzo McCoy, Patrice Carey, Colin McKenzie and Regional McKenzie; The Medical Staff at PMH, Kelly’s Home Centre Family, All of her many clients of Sensuous Scents and other friends and relatives too numerous to mention. We do apologize for any inadvertent omission of names not mentioned.

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

JEROME Fitzgerald pictured briefly on Twitter - before the tweet was deleted - as a senior advisor in the Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit.

Seat at the table for polarising Fitzgerald THERE’S an old expression that goes, “same (ahem), different day.”

As the “New Day” Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) government fills out and quickly ages, I’m beginning to think of that expression. Often.

The latest red flag came with the announcement that former Marathon MP and education minister Jerome Fitzgerald would be “posted up” in the Office of the Prime Minister, leading the PM’s Delivery Unit.

You would have to have a very short memory to forget the myriad scandals Mr Fitzgerald gleefully spearheaded as an elected official.

Here’s a primer: the Rubis gas leak scandal, the “political garbage can” email scandal, and the “Please, sir, can you spare a contract for my Daddy?” scandal.

In a more mindful administration, particularly one that touts “a new day” as its catchphrase, there would be no place for someone as tainted as Fitzgerald.

But not here.

A Comic’s View

By INIGO ‘NAUGHTY’ ZENICAZELAYA

Here in Narnia, our new PM Philip “Brave” Davis has already rolled out the gold carpet and welcomed – even celebrated – the return of ‘Jeromie the Homie.’

Why? Curiously enough, back in their early days of banishment following their 2017 general election defeat, one of the real bright stars in the PLP, Chester Cooper, was quoted in The Tribune as having this to say about how the party had lost its way (and their seats): “We were not accountable enough and not transparent enough,” he said, according to his prepared remarks released to the media. “And we ignored scandals – protecting the interest of offending individuals and condoned things we should not have by our silence.”

Cooper, back then, all but called out names like “Fitzgerald” and many other “offending” politicians.

Fast forward to today, and it’s Bahamians who are offended. Again.

Not only has PM Davis “propped up” one of the most polarising politicians of a generation, but Brave has also afforded him an exalted seat at the table, having snuck him through the back door, of course.

There was no apology for past offences, as our new Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper suggested should have come back then.

There was no learning from those ‘‘teachable moments” former PM Christie liked pontificating on.

Instead, we have Brave asking, “What past scandals, what past scandals?

No, no, no. It was nothing to do with him. There was no harm, no foul in relation to that.” It’s surreal, three weeks in office and the PLP is already gaslighting a whole nation about gasleak man’s terrible past transgressions.

Is there none in the party who could have filled this advisor position? Preferably someone without the stench of “political garbage can” juice wafting around them?

Wait, did Fitz advise Davis to make this obviously absurd statement?

Anyone, anyone? Bueller? Bueller?

(I have a ton of movie questions, like: Is this your king? Are you not entertained? Who watches the watchmen? What’s in the box? Yes, I probably watch way too many films. But I digress).

I wonder if Cooper or any newly elected MP’s has uttered a word to the PM advising against this selection.

Cue Disturbed’s “The Sound of Silence,” which, ironically, begins with the words, “Hello darkness, my old friend, I’ve come to talk with you again...’’

Earlier I asked why the PM would set himself (and his administration) up for the inevitable own-goal we know is coming with this polluted appointment, but we already know why.

It’s because same day, different…

Well, you know how it goes.

MURDER ACCUSED ALSO FACES CHARGE OF ATTACK ON OFFICER

By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A MAN accused of committing murder will also stand trial for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

On Monday, Doobensky Antoine, 25, appeared before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt Evans charged with the death of Maurice Fox, Jr, on September 26.

He was later brought back before Magistrate Vogt Evans to answer to the charges of obscene language, disorderly behaviour and assault.

Prosecutors alleged that

Antoine used profanity to the annoyance of a police constable at the Wulff Road station on October 3.

They further alleged that he behaved in a disorderly manner and assaulted the same officer at the station that day.

Yesterday, Antoine denied the allegations.

Before he was remanded back into custody, his attorney, Ian Cargill, told the magistrate that his client was beaten by police officers at the station.

Antoine returns to court in 2022 to be served with his voluntary bill of indictment and to stand trial for the alleged offences.

THE PUNCH AND THE POWER OF ONE

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, October 8, 2021, PAGE 9

By Diane Phillips

IF YOU read the final Ivan Johnson, the man issue of The Punch yester- who came back home after day, published three days a career working for Rupert after the death of its editor, Murdoch, one of the most publisher, creator and powerful and influential defender Ivan Johnson, you publishers in the world, had this sinking feeling in showed us the power of your gut that an important one. And how ironic it was chapter in the history of that his voice fell silent on The Bahamas had closed. the same day that another In tribute after tribute burst through. contributed by many who Only a day before, expressed it far better almost no one outside Silithan I ever could, the mes- con Valley and probably sage that flew few inside the from dozens California tech of prominent ‘Long before hub knew the we got close to keyboards name Frances across the having a Freedom Haugen.

On world from Sunday night, The Bahamas of Information October 3, to Australia Act, Page 1 of The on one of the was emo- Punch was our most watched tional, painful shows on teleand delivered unofficial freedom vision, Haugen with a dose of of information. told millions disbelief. tuned in to 60 Ivan’s were the Ivan JohnMinutes that son, you eyes behind the she was the packed a hel- scenes that always whistleblower luva punch seemed to know in possession and now you of thousands are gone, dead what was going of documents of a massive on, not the official that showed heart attack at version, the real Facebook age 68 and we put profits do not want one. He was above people. it to be true afraid of no one.’

Driven by its because we all bottom line, felt like you belonged to us. the algorithms of FaceIt was hard to digest that book and its social media you could have had time for platforms “harm children, another life beside uncover- stoke division and weaken ing the story and blasting our democracy,” Haugen it across Page 1 in 60-point alleged. sans serif font, bold.

Her interview on 60 MinLong before we got utes hit the newswires and close to having a Free- social media news feeds dom of Information Act, even before it ended. The Page 1 of The Punch was following day, she repeated our unofficial freedom of her accusations before a information. Ivan’s were Senate hearing, urging the eyes behind the scenes Congress to act. Facebook that always seemed to know creator the ever-youthful what was going on, not the Mark Zuckerberg, one of official version, the real the world’s richest men who one. He was afraid of no still looks like he could live one. The only thing he ever a month on a single razor feared was missing a lie that blade, defended the comneeded to be revealed. pany arguing that it listens It is too bad he is not here to its viewers and users to read the accolades. who repeatedly say they

IVAN Johnson in his cricketing days.

IVAN Johnson receiving his Pioneer award from Press Club president Anthony Capron in 2018. do not want to see divisive and violent content, but many analysts say this congressional hearing will be tougher than any before on the man whose fortune is pegged at $135 billion (though hearts go out to him for a single day loss of $7 billion when Facebook and its apps, including Instagram and whatsapp crashed on Monday).

Ivan Johnson, Frances Haugen. A month from now, few if any of us in The Bahamas will remember the name of the 37-year-old product manager who blew the whistle on Facebook.

Years from now, we will all remember the man who founded The Punch and for nearly 31 years strived to bring us the real story of politics and life in The Bahamas.

A SHORT NOTE ABOUT PATHS THAT CROSSED

Ivan and I both worked for a while for the same publisher in a roundabout way. I, too, came to The Bahamas from a world of daily journalism followed by a fascinating career in tabloids, far more demanding than anyone who hasn’t been inside the operating room of one knows.

Broadsheets, like The Tribune have news rooms. I grew up in one and earned my reporter and editing badge amidst the dead Styrofoam coffee cups, ashtrays filled with yesterday’s butts, crackling police radio that never stopped.

Tabloids, like The Punch, the National Enquirer, Star, Midnight Sun and others take their style from Fleet Street where the style of writing is tight and the concept of get in, tell the story, get out was born and thrives to this day.

No long monologues repeating a history, today’s news delivered hot and whenever possible saucy or edgy.

Every word counts. And Ivan, you kept up that Fleet Street pace all these years, combining it with a behind the scenes look that an investigative reporter that would take to a broadsheet. You were a one-man show in a competitive world.

I just wonder how different our history would have been had you been here in the early ’80s and published The Punch then during the height of the drug-running, Norman’s Cay flying a foreign flag and forbidding Bahamians to land days.

We will never know.

Photo: Press Club

Public Viewing For

Kendle Kenneth Burrows, 67 affectionately called “K.B.’’ of Blenheim Close, Stapledon Gardens and formerly of Green Castle, Eleuthera will be held in the “Serenity Suite” at Restview Memorial Mortuary and Crematorium Ltd., Robinson and Soldier Roads on Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Left to mourn his passing are his children: Vernice Wilkinson (Hermann Leonce), Shanica Flowers, Kanu, Daisy & Vanessa Burrows, Kendall Kemp, Shamara (Leander) Burrows, Kendra, Sheniska, Kareem, Kenhrone and Barishna Burrows; grandchildren: Bradeisha, Marcy, Paris, Jadyn, Kenia, Kenecia, Barronique, Barron Jr., Orayan, Oshane, Ciara, Lavan, Kaylin, Cerranique, Cerria, Amarion, Peter, Precious, Adam, Aldira, Braxton, Whitney, and Andre; great grandchildren: Tyler, Alex and Payton; brothers: Prince, Joseph, Lunning (Geneva) Burrows, Father Bradley (Vernalee) Miller, Keith and Dale Miller and Eduardo Brown; sisters: Helen (Henry) Johnson, Jacqueline (Melvin) Morris, Karen Burrows, Lenor Woodside, Linda (Charles) Rolle; nieces: Janice Sears, Janet Ferguson, Lakeisha Burrows, Corporal 2888 Shenique Burrows, Rashea, Rashan and Trenae Burrows, Kendera Darville, Latesha Rolle, Caronique Morley and Kayleaser Stubbs, Brianne; nephews: Corporal 1206 Kenritto (Samantha) Burrows, Lavado and Kenneth Burrows, Cresqell, Cory and Zhivago Rolle, Vandaso, Adam and Rashad Burrows, Edric, Keishawn and Khyrone Morley, Kevaughn Stubbs, Shamal Woodside Jr., Travis, Lunning, Logan, Kelvin and Whitfield Burrows, Walter Pinder and Bradley Miller Jr.; grandnieces and grandnephews: Anya, Ashley and Shadrick Ferguson, Fredrick Sears Jr., Lashann Brice, Lavanda, Kendia and Kianna Burrows His Aunts: Lorna Sweeting, Coranetta Lee, Blanche and Ethylyn Morley; uncles: Samuel Morley, Usene (Merina), and Stanley Burrows; father-in-law: George Russell; sisters-in-law: Patrice and Patsy Burrows, Edna Gibson and Rose Saunders; brothers-in-law: Solomon and Kilroy Russell; other relatives and friends: Catherine Butler, Vesco Hanna, Lisa Hawkins, Lenora (Steve), Dwayne, Devon, Sammy, Darius, Chris and Dellerese Morley, Gregory, Butch, Ernest, Nelson, Pauline, Renea, Stephen, Jeffery, Kevia, Debbie, Shanny and Philip Burrows, Shena Ferguson, Jacqueline Bonaby, Antionette Miller, Jay and Michelle Fox, Erica Lightbourne, Fredrica Wallace, Kenu and Bertram Rolle, Eugene, Curlin Elvis, Fredrica Watson, Evangiline Rolle, Lavelle Rolle, Lavado Lee, Brenda Cooper, Julian Anderson, Hugh Fowler, Christine Jenoure, Cathrine Storr, Debra Fernander, Enid Capron, Edmund Delancy, Terrie Gardiner, Dr. Colton Jones, Sharon Bethel, Leanname Griffin, Terice Curry, Ann Rolle, Rai Budhu, Rubert Anderson, Lionel Sands, Boston Morley and family, Johny Butler and Family, Alexander Williams, Hugh Fowler, Solomon Roberts, Donna Pickstock, Helen Goodman, Reverend Fr. I Ranfully Brown, Sherwin Butler, Prescola Rolle, Honorable Vaughn Miller, Honorable Zane Lightbourne, Anthony Miller, Eloise Whymms, Gina Moss, Queen’s College Class of 1971, Bahamas Teachers College Class of 1974, The Right Honorable Philip Brave Davis, Honorable Glenyss Hanna Martin, The Miller, Morley, Richards and Whylly family of Green Castle, The Communities of South Eleuthera, North Andros, Exuma, Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador.

PAGE 10, Friday, October 8, 2021

THE TRIBUNE

PENTAGON PREPARES FOR CLIMATE CHANGE AND WAR IN A WARMER WORLD WASHINGTON Associated Press

A NEW Pentagon plan calls for incorporating the realities of a hotter, harsher Earth at every level in the US military, from making worsening climate extremes a mandatory part of strategic planning to training troops how to secure their own water supplies and treat heat injury.

The Pentagon — whose jets, aircraft carriers, truck convoys, bases and office buildings cumulatively burn more oil than most

countries — was among the federal agencies that President Joe Biden ordered to overhaul their climate-resilience plans when he took office in January. About 20 agencies were releasing those plans Thursday.

“These are essential steps, not just to meet a requirement, but to defend the nation under all conditions,’’ Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin wrote in a letter accompanying the Pentagon’s climate plan.

It follows decades of US military assessments that climate change is a threat to

US national security, given increased risks of conflict over water and other scarcer resources, threats to US military installations and supply chains, and added risks to troops.

The US military is the single largest institutional consumer of oil in the world, and as such a key contributor to the worsening climate globally. But the Pentagon plan focuses on adapting to climate change, not on cutting its own significant output of climate-wrecking fossil fuel pollution.

It sketches out in businesslike terms the kind of risks US forces face in the grim world ahead: Roadways collapsing under convoys as permafrost melts. Crucial equipment failing in extreme heat or cold. US troops in dry regions overseas competing with local populations for dwindling water supplies, creating “friction or even conflict”.

Already, worsening wildfires in the US West, fiercer hurricanes on the coasts and increasing heat in some areas are interrupting US military training and readiness.

The new Department of Defense plan cites the example of Hurricane Michael in 2018, which hit Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida. Beyond the $3bn it cost to rebuild, the storm knocked out the country’s top simulator and classroom training for F-22s stealth fighter jets for months. It was just one of several hurricanes and floods that have affected operations as US bases in recent years.

The climate adaptation plan focuses on what it says is the need to incorporate accurate

and current climate data and considerations into strategic, operational and tactical decision-making.

That includes continued training of senior officers and others in what the report calls climate literacy.

“Failure to properly integrate a climate change understanding of related risks may significantly increase the Department’s adaptation and operating costs over time, ... imperil the supply chain, and/ or result in degraded and outdated department capabilities,” the plan warns.

At least 23 dead in Pakistan earthquake QUETTA, Pakistan Associated Press A POWERFUL earthquake collapsed at least one coal mine and dozens of mud houses in southwest Pakistan early Thursday, killing at least 23 people as the death toll continued to creep higher. At least another 200 people were injured, an official said.

The death tally was expected to rise even further as crews searched in the remote mountainous area, said Suhail Anwar Shaheen, the local deputy commissioner.

At least four people were killed when the coal mine in which they were working collapsed, said Shaheen, citing coal miners in the area. As many as 100 homes also collapsed, burying sleeping residents inside.

In one case, a mother died along with her two young sons when their home collapsed, said Wali Muhammad, a relative. Nearby, the body of an eight-year old girl was found beneath the rubble of her home.

The epicentre of the 5.9 magnitude quake was about nine miles north-northeast of Harnai in Baluchistan province, according to the US Geological Survey. The

A FAMILY inside their house after an earthquake in Harnai, east of Quetta, Pakistan, yesterday. initial measurement of the quake’s strength was 5.7 magnitude. It struck about 5.5 miles below the Earth’s surface; shallower quakes tend to cause more damage.

The area, about 60 miles from Quetta, the provincial capital, is dotted with coal mines, which has Shaheen worried the death toll could rise. It struck in the early morning while scores of miners were already at work, he said.

Pakistan’s military was deployed to the earthquake area to airlift dozens of injured from mountain peaks. At least nine critically injured people were taken to the provincial hospital in Quetta. Search and rescue teams have arrived in the mountains, an army statement said.

Concern has grown about scores of coal miners who might be trapped. Homes lay in heaps of mud and

Funeral Service for Mr. Randy Coleman King, 32 a resident of Crepe Myrtle Ave., Garden Hills, will be held at Old Trail Cemetery, Old Trail Road, on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Officiating will be Bishop Lindo Wallace, assisted by Pastor Bradley King & other Ministers of the Gospel.

Left to cherish his memory are his father, Deacon Arthur Coleman King Jr.; Brothers, Antonio and Leonardo King; Grandfather, Arthur White; Nieces, Antoniqua Ferguson, Antonisha and Antonia King; Nephews, Leonardo King Jr. and Brendan Campbell; Uncles, Pastor Dwight Bradley King, Charles White and George L. Miller; Aunts, Vanria King-Davis, Brenda King Bruno-Gaston, Dorothy Miller, Ernestine King, Sandra-King Storr, Jarelle White, Rema King, Crystallaire King and Shirley King-Clarke; Cousins, Rebecca, Regina, AnneMarie, Jennifer, and Heather King, Romano & Natasha Deleveaux, Inza King-Fleming, Lenward Davis, Julieann, Julian, Lisa, Barry, Keva and Monique Nairn, Rochelle Taylor, Edward, Ivan, and Dr. Janet Bruno-Gaston, Kevera, Ansel, Clifton, Desmond Miller and Lesley Thompson, DeVaughn King, Anishka, Joeneisha, Joie and Joseph Storr II, J. Romero and J. Runako Storr, Jermaine “Doc” Armbrister, Charity and Shavontae White, Charlton Pierre; Other cousins, Dianne, Jeremy & Owen Davis, Vashti Miller, Nina Nairn, DeAngelo & D’Andre Reid, Danielle Rodgers, Ieisha & Lakeisha Taylor, Alex and Xavier Collie.

Family friends: Edison Joffre, Vaughn Bullard and Presley, the Garden Hills and Cowpen Road communities and numerous other well-loved relatives and friends.

Friends may pay their last respects at Demeritte’s Funeral Home, Market Street, from 10-5:00 p.m. on Friday.

straw. Residents of small mountain villages were seen wandering stunned among the rubble.

“Women, children, everyone, was running here and there,” said resident Ghulam Khan. “We were scared and we didn’t know what to do.”

Ambulances soon arrived to transport the injured to the hospital in Harnai.

Doctors treated patients outside the hospital as 4.6

Photo: Arshad Butt/AP magnitude aftershocks continued into the morning hours. Children with bloodied bandages were in stretchers outside the hospital as ambulances brought more wounded.

“So far we have treated more than 200 casualties,” said Manzoor Ahmed, medical superintendent of the Harnai district hospital.

The small rural facility has been taxed to the limit, he said. As many as 15 bodies

were brought there.

By early afternoon Thursday, funerals were being held in small villages dotting the mountainside.

Most of the population in the area live in sunbaked mud houses, many of which collapsed. Rescue efforts were underway, but Shaheen said it would take hours just to reach many of the hardest-hit areas.

Witnesses in the area said residents were wrapped in blankets against the cold, sitting on the side of the road waiting for the aftershocks to subside and for help to arrive.

The area is remote and already the autumn nighttime temperatures are chilly.

Pakistan’s southwestern Baluchistan lies on a seismically active region, according to the provincial disaster management authority. The worst earthquake, in 1935, destroyed the provincial capital of Baluchistan and killed more than 35,000 people. Since then, scores of earthquakes have rattled the province, Pakistan’s least populated, with just 12 million people.

Pakistan is a nation of 220 million people, 60 percent of whom live in the country’s eastern Punjab province.

EXECUTIVE PRIVILIGE PLAN FOR TRUMP OVER JANUARY 6 WASHINGTON Associated Press DONALD Trump intends to assert executive privilege in a congressional investigation into the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol, a move that could prevent the testimony of onetime aides, according to a letter sent by lawyers for the former president.

The letter went to at least some witnesses who were subpoenaed by the House committee and it makes clear that Trump plans to invoke privileges meant to protect presidential communications from being shared with Congress. The substance of the letter was described Thursday by a person who has seen it and who spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press because the letter was not yet public.

Spokespeople for Trump did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

Trump said in a statement last month that he would “fight the Subpoenas on Executive Privilege and other grounds, for the good of our Country.”

The move sets the stage for a likely clash with House Democrats who are investigating the roles of Trump and his allies in the run-up to the riot, when thousands of Trump supporters broke into the Capitol as Congress was certifying the results of the presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden. The committee is rapidly issuing subpoenas to individuals who are either connected to Trump or helped plan the massive rally on the morning of Jan.

6 at which he told his supporters to “fight like hell”.

The committee, which was formed over the summer, last month issued subpoenas to Mark Meadows, Trump’s former chief of staff; Dan Scavino, the former deputy chief of staff for communications; Kashyap Patel, a former Defense Department official; and Steve Bannon, a former Trump adviser. It was not immediately clear how those witnesses would respond to Trump’s decision to invoke executive privilege or what consequences they might face if they refuse to cooperate.

Patel said in a statement that he will “continue to tell the American people the truth about January 6”.

It did not say whether he would comply.

Committee members have said they plan to try and move swiftly to obtain testimony and documents should any witnesses refuse to cooperate. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif, tweeted that if the Trump associates do not comply, “they can be subject to criminal contempt”.

Charging the Trump associates with contempt could still be a lengthy process, including votes of the full House and potential court proceedings.

Because Trump no longer is in office, he cannot directly assert privilege to keep witnesses quiet or documents out of the hands of Congress. As the current president, Biden will have some say in the matter.

The committee has issued more than a dozen subpoenas to people linked

to plans for the January 6 protests, including three additional witnesses announced Thursday.

Those individuals would be less likely to get help from Trump’s executive privilege claims, which would be limited to people who worked in the White House.

The committee chairman, Rep Bennie Thompson, D-Miss, said subpoenas had gone to Ali Abdul Akbar, also known as Ali Alexander, and Nathan Martin, as well the organization “Stop the Steal”, to learn more about a rally that was planned on the Capitol grounds at the same time as the larger gathering on the National Mall. The committee earlier subpoenaed 11 other individuals connected to the planning of that larger rally.

According to the committee, Alexander released a statement after the riot linking “Stop the Steal” to the Capitol rally permit and explaining that the intention was to direct attendees of the larger rally to march to the Capitol. The panel cited reports that Alexander had made reference “to the possible use of violence to achieve the organization’s goals” and had been in communication with the White House and members of Congress.

“The rally on the Capitol grounds on January 6th, like the rally near the White House that day, immediately preceded the violent attack on the seat of our democracy,” Thompson said in a statement. “Over the course of that day, demonstrations escalated to violence and protestors became rioters.”