Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. Photo: Donavan McIntosh
By EARYEL BOWLEG
Tribune Staff Reporter
ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis advised those speculating that there could be an election called earlier than May 2022 to “continue to observe" and insisted the decision is for government to make.
For months social media has been rife with speculation that Dr Minnis could call an election earlier than next May.
Earlier this week, the Democratic National Alliance’s members protested outside Parliament demanding the prime minister “ring the bell”.
Addressing questions about the issue, Dr Minnis explained to reporters on Friday during a trip to Great Harbour Cay that an early election is a matter that will need to be discussed.
He said: “The FNM is a team. We’re a party. We’re a government. We discuss various different things before we bring it forth. So, when we talk about election, election is not due until May of 2022 but it’s a matter that still has to be discussed even if we decide to bring it in April 2022, Feb 2022. They have to be ready.”
Political parties have recently been ratifying candidates and ramping up campaigning in various communities.
When asked what he would say to those who believe the bell will be rung soon, the Prime Minister said: “I’ll tell them to continue to observe. I mean it’s great that we have so much interest. So, now we’ll have a lot of things done. The Opposition would, I guess, they’ll be on the ground doing some work also.”
Dr Minnis previously said in Parliament he would “stand here now and ring the bell” but has to be “advised by all”.
Meanwhile, FNM incumbent North Andros and Berry Islands MP Carlton Bowleg expressed confidence he will win his seat.
He said: “I’m more than confident because of what I’ve done. I’ve not neglected my people. I’ve not turned my back on my people. I’ve stayed in contact with everyone. I live at home. I don’t just fly there. So definitely.
“Whatever it is, I am confident I’ll be back as the member of Parliament.”
Comments
ThisIsOurs 3 years, 8 months ago
they cant call an election until they feel they've done something to capture hearts and minds. the mistake every political party makes with exception of the 1992 govt, they hold the purse until election time then try to wow you with all the money they spending. Is too late. You already gone off with the other fella, he had less money but he was paying attention and he was spending on you.
moncurcool 3 years, 8 months ago
It is amazing why more leaders who want to be in government don't study 1992-1997 and learn how to really run a country. That was an unprecedented time in Bahamas government and politics. Innovation, and effective.
ThisIsOurs 3 years, 8 months ago
they dont really have to. They could simply stick to what they said they would do.
tribanon 3 years, 8 months ago
The IMF have no doubt told him the date by which the national general election must be held in order for it to be held before the IMF starts imposing on us draconian austerity measures. And we all know the ability of government to borrow foreign currency funds to replenish our country's dwindling foreign currency reserves is now very limited given the high double digit interest rates most foreign lenders are now demanding for junk bonds issued by the Bahamas. Yes indeed, the IMF has Minnis's rat-size nuts in an ever tightening vice. Expect a snap election to be called by him before the end of May at the very latest.
Proguing 3 years, 8 months ago
There are two possible reasons for Minnis to call an election now:
Minnis thinks he will win the election on his handling of Covid
Minnis must implement a substantial increase in taxes, which he can only do after an election
birdiestrachan 3 years, 8 months ago
The PM and his Members will not call an election. He wants to PM as long as he can and the rest of them enjoy their salaries and all the benefits that come with it. so it will be at the last possible moment.
Remember what he said about the constitution?? who's to say he will not overrule the election date
?For a man who says If I say I am going east and then go west, I changed my mind. what can anyone really expect from him> .
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