The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Staff Reporter

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

THREE contenders were officially nominated for the Centreville seat yesterday.

Free National Movement candidate Ella Lewis and Celi Moss of the Democratic National Alliance will face off against incumbent and Progressive Liberal Party leader Perry Christie in less than a month.

Both challengers expressed confidence in their ability to take the PLP stronghold and charged that Mr Christie lacked vision during his more than decade-long representation.

A second-time challenger, Mrs Lewis said her strengths include a solid work ethic and commitment to service, a healthy supporter base, and familiarity with the area as a resident.

"I came back because there is a serious need for representation in this constituency," she said.

"This community has been neglected over the past 15 years and they need someone who works here, lives here.

"Someone who is ready to listen to their cries and serve the Bahamian people."

Meanwhile, Mr Moss challenged his opponents to a public debate on the issues affecting residents.

Mr Moss said: "I'm calling both out to debate the issues of Centreville and deepen democracy. Let's see who has the best plan. Christie has had no vision all these years, and he (still) has no vision. Don't run, let's do this."

However, his challenge was rebuffed by both candidates as untimely and unnecessary.

Mr Christie said: "Mr Moss is not in this - maybe another time and another place, but this is just to get attention. I was prepared to debate with the DNA leader; those days have long passed."

He added: "We're going to win by a significant majority, just as we always have."

Mrs Lewis said: "We have a short window of time until the elections, and we have a responsibility to meet with every single voter to look at their needs. It's not to debate and see who is the better speaker."