The Tribune

By CELESTE NIXON

Tribune Staff Reporter

cnixon@tribunemedia.net

ELIZABETH candidates for the two major parties traded taunts yesterday, with the FNM's candidate Dr Duane Sands congratulating PLP incumbent Ryan Pinder for finally voting in the Bahamas, and Mr Pinder accusing Dr Sands of infatuation.

As advanced polling got underway at the College of the Bahamas yesterday morning, Dr Sands said it was a momentous occasion for Mr Pinder.

"Today is an historic day because Mr Ryan Pinder has voted for the first time, and I think that is a really significant event," he said.

Claiming the FNM contender is "infatuated" with his rival's election campaign, Mr Pinder said he, on the other hand, must put his constituents first - as he has over the last two years.

When told of Dr Sands' comment, Mr Pinder said he will not be sidetracked by "childish" remarks.

He said: "I feel proud to vote but I do not participate in ignorant and childish statements like my opponent does. I stick to the issues, I stick to visiting my constituents while he seems to have this infatuation with me and infatuation with my campaign."

"I'm worried about the constituents of Elizabeth first and foremost.

"That's my job, that's been my job for the last two years and I've represented them to the best of my ability and based on the feedback from the constituency I am certainly going to continue representing their interests."

Mr Pinder said he believes the advanced poll went smoothly with the PLP highly encouraged by the large number of supporters that turned out.

"It is obvious that we are looking very good in Elizabeth and we feel very encouraged," he said.

Mr Pinder added that the advanced poll is a sign of what is to come on May 7.

"People always say the advance poll is an indication of what's going to happen in the country and the voters I see voting in the advance poll are overwhelmingly PLP supporters," he said. "I certainly anticipate that the PLP will be the next government of the Bahamas come this time next week."

Disagreeing, Dr Sands said he was pleased with the level of support - not just for him but also for his party - and looks forward to another FNM government.