The Tribune

FREEPORT – The election process went smooth at many of the polling stations throughout Grand Bahama, where some 26,000 voters are registered.

There were a few minor issues, but no major problems reported and no reports of violence at any of the five constituencies.

Alfonso Quiñónez, the head of observer mission from OAS, was impressed with the election process and the level of civility conducted by voters here on Grand Bahama.

“We have been able to go to various places and witnessed not just the opening of the center, but also the actual voting and from what we have observed everything is going well.

He noted that there were no major issues at any of the polling stations visited.

Mr Quiñónez also observed friendliness displayed between the candidates and supporters of the various political parties.

“We observed enthusiasm and civility in the way the entire process was conducted and that is something to praise the Bahamian people. It shows maturity that the Bahamas has in terms of the democratic process,” he said.

Although voting commenced at 8am, voter turn out was high around 9.30am and after 12noon at many of the polling stations in the Freeport area.

The Freeport Primary School served as the voting center for polling divisions 7 and 12 in the East Grand Bahama constituency.

The voting process there moved along smoothly and quickly. A police officer was posted at the door and voters were not allowed take handbags, keys, or electronic devices in the booth them.

The Walter Parker Primary, Bishop Michael Eldon, and Jack Hayward High Schools were the voting centers for Marco City.

Police officers were stationed at the school entrances of all the schools to ensure smooth flow of traffic in and out.

Peter Turnquest, FNM candidate for East Grand Bahama, took a ferry over to Sweeting’s Cay early Monday morning to greet voters. He also visited McClean’s Town and High Rock.

He was very pleased with the results in those areas.

“Things are going very well. We had a few little issues here and there but nothing of major significance,” he reported.

“At Sweeting’s Cay, it is looking good over there. We are also seeing good results there in McClean’s Town, a strong PLP area. And in High Rock we are very confident and looking forward to victory for the FNM,” Turnquest said.

Ferlene Bridgewater-Thomas, DNA candidate for East Grand Bahama, was also confident of her chances of winning.

While in High Rock, she noted that many voters were not wearing party colours. She felt it was a good indication for the DNA.

“Everything is going well. Persons are coming out and one thing I noticed in High Rock is that people are not wearing party colours, and for me that is a good sign for the DNA.

“That is the first time I have ever seen it and it indicates to me that people are really going to change,” she said.

Ms Thomas reported that many young people have turned out to vote.

Osman Johnson, DNA candidate for Pineridge, visited all 13 polling stations in his constituency to greet voters. He also greeted fellow candidate Kwasi Thompson.

“I have found it to be a wonderful experience and a great display of how healthy our democracy is in this country.

“Supporters from the different parties are out in their colours and there has been no contention or no disputes between party supporters,” he said.

Mr Johnson said he was very privileged and honored to be apart of such an historic occasion. He said he respects both of his opponents, Dr Michael Darville of the PLP and Kwasi Thompson of the FNM.

“All three of us have positive qualities to offer Pineridge and the decision is whether the people feel that the party we belong to is the right decision for them.

“I feel very positive. I feel the people of Pineridge have resonated with the DNA’s message,” Johnson said.

Mr Johnson said he looks forward to continuing his work in Pineridge whatever the results of the election.

Norris Bain, the FNM candidate for Marco City, is very confident that he will be the next MP for Marco City.

“I feel really good. It is now in the hands of the good people of Marco City who will determine who is the best candidate to represent them. I firmly believe that at the end of the day I will be going to the halls of parliament . . . as the MP for Marco City,” he said.

Mr Bain, an educator, said he visited many of polling stations and was pleased with the support he has received from voters.

“They are saying they are supporting me and some have come up to me shaking my hands and congratulating me. We feel very confident that it is going to be victory for the FNM in Marco City,” he said.

Kwasi Thompson, FNM candidate for Pineridge, believes he will be returned as the representative for the area.

“It has really been a smooth process. We have seen a few minor issues but we have dealt with them.

“Voters received us wonderfully. We are pleased so far, of where we are. We believe we will win this seat in Pineridge, and that the FNM win the government again.

Mr Thompson said he is looking forward to the ballots being counted.