The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune

I find it necessary to respond to the article yesterday in The Tribune headlined ‘Neymour says Minnis has the advantage in contest’ covering the announcement of my candidacy for National Chairman of the Free National Movement. I consider the headline as not representing the context of my statement.

Firstly, my statement was being made in regards to electoral processes and my response was addressing the advantage of a leader in the Westminster system and their strong influence in the electoral process in political parties, particularly in the Caribbean.

Secondly, I had made no reference to Dr Minnis.

Thirdly, my statement was “the Leader (of political parties) always has an advantage in an election”.

Fourthly, I had stated that I was not aware of the pre-election polling of FNM convention delegates.

The rationale behind my statement is based on the fact that local leaders of political parties determine the date of the convention, oversee the electoral process, influence who is selected to govern the elections and by extension the rules of the election, is the most influential force in the national general election candidate selection process and has the authority to make or promise various appointments.

In pointing out the advantages of the Leader of a political party, it would have been unfair of me not to highlight the advantages of Mrs Loretta Butler-Turner. The first, being that she is a woman. Most astute politicians would readily admit that Bahamian women have historically been the backbone of all major political parties which carries with it considerable influence and are very committed to a cause. We witnessed this in Mrs Butler-Turner’s successful bid to become the deputy leader of the party.

The second is that she has appeal among the younger generation Bahamians, which is where the FNM must gain ground in the next general election.

Thirdly, she has demonstrated her leadership skills in the House of Assembly. Fourthly, she has the ability to win support on the ground and in the political trenches.

These qualities significantly increase her ability to be successful in the upcoming Convention.

PHENTON NEYMOUR

Nassau,

November 18, 2014.