The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Chief Reporter

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

ST ANNE’S MP Hubert Chipman yesterday said he had every intention of running in the 2017 general election as he shrugged off reports that he had fallen out of favour with FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis.

Mr Chipman said he has not been recommended for re-nomination by his constituency association, however, he said that his branch was told months ago that the formality was not necessary.

“We haven’t done it because we were told we didn’t need to,” he said. “I asked the question three to four months ago. Whatever is decided is fine, I’m happy. One thing I don’t do is live by politics.”

A report circulated yesterday that the St Anne’s MP, along with Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn, were not expected to be re-nominated for their seats.

Yesterday, Dr Minnis refused to comment on the rumour.

As speculation continues over whether the embattled party leader enjoys the full support and confidence of his party, FNM insiders point to the highly anticipated candidate nominations as another brewing storm.

Central and South Abaco MP Edison Key and Central Grand Bahama MP Neko Grant were said to be keen on seeking re-nomination, despite both senior members having previously declared that this term would be their last.

The party had planned to ratify the bulk of its 2017 general election candidates last month; however, it spent most of last week’s Central Council meeting discussing the Progressive Liberal Party’s conflict of interest allegations against Dr Minnis and Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner, insiders told The Tribune.

Members also discussed the long-standing “hot button” issue of leadership, according to sources, who said that another appeal was made for any member with conflicting or alternative views to express their concerns internally.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Frank Watson – who told The Tribune this week that he was doubtful Dr Minnis could lead the party to victory in the polls – was reportedly not present at the meeting.

Yesterday, Mr Chipman said he had not attended the last two council meetings.

While he would not speak directly to the claims circulating in a local tabloid, Mr Chipman told The Tribune: “Que sera, sera,” which translates to “whatever will be, will be.”

“I have every intention of running again,” he said.

“One thing my grandmother told me is ‘son they talked about Jesus, and then they crucified him. They only talking about you, they ain’t crucify you’.

“You can’t stop people from talking about you, and I ain’t get crucify yet.”