The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Loretta Butler-Turner once said: “I never lose, I learn.” Now that the finger-pointing has already started in the aftermath of the FNM’s defeat in the by-election, it’s clear that some FNMs are not learning the right lessons.

I watched my former party’s campaign closely: the FNM made an admirable effort with a strong message. Even their concession speech showed party members in high spirits. If this internal enthusiasm did not translate into votes, it most likely speaks to two deficiencies: 1. A hole in the “get out the vote” operation and/or 2. An over-reliance on the base at the expense of swing and independent voters.

In 2021, the party was not only defeated, but it was also discouraged and demoralised. The party’s brand had taken a serious hit after nearly a decade of the Hubert Minnis era (2012-2021). In my opinion, the new leader is still taking licks for the team just two years into his leadership. It’s just the way it is.

Michael Pintard still has a lot to prove, but one thing he has already proven is that he is not a coward. I credit him for showing up to the battlefield even though the winds were against his ship.

If I have any advice for the FNM, it would be to run a full diagnostic of the organization from top to bottom, skipping no corner where there can be any improvement. Change can be a good thing. If the FNM firmly commits to change, I would consider giving them my vote in 2026. If going backward on the leadership is the best they can do, I and many others will stay in the comfort of my home.

It’s as simple as that.

FORMER FNM VOTER

December 1, 2023