Published On:Sunday, February 14, 2010

By ADRIAN GIBSON

ajbahama@hotmail.com

TOMORROW'S Elizabeth by-election has resulted in much fluttering in the political hencoop as the once overlooked constituency has become the latest drool-worthy target in Bahamian politics. In recent weeks the electoral machinery of the major and fringe parties have descended upon Elizabeth, spawning a buzz-emitting campaign and employing rhetoric that has driven political tensions into the stratosphere.

As the by-election proceeds, Bahamians must demand better representation and reject the notion of chill-and-grill politics.

Although the hotly contested by-election appears to be a run-off between FNM leader Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham and PLP leader Perry Christie, as these political personalities seem to have even overshadowed their party's candidates, as posters featuring their images are ubiquitous throughout the constituency. Both leaders seem to be acknowledging the belief that this election will go down to the wire, seemingly offering themselves as ghost candidates to revivify the voters of Elizabeth.

Recently, both the PLP and the FNM have spared no effort in fervidly assailing the other.

Of late--as evidenced by the so-called great debate--there has been some noteworthy political skirmishes, with sources in Elizabeth suggesting that certain political stooges are out in force and offering money for votes. Indeed, in our culture of paternalistic bribery during elections, it is no surprise when told that payoffs are factored into most local electoral budgets and of episodes where inducements have been offered. It is highly likely that the disbursement of money, job offers and material gifts have all been a part of this yet unfinished political story. Instead of becoming political whores and selling their votes to the highest bidder, I encourage the people of Elizabeth to flex their democratic muscles for the national good and the good of their community--whatever their choice may be.

Beyond the world-class sputtering at rallies and the overt attempts of some politicians to woo voters at all costs, the electorate in Elizabeth must demand true representation and use their votes judiciously, refusing to accept outright lies and half-truths. Indeed, in our culture of "rock and bottle" politics, discerning voters must be tired of the dry jargon of political mouthpieces whose fevered rhetoric has many times been utilised simply to retain political control--above any genuine change--in what oftentimes amounts to a mere fulfilment of their own delusions of grandeur. Elizabeth must choose a representative with vision, commitment and purpose.

Across the nation, an enlightened electorate must judge a candidate's character and integrity and refuse to blindly follow a political Pied Piper just because he wears a party's colour.

Besides the major parties, the contest in Elizabeth is more intensified as it features a nebulous assortment of political journeymen.

Elizabeth, in its various manifestations, has--with a few exceptions--been a PLP stronghold.

In reality, the electoral race in Elizabeth is a referendum on the FNM's performance, with an outcome that is likely to be reverberated nationally during the next general election. In what is likely to be a close contest, an FNM loss would put its agenda in peril and perhaps necessitate policy shifts.

While the by-election features several highly qualified candidates, issues arise about both of the candidates' representing the major parties.

Of late, PLP candidate Ryan Pinder wriggled out of any questions that may have arisen--if he wins--about his dual citizenship and undivided allegiance by renouncing his US citizenship. It appears that Mr Pinder was aware that an electoral challenge, pursuant to article 48 (1)(b) of the Constitution, may have cropped up in determining whether the threshold was surmounted--in the past--relative to his assertion of his US citizenship. Mr Pinder must have realised that in politics, it is impossible to be both "fish and fowl" or, as Jesus noted, to serve two masters.

Now that the PLP candidate has relinquished his US citizenship, what are the possible economic consequences he's likely to face as a US tax attorney? Moreover, does Mr Pinder continue--if he previously did--to pay taxes to the US government?

Ryan Pinder has yet another hurdle to cross as the new Elizabeth is not primarily made up of his father's old district--largely Elizabeth Estates--and therefore his father's favour may be limited. However, Mr Pinder is an eminently qualified and remarkable candidate.

FNM candidate Dr Duane Sands has held numerous positions in various medical institutions, associations and oversight bodies and, with reference to NDP leader Dr Andre Rollins' contention, voters should make inquiries of Dr Sands' record and of instances when he has advocated on behalf of patients who have suffered medical negligence and sought redress. The voting public must demand to know Dr Sands' position on the implementation and execution of affordable healthcare, on special interests, on desperately needed improvements to the public hospital, on medical ethics and the sacking of rogue doctors and on altering the Princess Margaret Hospital's pitiable administration.

That said, Dr Sands is the chosen one to replace PM Ingraham as FNM leader. Frankly, more than all of the FNM's so-called crown princes, I'm told that--with Mr Ingraham's blessing--he is likely to become king!

I have been reliably informed that following the by-election, Dr Sands- win or lose--is set to be fast-tracked, given a significant posting where he is extremely visible and--if he loses--offered a relatively safe seat during the next election. It appears--even by Mr Ingraham's own comments--that he is seeking a youthful, exceptional successor outside of what some consider as being the baggage-laden cabal now assembled. Frankly, the only Bahamian heart surgeon appears to fit the bill!

In the weekly obituaries every Thursday, it is not lost on me that Dr Sands is held in high esteem by families appreciative of his care and compassion who on this day list him as a survivor of a departed loved one. Undoubtedly, this is also not lost on the Prime Minister.

The question is now whether--with Mr Ingraham's blessings--Dr Sands would be able to galvanize popular support in Elizabeth and beyond.

Moreover, if the candidate for the BDM (Cassius Stuart) or another third force somehow wins the by-election, it would demonstrate the people's dissatisfaction with the status quo--an anti-establishment outlook that rebuffs political paternalism and the prolongation of a strict two-party governmental structure.

Indeed, there is a dire need for public interest defenders in local politics.

Will the FNM once again rob the PLP of a chance to gloat as was evident after the PLP's failed election court challenges? Will a third party rock the boat? This by-election is certainly too close to call.