The Tribune

By KHRISNA VIRGIL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

FRED Mitchell, Fox Hill MP yesterday branded opposition leader Dr Hubert Minnis’ expulsion from Parliament as a “manufactured crisis” in a bid to flex his political prowess to fellow FNMs.

That attempt, according to Mr Mitchell failed, as none of Minnis’ party supporters flocked to the House to back his actions which led to his being barred from proceedings for two sessions last Wednesday.

He joined several MPs who blasted the FNM over their absence at the House where submissions were made to move several pieces of legislation intended to improve the justice system.

“The whole thing,” he said, “was designed to create that picture of when Milo Butler and Arthur Hanna were lifted out of the House in 1969.

“(The Bahamian people) want to hear what the Opposition has to say. But they can’t if they abdicate their responsibility and absent themselves from the chamber. That’s what they have done.

“When that crew (FNMs) came downstairs, all they had was the press and flashing lights and six fellows across the road (but) they were demonstrating about freedom of information, they weren’t even here to support them.

“So no troops. When you come to Parliament, bring your troops. You supposed to be bringing the crowd. But this crew had no troops. Not a single one, but I understand what this is all about.

“It’s someone making an appeal and this is all demonstrated to try and tell the unthinking FNM base that ‘I am man’. ‘I am the Prime Minister in waiting’ and ‘you will support me’.

“We know what the issue is and the issue is to try and make sure that the base knows that Ingraham (and) his era has passed.”

Mr Mitchell said the country was now made to suffer because of Dr Minnis’ actions as the FNM did not contribute to House discussions.

Golden Gates MP Shane Gibson cried shame on the FNM for failing to attend. He urged Bahamians living in each of the eight constituencies represented by the FNM to voice their concern on social media.

In addition he said each of the absent MPs should deposit cheques to the public treasury for their absence. He further questioned whether any of their salaries would reflect a cut.

Several attempts were made to contact Dr Minnis, but they were not successful.