The Tribune

By SANCHESKA BROWN

Tribune Staff Reporter

sbrown@tribunemedia.net

DESMOND Bannister says his resignation from the Senate has nothing to do with the Free National Movement or the party’s leader Dr Hubert Minnis.

Mr Bannister, Leader of Opposition Business in the Senate, described Dr Minnis as a great leader and he encouraged members of the FNM to stand by Dr Minnis and stop the “in fighting”.

He told The Tribune yesterday his departure from the Senate was planned and in fact he was scheduled to resign months ago but he stayed because he was urged to do so by his party leader.

“Dr Minnis asked me to stay on through the Budget debate and then we both agreed I would leave and make room for new talent to come. But I want to say on the record that I have the greatest confidence in Dr Minnis as the leader of the Free National Movement.

“He has done a number of things I have never seen an opposition leader accomplish. He has done an amazing job and I want to say one thing, under Dr Minnis, the FNM has a wonderful opportunity to become the government but everyone must pull together behind him,” he said.

“Those who wish to take another course in the party have to understand the democratic process and appreciate you cannot be a leader until you have been a good follower. We have a leader who was elected, who is leading full time and so it is important for anyone who wants to be able to lead the FNM to be able to support the current leader because if they get an opportunity to lead they would not wish to have their supporting team undermine them. So I believe Dr Minnis has the party on an upward trend where the FNM can, and is likely to become, the next government of the Bahamas.”

Dr Minnis echoed Mr Bannister’s statements that the departure was planned in order to facilitate the growth of younger FNMs.

He said the party is not in the process of selecting Mr Bannister’s replacement.

“I will call an executive meeting and allow them to defend individuals who they feel suit the role of a replacement for Bannister. This is how the selection process will be in keeping with the transparency of the FNM, however the final decision is still mine but I least I will know who the individuals are the executive wants there.

“They will tell me why they should be there and how that man or woman can help. It is unfortunate that this letter leaked out but I am not hurting my head on those type of things.”

Bannister’s resignation is effective October 1. He said he is looking forward to spending time with his family.