The Tribune

By KHRISNA VIRGIL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

THE Free National Movement has announced plans to hold its national convention in early 2015 which could see a new executive body elected to lead the party, according to its Chairman Darron Cash.

Mr Cash confirmed yesterday in a press statement that the matter was raised in a “spirited” council meeting on Thursday. As a result the central council, Mr Cash said, voted unanimously to direct the party’s executive committee to ready the FNM for a convention.

Last month, Mr Cash told The Tribune that a convention should be held every two years upon the deliberation of the central council, according to the party’s constitution. However, the last party convention was in May 2012, when Dr Hubert Minnis and Loretta Butler-Turner were elected as leader and deputy leader, respectively.

It was reported that the question of a convention caused contention between party leader Dr Hubert Minnis and former FNM Senator Frederick McAlpine during the council meeting.

However, Mr Cash downplayed that report.

“The FNM Central Council had a spirited, but mature debate about the ideal date for staging a national convention,” Mr Cash said in a statement. “All sides of the issue were given an opportunity to speak and all sides presented their arguments with passion. 

“Despite the distortions and outright lies being told by persons seeking to sew division within the party, FNM supporters all around the country can feel secure in the knowledge that the members of the council, the body with the highest authority outside of convention, conducted themselves with the highest degree of maturity, candour and mutual respect. 

“Frederick McAlpine was singled out in the press, and as chairman of the party I want the record to reflect that Mr McAlpine was indeed a spirited and active participant in the meeting. While others disagreed with his position—and many did—he conducted himself to the highest standard—with dignity and respect, as did all participants in the debate. His voice will always be welcomed in council.”

Last month Mr Cash said all positions would be open for challenge at the FNM’s next convention.

Mrs Butler-Turner and former FNM Senator Dr Duane Sands have both said they are considering challenging Dr Minnis for the party’s top post.

It has long been speculated that some in the FNM are anxious for a convention as there is a divide over Dr Minnis’ leadership style and effectiveness.