The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Free National Movement (FNM) Chairman Darron Cash is to be commended for his display of political maturity for congratulating Dame Marguerite Pindling in her appointment as the new governor general. As the chairman of Her Majesty’s official Opposition, Cash spoke for the leadership of the FNM. The party could have easily emulated many of its base of supporters in balking at Dame Marguerite’s appointment. But instead it chose to rise above the fray at a time when the country is deeply polarised and divided among government and opposition hardliners.

Had the FNM chosen to fight this appointment when it was announced by Prime Minister Perry Christie, it would have wasted precious time and energy fighting a losing battle, seeing that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is in the seat of power. I saw a PLP supporter questioning the FNM’s sincerity in congratulating Dame Marguerite. The PLP took issue with Cash. In a democratic state such as ours, we are afforded the privilege of supporting the political party and politician of our choice. Didn’t God give man free will to either choose or reject Him? So why is it that some Bahamians are surprised that not everyone supports Dame Marguerite as their Head of State?

I think even Dame Marguerite appreciates the fact that not everyone supports her appointment as governor general or ever will. The same is true with every elected official in this country. The Bahamas is deeply divided and the Dame has pledged in her maiden address to promote unity. Had Cash not issued a congratulatory press release, many PLPs would have been up in arms. He issues one and some PLPs still have decided to take issue with him. You’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t.

I wish these naysayers would have followed Cash’s example of setting aside their political swords and spears and returned the favour of displaying political maturity towards the leadership of the FNM for its bipartisan stance on Dame Marguerite’s appointment.

KEVIN EVANS

Freeport, Grand Bahama,

July 13, 2014.