The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

When the Speaker of the House of Assembly Kendal Major, ordered that the police remove Hon. Hubert Minnis for refusing to apologise to the House for remarks he made, it was Hon Loretta Butler-Turner that challenged the police, instructing them “don’t touch him!”

The photo that spoke clearly was Minnis being supported by Butler-Turner and feeling so secure because he had the support and assistance of a strong deputy who fought on his behalf. The police respected Butler-Turner enough to not physically remove Minnis.

Butler-Turner was firm then as she always is. No one said she was too forceful then. No one said that had it not been for her, the results for Minnis might have been much different.

A leader has to be just that, not shrink when the pressure is being applied. Butler Turner was being a team player as she has on many occasions.

Butler-Turner is what the PLP do not want as the leader of the Loyal Opposition. Her constant challenging them and applying the pressure by presenting facts and forcefully articulating her position must not be good for the government side.

Because of her strength, the opposition is relevant. No Loretta, no worries for the PLP. But is this the same characteristic that some are calling too strong? Take your pick, would you prefer her sit and be quiet, like other members, or continue to “hold their feet to the fire?” We can’t have it both ways.

The question really is: Would you like to see a leader who would continue to make the PLP sweat, or would you like for it to be business as usual?

No matter how you slice it or dice it, Loretta Butler-Turner has often saved the FNM in the House. She is the main one in the House defending the FNM’s record. Wise FNMs would embrace her and combine all of their efforts to make sure she is the Leader for the good of the party and its chances.

FNM SUPPORTER

Nassau,

October 22, 2014.