The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

In politics and life, self-awareness is often the hardest but most essential virtue. It’s this very virtue that the respected chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Mr Fred Mitchell, recently invoked when commenting on the importance of former public figures recognising when it’s time to move on. It’s both ironic and poignant that Mr Mitchell, having turned 70 and holding the dual roles of chairman of the PLP and Minister of Foreign Affairs, seems not to apply this wisdom to his own situation.

Let’s take a moment to unpack the layered implications of Mr Mitchell’s statements and the broader context in which they are made. He’s right in asserting the importance of self-awareness and timely exits in public life. The ebbs and flows of politics demand that leaders not only guide their parties and nations through various challenges but also recognise when fresh perspectives and energies are needed.

Mr Mitchell’s broad and successful tenure is commendable, but one must critically ask: Is it tenable for one individual to effectively shoulder the responsibilities of two such demanding roles, especially at a juncture when the PLP needs rigorous, undivided attention to strategise for the imminent general elections? A party’s strength lies not just in its legacy but its ability to adapt, evolve, and rejuvenate. The PLP, with its storied history and contributions to our nation, deserves a full-time chairman who can focus solely on harnessing the energies and aspirations of its members, especially the youth.

Furthermore, the undercurrents of Mr Mitchell’s comments regarding the West Grand Bahama and Bimini by-election, particularly in relation to Shane Gibson, raise questions. While internal party dynamics are complex, it’s essential that senior party figures approach such situations with utmost diplomacy and fairness. Disputes and disagreements are inevitable in politics, but airing them publicly and picking fights not only undermines party unity but also distracts from the larger issues at hand. Mr Mitchell would do well to remember that it’s the PLP’s collective strength and vision that will resonate with the electorate, not individual skirmishes.

In his discourse, Mr Mitchell referenced the wisdom of Sidney Poitier and John Profumo, both of whom recognised the power of self-reflection and recalibration. Perhaps it’s time for him to deeply introspect and consider if he’s truly serving the best interests of the PLP by holding onto both roles. It might be more beneficial for him to focus on one, allowing fresh leadership to emerge and guide the party into its next chapter.

While Mr. Mitchell’s dedication to the PLP and our nation is unquestionable, it’s crucial for him, and for all of us, to critically analyse the situation. The PLP’s future vibrancy and relevance hinges on its ability to blend legacy with innovation. This calls for leadership that is attuned to the changing times, receptive to fresh ideas, and, above all, self-aware.

Thank you for the space to share these insights. It is my hope that we can all look to the future of the PLP with both respect for its past and optimism for its potential.

The Gate Keeper

October 12, 2023