The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Bishop Ricardo Grant’s recent comments at the FNM’s candidate launch raise some troubling concerns. It is disheartening that a candidate seeking a parliamentary seat should make condescending remarks to voters, suggesting that he owes them nothing and implying that they can easily be bought. Such a stance not only demeans the very people he aims to represent but also undermines the sanctity of the democratic process.

Perhaps the bishop has overlooked a fundamental tenet of political service: that of making pledges to work towards betterment, ensuring that the voices of the community are genuinely heard, and tirelessly advocating for their needs. Indeed, his assertion that he has “no promises” to make sounds alarmingly detached from the needs and aspirations of the West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituency. In the same breath, it is also crucial to acknowledge the significance of upholding one’s word, as he pointed out. However, to dismiss the very act of commitment to the community outright feels like a cop-out.

Furthermore, I find it problematic to have figures from the religious domain entering the political arena with such a cavalier attitude. The church and the state have historically maintained separate roles to ensure that neither exerts undue influence on the other. Bishop Grant’s comments risk blurring these lines, with remarks that seem to emanate more from the pulpit than from the political stage. His assertion of being a “bishop and prince in the Lord’s church” with shallow pockets while addressing his constituency is quite unsettling. It not only trivialises the concerns of the voters, but also indicates a potential conflict of interest. Can one effectively serve both the church and the state without compromising on the core values and responsibilities of either?

Moreover, the notion of accepting a “blessing” without any obligations attached is quite disconcerting. In a political climate where transparency and accountability are paramount, even a hint of financial inducement or quid pro quo can erode public trust.

West Grand Bahama and Bimini deserve representatives who stand by their convictions, articulate clear visions, and most importantly, respect and value the community’s voice. While Bishop Grant’s intentions might be noble, his words and demeanour suggest otherwise.

It might be prudent for Bishop Grant to reflect upon where he can best serve — whether in the sacred halls of the church or the political corridors of parliament. For the sake of the integrity of both institutions, one hopes he chooses wisely.

THE GATEKEEPER

October 25, 2023