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Speaker’s behaviour in House

EDITOR, The Tribune.

WEDNESDAY’S behavior by the Speaker and the Government in the House of Assembly was an irrefutable demonstration that the PLP lacks the commitment, desire, or understanding to operate in a democratic and accountable manner.

Rather than reassuring Bahamians, the Prime Minister’s communication raised even more questions. Why did he discuss with senior members of US law enforcement his “deep concern over the sharp uptick in the flow of cocaine through The Bahamas”? Did he express these concerns to the Commissioner of Police, with whom he meets weekly? Did he raise these issues with the Minister of National Security? How many times were these concerns raised, and what actions were taken? Most troublingly, why was the Bahamian government seemingly excluded from the investigation? This omission suggests a troubling lack of confidence in our law enforcement and government officials.

The indictment released Tuesday mentions corrupt government officials, RBPF officers, and RBDF officers 23 times in just 19 pages. It paints The Bahamas as a jurisdiction where those entrusted with governance and law enforcement are implicated in criminal activities. Our Parliament is meant to symbolize our dedication to democracy, yet at a moment when accountability and transparency were paramount, the Speaker and the Government failed to meet the moment.

In a misguided and convenient interpretation of parliamentary procedure, the Speaker refused to allow the Leader of the Opposition to address this issue of national importance. Her actions were compounded by the Government’s abrupt suspension of the House while the Leader of the Opposition was still on his feet. Instead of showcasing a commitment to good governance and democracy, they engaged in undemocratic sharp practices that undermine public trust.

On August 19, 1992, Bahamians turned their heads to the rising sun and voted for a government that promised transparency and accountability—a government in the sunshine. We wanted better for our country. We were tired of the embarrassment and the perception that The Bahamas was “a nation for sale.” For decades, we have worked diligently to restore our reputation on the global stage.

In this instance, Bahamians expected the Prime Minister to take a firm stance. We expected him to assure the nation that, once the “high-ranking Bahamian politician” referenced in the indictment is identified, that individual would be immediately relieved of all government responsibilities pending a full investigation. Such action would have demonstrated his intention to address this matter swiftly and without reservation, showing us that it truly is “A New Day.”

Instead, the events in Parliament revealed a government that prioritises self-preservation over democracy, accountability, and the will of the people. The Bahamian people deserve better.

SENATOR MICHELA BARNETT ELLIS Nassau,

November 27, 2024.

Comments

birdiestrachan 2 weeks, 2 days ago

This FNM woman knows that Mr Pintard was breaking the laws of the house, dishonesty for sure, same as their bread basket story when they know that flour. Cooking oil butter etc benefits bakeries and hotels, they raised VAT 60%but they pretend that never happned Mr Davis was right that households make choices as to how to spend their money but they take even that and twist it so dishonest, but if it wins an election they will use it power at any cost,

birdiestrachan 2 weeks, 2 days ago

This FNM woman knows that Mr Pintard was breaking the laws of the house, dishonesty for sure, same as their bread basket story when they know that flour. Cooking oil butter etc benefits bakeries and hotels, they raised VAT 60%but they pretend that never happned Mr Davis was right that households make choices as to how to spend their money but they take even that and twist it so dishonest, but if it wins an election they will use it power at any cost,

hrysippus 2 weeks, 1 day ago

It would that Birdie's mind is continuing to take flights of fantasy.

birdiestrachan 2 weeks, 1 day ago

The whole Truth and nothing but the truth.

birdiestrachan 2 weeks, 1 day ago

Not to mention folks missing from the looney farm .you know like flying over the cookey nest

Porcupine 2 weeks, 1 day ago

Birdie, You have lost the last remaining shred of truth. You live in LaLa land. How many people have to point out the fact that you belong in Sandilands? You have clearly lost it by hooking your wagon to the utterly corrupt PLP. You have placed party before country.

birdiestrachan 2 weeks, 1 day ago

Correction flying over the Cuckoo. Nest. .

Dawes 2 weeks, 1 day ago

Are you talking about yourself? This has really caused you to lose it

birdiestrachan 2 weeks, 1 day ago

No I was thinking about you and them FNms and Pintard them , now you know,

ExposedU2C 5 days, 21 hours ago

PLP and FNM.....same difference....and she knows it! Hitching her political career to the FNM party is going to end up serving neither her nor the country well.

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