The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE Free National Movement (FNM) was established as a result of a desire for increased accountability and transparency. On November 18, 1970, eight men courageously lit the torch to bring light out of darkness. The warmth of this torch has been felt throughout the decades that followed and now, as responsible Bahamians who love this country, we must rely on the light of the torch to help us navigate these dark times. The FNM is the movement of choice to govern the Bahamas because of its belief in Youth Empowerment, The Advancement of Women, and Upward mobility for each citizen.

Established in 1974, the Torchbearer’s Youth Association (TYA), which is the Youth Arm of the FNM, was the first youth oriented political organisation established in the Bahamas. The FNM believes in youth empowerment. This is evident in the fact that in 2017 the FNM ratified and swore in the youngest member of parliament not only in Bahamian History, but in Caribbean history in the person of Travis Robinson. Also note that Travis now serves as the National Deputy Chairman in the party indicating that there is room for Young People to take leadership roles. Let us not forget that TYA has groomed the next generation of FNM leaders for decades. Anyone wanting evidence of this need look no further than our own Tommy Turnquest who is the former TYA President who later ascended to National Party Leader.

The FNM has always been committed to Women’s Empowerment. In 1982, Dame Janet Bostwick became the first woman to serve in the House of Assembly, serving in the Yamacraw constituency for 20 years. In 1985, she became the first woman to serve as Attorney General.

While serving in these positions she sponsored legislation to challenge the status quo and fight for Women’s Rights with bills such as the Female Employees (Grant of Maternity Leave Act) of 1988. The FNM also boasts being home to Italia Johnson, first female speaker of the House of Assembly appointed in 1997.

The FNM is committed to upward mobility which is allowing citizens to move from one socio economic class to another by their own merit. In 2019, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest announced that tuition at the University of The Bahamas has been made free for Bahamian citizens who qualify. This allows young Bahamians to get a tertiary education which is likely to propel them towards gainful employment. During the 2017-2021 administration, the FNM approved $86 Million BSD in loans and grants for the small business development programme. This enabled Bahamians to receive needed capital in order to launch business ventures and become self reliant.

The FNM now has a new leadership team ready to carry the torch. Under the leadership of our leader Michael Pintard, Deputy Leader Shanednon Cartwright, and Chairman Duane Sands, I believe it is now time to give this country back to Bahamians. I call upon all freedom fighters young and old. Let us stand together and exercise our constitutional right to bring about unstoppable change. The Bahamas is for Bahamians.

ORION BETHELL

National Trustee Torchbearer’s Youth Association

Nassau,

April 27, 2025.