The Tribune

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

SENATOR Rick Fox questioned the Davis administration’s priorities during Senate debate yesterday as he lamented repeated blackouts, shortcomings in the healthcare system and outstanding debt while criticising the government for finding money to fund a royal visit.

Mr Fox launched a wide-ranging attack on the government during debate on the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2026 and the Companies (Amendment) Bill 2026.

He pointed to widespread protests in Paris over the cost of living and public services, saying he hoped The Bahamas would not experience similar unrest.

“But history teaches us every government the same lesson: when people are ignored long enough, they stop asking politely. Let us not wait to find out how long is long enough,” the former NBA star added.

Mr Fox said the government’s priorities appeared to be the monarchy, debt, cruise ships and foreign interests, with Bahamians coming last.

He also mentioned Prime Minister Philip Davis’ recent address to the United Nations on national sovereignty and empowering small island states, arguing that those principles must be reflected in the government’s actions at home.

“At home, we choose our language depending on who we are looking to impress,” he added.

Mr Fox argued that reliable electricity was essential to achieving data sovereignty and developing artificial intelligence infrastructure, He said the country could not pursue those ambitions while struggling to maintain a stable power supply.

“What we need, Madam Vice President, is power sovereignty, grid sovereignty, the kind of sovereignty you can feel when you flip on a switch,” he added, “And this isn't about PLP or FNM. This is a problem we all share. It's a Bahamian problem. All hands need to be on deck. But it'll get solved only if we solve the order of our priorities.”

Mr Fox also referenced plans to rename Columbus Primary School as part of efforts to move beyond the country’s colonial history, but questioned why the government would not go further by renaming Prince Charles Drive.

He challenged the government to place reparatory justice and full economic independence on the agenda for the King’s visit next week.

“Occasionally, we posture like we want to be the next Barbados, and then we acquiesce and roll out the red carpet for the crowd. Out of one side of our mouth we talk tough. Out of the other we bow,” he added.

Senator Latrae Rahming later objected on the grounds of relevance. Mr Fox maintained that his remarks were relevant to the anti-terrorism legislation under debate.

Mr Rahming asked whether he was calling the King a terrorist. Mr Fox replied that he was debating anti-terrorism and argued that terrorism took many shapes and forms.

“It can be super oppressive,” he added.