04202026 NEWS

Three women injured in Kennedy Sub shooting

The victims were taken to the hospital by private vehicle. Officers later visited but were unable to interview them as they were receiving treatment.

All three were listed in stable condition as

THREE women, including two teenagers, were shot and injured in a brazen attack outside a Kennedy Subdivision business Saturday night, according to police. Police said shortly before 8pm, the victims — aged 15, 17 and 33 — had just arrived in a black van on Gilda Street when a grey Honda CR-V pulled up. Three masked men exited the vehicle armed with firearms and opened fire in the direction of the van before fleeing.

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas government said it is seeking “urgent clarification” from the United States over what it called an “unusual” public intervention against its Chinese-backed hospital project, days after breaking ground on the $285.25m facility in New Providence.

“The record will show that there are no unresolved or unaddressed matters connected to this agreement,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement yesterday. “All associated documents have been tabled in the Parliament of The Bahamas.” The response followed pointed remarks from US

Groundbreaking for new hospital

overshadowed by

Ambassador Herschel Walker, who questioned the financing structure and raised concerns about sovereignty.

“We are disappointed to see this project move forward so quickly when fundamental concerns about the terms of the deal remain unaddressed,” Mr Walker said.

“I question the decision to rush forward with a deal that places the hospital financing under Chinese law and jurisdiction on Bahamian soil.

“The United States remains committed to supporting healthcare infrastructure that truly serves Bahamian interests, under terms that respect Bahamian sovereignty, adhere to international norms, and mitigate project risks for The Bahamas. The United States’ offer to help The Bahamas secure better financing options—whether from public or private sources—remains on the table.”

Rejecting suggestions the project was rushed, the government said it had engaged US officials over several years but did not receive financing that met the country’s needs.

“Any suggestion that the government acted with undue haste is misplaced,” the ministry said, noting that further delay “is something our national interest can ill afford.”

Officials also said the project includes US participation, with medical equipment to be supplied by American vendors under standard commercial terms.

The ministry said the matter is settled and that the government will safeguard national interests.

“The Bahamas is a sovereign country and is fully capable of advancing and safeguarding those interests while acting in the public interest,” it said.

Chinese ambassador to The Bahamas Yan Jiarong expressed a similar sentiment on Friday, saying: “We believe that the Bahamian

“We are disappointed to see this project move forward so quickly when fundamental concerns about the terms of the deal remain unaddressed.”

- US Ambassador Herschel Walker

government has the sovereign right to choose its international partners based on its own national priorities, development needs, and public interests.”

At Friday’s ceremony, officials defended the project as critical to easing pressure on the country’s healthcare system.

Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville said existing facilities can no longer meet demand.

“The Government of The Bahamas has taken note of the comments issued in what amounts to an unusual intervention by the United States Government in the public affairs of The Bahamas. The Ministry is tasked with seeking an urgent clarification of the statement.”

- Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Commissioner rejects claims against PLP candidate Bastian

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

THE Parliamentary commissioner has rejected claims that a PLP candidate breached election rules, saying the nomination process complied fully with the law despite threats of a court challenge.

The issue centres on Fort Charlotte candidate Sebas Bastian, whose eligibility was questioned on Nomination Day by Coalition of Independents leader Lincoln Bain, who alleged the candidate held $50m in government contracts.

Mr Bain said last week he intends to take the matter to the election court.

In a statement on Saturday, Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison

Thompson said he reviewed the nomination process and was satisfied it met the requirements of the Parliamentary Elections Act. He acknowledged the concerns raised but said the nomination and declaration of Mr Bastian were carried out in full compliance with the law.

At a PLP press conference yesterday, attorney Keenan Johnson said all PLP candidates made the required disclosures and argued there is no constitutional bar preventing people with government contracts from running for office once those interests are declared.

“There is no legal provision in the law or in the constitution that prevents anyone who has a government contract or any interest in a government contract from seeking

to be nominated in the election or seeking to be elected into the House of Assembly,” he said. “There is absolutely no provision. I just want to make that extremely clear.”

“What the constitution does provide is that you have to disclose any interest that you have in contracts. And that disclosure must be done by a notice in a gazette. There is only a requirement for a disclosure in interests in any government contracts.”

“We can empathetically state that all of our candidates have disclosed any interest in government contracts to the Parliamentary Registry Department already. And we anticipate that in short order all of those disclosures will be published via gazette and in the various dailies.”

“Let us be honest, the Princess Margaret Hospital was constructed in the late 1950s when our population was just over 100,000 people,” Dr Darville said.

“The hospital is ageing. It’s crumbling. We’re chasing one infrastructure repair after the other, and it is simply unable to meet the demands of our current population.”

Currently, Princess Margaret Hospital and Rand Memorial Hospital serve as the country’s main tertiary facilities.

The new hospital will be built on a 50-acre site in the Prepall tract and is designed primarily for women and children. It will include a trauma centre, medical-surgical wards, maternal and child health services, diagnostic and

abroad and improve the country’s ability to respond to future health crises and mass casualty events.

Prime Minister Philip Davis said the project forms part of a broader push to modernise healthcare and expand access.

“Health care begins in hospitals, but the story of health starts much earlier,” Mr Davis said. “A stronger system is one that catches high blood pressure before it becomes a stroke, helps a diabetic manage the disease before it advances, detects cancer early enough for treatment to change the outcome, reaches a young person facing depression before despair takes hold, and gives an elderly parent care that preserves dignity.

“It also means that a

“We believe that the Bahamian government has the sovereign right to choose its international partners based on its own national priorities, development needs, and public interests.”

- Chinese Ambassador Yan Jiarong

treatment units, same-day surgical suites, intensive care units, advanced imaging, and the country’s first reference morgue. Plans also call for a 510-space parking facility and green spaces for patient recovery.

Dr Darville said the facility will reduce the need for Bahamians to seek care

Chinese Ambassador Yan Jiarong said the development will improve daily life and support the local economy.

Managing Director of the Public Hospitals Authority Aubynette Rolle said the new hospital will complement existing facilities.

The Free National Movement has opposed the project, arguing it will not address systemic problems in healthcare and that priority should be given to repairing Princess Margaret Hospital and addressing staffing shortages. The party has also signalled it would not proceed with the project if elected.

The development has also raised concerns among residents about potential

family on a Family Island should feel that the country sees them fully and serves them fairly.”

The project is backed by a $195m concessional loan from the Export-Import Bank of China at two percent interest over 20 years, with a five-year grace period.

flooding at the

The project is being constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation under a framework requiring a 50-50 split between Bahamian and foreign workers. Construction is expected to take between 30 and 36 months.

Fox, Bastian and Cooper top list of multi-millionaire candidates

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

RICK Fox, Sebas Bastian and Chester Cooper

top the list of ultra wealthy candidates contesting the 2026 general election, with financial disclosures published in today’s Tribune showing that more than 50 millionaires are seeking public office.

The law does not require the financial declarations to be audited or certified by an accountant, meaning they are not independently verified by any authority before publication.

Former NBA star and actor Mr Fox, the Free National Movement hopeful, declared a massive net worth of $469 million, putting him far ahead of the rest of the field.

He is followed by Sebas Bastian of the Progressive Liberal Party, who reported a net worth of $28.9 million. But he revealed that a significant portion of his wealth is tied to undisclosed trusts - holding a substantial portion of family assets and business interests – valued at $160 million. He says the trusts pre-date his entry into public life and, as he is only a ‘discretionary,’ and not sole beneficiary, with no legal ownership, it would be ‘improper and inaccurate’ to declare them.

Close behind is Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who declared $28.6 million in assets, annual income of $324,000

and liabilities of $560,000, giving him a net worth of $28 million. The Minister for Tourism, Investment and Aviation’s declared wealth has almost doubled since the 2021 election, when he reported a net worth of $14.8 million and annual income of $370,000. He also nearly doubled his wealth in the term prior to that, between 2017 and 2021, from $7.9 million to $14.8 million.

Former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is next with a declared net worth of $19 million.

Dr Minnis, now running as an independent in Killarney, reported $20 million in assets, mostly in securities, along with $1 million in total income and $1.7 million in liabilities. His wealth has steadily increased over the years. He reported $14,048,902 in 2021, and earlier declarations put him at $12.6 million in 2017 and $10.9 million in 2012.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis total assets remain largely unchanged at $4,336,262, primarily in real estate and securities. He listed $685,162 in a savings account, $239,665 in a current account and $219,767 in debts. However, Mr Davis, who declared a net worth of $4.1 million in the 2021 election, did not provide a total net worth in the document filed with the Parliamentary Registration Department. His 2017 declaration showed a net worth of $4.3 million. A spokesman said yesterday

that the prime minister intended to list a net worth of $4,549,280, but it was unclear why this was not reflected in the gazetted document.

Among PLP candidates, Sea Breeze MP Leslia Miller-Brice reported a net worth of $8.7 million, up from $3.1 million in 2021. The bulk of her assets is held in real estate and securities. She reported no liabilities, along with $81,000 in a savings account and $187,000 in a current account.

Central and South Eleuthera MP Clay Sweeting reported a rise from $1.5 million in 2021 to $4.5 million. His filing shows $4.8 million in real estate, $228,000 in income, and $976,000 in liabilities.

Carmichael MP Keith Bell also reported a significant increase, moving from just over $1 million in 2021 to $3.9 million.

Pinewood MP Myles Laroda’s worth increased from $691,100 to $1.4 million, while Golden Gates MP Pia Glover-Rolle moved from $498,136 to $804,669.

Englerston MP Glenys Hanna-Martin reported a more modest rise, from $990,889 to $1.2 million.

Mount Moriah MP McKell Bonaby, seeking re-election, increased his declared net worth from $841,403 in 2021 to $1.5 million. He reported $1.9 million in total assets, $213,000 in income and $441,510 in liabilities, for a net worth of $1,504,389.

Cooper stays silent on $13m increase in wealth

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

CHESTER Cooper, the Deputy Prime Minister and Exuma and Ragged Island MP, declined to comment yesterday on his significant increase in wealth compared to the last general election period.

He has declared one of the largest increases in wealth among candidates, with his net worth rising from $14.8 million in 2021 to $28 million.

Mr Cooper, who identified himself as a businessman in his filing, listed total assets of $28.6 million, annual

income of $324,000 and lia bilities of $560,000.

Mr Cooper reportedly has holdings in insurance, financial services, invest ments, commercial real estate and fintech businesses in The Bahamas and across the Caribbean. He is one of the principal owners of BAF Financial & Insurance (Bahamas), the former British Amer ican Insurance Company of The Baha mas.

Some incumbents saw little movement. Tall Pines MP Dr Michael Darville’s net worth edged up from $4,665,000 in 2021 to $4.7 million, while Freetown MP Wayne Munroe moved from $2.7 million to $2.8 million.

Fox Hill incumbent Fred Mitchell did not list a net worth in 2021, but now reports $1,637,915.08. Lisa Rahming’s latest filing shows she is worth just over $1 million.

Central and South Andros MP Leon Lundy and North Andros MP Leonardo Lightbourne also reported increases. Mr Lundy declared $1,312,875.79, up from $712,211 in 2021, while Mr Lightbourne reported $3,032,803.61, up from $1,548,000 in the last election cycle.

North Abaco MP Kirk Cornish reported a net worth of $819,355.77. Dr Monique Pratt, running in East Grand Bahama, declared $4,020,957.23, while businessman Edward E Whan, who will face off against Mr Pintard, reported a net worth of $2,789,000.

Some candidates did not list their net worth. Among them is Southern Shores MP Leroy Major.

Political newcomers Robyn Lynes, who is seeking to unseat Dr Minnis in Killarney, and Owen Wells, who is contesting St James, also reported sizeable net

$28,091,000.00

$5,330,000.00

$5,191,500.00

$4,560,000.00

$3,032,803.61

$2,487,700.00

$2,080,950.00

$1,312,875.79

$1,236,306.00

$1,067,150.00

$1,011,991.85

$987,509.00

Election disclosures reveal more than 50 millionaires in 2026 race

worths of $1.7 million and $2.2 million respectively.

Not all incumbents are claiming to be millionaires. Elizabeth MP JoBeth Coleby-Davis reported a net worth of $902,586, up from just over $500,000 in 2021 but still below the seven-figure mark. She listed more than $1 million in assets, $220,000 in income and liabilities of $425,903.

Others below the million-dollar mark include Garden Hills candidate Mario Bowleg at $731,294, Centreville candidate Jomo Campbell at $743,000, Bain Town and Grants Town candidate Wayde Watson at $451,000, and Bamboo Town candidate Patricia Deveaux at $474,240.

Among FNM candidates, Dr Duane Sands declared a net worth of $8.1 million, while party leader Michael Pintard reported $3.97 million. Both men had lower declared net worths in the previous election, when Dr Sands reported $6.9 million and Mr Pintard $2.9 million.

Mr Pintard’s declaration says his total assets include $1.1 million in securities, $1.5 million in real estate and $900,000 in savings. His total income is listed as $177,500.

Dr Andre Rollins, the FNM’s Long Island candidate, reported a net worth of $5.1 million.

Mount Moriah candidate Marvin Dames declared a net worth of $1.7 million, down slightly from just over $2 million in his 2021 filing. His total assets stand at $2.2 million, with annual income of $309,000 and debts of $516,762.

St Anne’s incumbent Adrian White, Michael Foulkes for Golden Gates and Brian Brown for Golden Isles each reported net worths of just over $2 million.

Arinthia Komolafe, running in Carmichael, Darren Henfield, running in South Beach, Elsworth Johnson for Yamacraw and Denalee Mackey Penn each declared net worths of more than $1 million.

Among political newcomers, Nicholas Fox, running

in Fox Hill, declared a net worth of $5.47 million, Lincoln Deal, contesting Freetown, reported $1.8 million, and Debra Moxey-Rolle, running in Exuma and Ragged Island, reported $1.2 million. However, not all FNM candidates are millionaires. The party’s deputy leader, Shanendon Cartwright, who is running in St James, and Killarney candidate Michela Barnett Ellis both fell just short of the mark.

Mr Cartwright holds assets worth more than $1 million, but his declared net worth stands at $938,650.

Fort Charlotte candidate Travis Robinson reported a net worth of $598,000. His declared wealth has risen steadily since he first ran for office in 2017, when he reported $7,300 as a student, and then $147,000 in the 2021 election.

In East Grand Bahama, incumbent James Kwasi Thompson reported a net worth of $538,500.

Dr Charlene Reid declared $469,138, while Frazette Gibson reported $568,641.47. Omar Isaacs, a

business executive, reported a net worth of $761,000.

Dr Minnis’ opponent in Killarney, Coalition of Independents candidate Veronica McIver, listed $12 million in assets, total income of $362,000 and liabilities of $15,000, for a net worth of $12 million.

COI leader Lincoln Bain, who is seeking to represent Pinewood, reported a net worth of $1.5 million, slightly down from the $1.8 million he filed in the 2021 race. He listed total assets of $1.5 million, total income of $360,000 and liabilities of $85,000.

At the other end of the scale, Jillian Bartlett, a fitness professional running in Marco City, reported assets of $6,600 with no net worth declared, making her one the least wealthy candidate in the race. She listed an annual income of $18,000. Deidre Ann-Taylor, a missionary running as an independent in Exuma and Ragged Island, lists her total assets as $4,030. The full list of 2026 financial declarations appears in today’s Tribune

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

SEBAS Bastian has disclosed that a substantial portion of wealth linked to him is held in trusts valued at about $160 million, wealth he does not control, according to his financial declaration for the 2026 general election.

The Progressive Liberal Party’s Fort Charlotte candidate reported $28,945,545 in total assets, $930,000 in income and liabilities of $175,000, placing him among the highest-declared earners in the race.

His filing shows holdings that include $17.3 million in real estate, $4.9 million in securities and $2.8 million in savings accounts.

In a rare note attached to his declaration, Mr Bastian said he is a beneficiary—but not the sole beneficiary—of several trusts established before his entry into public life.

He said the trusts hold a substantial portion of his family’s assets and business interests but that, as a discretionary beneficiary, he has no legal ownership or control over them and does not include them in

his personal declaration.

“Accordingly, it would be improper and inaccurate for me to declare such assets as my personal assets in my statutory filings,” he added. “Consistent with this advise, these trust assets have not been included in my personal declaration. Notwithstanding this and in the spirit of openness, I wish to indicate that the estimated aggregate value of the assets held within these trusts is approximately $160,000,000.”

Mr Bastian is the wealthiest candidate in the Fort Charlotte race. His opponents include Free National Movement candidate Travis Robinson, who declared a net worth of $598,000, and Coalition of Independents candidate Daphaney Johnson, who reported $830,998.

He is also the second-highest declared candidate overall.

Mr Bastian has built businesses across gaming, media, real estate, construction and electric vehicle sales.

He is best known as the co-founder of Island Luck, one of the country’s largest gaming operations, and has since stepped

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

RICK Fox, a former NBA player turned businessman and first-time political candidate, has entered the 2026 race with a financial disclosure that places him among the most affluent figures in the country, let alone among those seeking elected office.

The Free National Movement’s Garden Hills candidate reported

down as chief executive after entering frontline politics.

Before the legalisation of the industry, he operated the company as a leading webshop during the underground gambling market. He later emerged as a figure advocating for regulation of the sector. He is also head of

total assets of $469,752,090.25, income of $4,816,689.16 and liabilities of $123,388.83. His filing shows the bulk of that wealth is tied to securities and investments valued at $432 million. He also listed $14.5 million in accounts receivable and $11 million in real estate, along with a $1 million salary and $192,300 in the

Mr Fox is the founder and chief executive of Partanna, a climate technology company that produces carbon-negative building materials.

The company’s website last reported activity in 2025, when it signed a memorandum of understanding with Partanna Oasis to explore sustainable cement solutions in the United Arab Emirates.

According to the company’s website, Mr Fox has more than 200 film and television credits as an actor or producer and has worked with global brands.

He also established an esports franchise in 2015, which was later disbanded following a dispute with business partners that escalated into a legal battle.

During his more than ten-year basketball career, he reportedly earned

Brickell Management Group, a property development company.

Mr Bastian has outlined the Progressive Liberal Party’s housing agenda, including plans to expand access to affordable housing and strengthen enforcement against landlords providing unsafe and substandard living conditions.

Special thank you goes out to MR. HOWARD THOMPSON JR. for making the time for your staff and customers.

The changes that were made are greatly appreciated since your arrival at The Department Of Labour

From Staff Member Cinderella Johnson

over $34 million, according to online sources.

International media outlets have estimated his net worth at more than $20 million, far below the figure declared in his filing. Mr Fox did not respond to questions from The Tribune about the discrepancy.

For his party, FNM chairman Dr Duane Sands defended the disclosure yesterday, saying candidates stand by what they file.

“If he says and signs at the risk of perjury and the risk of incarceration that his net worth is X, then what's the problem?” Dr Sands told The Tribune yesterday. “The real issue is that with all these (people) lying and saying they worth $1 million when they worth $50m, then what do you do with them?”

“Does anything turn on it? No, because we don’t ever audit these things and haven’t done so in 40 years.”

Financial disclosures filed by candidates are not verified by accountants. Officials from the Parliamentary Registration Department and Public Disclosure Commission have said they are not responsible for checking the accuracy of the figures.

Mr Fox was born in Canada to a Bahamian father and Italian mother. He grew up in The Bahamas and has said he would give up his Canadian citizenship if required for frontline politics.

The Tribune Limited

NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI

“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

LEON E. H. DUPUCH,

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .

Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

Contributing Editor 1972-1991

RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.

Publisher/Editor 1972-

Published daily Monday to Friday Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207

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Declarations

Private islands are draining the economy

EDITOR, The Tribune. I HAVE often wondered about two nexus with direct involvement in the caption. The notion that people who don’t know what they have, or have chosen the revenue over the greater good, their business coffers, over that of the Bahamas’ does speak volumes. Writer, what are you talking about? Very glad to shed light on the principles from which I speak.

LETTERS

@tribune242 tribune news network

IN today’s Tribune, you will find the published lists of candidates’ declarations – a requirement as part of nomination day.

As ever, it is full of facts and curiosities that can tell us a lot about the people who would seek to lead our country. Remember back in 2012, for example, when the now late Rodney Moncur listed as property a New Oxford Dictionary valued at $500, a $300 sapodilla tree and three tamarind trees valued at $900.

Mr Moncur’s declarations did not stop there – he also had two mango trees and two coconut trees valued at $1,200, two guinep trees worth $600, four pear trees listed at $1,200, and a $300 hog plum tree among others, worth a total of $6,170, all part of total assets he claimed of $371,370. Get a few trees and it soon adds up.

This year, there were a lot of eyes on two particular candidates – one for each party, Rick Fox for the FNM and Sebas Bastian for the PLP.

Mr Fox was accused by Coalition of Independents leader Lincoln Bain, ahead of nomination day, of entering politics for personal financial gain. Where that claim stands after Mr Fox claimed his net worth to be $469m is another matter.

Mr Fox is well-known globally of course after his NBA basketball career, but is also the founder of a company that produces carbon-negative building materials.

International estimates of his net worth stood at $20m – his filing blows that out of the water. Asked for comment on the discrepancy, Mr Fox did not respond, but his filing points to securities and investments as the bulk of his wealth.

Across the political aisle, PLP candidate Sebas Bastian surprised with a net worth claim significantly lower than many estimates, although still a handsome near $29m in assets. However, Mr Bastian said he also has a significant $160m of assets in trusts, though filed a note to say that was wealth he does not control, an unusual situation for such filings. He said as he is a “discretionary beneficiary” he does not include them in his personal declaration. That “discretionary beneficiary” means he is involved in a trust and may receive income or capital solely at the trustee’s discretion.

That will likely raise further questions – who has financial control over $160m of assets owned by a potential Cabinet minister?

Questions are good. The point of this whole exercise is transparency, so that people can properly judge who might be best positioned to lead our country. If someone seeks to become a finance or economic minister, for example, it might be helpful to know how well they have managed their own finances. A pauper may not be the choice to run the sovereign fund. Then again, a pauper might know the struggles of the people, and lend an understanding ear where a millionaire might not hear.

Then there is the ability to compare from one election to another to see the changes in someone’s income.

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, for example, has nearly doubled his net worth since the last election, despite all the time he spent jetting around as Minister of Tourism, and a middling attendance record in the House of Assembly of 84 percent.

His wealth has risen from $14.8m in 2021 to $28m this time around. Sadly, for an exercise that is rooted in ensuring transparency, he has declined to comment on his personal success while in office – leaving voters, unless he speaks up between now and election day, having to guess for themselves.

All of this, of course, is what people say they are worth. There have long been concerns over how rigorously such claims are verified. Indeed, in that sense, Mr Bastian has gone to much greater pains than others to explain about something he felt he did not need to declare under the strict rules and regulations.

Other questions were raised on nomination day too, of course – that is always the case. One PLP candidate was alleged to have used a US passport for verification, Mr Bastian was challenged by COI leader Mr Bain over an alleged government contract, and more besides.

There are processes to be followed in making such challenges – and we hope that any such claims are presented with evidence if they have merit and are taken seriously by the authorities, regardless of which colour shirt they are wearing and which colour shirt their accusers are wearing.

Ultimately, the reason for all these filings is to ensure the integrity of the election process – that is paramount.

Any such challenges will be resolved well before election day, we are sure. One such challenge, the one over whether Mr Bastian needed to declare any current government contracts, has already received a response pointing to the constitution, in which it is said such declarations need to be made within the month of the election.

This portion of the election process is, in truth, one of the areas where The Bahamas shines. Could it be stronger?

Absolutely – especially in verifying what has been declared to ensure the paperwork matches up to the words. But it truly is a snapshot of the candidates in the field where everyone has to present themselves to the public and say this is me, this is my worth, now can you trust me to lead the country?

So we urge readers to read the extra sections in today’s edition, to seek out the listings for the candidates in your constituency, and to consider what those declarations mean for your vote.

Given the way in which freedom of information and the annual disclosures by Parliamentarians are treated in this country, this is one of the few genuine examples of transparency, and it treats everyone the same. Arm yourself with the information you need for the day you cast your ballot.

Is PLP balance of power shifting?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

IT appears as if Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis has unequivocally told housing minister Keith Bell, you’re Fired! From what I can conclude, it looks like the candidate for Fort Charlotte Sebastian Bastian in the new unofficial Minister of Housing. He is addressing Housing issues at PLP rallies. And radio

talk shows discussing the subject. But Madam Editor, Minister Bell could be viewed as a protégé of the powerful Sir Franklyn Wilson. It begs the question ‘is the balance of power in the PLP shifting? It is rumored that Sebas is doing whatever he wants in the PLP. We are going into an election. And one is forced to ask,’ what is the relationship like between the PM and the member of parliament for Carmichael? ‘You may recall some time ago, Mr Bell embarrassed the Prime Minister with the church incident. But Madam Editor, it must be embarrassing and humiliating to be the Minister responsible for Housing but a rookie is delivering the government’s message.

PAT STRACHAN Nassau, April 15, 2026.

When Father God apportioned the resources across the global sphere, he gave each country what He perceived to be sufficient to provide the level of sustenances for each. What He did not want was for those coming from the more populated diaspora, if you will, to devise a plan, a nefarious construct designed to have redirected revenues belonging to a nefarious construct designed have redirected revenues belonging to a country from its natural resources to that of the United States of America. What I mean is that in years past the Cruise Ships would visit these shores arriving early morning by 6:30am you could see them out to sea, on the way to the Prince George Dock, downtown Nassau. By 7pm, left but say one would overnight, allowing the visitors to populate the numerous nightspots on the island, clubs operating on property local bands, so taxi cab drivers and others were able to make money. Oh, how times have changed?

Nowadays, many of the Cruise Ships have decided to trade in house, competing with Bahamas

Ministry of Tourism, by acquiring many of the smaller islands and transfiguring as resorts, offering all of the amenities found at the main shopping mecca Bay Street and those Paradise Island, and what the local transportation agents are saying is that the visitors claimed that the Cruise Ships usually stop off first at their resort islands, where they shop, and leisure by the time they reach Nassau Cruise Port, either they have no money left, or too tired to explore what Nassau has to offer? I do believe that the Cruise Ships were not operating without governmental approvals, but who or what group could be so asinine extremely utterly foolish, unpatriotic, to accommodate the direct sharing of the Bahamian people’s resources, the products given by Father God for the sustenance of us all, and by US & Mediterranean companies that have much more money than the entire Commonwealth of The Bahamas, there ought to be legal consequences for this betrayal, and I don’t suppose that they have the where-withit-all, to take action, the Bahamian people deserves to see just who, authorised the annexation (foreign influence), the unlawful acquisition of lands belonging to by extension generation of Bahamian unborn?

Editor, here is what prompted these writings, earlier this morning on

my way to the local public office, happened upon a group of merchants near the Cruise Port and they were complaining who business has fallen off, whilst I believe that many things could be the cause, suffice it to say that we cannot dismissed the facts that visitors were being redirected is a problem. Since this is a matter that goes back decades, all of the political parties were to blame. I wonder how exactly the sales of Bahamian lands to Cruise Ships were being transacted, the would-be-conveyances were set out (configured, enunciated, the legal profession), authorised signatory, inter alia? My interest has to do with what will be left for the generation of Bahamians to come, to see, and to enjoy at the rate taking place will we have anything left?

In conclusion, there is one proof of either a bad government or likes the idea of putting Bahamian people in all of these loans that our children, their children will have to be paying well into the next two centuries, is just poor economics and when we have the resources to keep us living large, only we lack the wisdom, knowledge, understanding how function effectively in the junction, but we haven’t a clue what were the value of what we have and how to promote them bearing in mind our code being the protection the state, and welfare of its citizens, anything else is a misnomer, I am sorry?

FRANK GILBERT Nassau,

April 13, 2026.

Many no longer swayed by empty rhetoric

EDITOR, The Tribune.

AS our nation approaches another pivotal general election; the air is once again filled with familiar political slogans— polished phrases crafted to inspire hope, stir emotion, and secure votes. Yet for many ordinary Bahamians, these words are beginning to ring hollow.

What do slogans truly mean to the struggling mother who cannot afford groceries for her children?

To the father, juggling multiple jobs and still unable to keep up with rising bills?

To the young graduate who remains unemployed, disillusioned, and questioning their future in the very country they call home.

We hear, “Choose Progress.” But progress for whom? What measurable, tangible progress can the average Bahamian point to in their daily lives? Who is truly benefiting? These are not questions of cynicism, but of lived reality. We are told, “We work for you, not the few.”

Yet how long will such

declarations suffice without clear, transparent plans and consistent delivery? What distinguishes the current major parties when many of the same candidates reappear election after election, offering recycled promises while conditions for the average citizen remain largely unchanged?

The truth is, the Bahamian people are no longer content with rhetoric. We are not blind, nor are we easily persuaded by catchy phrases. The masses are awakening to the reality that governance requires more than words—it demands vision, integrity, accountability, and action.

There is a growing sentiment across this nation that many Bahamians feel like second-class citizens in their own land—competing for jobs, opportunities, and economic stability, often at a disadvantage. This perception must be addressed with urgency and sincerity.

While some may look to alternative political movements for change, it must be acknowledged that a third

party has yet to be tested at the national level. However, that does not negate the possibility of change. May 12th presents an opportunity—one that must not be taken lightly by any party seeking the trust of the people.

Let this serve as a clear message to all political organisations: the electorate is evolving. While there will always be loyal supporters, the broader population is no longer swayed by empty rhetoric. Bahamians are voting with intention, with discernment, and with a renewed commitment to principles—chief among them sovereignty, fairness, and a genuine fight for the future of this country.

We will not vote as in times past. This moment demands more, and we expect more. The time for slogans has passed. The time for substance is now.

AN UNDECIDED VOTER Nassau, April 15, 2026.

Resort plan a crime against good taste

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I WAS extremely unhappy to read of the proposed takeover of Governors Harbour by yet another American developer Governor’s Harbour is one of the most serene and

picturesque places in the Bahamas and to even think of installing those hideous looking Villas and a casino would be not just be an eyesore but a crime against good sense, and good taste. I wish Eric Carey the

best of luck in explaining to these people that there is a huge difference between Governors Harbour and Atlantic City.

CHRISTINA SMITH Nassau, April 16, 2026.

PLP defends increasing parks spending amid transparency fears

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

THE Progressive Liberal Party defended surging spending at the Bahamas Public Parks and Beaches Authority yesterday, blaming inherited overruns and pointing to support for small businesses amid scrutiny over missing audit reports and an executive chairman who has repeatedly avoided questions. Director of Communications Latrae Rahming, at a PLP press conference, claimed higher spending reflected “investments in small and medium-sized businesses” and long-running overruns that predate the current administration. He called criticism from the opposition “disingenuous”. He cited past budget gaps under the Minnis administration, including a year when about $7m was budgeted and $15.6m spent, and another period

when $19.1m was budgeted and $25.9m spent. The defence comes after budget figures showed the authority has spent more than $141m up to December 2025 and repeatedly exceeded its allocations in recent years.

Despite repeated promises of transparency, no audit reports have been made public. Executive chairman McKell Bonaby previously said audits were underway, but none had been tabled.

Fresh figures showed the authority had already spent $25,178,694 in the first half of the 2025/2026 fiscal year against a fullyear budget of $29m, leaving less than $4m for the remainder of the year. There is also still no public accounting for fourth-quarter spending in 2024/2025.

Questions about oversight have been compounded by Mr Bonaby’s refusal to engage with the press. In an encounter last

week after filing nomination papers, he declined to answer questions about the authority, told a reporter “no further questions”, and walked away. That silence follows earlier assurances of transparency, including a pledge of “a full account of everything which would have happened at parks and beaches”, which has not materialised.

Mr Rahming also defended government travel spending, saying figures cited by critics cover all officials and include domestic travel. Last week, the Nassau Guardian reported that the government spent $74m on travel in four years. Mr Rahming, without supporting evidence, linked the spending to “record investments and record tourism numbers”.

Mid-year figures for 2024/2025 showed travel spending rising to $16.065m from an initial projection of $12.458m.

Man ‘armed with a cutlass’ fatally shot by police in GB

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

A MAN from Grand Bahama was shot dead by police on Saturday after allegedly confronting officers with a cutlass.

Police said they were responding to a complaint in the Pinedale area of Eight Mile Rock when they encountered the armed man. Assistant Commissioner of Police Advarado Dames said officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, but it escalated.

He said the man “made an aggressive move” towards officers, who, in fear for their lives, discharged a single shot, fatally wounding him.

The victim was identified as area resident Glenford Williams, believed to be in his early 60s.

Bishop Barry Morris, a family friend, said he was nearby when he was alerted to the shooting by two distressed women who told him a man had been shot.

He said he later saw Williams lying in the street with what appeared to be

a gunshot wound to the chest and the handle of a cutlass still in his hand.

“I know the family personally, having grown up in the area and I went to his mother who was in distress at this time and just embraced her and prayer with her,” he told The Tribune on the scene.

He described the victim as someone who appeared to be mentally challenged.

“I’ve known him all my life,” Bishop Moss said. “Anyone who lives in this community would have come into contact with him. Sometimes, he could’ve been for better or worse a little aggressive.”

ACP Dames said he could not confirm the man’s mental state, adding that investigators are still in the early stages.

“We want to ensure the members of the public that we will continue to remain transparent and that a thorough investigation would be held and this matter will be forwarded to His Majesty’s Coroner for an outcome,” he added.

This latest incident marks the country’s fourth police involved shooting for the year, according to The Tribune’s records.

Teens and RBDF officer among seven injured in recent shootings

investigations continue.

The incident was one of several shootings across New Providence in recent days that left multiple people injured.

Earlier that morning, shortly after 4am, two men

— including a Royal Bahamas Defence Force officer

— were shot outside a business near Verbena and Rosedale Streets.

Police said an armed man with his face partially covered approached a group gathered outside and fired multiple shots before fleeing.

One victim, 25, was shot in the left leg, while the 48-year-old defence force officer was shot in the left hand and chest.

One man drove himself to the hospital, while the other was taken by private vehicle. Both were listed in stable condition. The business also sustained damage.

Two nights earlier, on

April 16, police responded to separate shootings that left a 16-year-old boy and a 21-year-old man in critical condition.

In the first incident, shortly after 9pm near Dumping Ground Corner, the teen was shot in the left thigh and side after two men on a white Kawasaki motorcycle opened fire at a group gathered outside a business on Meadow Street. The suspects fled through Augusta Street and Ferguson Way.

Less than two hours later, police responded to another shooting in the Hay Street area, where a 21-yearold man was shot about the body.

Police said two men dressed in dark clothing rode into the area on a motorcycle, fired multiple shots, and fled toward East Street.

Both victims were taken to the hospital by private vehicle and were unable to provide details at the time.

Court dismisses latest appeal for 2010 Fox Hill drive-by killer

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN convicted of a fatal 2010 drive-by shooting in Fox Hill has had his latest appeal against his 35-year prison sentence dismissed. Denard Davis’s appeal for murder and attempted murder was rejected by Justices of Appeal Milton Evans, Gregory Smith and Vasheist Kokaram.

The court found no exceptional circumstances to justify reopening the appeal. However, it said Davis could seek redress before the Privy Council under Article 104(2) of the Constitution if new evidence emerges.

Davis was involved in the shooting of Sheria Curry and Shanko Smith outside a residence in Fox Hill on November 3, 2010.

The suspects were in a Hyundai SUV that slowed as it approached the victims, allowing the occupants to open fire.

Ms Curry died in the shooting.

At trial, a police statement from Davis was admitted in which he said he was the driver but claimed he did not know the other occupants intended to shoot.

Witness evidence contradicted that account, with an eyewitness testifying that the vehicle slowed to allow

Davis’s two co-accused to fire.

Davis was sentenced to 35 years for murder and 18 years for attempted murder.

He lost his first appeal on August 7, 2018.

The Privy Council refused leave on November 9, 2022, finding no risk of a miscarriage of justice.

In March 2024, the Supreme Court refused his application for constitutional redress.

Davis then appealed that decision to the Court of Appeal, arguing he did not receive a fair trial due to his attorney’s incompetence.

He said his counsel failed to challenge the admissibility of a police interview, claiming he was beaten by police into giving the statement.

He also alleged a doctor’s report documented bruises, pain and prescribed medication, and said his attorney’s failure to follow instructions resulted in a miscarriage of justice.

He argued he was deprived of an acquittal, claiming there was no other evidence linking him to being the driver.

That appeal, along with a second appeal, was dismissed in 2024.

Davis sought to reopen his case through a constitutional motion in his latest failed attempt.

Shaneka Carey represented the prosecution.

OFFICERS FIND $62K CONCEALED IN LOTION BOTTLES AT LPIA CHECKPOINT

POLICE seized $62,000 in US currency concealed inside toiletries at Lynden Pindling International Airport on Saturday, acting on intelligence. Officers, working with Airport Authority officials, discovered the cash shortly after noon hidden inside an Ivory Body Wash bottle and an Aveeno lotion bottle at a security checkpoint. The funds were secured, and the Financial Crimes Investigation Branch is investigating.

TEENAGE PRISONER ESCAPES CUSTODY OVER TRAFFIC WARRANTS

MAN BLAMES DRINKING PROBLEM FOR STEALING HAIR TRIMMER

By KEILE CAMPEBLL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

A 33-YEAR-OLD man was fined $200 in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday after pleading guilty to stealing and receiving charges stemming from an April 3 incident on Bernard Road in New Providence.

Shaquille White, of Faith Avenue off Carmichael

Road, admitted stealing a grey T-Outliner hair trimmer valued at $85.06, the property of Beautylicious, and dishonestly receiving the same item.

Prosecutors said he entered the store, was seen holding the item, and tried to leave on foot without paying. He was pursued, subdued, and the item was recovered before his arrest.

He was taken to the Wulff

MIGRANT FINED $800 FOR DRUGS AND HANDED TO IMMIGRATION

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 20-YEAR-OLD Haitian migrant was fined $800 in the Magistrate’s Court after pleading guilty to drug possession and was subsequently handed over to immigration authorities.

Lorence Saint-Justin, who lived in

Harbour Island, admitted that on April 15, 2026, he was found in possession of a quantity of dangerous drugs without lawful authority.

He was ordered to pay the fine or serve three months in prison if he defaults.

He was handed over to immigration authorities following the proceedings.

Road Police Station, where he admitted the offence. Mr White accepted the facts when they were read to him. Before sentencing, he asked for leniency, telling the court he had a drinking problem and was employed, allowing him to pay a fine. He said he did not want to return to jail after recently serving a three-year sentence.

The prosecution agreed to a fine but sought probation.

Mr White was fined $200 or one month in prison if he defaults and was placed on six months’ probation. He told the court he could pay within two weeks and was ordered to pay by May 1, 2026. The matter was adjourned to May 1 for payment of the fine and to November 26 for a probation review.

MAN DENIES FRAUD OVER $1,600 ATLANTIS DAY PASSES

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

DWAYNE Leon Morley, 34, pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday to fraud by false pretences stemming from an alleged April 15 incident on Paradise Island.

Prosecutors allege that Morley, of Ida Street and

and with intent to defraud.

Morley denied the charge when it was put to him. He was granted bail of $3,000 with one or two sureties.

The matter was adjourned to June 3 for trial.

POLICE are searching for a teenage prisoner who escaped from the Magistrate’s Court Complex on South Street last week. Authorities said Brent Penn, born June 25, 2008, fled custody shortly before 7.30pm on April 16 after being remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. He was being held in connection with outstanding traffic warrants totalling $2,440.

Police are investigating the circumstances of the escape and are appealing for information on his whereabouts.

THE STORIES BEHIND THE NEWS

World View • Sir Ronald Sanders

Resolving CARICOM’s leadership impasse

AS with all my commentaries, this one is strictly in my personal capacity, drawing on more than 50 years of engagement with Caribbean affairs and a lifelong commitment to the cause of regional integration.

I do not speak on behalf of any government or institution.

Recent developments concerning the future tenure of Dr Carla Barnett as Secretary-General of CARICOM have brought into focus an issue that goes beyond any individual. It touches the essential requirement of cohesion and mutual confidence among the Heads of Gov ernment who guide the Community.

It’s now evident that at least one Head of Govern ment of a founding member state, Kamla Persad-Bis sessar, does not support a continuation of Dr Bar nett’s tenure. That reality, in my view, raises a serious question about the practical effectiveness of the office going forward.

The office of Secre tary-General depends not only on formal authority, but on the full confidence and cooperation of all member governments. Where that confidence is materially in doubt, the capacity of the office to function effectively is inev itably diminished.

In those circumstanc es--and speaking solely for myself--on April 14, I said in a television inter view in Antigua that, were I in Dr Barnett’s position, I would consider it untena ble to continue in the role in the face of such oppo sition, particularly from a member state whose engagement is cen tral to the work of the Community. For that reason, were I in Dr Barnett’s position,

I would withdraw from consideration for a further term. I repeated this position when I was interviewed on April 15 on TV6 television in Trinidad.

My opinion is not a judgment on Dr Barnett’s service, which has been carried out with professionalism and dignity. Rather, it’s a recognition of a larger principle. No individual, however capable, should become the point around which division among member states coalesces.

I am aware that my view is shared by some other advocates of regional

amounts to asking the Court to resolve a political problem which is rightly the responsibility of Heads of Government. Should such a legal process be pursued, it would be impossible for the parties involved to conduct business as usual in the Councils of CARICOM. The CARICOM institution, the regional integration movement, and the collective interests of the people of the Community would suffer.

The political solution must start with the withdrawal by Dr Barnett from consideration for another

should establish a transparent system leading to the selection of a new Secretary-General. It should include nominations by member states and a transparent election at which the two candidates with the highest number of votes undergo a run-off. The candidate with the largest number of votes would be declared the winner.

All member states would be bound by the process and the result. During the process, each candidate should have the opportunity to present his or her case for election to all member states. This is the process used in the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Commonwealth. The essential difference between the two bodies is that, in the OAS, the election process, including the voting, is public and webcast globally. In the Commonwealth, the meeting at which the election is to take place, including its date and venue, is announced to all member states and to the media, but the election itself is conducted behind closed doors by Heads of Government, who elect the candidate with the greatest number of votes and declare that decision unanimous and binding on all member states.

Such a process, accepted at the outset by all CARICOM member states, as all the independent member states accept in the OAS and in the Commonwealth, would eliminate any doubt about participation,

voting, and acceptance of the result in electing the Secretary-General.

However, while this system would improve the present procedures in CARICOM and solve the immediate impasse, major problems still must be confronted and resolved by our Heads of Government. Division in CARICOM serves the interests of no CARICOM country.

It’s worth recalling that in the mid-1970s, CARICOM integration did not merely slow. It stalled. Trinidad and Tobago’s leader, Eric Williams, fell out with Forbes Burnham and Michael Manley, the leaders of Guyana and Jamaica, over the ideological direction of the region. For seven years, there was no meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government and no sustained policy direction for the regional movement, which did not resume until 1982.

In the meantime, the rest of the world had galloped ahead, and CARICOM did not begin to try to catch up again until 1989, when ANR Robinson of Trinidad and Tobago led the Grand Anse Declaration that reset the regional effort, taking another three years for plans to be formulated by the West Indian Commission in 1992. This lesson is not obscure. Another period of paralysis in CARICOM will gravely reverse its fortunes.

CARICOM leaders must rebuild trust among themselves and in their capacity to act together in their individual and collective

interests. But it must start with those, who do so, ending the practice of talking to each other through the press and social media. There is no substitute for sincere dialogue, careful listening, and a readiness to find joint solutions to shared problems. This includes recognising the Zone of Peace, declared by all Latin American and Caribbean countries in 2014, while also acknowledging that there’s no contradiction between that designation and the sovereign right of individual states to enter into security arrangements with friendly countries. Such arrangements, properly framed, are entirely consistent with the maintenance of peace, particularly where they are directed at safeguarding national territory, reducing terrorist threats, and protecting vital resources. At a time of considerable global turbulence and uncertainty, when small states must rely more than ever on unity, coherence, and collective strength, it’s essential that the leadership of the Community facilitates that unity. CARICOM should be focused on the greater struggle to build capacity and resilience to grave external factors that are materially affecting our people’s lives.

(The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the US and OAS and Chancellor of the University of Guyana. The views expressed are entirely his own.)

Lessons from the dying

What's most important? The ordinary moments.

Dr. Kenneth D. Kemp

THERE'S apeculiar clarity thatdescends onpeoplewhen they receive a terminal diagnosis.

Thenoiseof dailylife,the petty grievances, the social posturing, the endless accumulation of things,all fall away with startling speed. What remains, stripped bare, is almost always the same truth inall itssplendour: knowingwhat reallymatters in life.

In aninstant, theidea of success, sofirmly plantedin our mind before, looks radically different.

In today’s report, I wanted to revisit their deep insight of what truly matters when time is running short.

Asa physician,I’ve occasionally hadthe privilegeof being the shouldera patient leanson, hearingwhatpatients say when they know the end iscloser thanthe beginning. It s one of the strangest and most humbling things in medicine. Youexpect people to talk about legacy, success, status or accomplishments, but they almost never do. They talkabout family,one more Christmas,or justone moredinner aroundthetable with their children.

Case inpoint, I oncehad an elderly patient tell me that he dpayany priceandbear any burden forone more Saturday with his wife. Not a trip to Paris. Not a yacht. Not some grand adventure. Justone moreordinarySaturday.

WhenSteve Jobswasdiagnosedwith pancreaticcancer andbegan confrontingthe possibilityof hisdeath,he didn’tlamentunfinishedproducts or market share. In his poignant2005 Stanfordcommencement addressdelivered oneyear afterhisdiagnosis, he saidthat deathis thegreat eliminatorof otherpeople’s expectations,of pride,offear, orembarrassment.Itclearsthe board.

Becausewhen youstrip away thenoise, peoplenever regret what they did, they almost alwaysregret with achingprecision whatthey didn t do.

FormerUS senatorfrom Nebraska BenSasse refersto death as ‘a wickedthief’ becausedeath stealsthethings

we often take for granted. It steals graduations, retirement plans, anniversaries, birthdays, Sunday dinners, and quiet Tuesday afternoons. Tatiana Schlossberg wrote movingly aboutwhat shefeared losing most. It was not status or career ambition.It was the smallthings.Holdingherchildren.Bedtime stories.Bath time.Being ableto carefor them with her own hands. Strangely, the people staring deathin theface often become thebest teachersof life. Whenpeople knowthey arerunningout oftime,they stop lying. Theystop pretending thatthey lovethe jobs that make them miserable. They stop pretending they are happy in relationships that drain them. They stop worrying so much about what strangersthink. Nobodyon theirdeathbed wishesthey had spent more time answeringemails, sittingin traffic, orattending meetings that shouldhave beenhalf as long.NooneeversaysIwishI had one more day at the office when they’re on their deathbed. But that’s thethingabout people who aredying. They remindusthat lifeisnotbuilt on grandmoments nearlyas much asit’s builton ordinary ones. Wespend ourhealthiest

years chasingthe extraordinary while often overlooking the everydaythings thattruly matter. We tell ourselves we’ll call and apologizeto our friends tomorrow,slow down nextweek, takethe tripnext summer. Then nextmonth becomes next year.Next year becomesfive years.Thenfive years becomes never. Suddenly we look around and wonder wherethe time went.

Fromthetime wearechildren,weareprogrammedwith akindofbucket-listmentality. Walk by a certain age. Read by a certainage. Graduate by a certainage. Getmarried, buy the house, have children, take a trip, retire comfortably. Happiness and a better life are always in the future. There sa sayingthat lifehasto belived forward, but itonly makes sense in reverse. The dying teach usthat thebest partsof life werenever themilestones.

Theywere theordinary days in between. Hospiceand palliativecare workershave longobserved thatdyingpeopletendtoshare the sameregrets. Theywish they had lived more truthfully. They wish theyhad worked less.They wishtheyhad stayed closeto oldfriends. They wish theyhad expressed theirfeelings moreopenly.

Theywish they d never surrendered their owndesires to the gravitationalpull ofother people’s ideas about who they shouldbe. Mostof all,they wish they had allowed themselvestobehappier.Asifhap-

pinesshadbeenstandingthere knocking on the front door all along and theywere too distracted, tooanxious, toobusy, tooscaredor tooproudtoanswer. Most ofus aresleep-

walking throughlife andwe liveas thoughlifeis adress rehearsal. We actas though the realliving willbegin once thekids areolder, oncework settles down, once the mortgage is smaller, once we lose 10pounds, oncethebusiness grows, once wefinally feel ready. Peoplespend mostof their livestrying notto think about death. But the irony is that many peoplenear the end of theirlife spendtheir final days teachingthe restof us how to live. So, listen whenthey tell us thatlifeis notadressrehearsal. We’re already living the play.

Most of lifeis laundry, traffic, errands,work, dishes, school runs,sucking ourteeth when the electricitygoes off and trying to figure out why the wi-fistopped workingfor no apparent reason. Yet those ordinary days often become the very thingswe miss most. Thedistinct smellofrain ona cloudy day.A laughat the dinnertable. Singingtomusic duringadrivehome.Enjoying afreshly-picked mangowhile walkingthe dogorstanding knee-deepin thesea. Achild askingyouto playforfive more minutes. A spouse reaching for your hand. A phonecall froma friend.The dying remind usthat these are not interruptions to life. They are life.

Even in hospital rooms and chemotherapy suites and hospicebeds,thedyingstillspeak about love. They still speak aboutfamily, gratitude,and forgiveness.They stillbelieve thereis somethingworth waking up for tomorrow. And perhaps that’swhy thereis still somethinghopeful inall of this. So, call the friend. Book the trip.Leave worka littleearlier. Sitoutside. Takethe picture thenput thephone down. Tell someone you love them. We don t have towait for a diagnosis toinherit this wisdom. Thedying havebeen ever so generouswith their advice. Stop waiting for the perfect time tolive your life, because there may never be one.

Like the famous Herrick poemstates, ‘gather ye rosebuds whileye may because the ordinary moments we rush through todaymay verywell becomethememorieswemiss the most.

Get nervous? Here's how Steph Curry and others deal with it

By JANIE McCAULEY AP Sports Writer

SANFRANCISCO (AP)

InDecember, Stephen Curry made a conscious effort to smile beforehe coollyconvertedtwo free throws with 12 seconds left thathelped seala 119-116win against Phoenix. He seemed calm.He wasn t saying so afterward. Sometimes, even Curry snerves kick in when the game is on the line, even17years intohisNBAcareer and now at 38 years old. That smore mentalwarfare for meto justenjoy themoment,” Curry said at the time. “I don’t care howmany free throws you’ve made, when you need two of them,you do get nervous, so the smile is more to kind of embrace the moment and enjoyit insteadof overthinking or worryingabout mechanics or anything.So I ve beendoingthat alotlately,like last couple years,just playing mind gameswith myselfand enjoying the moment.”

Other professionalsfind some comfort in Curry acknowledging his angstand anxieties, being he’s one of the best in basketball andstill has to workthroughthings --evenin real time. It's relatively new for athletes toeven betalking publiclyabout nerves,giventhe more open dialogue in recent years about theimportance of mental healthand seeking help through various struggles.

LosAngeles Dodgers managerDave Roberts,whoseclub has won the pasttwo World Series titles,happened tobe inthe stands at Chase Center to see Curry make those free throws on Dec. 20. Roberts has witnessed so many of his own players deliver forthe Dodgersin crucialmoments on thebig October playoff stage.

“I thinkthat’s tellingthat Steph would saythat and there is an innate fear in people to fail inbigspotsor tobenervous.I think it s just important to admit it at times and then kind of

moveon fromthere,” Roberts said this spring. “We were talkingabout ita coupledays ago, those moments I think you mitigatethefear orthenerves frompreparedness. Ithink Steph has shot so many free throws when he s tired in big spots,soto admitthathe s nervous, he knows at the end of the day that he’sprepared for that spot.Most ofourguys, wetalk about thata lot, so Ithink that’s how they can get past that fear or nerve hurdle.

Leaning on routine

Each day,Warriors guard De AnthonyMelton aimstomake 10 free throws ina row. That way, when he gets into a game situation he tells himselfthe same thing:

“Whatever happens, happens, you ve just got to live with the results, but sometimes getting to the free-throwlinecan helpyouget into arhythm and getyour shot going, too.”

Coaches have their moments, too. Doc Rivers doesn t always trust himselfto makethe rightcall in crunch time.

“There’s nerves with everything. I can draw up aplay as a coach and Iknowit sagoodplay,butI mnervousifwe regoingtorunitrightor isitgoingto work.Asaplayer,I was an80-percent free-throw shooter,but it’sstill there.That’s why you breathe deep and that’s whereroutine comesin. Themore you dothe routine,the moreit becomes normal.But there’s nothing normalinlifewhenyou’reshooting afreethrow andthere’s 20,000 people screaming tomake you miss, that snot normalinlife.So you have tobreathe your way through it.”

Athletics pitcherLuis Severino spentthe firstnineyears ofhis major leaguecareer inNew York between the Yankeesand Mets. Thatbrought itsown pressure,so thedays hefelt offon themound, the nerves were worse.

Embracing thebig moments Chicago Bullscoach Billy Donovan polled hisplayers earlier thisseasonwhethertheyconsidered afreethrowwith onesecondleftin a tiegame the sameas onein the first quarterof atie game.The answer was a resounding no. Isaid, Whyisitdifferent? and theyexplainedalltheconsequences of what would happen,but the realityis it’sstill thesame exactshot itisinthefirstquarterorthesecond quarter, Donovansaid. AndIfind that guys in those moments have theability toblockout theconsequences or what the ramifications are andreally lockin towhat they can control and the routine. The basket s still15 feet away,it s still 10feethigh. Andjustbecausethe circumstances may be different, the routineshould beexactlythe same. When it comes to the nerve factor, mentalperformance coach GrahamBetchartsuggestsonetrick in the moment can somehow transform thosefears offailure into something positive instead. The biggest surpriseto most peopleisthat greatproathletes havethesamefeelingthatakidhas, theyjust reframeit, Betchart said. I remember one ofthe first pros I worked with,I said, What s pressure likefor you?’ He said, ‘Graham,what youcall pressure,I call joy.’ I said, ‘What does joy feel like? Hesaid, Joy feelslike I m goingto peeinmy pants,10,000 butterflies inmy stomach,heart is pounding,selfdoubteverywhere.’I said, ‘That’s joy?’ Hesaid, ’Yeah, cause when I feel that I m about to godowhatI love,whichisplay ball.’ So we call that reframing. I think thisis one of thebiggest unlocks in the entire world. Hall of FamerJason Kidd, the Dallas Mavericks coach who played 19NBA seasons andwas a 10-time All-Starand 1994-95 Rookie ofthe Year,realizes sometimes fans might forget professional athletes are people, too. And becoming fearfulis a natural response to stress. Itishealthy.Ithinkthatjustlets everyone know you re human. Steph is human, Kidd said. There arefeelings andemotions butI don’t knowif hegets nervous.Free throwsarelike layupsforhim,like 2-foot putts. But it salso great that heisopento sharingthatabouthis feelings, that s pretty cool.

FNM promises Abaco upgrades and a larger share of revenue

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Free National Movement party unveiled a sweeping slate of promises for Abaco during the party’s first rally on the island on Friday, including improved road infrastructure, reduced boating fees, easier business processes and a pledge to keep more island-generated revenue in the local economy.

Addressing a crowd of party supporters in Cooper’s Town, Abaco, party leader Michael Pintard accused the Davis administration of neglecting the island for far too long, citing limited health resources, poor infrastructure and inadequate sporting facilities while government spending on travel continues.

He pointed to road contracts awarded on other islands, but said in Abaco potholes remain unfilled and roads unpaved more than four years later.

“Millions for a trip, but pennies for the port here in Abaco. Millions for a rally, but only promises for your roads. Millions flowing through their slush funds while Abaco waits on a working X-ray machine,”

Mr Pintard said.

He also accused the PLP of being lax in enforcing protections for the marine sector and pledged to revise the Fisheries Act to help “reserve the fisheries stock in The Bahamas” for future generations.

The event, which drew more than 200 supporters, featured pledges and fiery political messages from

FNM candidates including Central and South Abaco candidate Jeremy Sweeting, Garden Hills candidate Rick Fox, Golden Isles candidate Brian Brown and others.

Mr Sweeting said an FNM government would introduce a unified digital maritime platform to simplify and speed up permits and licensing, and restore The Bahamas as a premier yachting destination.

He also pledged measures to reduce power outages and improve electricity supply, resurface the highway from the North to the South, build a high school in South Abaco, rebuild the Marsh Harbour port, and reintroduce Sandy Point as a port of entry.

Mr Sweeting further promised affordable housing subdivisions, faster Crown Land processing,

better resourcing for firefighters and upgraded sporting facilities.

Mrs Terrece Bootle, the party’s North Abaco candidate, used her address to highlight her ties to the community and the FNM’s record for Abaco under the Ingraham administration.

“Don’t talk to Abaconions about progress. We know what progress looks like,” she said in an emotional speech.

Meanwhile, Mr Pintard also took the time to address lingering concerns among about the FNM’s handling of Hurricane Dorian, an issue that remains a sore point in the community.

He conceded the response could have been better and apologised, but said the party is now under new management.

Turning to the party’s

candidates, Mr Pintard described Ms Bootle and Mr Sweeting as the kind of leadership the island needs, and urged supporters to back them.

He pledged that under their leadership, they will remove the “harmful” boating fees implemented by the Davis administration and improve the ease of doing business.

“We'll make sure that the funds that are earned in Abaco, a larger percentage of those funds remain in Abaco rather than go to the Treasury in Nassau,” the FNM leader added.

He added that, under an FNM government, funding for grants and loans to small and medium-sized businesses would be increased from $50 million to $100 million.

Mr Pintard closed his speech with this message to undecided voters: “You should know all of these

PLP touts $1.4bn investment during Exuma campaign rally

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Progressive Liberal Party continued its appeal to voters to return it to power during a rally in Exuma, again casting itself as a party of progress while portraying the FNM as a divisive force that would “stop, stall and cancel” gains made during its term.

The event was held around the same time the FNM staged a rally in North Abaco, with both major parties echoing familiar themes: the PLP as a party of progress, while the FNM focused on its “we work for you and not the few” message.

PLP leader and Prime Minister Philip Davis told Exuma residents much was at stake in the election, describing it as a vote about the country’s direction.

He said only one party could move the nation forward.

“In Exuma, you have strong leadership, and you have the deputy prime minister fighting for you every single day, and he and I are not finished,” Mr Davis added. “There’s more to do to make life on our islands more affordable. There's more to do for families, more to make sure progress reaches everyone.” He pointed to

several initiatives aimed at strengthening the economies of Exuma and Ragged Island, highlighting ongoing construction of a new airport, a new hotel, and the completion of a solar microgrid built to withstand powerful hurricanes in Ragged Island.

“We are investing in infrastructure, but we're also investing in you, because we never thought just recovering from the pandemic was

good enough,” Mr Davis added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Exuma and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper highlighted government achievements, citing infrastructure upgrades, VAT reductions and more than $1.4 billion in investment flowing into Exuma.

“We’re fixing more roads in little Exuma,” he added. “And we're completing airports in Black Point

and building houses in the Exuma keys too, and we are strengthening immigration enforcement right here at Exuma too so if you see something, I want you to say something.”

He also outlined plans to expand housing, build a new school, a new government complex and a new multipurpose youth centre. He added that improving healthcare remains a top priority.

Turning to Ragged Island, Mr Cooper said the PLP had restored hope to the island after claiming “ The FNM wrote you off” following Hurricane Irma’s passage.

He said the government is now building a clinic, expanding eco-tourism and developing heritage tourism centred on the HMBS Flamingo monument.

“I am working for you, so please know that you are never an afterthought at the table, Ragged Island,” he added.

He said the FNM was all talk and no substance, with no real plan for Exuma. Prime Minister Davis, for his part, said the FNM would “break up progress” the way they broke up their own party.

“That is the difference between us. We build for the many. They are prepared to take from the many,” Mr Davis added.

The rally also featured speeches from Fred Mitchell, Glenys Hanna-Martin, Clay Sweeting, Robyn Lynes and others.

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8 CHILDREN BETWEEN THE AGES OF 1 AND 14 ARE DEAD AFTER A MASS SHOOTING IN LOUISIANA, POLICE SAY

By GERALD HERBERT and JOHN SEEWER Associated Press

A GUNMAN in Louisiana killed eight children and shot two other people Sunday in an early morning attack of domestic violence carried out across two houses, authorities said, shaking a Shreveport neighbourhood in one of the nation's deadliest mass shootings in more than two years. The suspect died after a police pursuit, and the victims — who ranged in age from 1 to about 14 years old — included children related to the gunman, said Shreveport Police Department spokesperson Chris

Bordelon. Investigators did not say what may have set off the attack. "This is an extensive scene, unlike anything most of us have ever seen," Bordelon said.

Officers fired at the suspect during a chase after he carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint, Bordelon said. Police said the attacks began before sunrise in a neighbourhood south of downtown Shreveport when the suspect shot a woman at one home and then drove to the other location, "where this heinous act was carried out."

Seven children were killed inside the second house, and one was found dead on the roof after

Trump wants to stop states from regulating AI

This Utah Republican isn't listening

By NICHOLAS RICCARDI Associated Press

When a dozen Republican activists gathered on a back deck in the Salt Lake City suburbs to talk about this year's elections, the conversation cycled through all the staples of conservative chatter in Utah, such as dwindling water supplies, illegal immigrant fraud and chemtrail conspiracy theories.

But Doug Fiefia, a state representative running to be a state senator, wanted to start with something else — artificial intelligence. Fiefia used to work at Google and, like several other tech employees who have gone into politics, he has made regulating the industry a centrepiece of his campaign.

"I know it sounds like 'Doug, this is all you talk about, ' Fiefia said. "That's because it's coming, it's here, and it's going to be our biggest fight."

Fiefia's focus has put him on a collision course with President Donald Trump's administration, which this year helped block his state proposal requiring companies to include child safety protocols.

The White House wants a single national standard for artificial intelligence, arguing that a patchwork of excessive regulation could handicap American innovation in a global competition with China. But with no progress in Congress, it has been state lawmakers struggling to address concerns about a technology that is poised

apparently trying to escape, Bordelon said.

State Rep. Tammy Phelps said some children tried to get away through the back door. "I can't even imagine what the police officers, first responders actually dealt with when they got here today," she said at a news conference.

Authorities did not release the name of the gunman but did say he was an adult male.

A NEIGHBOUR WAKES UP TO A MASS SHOOTING

Liza Demming, who lives two houses down from where most of the victims were shot, said her security camera captured video of

to reshape the economy. In Florida, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis added the issue to a special legislative session that he is convening later this month. Democratic-controlled New York last year required major AI developers to report dangerous incidents to the state.

All told, there are more than 1,000 state legislative proposals addressing AI, a reflection of the uneasiness that has seeped through the country.

"None of us are really sure," said Brett Young, a structural engineer who attended the backyard event with Fiefia. "Is this something we should be scared about, or is it no so big a deal and it'll enhance our lives?"

PRESSURE IN THE STATES

Trump has routinely tried to stamp out state-level AI policies, and he issued an executive order that included legal threats and funding penalties to deter new regulations.

The White House recently released a framework for potential congressional legislation that calls for preempting state laws considered "too burdensome" but would allow some rules to protect children and copyright material. None of these steps has eased the number of proposals in state capitals. Popular ideas include forcing chatbots to remind users they are not human and barring the use of AI to make nonconsensual pornography, which includes replacing or removing clothing from photos that are posted online.

the suspect running away, along with the sound of two shots.

"That's pretty much all I saw was him running out of the house and the cars leaving," she said. Demming later went outside and saw the covered body of a child on the home's roof. She said she did not know the gunman's name.

"He looks like the dad that comes over here," she said, adding that he was just with the children a few days ago.

Pastor Marty T. Johnson Sr., of nearby St. Gabriel Community Baptist Church, who owns one of the homes where the shootings occurred, said a person who works for him had rented it to the family, but he never had dealings with them.

"I don't really know them, I really don't," he said. "I do plan on having a prayer vigil for the family, and anything I can do, with so many children, to help them bury the children, I'm going to do so."

The Caddo Parish Coroner's Office released a statement on Sunday saying it was not yet releasing any of the children's names

"There's a lot of state lawmakers looking at what the federal government is doing and saying, 'We want to take action because we're not satisfied,'" said Craig Albright, senior vice president for government relations for the Business Software Alliance, which represents software companies.

About 8 in 10 people in the United States said they were "concerned" or "very concerned" about AI in a Quinnipiac poll last month, with about three-quarters saying the government is not doing enough to regulate the technology. Roughly 9 in 10 Democrats and 6 in 10 Republicans wanted more government involvement.

The most significant regulations have been passed in California and New York, solidly Democratic states. The provisions focus on disclosure of catastrophic risk, such as the AI-controlled meltdown of nuclear plants or AI models refusing to heed human direction.

But there is pressure in Republican-led states, too.

DeSantis pushed a bill to implement parental controls for minors using AI and to prohibit systems from using anyone's likeness without permission. It fell short in the state House after overwhelmingly passing the state Senate. AI bills in Republican-controlled Louisiana and Missouri have stalled out because of the Trump administration's resistance.

'AN ARMY OF FULLTIME LOBBYISTS'

Fiefia is part of a loose network of former tech employees turned state lawmakers trying to meet the demand for stronger

because identification of the victims was pending. Police said two women who were shot and wounded were being treated for serious injuries. "What began as a domestic dispute has ended in irreversible harm," the parish's district attorney's office said in a statement.

SHREVEPORT IS OVERWHELMED BY GRIEF

It was the deadliest mass shooting in the U.S. since eight people were killed in a Chicago suburb in January 2024, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University. At a news conference outside the residence where one of the shootings occurred, officials appeared stunned, requesting patience and prayers from the community as they sorted through multiple crime scenes.

"I just don't know what to say, my heart is just taken aback," Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said. "I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur."

regulations. He co-chairs the AI task force of the Future Caucus, a network of younger state lawmakers, with Monique Priestley, a Vermont Democrat who also has worked in tech.

Priestley said the group uses video conferences and group chats to share ideas for new proposals and deal with lobbyists who oppose their bills. She said that 166 of her state's 482 registered lobbyists weighed in on her data privacy bill last year, which was ultimately vetoed by the governor.

"It's like you're running around against an army of full-time lobbyists," said Priestley. Like many state lawmakers, she works a separate, full-time job.

Alex Bores, a former data scientist at the tech firm Palantir who quit after it signed a deal to help the first Trump administration with immigration enforcement, is also a member of the AI task force. A Democrat, Bores wrote the New York bill that was signed into law last year.

Now, Bores is competing in the crowded Democratic primary to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Jerry Nadler, representing much of Manhattan in Congress, and he is facing payback from the industry. A pro-AI campaign committee has spent $2.3 million against his candidacy.

Bores said tech companies are trying to make an example of him to scare off more regulation at the state and federal level.

"It's one reasons it's so important for me to win this race is because, if I don't, that intimidation they're trying on Congress will be successful," he said. Bores' competitors in the June 23 primary include Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, and George Conway, a former Republican who has become one of Trump's chief antagonists on social media.

FROM GOOGLE TO POLITICS

Fiefia has not attracted the sort of attention as Bores as he tries to move to the state Senate after a single session in the House. The subdivisions and shopping centers of his district are sandwiched between Utah's jagged mountain

"This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we've ever had," said Tom Arceneaux, mayor of the city in northwestern Louisiana with about 180,000 residents. "It's a terrible morning."

Louisiana State Police say their detectives have been asked by Shreveport police to investigate. In a statement, state police say no officers were harmed in the shooting that involved an officer after a police pursuit into Bossier City on Sunday morning.

State police are asking anyone with pictures, video or information to share it with state police detectives. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who is from Shreveport, said in separate statements that they were heartbroken and praised law enforcement for their response.

"We're holding the victims, their families and loved ones, and our Shreveport community close in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time," Johnson said in a statement.

ranges and the cul de sacs are crammed with children on bikes and scooters.

The son of Tongan immigrants, Fiefia grew up in Utah but moved to Silicon Valley, where he worked as a salesperson for Google.

Fiefia rose to manage a team working with companies on the implementation of Google's early AI model and was disturbed by what he saw.

"What I realised is Big Tech cares about their bottom line, and they were worried about making money, not doing right for the human race," said Fiefia, who now works at a Utahbased cloud computing and AI company.

Fiefia's legislation was unanimously passed by a House committee this year, but the Trump administration sent a letter to the Senate saying that the measure was "unfixable." The measure quickly died.

Daniel McCay, the state senator who Fiefia is challenging in the primary, said he thinks that was a good thing.

"I've been around long enough to recognise the invention of fire, the wheel, cars and the internet did not ruin society, and I'm very sceptical of anyone trying to scare society into regulations," McCay said in an interview.

He noted that the bill went beyond child safety, including whistleblower protection for AI workers and public disclosure of risks.

"It would have driven Utah out of the AI innovation business," McCay said. At the cottage meeting — the Utah term for a small gathering at someone's home to discuss important issues — Fiefia faced several tech-related questions from the crowd.

Asked about defying the Trump administration, Fiefia said it was especially important to stand up for states' rights when a fellow Republican was in power to demonstrate the principles involved.

"The Trump administration is, 'We want zero regulations on AI,'" Fiefia said. "I think that's wrong. I agree with a lot of what Trump says on taxes. I disagree with him on this."

12,000 & 15,000 GAL. WITH LINER & COVER EXCELLENT CONDITION

Young GB woman in need of $500,000 for urgent specialist treatment

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A YOUNG Grand

Bahama woman whose story first captured national attention as a child is now in a race against time, as her family seeks to raise $500,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to secure life-saving medical care abroad. To date, $1,003 has been raised towards their targeted goal.

Megan Higgs, now 20, has endured a lifetime of medical challenges since being born with hydrocephalus, a condition involving fluid on the brain. Her mother, Kendith Higgs, said despite years of surgeries, therapies, and seizures, her daughter has remained determined to live as normal a life as possible.

“Megan has graduated from high school through all her challenges, and it’s been a roller coaster of health challenges over her lifetime,” Ms Higgs said.

The Tribune first highlighted Megan’s journey several years ago, sharing her early struggles and resilience. Today, that struggle has intensified following a recent medical emergency that has left the family grappling with limited options here in The Bahamas. According to recent hospital reports, fluid is again accumulating in Megan’s brain, raising concerns about the function of the shunt.

Ms Higgs explained that Megan, who previously had a VP shunt — a device that drains fluid from the brain to the stomach — suffered a severe infection that spread from her abdomen to the shunt. She was airlifted to Nicklaus Children's Hospital, where doctors were forced to replace the device with a more complex VA shunt, which drains fluid from the brain to the heart.

While the procedure saved her life, it has created a new and urgent challenge.

“The problem is, we don't do VA shunts in the Bahamas,” Ms Higgs said. As a result, Megan now requires ongoing specialist care abroad — care that is not available locally. Without it, her condition could quickly deteriorate.

“If Megan doesn't get her shunt revised and get monitored and get the necessary treatment, she will decline because Megan survives on her shunt,” her mother said. The situation has been compounded by the exhaustion of the family’s insurance coverage. Ms Higgs said their provider, Colina Insurance Limited, has confirmed that Megan’s $500,000 policy has been fully depleted following her recent treatment overseas.

“Right now, Megan needs medical attention,” she said, adding that her daughter suffers from severe nerve pain and headaches.

The family has since launched a GoFundMe campaign with a target of $500,000 to cover immediate and ongoing medical expenses, including travel, accommodation, co-pay, procedures, and follow-up care.

“We are trying to replenish her insurance benefits so she could have immediate and ongoing lifesaving care,” Ms Higgs said.

In recent weeks, Megan has required costly pain management, including ketamine infusions, as she awaits further treatment. Meanwhile, local care options remain limited. Although facilities such as the Princess Margaret Hospital and Rand Memorial Hospital provide essential services, they are not equipped to manage her current condition.

“So, it ain’t like we could go to Princess Margaret, that's free, but they don't do no VA shunt in that location (from brain to the heart),” Ms Higgs explained.

Doctors have warned

“She tells me: ‘Mommy, I just want my life back. I just want to feel alive again.’ ”

- Kendith Higgs

that any delay could have serious consequences, particularly as there are already signs of fluid building up again in Megan’s brain.

“Any day, any moment it could be - that's it,” Ms Higgs added. She's having a lot of nerve issues. So, again, the shunt needs to be assessed because sometimes the valves need to be adjusted, sometimes it needs to drain, and sometimes it can shift and affect the nerves. So, there's a lot we are dealing with, with Megan. If we can't get money, no care.”

For Megan, the toll is not only physical but emotional. Frustrated by constant pain and limitations, she has expressed a simple wish to her mother. “She tells me: ‘Mommy, I just want my life back. I just want to feel alive again.’ ”

Ms Higgs said caring for her daughter has also taken a personal and financial toll. She has been on extended leave from her job at the Grand Bahama Humane Society since July, dedicating her time to Megan’s care.

“Yes, it's hard, and I haven't been to work since because we are always at the hospital, taking her to see doctors,” she said.

Despite the challenges, she noted that support from her boss, coworkers, and the

wider community has been a source of strength during difficult moments.

As Megan’s condition remains uncertain, her family is urging members of the public to assist in any way possible, emphasizing that access to funds

could mean the difference between stability and a medical crisis.

“This shunt is the only thing keeping her alive,” Ms Higgs said.

The family said donations can be made to a GoFundMe campaign

titled, Donate to Help Megan Get Life-Saving Treatments Abroad. Ms Higgs said donations can also be made to the Royal Bank of Canada account of Corey and Kendith Higgs: Branch #05285, Savings Account #7255292.

New E-class sloop ‘Catherine’ christened for all-girl crew

BRITISH High Commissioner Smita Rossetti launches a new sailing sloop ‘Catherine’ in the time-honoured tradition of breaking a bottle of champagne over her bow.

‘Catherine’ - one of two boats built by the British High Commission in partnership with the Bahamas National Sailing School - was christened at the Nassau Yacht Club on Saturday, where Ms Rossetti met and chatted to young sailors and coaches.

The launch also served as a precursor to the upcoming Exuma regatta, which starts tomorrow, and highlighting the role of youth sailors in continuing The Bahamas’ strong maritime and sailing tradition. ‘Catherine’ will be crewed by an all-girl team.

The E-class sloop is named after Catherine, Princess of Wales, an accomplished sailor who grew up sailing and frequently incorporates the sport into her royal duties. She and Prince William have competed against each other for charity, including the 2022 Bahamas Platinum Jubilee Regatta.

The second sloop is named ‘Independence.’ Both boats are for the use of young Bahamian sailors.

Ms Rossette said: “Sailing is The Bahamas’ national sport, and with this partnership between the UK and The Bahamas National Sailing School, we want to encourage more young Bahamians to get onto the water and try their hand at sailing. It’s a sport that is about teamwork, resilience and perseverance - skills that are so valuable in life whatever you go onto do. I am particularly proud of the all-girl team that will be racing the new E-class sloop, Catherine in The Exuma Regatta this week.”

Sailing was officially declared the national sport of The Bahamas in 2023.