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PAGE 2, Tuesday, July 9, 2019

THE TRIBUNE

It’s time to party

THE TRIBUNE

By RIEL MAJOR

AN exciting calendar of events has been prepared for this year’s independence celebrations. Activities began on Friday leading up to Independence Day on July 10. This year’s theme is ‘United We Stand Bahamas, Together We Can.’ Mark Humes, MP for Fort Charlotte and chairman of the Independence Anniversary Planning Committee, said the events being hosted this year are geared towards the” general public versus toward the dignitary”. He highlighted two new events in the calendar - the National Pride Folk Festival and the new flagraising events. Mr Humes said: “There are two events that we are having that will be a first-time event in the celebration. The events that we have planned in particular are the National Pride Folk Festival downtown. “We wanted to make it more open to the public coming in, so we want Bahamians to know this is really for them. We understand this is the Bahamian independence celebration, so we wanted to make this more about the Bahamian public more so than anything else.” He added: “We recognised in years gone by we would try to combine the flag raising and pride day celebration into one event and most times that happened on a work day. Fortunately for us this year, we were able to move [Pride Day] to Saturday and we wanted to make it a festival kind of event to encourage people to come out and participate. “The close-out concert is new as well and we decided that because in the past it would seem as if Independence ended with no sort of celebration, so we decided to end the night with a concert.” The gospel concert runs from 7pm-9pm

Tuesday, July 9, 2019, PAGE 3

and features Harmonious Praise, Carrington McKenzie, Edison Sumner and Vop, Najee Dunn, Nu Voice, Prophet Rolle, Ricardo Clarke, Terez Davis-Nixon, Shabach, Evangelits Emily Williams, Dencil Rolle and friends, and Simeon Outten. The secular concert runs from 9pm to midnight and includes Osano, Fanshawn, Blaudy, Q’pid, Puzzle, Funky D, Sammi Starr, Julien Believe, Wendi, Dyson Knight, Rik Carey, Lady E, Geno D, Veronica Bishop, KB and D’Mac. The activities are as follows:

ALSO featured are, from top, Puzzle, Julien Believe and Dyson Knight.

Today Grand Anniversary Celebrations: 8pm, Clifford Park Ecumenical Service Tomorrow The People’s Love and Unity Rush: 1pm, Bay Street Independence Close-out Concert Celebration, Clifford Park Gospel Concert 7pm-9pm Secular Concert 9pm-midnight

CONCERT artists include, from top, Wendi, Terez Davis-Nixon, Lady E and D’Mac.

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THE TRIBUNE

Reforming the By HON GEORGE A SMITH “It is not, what I am told I may do; but what humanity, reason, and justice, tell me I ought to do.” – Edmund Burke

he sensitive issue of citizenship for many persons born in The Bahamas whose parents were ‘not’ citizens of The Bahamas and who were given assurance of citizenship in the Constitution, subject to their making application in the prescribed manner, is frequently and prominently in the national discussion. And so, on this, the 46th Anniversary of our Nation’s birth I ask, ‘is it time to reform the Constitution’, so that this and other constitutional matters could be discussed and finally settled in a civil and patriotic manner? Bahamians must come to fully appreciate that The Bahamas is a country of immigrants. Our ancestors came here from many lands; many were brought here, having been forced into slavery, leaving family, friends and country behind. They boldly contributed to building this country, making it what it is today. We must, therefore, continue to embrace people from other lands, who came here lawfully, as we expect them to embrace Bahamians in theirs. During this period when we are some two years from the start of the actual campaign for the 2022 Elections, I hope we can have a sober and intelligent dialogue about constitutional reform. We should be honest in assessing our future. Our goal must be to create a more just, fair and prosperous society, where all Bahamians will have an equal opportunity to realize their full potential. We must reflect on our past and embrace the challenges and expectations of the future so that we will continue to build a nation of pride, faith and unity, a society where people matter more than things, and where human dignity is paramount. We have made significant progress in our nation’s development. The road ahead for us as a people will demand our talents, creativity and wisdom. We ought to ensure that we remain on

PRIME Minister Sir Lynden Pindling signing the instrument of Independence in London in December 1972. George Smith is pictured in the back row, third from right. a prosperous path. We can achieve great success for our nation if we embrace the opportunity afforded to create a revised Constitution that resembles us as a people and in our effort to do so, we must not be discouraged. Indepenence Constitutional Conference I was privileged to have been a delegate at the December 1972 London Constitutional Conference that led to the creation of our nation-state, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. That was a memorable experience and often, as I reflect on years past, I think about the intellectual depth and the collective wisdom of the delegation in fashioning a nation founded on lofty, fundamental principles. Those principles included a national commitment to Self-discipline, Industry, Loyalty, Unity and an abiding respect for Christian Values and the Rule of Law, and a nation founded on Spiritual Values, recognising the Supremacy of God. Upon reflection, I also recall The Bahamas during the years following our liberation on 10th January 1967, and comprehend the magnificent accomplishments that we have made on our national journey. I remain steadfastly proud of our nation, and yet find cause to pause and ponder the wonders that lie ahead, if only we restore our nation to the path of

prosperity, safety, civility and respect for humankind. The Bahamian delegation displayed the maturity that allowed for all views and opinions to be considered and for our Constitution to represent the combined will and shared spirit of the Bahamian people.

on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition, under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice to consider all reasonable submissions, presented at open forums. Furthermore, as far as practicable, the members of the Commission must reflect a cross-section of the society.

The Process There is no denying that The Bahamas of today is fundamentally different from The Bahamas of 1972. To amend a nation’s constitution is a serious matter. It is a process that must not be propelled by partisan politics. At its core must be the further education of the Bahamian people and their leaders; it must include the creation or stimulation of a national conversation through informed discussion amongst the citizenry. The process also demands careful and thoughtful deliberations. It must not be rushed or hijacked by special interests. It must be rooted in the law and in the people’s welfare. If this is followed, then at the end of it all, we will have an amended constitution that reflects the new Bahamas that is worthy of the Bahamian people. I personally believe that the primary objective must be to produce a near-perfect, easy-to-read progressive Constitution. The Governor-General should appoint a fifteen member by-partisan Constitution Reform Commission, seven on the advice of the Prime Minister and seven

My Suggestions There is no doubt that the Constitution of 1964 which ushered in internal selfgovernment and the 1973 Independence Constitution have served us well over the past fifty-five years. We have had no serious constitutional challenges and, in many respects, our Constitutions have guided our democracy to greater stability. We have had six peaceful changes of government (1967, 1992, 2002, 2007, 2012 and 2017) and although the electorate is generally evenly divided between the two major political parties, on given issues there is a keen sense that the people of The Bahamas can put aside their partisanship for the national common good. This is a defining feature of our evolving maturity as a people. This can be for us a period of transformation, a time of fulfillment, a time of renewal and a time of new beginnings. Inspired by this knowledge, I wish to share my thoughts on what I think should be reflected in our ‘new’ Constitution:The Preamble must 1 continue to speak to our enduring

MORE than 200 students, teachers and people from various sectors of the community were present at the first protocol seminar held at the Bahamas Teachers College on March 8, 1973. Pictured standing addressing the meeting is Mr George Smith.

values. I strongly advise that there should be a recognition of our growing multiculturalism and diverse spiritual values and beliefs and the preservation of the environment; I firmly believe that no position in The Bahamas should be beyond the reach of a Bahamian. Therefore, it follows that the Office of ‘Head of State’ should be held by a Bahamian. We should create a Republic (The Republic of The Bahamas), a unitary state and a member of the NonAligned Movement. The duties presently prescribed for the Governor-General to be carried out by a President, in addition to some added responsibilities. The Constitution should set strict eligibility guidelines to provide for the election of the President by a Parliamentary vote supported by two-thirds (2/3) of the members. The office should include specified constitutional powers, which can be a vital check on potential abuses within the system. A Vice-President should also be elected in the same manner;

We should abolish the Senate, which has long ceased to perform in the intended manner. Some present responsibilities of the Senate could be supplemented through the Office of the President;

On the vital issue of citizenship, we should take a modern and realistic approach to citizenship, one that reflects a new paradigm for the Country. In this regard, the Constitution must remove any and all ambiguities relative to the rights to citizenship. We should expand the existing provisions and remove the prohibition which prevents Bahamian mothers from conferring citizenship to their children. We should allow for those persons who were born in The Bahamas and have continuously resided in The Bahamas, maintaining a close connection, affinity and loyalty to The Bahamas to become citizens upon making application for citizenship. The Constitution should remove all discretions that presently exist in the law regarding their right to become Bahamian citizens. However, if there are any strong legal requirements for codified exceptions in the Constitution, these should be limited to matters of national security and prescribed public policy. I

also advocate that the foreign spouse of a Bahamian woman, who has demonstrated close affinity to The Bahamas, should have access to Bahamian citizenship or the right to reside and work in the Country, subject to national security considerations. Bahamian men should pass their citizenship to their children born out of wedlock, subject only to proof that they are the biological fathers of their children. We should sympathize with those who have or ought to have a claim to citizenship and do what is morally right; In respect of the fundamental rights provisions, I believe that there should be some recognition in our Constitution to prevent discrimination on the grounds of sexual preference or orientation. This is consistent with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;

Any provision in the Constitution which permits any form of gambling or any other activity that imposes disabilities or restrictions on the citizens of The Bahamas must be eliminated. We can no longer tolerate the existing practice;

I believe that there should be a provision that expressly prohibits the right to bail in capital cases or very serious criminal matters and similarly the issue of the death penalty should be addressed and settled. Personally, I believe that the death penalty should be abolished;

I support the creation of an Ombudsman, with specific jurisdiction to safeguard the community in its dealings with governmental agencies by:-

• Correcting administrative deficiencies through independent review of complaints about government administrative actions; • Fostering good public administration that is accountable, lawful, fair, transparent and responsive; • Developing policies and principles for accountability; and, • Reviewing statutory compliance by law enforcement and other such agencies with similar powers;

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THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, July 9, 2019, PAGE 5

Constitution I believe that time has taught us that many elected politicians do not recognize and respect the age-old conventions that are not written in the Constitution. We need to find a means to incorporate some of these conventions, certainly the most important of them, in our Constitution or in an Addendum to the Constitution. I encourage the following:-

• The composition of the House of Assembly should be a minimum of forty-two members, which can be increase as may be specified by an Order; • There should be a mechanism to allow for a recall of Members of Parliament, based on a petition presented to the Speaker of the House of at least 50% plus one of the electors in the constituency; • There should be a requirement for all MPs to devote the necessary time in order to give proper attention to the people’s needs and concerns with the assistance of generalist staff and with functional committees of the House; and, • There should be a limit imposed on the amount of money spent by a candidate or his agents in any constituency in any general election or by-election; such sum not to exceed a figure fixed to the total number of electors. In fixing the amount, consideration should also be given to the geographical and demographic features of the constituency; There should be an Independent Boundaries and Electoral Commission whose composition is set out in the Constitution. Such a Commission should comprise a Judge of the Supreme Court, who shall be the Chairman; the Ombudsman; the Clerk of the House; the Parliamentary Commissioner; two non-MPs appointed by the Prime Minister; and, two non-MPs appointed by the Leader of the Opposition. Guidelines for the conduct of the Commission must be clearly defined;

Given the financial hardship that the nation has endured in recent times with the large size of Cabinets, the Constitution should also set a maximum number of ministers. I propose a Cabinet of not more than sixteen members with the understanding that the Cabinet is composed of Substantive Ministers and does not include Ministers of State who would only attend Cabinet meetings by invitation and not by right. This could result in enhancing the role and value of the back-bencher in our parliamentary system and thereby serve as a further check, in addition to the Official Opposition, to the abuse of power by the Executive;

There should be a provision for the appointment of a Deputy Prime Minister based on the same principle as that which applies to the appointment of a Prime Minister;

I also support the reform of the Public Service. Drastic changes should be made to the Public Service Commission and the Public Service Board of Appeal. Similar progressive changes should occur with the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, Security Forces Commission and other commissions. To bring the public services into the 21st Century, serious consideration must be given to the elimination of the bureaucracy around the hiring,

A PRE-Independence celebration national discussion was heard over ZNS on May 2, 1973. Among the men that participated in the discussion were Sir Lynden Pindling (back) and Mr George Smith (left back).

“THE PROCESS OF CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM IS BOTH VITAL AND CRITICAL IN THE EVOLUTION OF A PEOPLE AND A NATION. IN ORDER TO GUARANTEE THAT WE HAVE THE BENEFIT OF THE BEST OF OUR TALENTS AND WISDOM, WE MUST EMPLOY ALL OUR INTELLECTUAL POWER AND NATIONAL PRIDE, TO CREATE A BETTER, JUST AND FAIRER BAHAMIAN NATION THAT PROTECTS THE FUNDAMENTALS OF OUR CONSTITUTION AND DEFEND THE PEOPLE’S BEST INTEREST AND PROMOTE THE COMMON GOOD.” - George A Smith

discipline, termination of public officers. A Pensions Review Board should be appointed; I have the highest regard and confidence in the ever-growing sophistication of Bahamian professionals. I think that this is notably demonstrated in the many talented Bahamian jurists who have served with distinction and intellectual integrity. I support the Judicature being comprised of the Magistrate Court, the High Court (replacing the Supreme Court) and the Supreme Court (embodying the current functions and jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal, as the final appellate court for The Bahamas). The Supreme Court will also replace the Privy Council for both criminal and civil cases. In order to dispel the anomaly that currently exists in that a ruling of the Chief Justice, who is the Head of the Judiciary, can be overturned by the current Court of Appeal or the Privy Council, in my opinion, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (that is, the reconstituted highest court) should indeed be ‘the Chief among all Justices, at the pinnacle of the Judiciary’. The Chief Justice will, therefore, be the head of the Supreme Court, our

final court. I also support the increase in the retirement ages of Justices of both Courts: say at seventhfive years (subject to good health and mental capacity). When consideration is given to the Judicature, we should conclude that the Judicature should not be any different from any other august institutions of State. If we are building truly Bahamian institutions, we need to overcome the shallow insecurities and reservations that have prevented our Judiciary from full maturity. After all, Bahamian institutions of State should be populated by highly trained and qualified persons; and, Consideration could be given for the retention of the Privy Council for appeal from the Supreme Court in special circumstances, which must be clearly defined in the new Constitution.

‘Follow the Way of Wisdom’! The process of constitutional reform is both vital and critical in the evolution of a people and a nation. In order to guarantee that we have the benefit of the best of our talents and wisdom, we must employ all our intellectual power and national pride, to

create a better, just and fairer Bahamian nation that protects the fundamentals of our Constitution and defend the people’s best interest and promote the common good. I unequivocally maintain that together we can serve The Bahamas with

distinction by ensuring that the voice of the people is heard and echoed through each and every page of the ‘reformed’ Constitution. That at the very heart of the process is an understanding and appreciation that the all-wise God will forever bless and guide us,

in our faithfulness to the vision and wisdom of our forebears, by responding to the call to continue to mold this multicultural country into a land of enlightened, innovative people, who take pride in their devotion to social justice and a merciful God.

Let’s show our Pride

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THE TRIBUNE

PHOTOS BY TERREL CAREY SR | TRIBUNE STAFF

By FARRAH JOHNSON BAHAMIANS must “reject” the things that stir up division if they want to “preserve” the country’s legacy of hospitality, said Governor General Cornelius A Smith. Addressing the public on National Pride Day at a ceremony in Rawson Square on Friday, Mr Smith said Bahamians should strive to be on one accord and reject “divisiveness” that stems from “race, culture (and) creed”. “My fellow Bahamians, as we celebrate our 46 years as a sovereign nation, let us remember that though we are many islands, we are only one nation called The Bahamas,” he said. “Our little country could be an example to the world that there can be unity in diversity... We must reject those things that tend to divide us and commit to a spirit of love… and an abiding respect for our fellowmen and our country.” Mr Smith said Bahamians should “hold their heads high”, knowing with certainty that the country is world renowned, despite its relatively small size. He insisted the nation’s 46th independence anniversary is a major achievement that was only accomplished through “the grace of God”. “My fellow Bahamians, I encourage you to continue what was started decades ago by our early nation builders. “Let us commit to serving with a passion for excellence

Our little country could be an example to the world that there can be unity in diversity. and giving unselfishly in all that we do, showing love, demonstrating unity and practising traditional Bahamian civility and respect for one another.” Mr Smith also appealed to Bahamians to come together to “enjoy the spirit of national pride,” that the independence celebrations commemorate. He insisted that as the country celebrates another “historical milestone,” Bahamians should “proudly salute the flag” and “cherish their thriving democracy”. “Let these celebrations continue to remind and inspire us to remain unified

NEWLY appointed Governor General, CA Smith, speaking during National Pride Day.

and strong, forging ahead to create a brighter tomorrow for all Bahamians,” he said. “There are many challenges and difficulties which confront us as a nation, but in the words of our theme, together we will beat and overcome these challenges. Yes we can, and yes we will.” Also speaking on the relevance of this year’s theme, Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Lanisha Rolle said it is “essential” for the country to “maintain the mindset of togetherness.” “If we can’t do it together, it can’t be done. And so looking forward now from 46 and beyond, we want to continue to unite and...recognise that we’re all in this together,” she said. “And once we continue to maintain that mindset and composure, I think the country is going to continue to grow by leaps and bounds.” Mark Humes, Fort Charlotte MP and chairman of the Independence Secretariat, also told The Tribune that one aspect of this year’s independence theme is to “highlight the fact that the country is drifting further apart in some ways”. “When you look at where we are as a society today, we’re in some ways a very polarised society,” he said. “I think we are more polarised around our (political) colours and our various communities more so, over the idea of just being Bahamian.” He insisted that Bahamians should be proud of their

country and encouraged the public to use the Independence activities as a way to celebrate the nation’s history and heritage. “...The only way to achieve great things as a country is to be united under this banner of Bahamian.” On Wednesday, July 10, The Bahamas will celebrate its 46th independence anniversary. National Pride Day marked the official launch of this year’s celebrations.

MARVIN DAMES, minister of national secuirty, seated in the audience.

THE TRIBUNE

ANOTHER year of big celebrations of National Pride happened in Rawson Square with crowd-pleasing entertainment and attendance by community leaders.

Tuesday, July 9, 2019, PAGE 7

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THE TRIBUNE

A vision of the future from youth of today

XAVIER KNOWLES

BY FARRAH JOHNSON

HIS year, The Bahamas will celebrate 46 years of independence and while the country has made much progress in years past, there is still more to be done to ensure continued advancement and development. In light of embracing progress, The Tribune spoke to up-and-coming young professionals who shared their vision for the future of the island nation. Xavier Knowles, a budding entrepreneur and the 2016 recipient of the Bahamas National Youth Award, said he wants to see more “access and opportunities” for young people throughout the country. “My vision for The Bahamas’ future is for a country that is open to allowing young people to integrate into various sectors - especially the public sector,” he said. “We have the problem where people are not interested in allowing young people to blossom. They see young people as a threat when they’re really there to assist and to help take organisations to the next level,” he explained. Mr Knowles said he would love to see seasoned professionals allowing members of the younger generation to “have a seat at the table,” without feeling intimidated. He added that it is imperative for young people to be a part of the political process because legislation and laws that are implemented usually impact them the most. Describing himself as a youth activist, he furthered: “I want to see a country where we...can come together and build off of each other so we can be a success. “I want to see a Bahamas where young people take ownership, step up to the plate, fill in the seats and have a voice at the table.” Denzel Collie, a marine science major specialising in small island sustainability, said he hopes the country can become more sustainable as the years go on. “Sustainability encompasses three pillars: economic, environmental and social aspects,” he said. “As it relates to the environment, I want to see that we implement wind power (and) hydro-thermo power. I also want to see solar power being implemented on a large scale and being made affordable for the average Bahamian to access.” Mr Collie said as it stands now, only a small percent of the population is able to afford solar panels due to the “heavy levies, taxation and loopholes” that come with acquiring them. He insisted that most of the nation’s power outages could be avoided if the

country would only reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. “We’re having load shedding issues when the solution is very simple. You don’t have to move away from complete fossil fuel right now...but you can invest in these things. We have land (and)

we have sea.” Vistassja Williams, a computer science graduate, said she envisions a more technologically advanced Bahamas. “I would like to see The Bahamas grow more in the IT industry because it is rapidly changing lucrative

‘They see young people as a threat when they’re really there to assist and to help take organisations to the next level.’

market,” she said. “A lot of countries are already far ahead of us in terms of modernisation because they embraced IT.” Ms Williams said she believes that digitisation can expedite a number of processes in the country and allow work to be carried

out more efficiently and effectively. “We could use computers to automate most of our very ancient processes to make life much easier. In particular, voter registration. “The last time I did it, they looked up my name in

a crusty looking book. Like why? A simple database could be a lot more efficient and less faulty.” Ms Williams said it is extremely important for decisions to be made “with young people in mind” and said an ideal country is one where everyone is mutually supportive. “I would like to see a country...where Bahamians can come together as one to advance each other.”

VISTASSJA WILLIAMS

XAVIER KNOWLES

DENZEL COLLIE

‘It is extremely important for decisions to be made with young people in mind ... an ideal country where everyone is mutually supportive.

VISTASSJA WILLIAMS

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, July 9, 2019, PAGE 9

What YOU have to say about

independence AS the 46th anniversary of Bahamian Independence approaches, we asked readers on tribune242.com what changes they would like to see in the nation before the 50th anniversary in 2023. Sheeprunner12 posted these suggestions: “A new Constitution . . . a new Republic . . . Unicameral Parliament . . . elected President . . . Real local Government for each island . . . Real democracy.” Dawes said: “No more PLP or FNM, a new party which would actually put the people of this country first rather then themselves or their family, etc.” Realitycheck242 had this to say: “The Economy of the Bahamas growing by a minimum 5.0% GDP annually so that this economy can absorb a greater percentage of the high school and college graduates every year with better paying jobs and put a dent in the brain drain and reduce the unemployment rate.” Jus2cents posted a whole host of changes, including these: “Have incentives to get solar power in every home (Tax free renewables and supplies).

Privatise all government run companies. Encourage better farming technology and incentives and export things like vanilla, spices, passion fruit, etc. Have a National Lottery. Implement Freedom of information. “Adopt a transparent legal system. Make all rights equal. Enforce the laws! Prosecute anyone involved with corruption, seize ill-gotten gains for the national kitty. Speed up judicial effectiveness - overhaul the whole legal system - independent of political influence. “Digitise and have ALL government entities online – and respond to the public’s emails in a timely fashion. Run the country like a modern-day progressive business. Ongoing training and evaluations of all government staff (Get rid of the dead wood). Reduce the size of government and the unnecessary pomp and perks for govt employees.” Empowermentorlkemp wanted change from within: “It matters not which political party rules – until and unless individual Bahamians have a mind-transformation of positive self-love, positive

self-esteem, self-value, self-worth, selfacceptance, self-appreciation they will remain enslaved by the old colonial slavery conditioning. There will be no change or difference in the country of the Bahamas from without until there is first and foremost a change from within. And there was this from JackArawak: “Equal rights for women. Freedom of information act. Full transparency in government. Spend tax dollars in the district they were produced in. No new cruise ports. Better environmental laws with enforcement. Invest in schools and change the curriculum to reflect today’s needs. Stop taking conch for 5 - 10 years. “Legalise marijuana. Go solar. Privatise all government corporations. Unite entire government on one online database web site. Lower cost of living. Educate the population on proper eating habits. Listen to the Christian Council less. There’s more, but I don’t see any of that happening, so I’ll stop there.” • Have your say on the big issues facing The Bahamas every day at www. tribune242.com.

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THE TRIBUNE

Smith takes up the reins as Governor General CORNELIUS Alvin Smith was “These values, which propelled sworn in as the 11th Governor Gen- our fore parents to fight against eral of the Commonwealth of discrimination and for a more the Bahamas on June 28, an equitable and just society appointment that sealed his must be renewed through rise from humble beginthe practice of volunnings at Snow Hill, Long tarism and public and BY KHRISNA Island, through a long community service. RUSSELL career in the civil service. “Let us renew this spirit During his first speech and these values in our as Governor General, Mr communities, in our homes, Smith pledged to discharge in the institutions of governhis constitutional duties with ment, in religious ministry, in impartiality and urged Bahamians civil society, in our schools, in comto strive toward renewing bedrock merce and in industry. values such as altruism, empathy, and “I dedicate myself to helping to generosity of spirit. promote and to renew a greater He said these were necessary in national commitment to community fostering oneness in the country. service and voluntarism.” Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis He thanked former Governor said the Governor General’s jour- General Dame Marguerite Pindling ney had been one that mirrored the for her years of service to the nation. country’s national journey, inclusive For his part, Dr Minnis said he was of the attainment of majority rule pleased to have recommended the and independence by a proud sover- former member of Parliament for the eign nation. appointment to the highest office in In his response to the commission the country and highlighted much of of appointment at Rawson Square, his achievements. the new Governor General said: He said: “Given your long and “Ladies and gentlemen, our nation distinguished public career, your dipis blessed by a surpassing natural lomatic and community service and heritage and a rich cultural heritage. your love of country, it was my happy We have utilised and blended these task to recommend to Her Majesty gifts to create a peaceful democratic (Queen Elizabeth II), your excelnation that has caused the global lency’s appointment as Governor commons to mark the manner of our General. bearing. “We look forward to your tenure “We’ve excelled in the arts, ath- and the role you will play in fostering letics, and academics. Now as we national unity and a greater commitapproach the 50th anniversary of ment to community service. We are independence we should celebrate confident that your excellency will our accomplishments and also our represent our country with distincpotential. We should also take tion at home and abroad. stock of the road that we still tread “Your excellency, as has been to better promote the values of said on a previous occasion, we ask inclusiveness, civility, fairness and that you express to her majesty, the national harmony.” Queen, the gratitude of the BahaHe added: “Let us also pledge to mian people for her having acceded renew bedrock values such as altru- to our request by appointing you to ism, empathy, and generosity of this nation’s highest office. spirit, which are necessary in foster“We offer you our full loyalty and ing one Bahamas. affection.”

THE NEW Governor General pictured during the ceremony to mark his swearing-in. PHOTOS: Terrel W Carey Sr/Tribune Staff

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, July 9, 2019, PAGE 11

DAME MARGUERITE CALLS FOR UNITY IN FAREWELL

IT was a speech By RASHAD ROLLE that tracked her humble beginnings from a poor, barefoot girl in Andros to the NOW former Governor Ge neral Dame Marguerite highest office in the land. dling waves to the audien Pince during the ceremony And as she marked her marked her departure fro that m the role. departure on June 27, Dame Marguerite Pindling issued nuggets of a Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribu wisdom as well to a nation that ne Staff hears “too much too often about housethe vices that divide us and too hold, no little too seldom about the virtues less than to that unite us”. our nation as a “Virtues,” she said, “such as whole.” our love of family, our devoPrime Minister tion to God, our compassion for Dr Hubert Minnis and the elderly and the underprivi- Opposition Leader Philip leged, our patriotic fervor, and “Brave” Davis praised the our desire to make our country a 87-year-old for the grace and better place for our children and professionalism with which she all our people, especially those performed her role and various “I who are most in need of a helping bands played music fit for yester- left hand. These are higher values and day’s occasion. But it was Dame school ennobling aspirations we hold in Margureite’s own speech, at at age 14; common. If we do not now share times reflective and poignant and consequently, these values and aspirations, we at other times lighthearted and I didn’t have lots must resolve to embrace them. cherry, that anchored the affair. From her seat under a specially of ‘book learning,’ And to do that –– to give real life and vigor to the things that unite constructed tent on the grounds or a college degree but us –– we need, first and foremost, of Government House, she told I had a Master’s degree in to rise above our baser selves her story while flanked by two of common sense and I knew how and put aside divisiveness and the nation’s top law enforcement to make intelligent decisions. And officers, Police Commissioner with common sense, hard work, a discord.” “We can express differences Anthony Ferguson and Defense fierce determination, a kind and without being divisive,” she Force Commodore Tellis Bethel. loving heart and most important a “I cannot but pause for a love for my Lord and savor, I was admonished. “We have all been guilty of sowing discord at one moment at this demission cer- able to reach the highest position time or another in our lives, but emony this evening to reflect in our country.” it is never too late to move with on the great distance I have The tenth Governor General purpose to a higher, loftier plane travelled, to consider on how of The Bahamas, Dame Margueimprobable it was that this poor, –– and to do it together. rite succeeded Sir Arthur Foulkes “We need to rise above divi- barefoot girl from the remote siveness and acrimony and come and primitive settlement of Long on July 8, 2014. She thanked the together on common ground to Bay Cays in Andros, through the Queen, former prime ministers, build up this nation. Kind words grace of God and by the favor of the administrators and staff of for one another can go a long way. gracious sovereign lady and with Government House, her secuShowing respect and courtesy to the directing hand of not one but rity team, her late husband Sir one another and displaying con- two prime ministers was raised up Lynden Pindling, her family and sideration for each other’s feelings to the highest constitutional office the “people of our nation” during yesterday’s ceremony. can bring peace and calm to many in our land,” she said.

“It has given me so much pleasure to meet so many of our people as I travelled from one end of our commonwealth to the next,” she said. “I am advised that up to a few weeks ago, some 517 courtesy calls were paid on me by Bahamians and foreign dignitaries alike. But I especially enjoyed the courtesy calls made by many of our school children particularly the

youngest of them, many of whom wanted to know how old I was, while others just wanted to know if I was real and whether they could touch me. And how could I forget the centenarians whose homes I visited: they represent some of the proudest Bahamians you would ever meet. “For me, these are but a few examples of what I considered to be the most precious part of my assignment as Her Majesty’s representative and indeed the most interesting and fulfilling part of my journey as well.”

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THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, July 9, 2019, PAGE 13

Blaze of glory BAHAMIAN AT BAHA MAR FOR ‘THE VOICE’ THEMED INDEPENDENCE CONCERT

BAHA Mar has kicked off its Summer Series featuring past winners and audience favourites from the hit TV show “The Voice”. Every Saturday, the resort will be playing host to a different singer from the seven-time Emmy Award winning NBC show. While last night’s opening performance and the regular Saturday shows, which continue until August 3, are only for guests of Baha Mar, the resort’s Independence Day Celebration on July 10 will be open to the general public. On that night, season eight fan-favourite Blaze Johnson returns to his native Bahamas. Blaze won over celebrity coach Adam Levine and millions of fans in 2015 with his renditions of pop singles and soulful ballads. He will perform at Baha Mar for the first time this Summer to headline the Independence Day concert.

Chris Blue

Mary Sarah

Maelyn Jarmon

Alisan Porter

Bahamians are also invited to the Jasmin Lawn at the Baha Mar Convention and Arts Centre, where kids’ activities start at 6.30pm, followed by a Junkanoo rush-out by the Valley Boys at 7.30pm. Blaze Johnson will perform at 8pm and the night with fireworks. “‘The Voice’ is an international phenomenon, with 68 versions of the show broadcast across 180 countries around the world. We’re thrilled to welcome the contestants to Baha Mar,” said Karin Salinas, senior vice president of marketing at Baha Mar. “Summer in The Bahamas is a special time of year, and we look forward to introducing original programming and inventive live entertainment for our guests to cherish as Summer memories for years to come.” ‘The Voice’ Summer Series will feature some of the biggest stars of the hit TV show, including season winners Jordan Smith, Chris Blue and Alisan Porter,

Season eight fan-favourite, Bahamian Blaze Johnson, will headline the Independence Day Celebration at Baha Mar. (Photos/NBC)

performing original songs and • Saturday, July 27 - Season all-time favourites. For locals 12 winner and Knoxville, enjoying a ‘staycation’ at the Tennessee native Chris Blue resort, concerts will take place performs hit songs. on the following dates: Chris’ music career has taken • Saturday, July 13 - Maelyn off since his 2017 win, as he has Jarmon, season 16 winner. collaborated with top artists In her blind audition she sang including Usher, Alicia Keys, “Fields of Gold” by Sting and and fellow “The Voice” alum got all four judges – Adam Vanessa Ferguson. Levine, John Legend, Kelly • Saturday, August 3 Clarkson and Blake Shelton – Massachusetts native Alisan to turn their chairs. Porter closes out the Summer • Saturday, July 20 - Season Series, performing her greatJordan Smith 10 finalist and Tulsa, Oklahoma est hits. Alisan made history native Mary Sarah. Mary’s when she won season 10 of ‘The memorable time on “The Voice” left a last- Voice’ with coach Cristina Aguilera, marking impression on all four celebrity judges ing the first time an artist won the show and her studio version of Randy Travis’ “I with a female coach, and giving Aguilera Told You So” reached the top 10 on iTunes. her first win.

PAGE 14, Tuesday, July 9, 2019

THE TRIBUNE