10292025 NEWS

HUNDREDS FLEE FROM STORM

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

CONFUSION and exhaustion swept through the southern islands yesterday as hundreds of residents tried to fee the path of Hurricane Melissa in what offcials described as the biggest pre-event evacuation in Bahamian history.

Videos and voice notes fooded social media yesterday morning, showing distressed islanders packed at airfelds and begging for information about when they would be transported.

Utica Laurel Lightbourne, a resident of Abraham’s Bay, Mayaguana, said residents were told to gather at 7am at the new airport terminal built by the I-Group but were locked outside.

On Mayaguana and Crooked Island, stranded evacuees complained of being locked out of airport terminals for hours without food, water, or bathrooms. Some elderly residents reportedly relieved themselves in bushes as they waited to board fights. Melissa — a dangerous storm that slammed Jamaica on Tuesday before turning toward Cuba and The Bahamas — was forecast to reach Bahamian waters late yesterday into today as a formidable Category Two or Three system.

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS

Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

AS Hurricane Melissa barrels toward the south-eastern Bahamas, Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) offcers ordered to stay behind in Inagua say they are being left to “ride out the storm” in unsafe and inadequate conditions — claims Commodore Floyd Moxey has strongly rejected as false and “stupid”.

ANGER OVER FUNDS FOR WEDDING PARTY - BUT NOT FOR OTHERS

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE government’s decision to fund accommodations for some Bahamians who visited Jamaica for a wedding but didn’t leave ahead of Hurricane Melissa’s arrival has triggered anger among some Bahamians, including a grieving family still pleading for help to bring a loved one’s body home from Haiti.

The Davis administration helped with accommodations for some of the 50-strong group, who travelled to Montego Bay for the wedding of the brother of former Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Henfeld, but other Bahamians in Jamaica say they received no assistance.

One traveller expressed outrage online, saying she and others had to pay their own expenses despite arriving on the same fight.

EVACUEE Daniel Johnson is welcomed by Mykea Johnson after arriving in New Providence from Acklins yesterday.

Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

DPP DEFENDS LACK OF JAIL TIME FOR RICH BUSINESSMAN

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

DIRECTOR of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier yesterday pushed back against criticism over the sentence given to a wealthy businessman convicted of frearm offences, insisting that cases are judged on their individual merits, not on a person’s wealth or nationality.

Melissa to bring ‘20 inches of rainfall and storm surge’

STORM FROM PAGE ONE

“Residents were crawling in the bush to use the bathroom because the terminal building is closed, so there’s no way for them to relieve themselves,” Ms Lightbourne said. She shared a video showing dozens of vehicles parked at the airstrip with residents waiting inside.

She said around 150 people waited for hours with no government offcial in sight. By 12.30pm, word spread that the fight had been cancelled.

“It just started spreading word of mouth, basically,” she said. “We don’t have an administrator — we haven’t had an administrator for over a month.”

Ms Lightbourne said residents were later told a 4pm fight might arrive to take only the elderly and families with children. Others were left uncertain. She claimed Mayaguana residents were being “set on the back burner” as other islands were prioritised. “Inagua already had four planes. One of them left with only 15 passengers; it could have easily stopped here,” she said.

She added that neither the island’s MP nor an administrator could be reached. “We don’t have an MP. It’s pointless trying to reach out to him because he doesn’t know a thing,” she said.

On Crooked Island, Deputy Chief Councillor Elvie

Cunningham said about 180 people had registered for evacuation but had received no clear updates. “The administrator, who’s really in charge of the island, is in New Providence, and she’s letting us know she doesn’t have a word yet. They’re not giving her word of any aircraft or when they’re going to come,” she said.

She described residents growing anxious as they waited without shelter while the weather worsened.

Later, residents circulated a voice note from the island administrator saying three fights were expected yesterday afternoon, with more being arranged.

DRMA executive chairman Alex Storr

acknowledged the complaints but said “planes are either on the ground in those islands right now or they are on the way there,” describing the massive operation as a “learning experience”.

He said about 430 people were evacuated Monday and nearly 300 more on Tuesday morning, with fights continuing through the evening to remove the roughly 1,400 people listed for evacuation. The DRMA later said 1453 are expected to be evacuated overall.

“It has been a learning experience, and it is hoped that the next time we have to undertake this, we’ll be able to do an even better job from the experiences gained this time,” Mr Storr said.

He said logistics proved diffcult as Bahamasair balanced regular fights with emergency missions, and some airfelds could not handle large planes. “We understand the anxiety and urgency being felt by residents awaiting evacuation,” the DRMA said in a statement. “Please know that every available resource is being deployed, and every decision made is focused on your safety.”

Mr Storr urged anyone still refusing to leave to reconsider, warning that Melissa could still bring “about 20 inches of rainfall and storm surge that can devastate low-lying islands.”

“It doesn’t cost anything to evacuate,” he said. “It’s all on

the government’s charge. But if they decide to stay, I pray that God be with them.”

Several evacuees from Inagua told The Tribune they were relieved to have escaped. Crystal Brown, 33, who left with her ten-year-old daughter and sister, said she had no one to help care for her child and “made the right choice” to leave.

Tamika Major, 26, said nearly all of Matthew Town had evacuated once fights were confrmed. “Better to be safe than sorry,” she said.

Sixty-four-year-old Beverly Anne Thompson said she was thankful for the government-organised evacuation.

“I’m just glad that in case the storm became a monster, I was safe,” she said.

MARINES CLAIM FOOD SHORTAGES AND POOR QUARTERS

RBDF FROM PAGE ONE

Officers stationed in Matthew Town, speaking anonymously, told The Tribune they are facing critical food shortages, malfunctioning generators, and cramped, unsanitary quarters while the government evacuates civilians ahead of the storm.

One offcer said: “The hurricane shelter is close.

Only persons on the ground are BDF and we are in a low line [low-lying] area which is yards away from the sea.”

Another added: “The buildings are not worthy we are staying in. Food supply is less to nothing; we have more cleaning materials than food.”

Some offcers said they had to buy food on credit from

the island’s only store, R and J, describing meals limited to “wings, soup, noodles, corned beef and macaroni”. They claimed the generator was unreliable and that conditions were worsening by the hour.

“The captain that comes over, he has all the bells and whistles. Internet, own personal space and car - eats what he wants versus the marines. The internet only can send communication, can’t watch nothing like Netfix or nothing entertaining. Two to three marines in a room and there are four rooms and one bathroom. Food is horrible and if no food reaches you, you on your own or eat noodles,” one offcer said.

Offcers said supplies may last only a few days, with one saying: “I can’t focus when your life is at risk.” They said

the island’s medical personnel, administrator, and police had already been evacuated, leaving only Defence Force members behind.

Commodore Moxey dismissed the complaints, insisting that offcers are well supplied and following established hurricane protocols. He said the RBDF has provisions to last “two, three months” and that detachments always remain to protect government assets.

“We have advanced team that is customary that they will go there, stay in the secure shelter and preserve government assets. That is nothing strange, that is what we do at every hurricane,” he said.

“They are marines, the Defence Force have a special duty in times of natural

disaster to assist and family members must understand this. They are not married to civilians.

“It is part of our mandate to assist in times of natural disaster. We’re not going to put our people in harm’s way. Our people are going to be safe. They’re going to be secure. They have the food; they have the medical that they need to get them through this storm. We have a responsibility to protect government assets.”

He described reports of unliveable conditions as “stupid” and said he “totally dispels that”.

“Those living conditions are not habitable? Well, that is not my understanding. I was in charge of many detachments in Matthew Town, Inagua. I

‘WHY NO ASSISTANCE FOR US?’

FUNDS FROM PAGE ONE

“I’m here in Jamaica with not one word for the government, just a fyer from Bahamasair saying fight cancelled!” the woman said on Facebook.

In Moore’s Island, Sherry Russell noted that her family’s requests for assistance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have gone unanswered for more than three months as they struggle to bring home her brother’s remains from Haiti. Her brother, Joey Russell, and another man, Shadrack Stuart, were shot and killed in Haiti in July during what offcials there described as a drug-related operation.

“We are heartbroken because it isn’t that we were asking the government for any fnancial assistance,” Ms Russell told The Tribune yesterday. “We were just

asking the government to assist us with any paperwork that’s needed to get our brother’s body back home. That’s all we wanted from the government.”

“Any documentation that is needed or if they can speak with those in the authority in Haiti, just to assist us in getting our brother’s body home. So, to hear that the government is paying for these persons in Jamaica is very disheartening,” Ms Russell said.

Her family says Joey’s body has been held in a Haitian morgue since July because a local doctor is reportedly afraid to sign the release documents. Despite reaching out to the Prime Minister and the Foreign Affairs Minister, Ms Russell said they have had no response.

Ms Russell said her family has already spent more than $7,000 on costs in Haiti, including $3,500 for airfare and nearly $3,000 for transportation and documentation.

Her anger intensifed after learning that the government was helping those who attended the wedding in Jamaica.

“I can’t even begin to tell you how I feel,” she said. “Our brother has been there from July, and I mean, you can’t assist us in trying to get our brother’s body home but you could pay for these individuals to be in Jamaica,” she said. “They know the storm was coming. Why did they even go over there?”

Mr Henfeld, a former foreign minister and Hurricane Dorian survivor, told The Tribune that the wedding group included residents of Abaco and Grand Bahama and that Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper helped secure accommodations for those who could not afford to extend their stay.

The group, lodged at the Dreams Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay, was provided with meals and shelter as the Category Five hurricane neared Jamaica.

definitely dispute that.”

Commodore Moxey said 16 offcers remain in Inagua and seven in Ragged Island, saying their presence is essential for post-storm assessments.

“Who,” he said, “going to protect the government’s property? Who is going to protect the government’s asset? Who is going to do the assessment exactly after the storm? Isn’t that what the Defence Force do?”

Family members of the offcers are pressing for immediate clarifcation from authorities.

But Commodore Moxey said: “I understand the concern of the family members, but we have to look at the big picture.”

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis has ordered the evacuation of residents from Inagua, Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Cay, Mayaguana, and Ragged Island. Offcials said transportation was being provided for more than 1,400 evacuees to New Providence, where shelters and support systems are in place.

PICKSTOCK RESIGNS FROM SENATE AHEAD OF NOMINATION DAY FOR BY-ELECTION

PROGRESSIVE Liberal

Party (PLP) candidate Darren Pickstock has resigned from the Senate, paving the way for his nomination in the upcoming Golden Isles by-election.

In a statement yesterday, Mr Pickstock said his resignation was driven by “gratitude and conviction,” adding that he now wishes to serve “closer to the people”.

“After much refection and prayer, I have decided

to resign my seat in the Senate, effective immediately,” he said. “I believe my next chapter is to serve closer to the people, to be on the ground working with families, small businesses, and young people who want to see change that they can touch and feel.”

Mr Pickstock, who was appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, expressed thanks to

the prime minister for his confdence and to his Senate colleagues for their support during his tenure.

He also extended gratitude to Senate President Lashell Adderley, commending her “leadership” and the “grace and faith with which you have guided the affairs of this chamber.”

“Serving as a Senator has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” he said. “It

has given me the opportunity to lend my voice to the cause of progress and to witness the dedication of so many who serve this nation.”

Refecting on his journey, Mr Pickstock said his upbringing shaped his commitment to service. The son of civil servant Esterlyn Pickstock and educator Philip Pickstock, he said his parents instilled in him the values of faith, hard work, and integrity.

“As a student at Government High, I packed bags in the grocery store after school to help my family. Later, I worked as a busboy and a cleaner to pay for my education,” he said. “Through every hardship, I held to one truth: that the God who brought me this far would never fail me.”

Mr Pickstock, who serves as chairman of the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial

Corporation (BAIC), said he remains committed to helping Bahamians build stronger communities and seize opportunities for a better life.

“I remain committed to building a Bahamas where hard work opens doors, opportunity is within reach, and faith continues to light our path forward,” he said.

Nomination Day for the Golden Isles by-election is set for Friday.

TWO NEW CONSTITUENCIES PROPOSED - WITH SPLITS IN KILLARNEY AND WEST GB AND BIMINI

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Boundaries Commission is proposing creating two new constituencies ahead of the next general election by dividing Killarney and West Grand Bahama and Bimini, The Tribune understands.

The commission met yesterday to discuss the proposed changes, which are expected to be presented to the prime minister soon.

The Tribune has long reported on the proposed changes for Killarney, which now has over 7,000 registered voters, making it one of the most populated constituencies in the country.

Boundary adjustments for West Grand Bahama and Bimini have also been reported for some time, with

sources noting Bimini’s growing population. That constituency now has 6,070 registered voters. Changes are also expected across several New Providence constituencies, including St Barnabas, Tall Pines, Centreville, and Freetown, which could see polling stations added or reduced.

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who sits on the commission, told reporters last month that the body has made “signifcant progress” analysing boundaries with a focus on ensuring a fairer distribution of voters across constituencies.

While the law does not require a fxed number of voters per constituency, the Constitution mandates that boundaries refect population size and that clear practical needs justify significant disparities.

Tears from relatives as man is found hanged

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

A MAN believed to be in his early 30s was found dead by family members with a noose around his neck yesterday, in what police suspect was a suicide.

The heartbreaking scene unfolded early yesterday morning at a family home on Chenile Adderley, off East Street, where the victim had been staying.

Relatives were seen in the front yard consoling each other as tears streamed down their faces. When the victim’s body was removed from the house, several relatives were heard screaming the name “Miko”, believed to be the victim’s name.

A woman who had to be held down in a chair by family members was heard crying uncontrollably. At one point she painfully screamed, “Miko, why?”

When authorities removed the victim’s body, some relatives were seen emotionally running behind the gurney. Children also broke down in tears as adults tried to stop them from leaving the yard.

Inspector Jerad Culmer, attached to the Public Affairs and Communications Department, said that around 6.30am a family member contacted police after discovering their relative lifeless.

Police and emergency medical services responded, but despite efforts to resuscitate the victim, they were unsuccessful. The coroner later confrmed the victim’s death.

Inspector Culmer said the victim’s body was found in a state suggesting he was suffocated from a noose by hanging.

“I just want to make a plea to anybody who is suffering from depression or substance abuse. We want to appeal to

try to seek help,” Insp Culmer told reporters. He further appealed to family members to check on relatives who have expressed thoughts of suicide or shown signs that they are not feeling well. He also encouraged those struggling to reach out to the Bahamas Crisis Centre for assistance.

Insp Culmer said police, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, offer psychiatric evaluations and treatment for the victim’s family.

“Seeing a family member with alleged suicide or symptoms of it or resulting of it, it traumatises you, so that’s an image that you will never get out of your head,” he said.

According to The Tribune’s records, this is the 13th suicide in The Bahamas this year.

The previous reported suicide involved a 34-year-old mother of two found hanging in a Rasta Camp off Fire Trail Road on October 9.

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

TELEPHONES

News & General Information

(242) 502-2350

Advertising Manager (242) 502-2394

Circulation Department (242) 502-2386

Nassau fax (242) 328-2398

Freeport, Grand Bahama (242)-352-6608

Freeport fax (242) 352-9348

WEBSITE, TWITTER & FACEBOOK

www.tribune242.com

PICTURE OF THE DAY

@tribune242 tribune news network

Take this hurricane seriously

WHEN Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica yestrerday, it did so as the strongest storm to hit the island since records began 174 years ago.

As we write this, the storm is ravaging the island - and as far as records go, it is tied for the strongest Atlantic hurricane ever to hit land.

This category 5 monster has sustained wind speeds of 185mph - and a storm surge of up to 13 feet high is expected across southern Jamaica.

Imagine that surge for a momentmore than twice the height of a man.

There have been several deaths in the region already - at the time of writing there have been three in Jamaica, three in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic. We hope and pray there are no more but with a storm of this magnitude, it is a hope rather than an expectation.

There have been reports of roofs being ripped off, blocked roads and extensive flooding. One parish in Jamaica, St Elizabeth, was said to be “under water”.

For many Bahamians, there are strong connections to Jamaica. More than one conversation today has been had with people checking over family members there.

Communications links are vital - and there were messages passed last night about access to Starlink for free in both Jamaica and The Bahamas, while Aliv said calls to Jamaica from The

Bahamas would be free for a period. All such moves are welcome.

This storm is now going to turn our way. The forecast is that its force will diminish significantly - but we should not regard that with complacency.

For those who have evacuated from the path of the storm, we are grateful that they will be secure. We urge all Bahamians to look out for our brothers and sisters and help them as they experience this displacement.

For those who have remained and stay in the path of the storm, we urge you to make sure your location is secure. Prepare your escape plan. Put your important documents in a waterproof package so that you can grab it and go if you must.

Some who have stayed in the path of the storm are there to do their duty. Members of the uniformed services whose job it is to save lives. Help them by making sure you are as safe as you can be. Do not take risks so that they have to take risks to come to your rescue.

And in the aftermath of all of this, let us remember what happened after Hurricane Dorian when it hit Abaco and Grand Bahama - and how people came to our aid.

This may now be our time to go to the aid of others - so if Jamaica needs help, we must do as others did for us and offer what support we can.

But for now, we pray.

Fox impressive

EDITOR, The Tribune.

FREE National Movement Fox Hill candidate Dr Nicholas Fox has launched a very impressive campaign. I saw a Facebook ad featuring him regarding a breast cancer event that will be hosted by his campaign office on Bernard Road. Fox’s presence on social platforms has been nothing short of ubiquitous and well-coordinated. He has also been making the rounds on various radio talk shows. In addition to campaigning hard and vigorously before the cameras, Fox has maintained a steady and consistent presence in Fox Hill, even engaging in infrastructural projects that should be done by the government with tax dollars. Fox is putting his money where his mouth is. He is not just a man who talks. He is a man of action.

I believe that the FNM candidate poses a formidable challenge to the Progressive Liberal Party incumbent Fred Mitchell, widely regarded as a political heavyweight inside the governing party. As PLP chairman, Mitchell will have to devote far more time and energy with his personal race if he wants to remain Fox Hill MP. And even doing so is no guarantee, based on the caliber of candidate he will be facing. Fox is no pushover. He is a highly successful physician who is widely known throughout New Providence. Mitchell has represented Fox Hill since 2002, with the exception being between 2017 and 2021, after losing to the FNM’s Shonel Ferguson. It was a shocking defeat for Mitchell, yet his loss in 2017 was mainly due, not to him or even his FNM challenger, but to the tidal wave of opposition launched against then Prime Minister Perry G Christie amid a barrage of unsubstantiated allegations

of malfeasance made by popular Facebook podcasters. The influence of these Face bookers was massive, as it played a key role in nearly wiping out the entire Christie Cabinet. Mitchell nearly lost his seat in 2007 to the FNM’s Jacinta Higgs, polling just 1,988 votes to her 1,925 - a difference of 63 votes. That might have been due to the presence of former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham leading the FNM. Mitchell now faces the real possibility of losing, and it will not be due to any scurrilous accusations levied against his administration by the FNM. His potential loss will be because Dr Fox is unlike any challenger he has ever encountered in Fox Hill. Accordingly, Mitchell, notwithstanding his perceived clout within the governing PLP, can no longer take his hold on Fox Hill for granted. Fox is poised, successful, articulate, bold and is a hardworking candidate who seems determined to represent Fox Hill. Moreover, his record is squeaky clean. There are no skeletons in his closet. Any attempts to link him to the previous unpopular Dr Hubert Minnis FNM government would be a complete waste of time, as Fox is a political newcomer who shouldn’t be spanked for the sins of his political predecessors. If Mitchell is going to retain Fox Hill, it will have to be on his own merits. He will not have the luxury of regurgitating the mistakes of Minnis to the people of Fox Hill. The Bahamian people punished Minnis in 2017. As a learned solicitor, Mitchell should be familiar with a legal protection under the US Constitution’s Fifth Amendment dubbed double jeopardy.

Once a conviction or acquittal has been attained, you cannot have a retrial. Under this legal analogy, I do not foresee Fox being punished for whatever

transpired between 2017 and 2021. This race will be solely between Mitchell and Fox. Minnis won’t be on the ballot. I believe Mitchell has taken notice of the threat Fox poses to his hold on Fox Hill, and has countered by becoming more visible in his area, at least as far as this writer on the outside looking in can tell.

The Mitchell campaign had recently advertised a grill and chill event in Fox Hill. There’s a photo of him on a yellow motorcycle. And then there’s a video of him having a light moment with a group of young ballerina dancers. Were the latter two associated with his reelection campaign for Fox Hill? I cannot answer that question. But I do believe that his grill event was done owing to the increasingly strong presence of Dr Nicholas Fox in Fox Hill. And to underscore the point of Fox covering his bases in this historic community, he had also planned a prayer vigil for breast cancer survivors at his Bernard Road constituency office.

Mitchell, throughout his tenure as Fox Hill MP, has made it a point to visit churches throughout his area, particularly St Mark’s Native Baptist Church on Romer Street. My point in referencing the religious element of this battle for Fox Hill is that no one inside the Mitchell campaign can accuse Fox of being anti-faith. Judging from the prayer vigil, Fox appears to be a man of faith. I honestly think that the FNM candidate will pull off the upset win in Fox Hill. In fact, I would go so far in stating that, based on what I am seeing, Fox is now the clear frontrunner in Fox Hill and should win, barring any unforeseen catastrophic gaffe by his campaign.

KEVIN EVANS

Freeport, Grand Bahama October 26, 2025.

We must be part of this rise

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE Bahamas is not just a tourist destination—it is a sovereign actor in a rising Afro-Caribbean alliance. As Barbados hosts the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) expands its continental frameworks, and the African Union (AU) launches a dedicated Caribbean desk, Bahamians must awaken to the moment. We are not late—we are latent. And that must change.

In September 2025, the African Union hosted the 2nd Africa–CARICOM Summit in Addis Ababa. This was not symbolic—it was structural. The AU formally integrated the Caribbean into its diplomatic architecture, creating a dedicated Caribbean desk under the African Diaspora High Council. This spans The Bahamas to Belize, positioning our region as a full partner in reparatory justice, trade, and continental authorship.

This is not just diplomacy—it is sovereignty. It is independence. It is the emergence of Africa as a global force and the rise of the Black planet. For too long, our region has been positioned as peripheral. Now, we are being invited to co-author the next chapter of global economics, infrastructure, and cultural restoration.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis has already taken bold, strategic steps to position The Bahamas within Africa’s emergence:

• In March 2024, he undertook an official state visit to Botswana, meeting with President Mokgweetsi Masisi to deepen bilateral

ties in education, vocational training, tourism, youth, and financial services.

• That visit followed a reciprocal state visit to The Bahamas by President Masisi and First Lady Neo Jane Masisi in September 2023, marking the first formal diplomatic exchange between the two nations.

• Discussions included the establishment of a gold exchange in The Bahamas, linking our financial sector to African mineral wealth and positioning us as a regional clearinghouse for sovereignbacked trade.

• In February 2025, Prime Minister Davis signed a $200 million infrastructure agreement with Afreximbank during the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Barbados—funding climate-resilient roads, energy systems, and trade infrastructure across The Bahamas.

• He authorised the deployment of 40 nurses and 10 doctors from Ghana, strengthening our healthcare system and deepening continental ties.

• He endorsed the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2025) in Grenada, aligning The Bahamas with biometric dashboards, export corridors, and diaspora ROI frameworks. These are not ceremonial gestures. They are structural moves toward sovereignty, independence, and legacy.

Prime Minister Davis deserves recognition for seeing beyond the horizon

— for understanding that Africa is not distant, but destiny. I wholeheartedly endorse his continental outreach and urge him to go further: to publicly support Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s leadership in Barbados and to position The Bahamas as a co-author of the Afro-Caribbean corridor. Barbados has become the diplomatic and infrastructural launchpad for Afro-Caribbean trade. In March 2025, Afreximbank broke ground on a $180 million African Trade Centre in Bridgetown—the bank’s first permanent office outside Africa. Rather than compete, The Bahamas must promote Barbados as our strategic ally. Their visibility is our corridor. By standing with Mottley, we stand with legacy.

From July 28–30, Grenada hosted ACTIF2025 under the theme “Resilience and Transformation.” The forum laid out a continental roadmap: biometric diaspora dashboards, export corridors, joint ventures in energy and fintech, and cultural diplomacy to restore dignity and global positioning. Bahamians must not view Africa as distant. It is our mirror, our market, and our diplomatic future. The African Union has made space for us. Barbados has built the launchpad. ACTIF2025 has drawn the map. The Bahamas must now move— not as a follower, but as a co-author.

This is not optional. This is legacy. This is the rise of the black planet — and The Bahamas must rise with it.

CRAIG F BUTLER Nassau, Bahamas October 19, 2025

Accountability over commonage

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I WISH to bring public attention to a troubling matter involving the Savannah Sound Commonage Committee and its handling of funds collected from citizens for land in the Savannah Sound area.

In 2021, I personally made payments to the committee for a piece of property for my mother and myself, and continued along paying annual fees for its use, under a clear agreement that we qualified for the land. However, the committee has since informed me that we no longer qualify — offering no valid explanation or documentation to support this sudden decision.

To make matters worse, they have flatly refused to refund the money we paid in good faith over the years, amounting more than $1,000.00. I have contacted the persons involved - past and present - but no one is responding to my request for a refund. This behaviour is unacceptable and deeply concerning. It raises serious questions about the management of public and community funds, transparency in land allocations, and fairness in how citizens are treated. When a committee entrusted with community affairs acts without accountability, it undermines public trust and damages the integrity of local governance.

I am therefore calling on the Local Government authorities, and any other relevant oversight bodies to investigate the financial and administrative practices of the Savannah Sound Commonage Committee. There must be a full review to ensure fairness, transparency, and proper accounting for all funds collected from the public. Those of us who act in good faith and meet our obligations deserve to be treated honestly. A community body should never be allowed to take people’s money, change the terms, and then refuse to make things right.

PATRICE FISHER October 27, 2025.

‘No fxed rule on sentencing for every case’

GUNS FROM PAGE ONE

Her comments came amid public backlash over the case of 62-yearold American James Finkl, the former head of Finkl Steel, one of the world’s largest steel manufacturers, who escaped a mandatory prison sentence after admitting to bringing 14 guns and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition into The Bahamas aboard his yacht in Bimini last week.

In 2021, the Court of Appeal ruled that magistrates have no authority to impose non-custodial sentences for frearm-related offences.

Asked about this, Mrs Frazier said: “Sentencing is an art. There is no one fxed rule for every case.”

“The defendant in the case being referenced had a number of medical issues which made a custodial sentence diffcult and not prudent,” she added. “It’s never about Bahamian or non-Bahamian or rich or poor.

Each case has to be determined on its own facts and the decision made was the best outcome.”

She noted that mandatory minimum sentences have been abolished and said fnes have also been imposed on Bahamians in similar circumstances when warranted.

Although some senior lawyers described Mr Finkl’s sentencing as “highly irregular”, Mrs Frazier said magistrates have the discretion to impose non-custodial sentences

when a case warrants it. She cited a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling in which a 53-year-old diabetic man’s 12-month prison sentence for frearm possession was quashed.

In that Ronald Ralph Moorhead Jr v Commissioner of Police case, the Court of Appeal overturned a one-year prison sentence for an American diabetic man convicted of frearm possession after fnding that the Bahamas Department

of Correctional Services could not manage his medical condition. The court substituted a sentence of three days’ imprisonment, ruling that while frearm offences normally require jail time, Moorhead’s case was exceptional. However, the judges stressed that the decision was “unique to its facts” and should not be viewed as a general precedent for other gun offenders, reaffrming that custodial sentences remain the norm for such crimes.

SECOND CHANCE FOR MAN AS HE ADMITS GUILT TO GRIEVOUS HARM

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was given a second chance last week after the family of a pastor’s son forgave him for a brutal 2023 attack on Finlayson Street that left the victim with brain haemorrhaging and life-threatening injuries.

Lamar Miller, 25, pleaded guilty to grievous harm before Justice Joyann Ferguson Pratt as part of a plea deal. The charge was reduced from attempted murder, and the jury empanelled to hear the matter was excused.

Prosecutors said Miller grievously injured 39-yearold Timothy Stewart Jr during a party near Finlayson Street on the night of February 11, 2023. Stewart suffered a brain haemorrhage that required major surgery. A doctor later said his injuries were likely to have been fatal.

Miller was ordered to pay $20,000 in compensation or risk a 12-year prison term. He was also placed on two years’ probation, with any breach carrying a two-year sentence.

After sentencing, Miller apologised to the victim, his family, and the court. He paid

half of the compensation in court, with the balance due by April 20, 2026.

Miller thanked Justice Pratt for the second chance at life, promising that he would be better and never do anything like this again.

Justice Pratt told him such leniency was rare and urged him to use the opportunity for self-refection and a fresh start.

According to a statement from Stewart, who could not testify because of his medical condition, he attended the party with a mutual friend of the defendant named Ralph.

‘Man wielded cutlass before he was shot by police offcers’

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

AN offcer testifed yesterday that a man shot and killed by police in Fox Hill in 2018 had wielded a cutlass at two offcers before being shot.

Sergeant 2752 Jamal Hamilton gave evidence before Coroner Kara Turnquest Deveaux as the inquest continued into the police-involved shooting of 43-year-old Jermaine Desmond Minnis, which occurred around 1.40pm on November 15 2018.

Minnis was reportedly shot by Assistant Superintendent of Police Darrington Sands, the subject of the inquest, after allegedly charging at him with a cutlass in the Fox Hill area.

Sergeant Hamilton said that shortly before the incident, around 1.35pm, he received an anonymous call from a woman who reported that a man dressed in yellow was waving a cutlass at a fruit stand near the Fox Hill Police Station and attempting to chop passersby. A short time later, Sergeant Sweeting informed him that the man had been shot and told him to contact dispatch.

Sergeant Hamilton said the offcers told the man to drop the weapon, but he refused and continued swinging the cutlass. Both offcers involved were in uniform, he added, and ASP Sands shot the assailant.

He said ASP Sands was injured during the incident,

suffering a wound to his right shoulder.

Sergeant Hamilton described a cutlass as a deadly weapon capable of maiming or killing someone.

He said the deceased was known to police and had previously been reported for disorderly behaviour by several people, including social workers, pastors, and his mother.

He told the jury he was unaware whether Minnis had any mental illness.

An investigator previously testifed that the deceased had been a psychiatric patient at Sandilands but had no active fle there in 2018.

Angelo Whitfeld marshalled the evidence, while K Melvin Munroe represented the offcer.

BAIL GRANTED IN SCAM CASE

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

TWO men were granted bail yesterday after they were accused of failing to reimburse a man in a fnancial scheme earlier this year.

Prosecutors allege that Peter Meadows, 67, and Mario Meadows, 63, recruited Lincoln Stubbs into the Creator’s Alliance

on March 16. They allegedly failed to provide a return on Stubbs’ investment within the agreed timeframe. Authorities identifed the Creator’s Alliance as a fraudulent pyramid scheme in April. The Meadows brothers pleaded not guilty to a charge of promoting a fnancial scheme before Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville.

Inspector Cordero Farmington, the prosecutor, raised no objection to bail. Each man was granted $3,000 bail and ordered to sign in at Elizabeth Estates Police Station on the 15th of every month. The defendants are scheduled to return for trial on March 17, 2026. Levan Johnson and Nathan Smith represented the accused.

BAHAMASAIR CANCELS FLIGHTS AS STORM NEARS

BAHAMASAIR has canceled multiple fights scheduled for Wednesday, October 29, 2025, citing adverse weather from Hurricane Melissa.

He said he had known Miller for about fve years because the mother of Miller’s child was Ralph’s daughter. Both men had been drinking.

Stewart said Miller’s daughter was running around, and he picked her up and took her to her grandmother. After the child was taken inside, Miller approached him angrily and punched him in the face. Stewart said he fell on the rocks, and Miller kicked him repeatedly while he was on the ground.

The prosecution said Miller also struck Stewart on the head with a block.

Stewart managed to walk away from the dead-end corner while bleeding heavily.

A bystander called an ambulance, and he was taken to the hospital.

As part of his recovery, Stewart underwent extensive physiotherapy and counselling.

The victim’s mother, Sharon Stewart, wrote an impact statement that was read in court by her sister, Albertha Bartlett.

It said Mrs Stewart was still mourning the death of her husband, Rev Dr Timothy Stewart Sr of Bethel Baptist Church, when the ordeal

occurred. She said it left her feeling numb and stressed. She added that she did not want to come to court and that she had also survived a home invasion.

However, she chose to forgive the defendant, writing: “The words of my late husband remained etched in my mind. To forgive, just to forgive.”

Mrs Stewart asked that a compensation order be made to assist with her son’s medical expenses.

Audrey Bonamy and Kara Butler-Wight prosecuted the case, while K Melvin Munroe represented the accused.

MAN JAILED FOR THREAT

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 43-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to 12 months in prison for threatening a police offcer with a gun on Toote Shop Corner last December. Davannon Turnquest reversed his earlier position and pleaded guilty to possession of a frearm with intent to put another in fear. He was also charged in the same incident with threats of death, threats of harm, assault, and an additional frearm-related offence. Prosecutors said Turnquest threatened to kill a woman on December 10, 2024. When offcers arrived at a residence around 2pm that day, Turnquest allegedly pointed a gun at Assistant Superintendent of Police G Stubbs and also threatened Assistant Superintendent of Police D Miller. Although authorities initially claimed offcers shot Turnquest in the ankle, Magistrate Coleby later found that he shot himself while climbing a wall to escape police. The magistrate also determined that Turnquest had aimed his weapon at ASP Stubbs. Turnquest was treated for his injuries while in police custody.

Magistrate Coleby credited him for changing his plea. His attorney, Ryszard Humes, said Turnquest was remorseful and had not offended since 2002. He said his client wanted to become a productive citizen and appealed for leniency. Turnquest was sentenced to 12 months in prison from the date of his arraignment on December 13, 2024. Having been on remand since then, he will serve another month and a half.

A female relative wept as the sentence was handed down. Sergeant 3738 Johnson prosecuted the case.

Femicide in The Bahamas

THIRTY-YEAR-OLD

Lauren Saunders, who was seven months pregnant, was reported missing last week, and her body was found a bushy area days later. On Monday, a man known to her was charged with her murder. Her murder is a case of femicide—the killing of a woman or girl that is related to her sex or gender. In fact, it is a case of pregnancy-associated femicide.

As the government of The Bahamas continues to refuse to acknowledge the sex- and gender-based killings of women and girls as femicide, it is diffcult to count these incidents, analyse them, and develop prevention and intervention mechanism.

It means, for example, that are not able to defnitively state the rate of femicide in The Bahamas, the rate of pregnancy-associated femicide, or the rate of femicide by perpetrators known to the victims. The government prefers to pretend that it does not understand the term “femicide” and/or to refuse to use it, obscuring the severity of gender-based violence against women and girls and the rate at which it results in people being killed.

In the 2022 United Nations statistical framework for

measuring femicide, ten indicators of femicide are identifed. They include women and girls killed by intimate partners, women and girls killed by family members, previous record of harassment/violence, body disposed of in public space, sexual violence was committed before, and hate crime motivated by bias against women/girls.

There are specifc laws, recording methods, and analytical tools in use that can be adapted to the Bahamian context, enabling us to create and share knowledge about femicide, and use that knowledge to end sex- and gender-based killings.

The passing of the Gender-Based Violence Bill would have at least moved us toward improved quantitative records and analysis of the murder cases resulting from gender-based violence.

Instead, the current administration tossed it aside, instead passing a the useless “Protection Against Violence” bill that does attend to the issue of gender-based violence and the resulting murders.

Along with abandoning the bill to amend the Sexual Offenses Act to criminalise marital rape, this is a clear indication of the complete disregard this administration—and every single person in Parliament—has for women and girls, regardless of their empty words.

This week, as with every other week with a report of femicide, there is signifcant attention to penalties. People continue to look to the judicial system for justice.

What number of years can the murderer spend in prison, funded by taxpayers, to undo the murder of 30-year-old Lauren? How many years would be suffcient to bandage the hearts that bleed for

the unborn baby?

The truth is that the very few members of the public with no relation to Lauren Saunders will think of this case until there are reports of the voluntary bill of indictment being served in January 2026.

Shortly after the case updates appear in the news, the case will be forgotten again. For loved ones, however, it will never be far from thought. No prison sentence is enough.

Lauren Saunders, like so many others whose names have been forgotten, was murdered, and that cannot be undone.

Justice is not punishment. Punishment may be a component of justice, but it is does not right a wrong, it does not bring balance, and it does not result in equity. Punishment is a consequence of an action. Justice that centers the survivor brings the survivor as close to the life they had before the act as is possible.

In the case of femicide, living dependents can be considered survivors. This means the children of Lauren Saunders should not suffer the effects of the loss of her income. They should maintain the same quality of life

as they would have if she was not murdered and could continue to work, received her salary and/or wages, and meet household needs. Justice is often viewed as individual, intended for one person, but our concept of justice must be expanded. As a collective, we can consider justice to include action by the government to prevent femicide by addressing the issue of gender-based violence, acknowledging that it can be fatal. With research showing that one in every four women in The Bahamas has experienced physical and/ or sexual violence and 65% of survivors of physical violence reporting that it was severe (eg they were punched, hit with an object, dragged, choked, burned, or threatened with a weapon), there is no denying that this is a high-risk environment and gender-based violence is a public health crisis.

‘What number of years can the murderer spend in prison, funded by taxpayers, to undo the murder of 30-year-old Lauren? How many years would be suffcient to bandage the hearts that bleed for the unborn baby?’

The government is obligated to take action to address gender-based violence which will not simply cease to exist. In 2018, following its report and constructive dialogue on its progress, or lack thereof, in coming into compliance with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the government of The Bahamas received the recommendation to “develop and implement comprehensive measures for the prevention and elimination of gender-based violence against women and girls, in particular domestic and sexual violence and rape, assess the reported incidence of crimes against lesbian, bisexual and transgender women and intersex persons and intensify efforts to change the social norms and cultural perceptions through which gender-based violence is tolerated as culturally acceptable”.

The CEDAW Committee also recommended that the government of The Bahamas develop an action plan to eliminate gender stereotypes, pass the Gender-Based Violence Bill and implement the Strategic Plan to Address Gender-Based Violence, and to ensure police and courts address complaints of gender-based violence quickly and effciently. The government knows its obligations under international human rights law, and its responsibility to people in The Bahamas, to uphold all human rights. It fails to take action.

ABANDONED NEWBORN

A newborn, umbilical cord still attached, was found earlier this week, and a news outlet polled its social media audience on the introduction of “safe haven” or “baby box” laws, allowing people to safely surrender babies without facing criminal charges. This led to an array of comments expressing opinions on sexual and reproductive health and rights and the (un)availability of services.

“Ok so let me get this right: a law to say that after a responsible adult female has sex and fnds out she got pregnant, she can carry her child nine months, deliver it somewhere, then put it in a box on a strangers doorstep. Then repeat this procedure the following years to come. My my…”

This person has already made an assumption that the person who birthed the baby is an adult and that the pregnancy is the result of consensual sexual intercourse. Even a cursory review of the news on a weekly basis would provide

enough information to let anyone know that there is a high rate of rape in The Bahamas, and that teenaged girls are preyed upon by men who know that they are children and that the legal age of consent is 16. This person also seems to believe that pregnancy and motherhood are punishments for sexual activity. Is this the way we want people to become parents? Is there any thought to the way that many people parent when they forced into it?

“Could also just stop [having sex].” Sex has more than one purpose. Some people have sex to conceive. Many people have sex to experience pleasure. Pleasure is good. By encouraging people to enjoy sex, and letting them know that it should absolutely be a pleasurable experience, we also encourage them to exercise consent, to recognise unsafe sexual relationships, and to value their experience at least as much as the other person’s.

“If The Bahamas adapt that law, the no good uncaring women will be dropping babies like fies and mosquitoes. They want to open their legs so let them be responsible.”

This person seems to think pregnancy and childbirth are fun. They also have a clear hatred of women. Enjoying sexual activity is not a commitment to have a baby. There is no good to come from forcing people to carry unwanted pregnancies to term and forcing them to parents babies they did not plan or want. Pregnancy is not a punishment for having sex. Babies are not a punishment for having sex. We need comprehensive sexuality education in all schools, access to contraceptives from the age of consent, and to end sexual violence.

“Adoption should always be an option. Give two babies up for adoption and we tie them tubes up.”

While some people may choose adoption, abortion must be legal and accessible. No one should be forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term. It is reprehensible to suggest a medical procedure such as tubal ligation without the consent of the person. A person who does not have to have a baby today may want to have a baby in two, fve, or ten years. Everyone has the right to plan for their families and, as an extension of the right, everyone needs access to the resources to do so. There were a number of comments that acknowledged the rights of women and girls and the realities of gender-based violence and the limited access to information about sexual and reproductive health education and services in The Bahamas. People mentioned the importance of Plan B being accessible to people who cannot afford to buy it, the need for comprehensive sexuality education that extends beyond one class, access to health care without a parent/guardian at the age of consent, and decriminalizing abortion.

As one commenter said, “Until our society stops shaming and ostracising women who become pregnant out of wedlock and [stops] treating CHILDREN who are raped who end up pregnant like they are lepers, none of this matters. Until we start holding the men who rape and impregnate CHILDREN [accountable], none of it matters. Until we give girls and women who become pregnant the ability to make safe choices without condemnation and humiliation and fear of lack, they will continue to make unsafe choices including not putting a baby in a […] box, on an island where NOTHING is sacred or secret.”

‘Homelessness on rise’ warns activist Gibson

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

HOMELESSNESS and evictions are on the rise across

The Bahamas, according to Families of All Murdered Victims (FOAM) president Khandi Gibson, who said more people are struggling to survive as they have yet to recover from the impact of COVID-19. Her comment comes after the Department of Social Services linked the rising need for shelter assistance

to landlords suddenly raising rent on tenants who then struggle to pay.

Ms Gibson said she now receives an average of ten messages a day from people, both men and women, seeking help with food, shelter, and other basic needs. She said many of those reaching out are employed but still cannot afford rent or groceries.

Among the messages she received was one from a father of two who said he and his children have been living in a car for the past three months. He said he works

full time earning $260 a week and had managed to save $500 toward a new home but needed $500 more to move in.

“I don’t want to turn to the streets,” he wrote. “I turned to a church, I throw tithes in, I called my MP, nobody wants to assist and I do work and I’m trying my best. It’s hard.”

Another message came from a mother of three who said she had sent her children to school without lunch, snacks, or money because she had no food left. “Please, anything can do,” she wrote. “I just don’t want them going to

bed hungry.”

A 17-year-old single mother also reached out, explaining that she was staying in an Airbnb with her four-month-old baby, paying $70 a day. Another woman pleaded for help to pay for a room at Smith’s Hotel and to buy formula, diapers, and food for her children.

Ms Gibson said these stories have become far too common, adding: “People have not bounced back from COVID-19. Homelessness is on the rise; persons being evicted is on the rise. You

have landlords with rent being high, and some places are not accepting children. Bahamians are very fertile. They have more than two children, and that’s another issue,” she said. She added that the hardship affects both men and women.

“We have fathers out there who want to do better, who don’t want to resort to a life of crime or go back to a life of crime, and they’re coming up in hardship as well,” she said. Ms Gibson said she often prioritises cases involving children.

While some people have

made poor fnancial decisions, Ms Gibson believes most simply do not earn enough to survive. “They are employed, but they just ain’t making enough,” she said. “At the end of the day, we are supposed to be our brother’s keeper, and we got to help out in each way because as you can see, suicide is on the rise. What I can take, you can’t take, and a lot of people don’t have family support.”

“This is not natural. This is not common and so I am begging all of us to try reach out or just help.”

THE GIFT OF VISION

SpaceX and US partners help with Bahamas evacuations

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

SPACEX has joined forces with US and Bahamian partners to help evacuate more than 1,400 residents from the Southeast Bahamas as Hurricane Melissa bears down on the region.

Flights yesterday carried evacuees from Inagua, Mayaguana, Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Cay, and Ragged Island to New Providence.

US Chargé d’Affaires

Kimberly Furnish said the United States stands with The

Bahamas “every day” but especially in times of crisis. She credited SpaceX, the Love and Light Foundation, and other US partners for their swift cooperation.

Matt Wideman, founder of the Love and Light Foundation and CEO of the Wideman Company, said Mrs Furnish contacted him to coordinate aircraft logistics for the evacuations. His foundation, which assisted The Bahamas during Hurricane Dorian in 2019, partnered with SpaceX, Christian airline Judah 1, the Bahamian government, and

the US Embassy to move residents out of harm’s way.

He said each group contributed fnancially. SpaceX initially offered a plane for logistics, but his team later secured a 150-seat MD-83 aircraft fuelled in Miami through Judah 1. He said the government also used its own aircraft to transport evacuees.

Mr Wideman praised the government’s speed in mobilising resources, saying it demonstrated a clear commitment to protecting lives.

Judah 1 founder and president Everett Aaron confrmed the airline provided three

aircraft with four fights for Bahamian residents. The nonproft, which typically transports missionaries for disaster relief, partnered with the government to share operational costs. Mr Aaron said Judah 1 also worked with Bahamian authorities during Hurricane Dorian.

As of press time, Hurricane Melissa had weakened from Category 5 to Category 4 after slamming western Jamaica with catastrophic winds, rain, and storm surge. The system, among the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record, caused widespread damage to homes,

schools, and hospitals, leaving at least seven people dead — three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic. Mr Wideman said his team is preparing post-storm relief for Jamaica, with two planes scheduled to deliver Starlink units and other power supplies once conditions improve.

SpaceX vice president of launch Kiko Dontchev said the company will provide 30 days of free Starlink service for all users in The Bahamas and Jamaica, allowing uninterrupted communication in storm-affected areas. The

Disaster Risk Management Authority will distribute the kits locally.

“We have a really strong relationship with The Bahamas,” said Mr Dontchev. “We view them as partners and as friends.”

SpaceX is also partially funding the evacuation fights.

The company’s partnership with The Bahamas began earlier this year when the government signed a landmark agreement allowing Falcon 9 rocket boosters to land on a drone ship off the Exumas — the frst arrangement of its kind outside US waters.

EVACUEES ARRIVE IN NEW PROVIDENCE