Wednesday, February 24, 2010

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Letters | Opinion | Editorial | Weekend Report
Interesting scenario to Bahamian politics There is an interesting scenario in today's Bahamian politics. The leaders of the two major political parties, the governing Free National Movement and the official Opposition Progressive Liberal Party, have set themselves up as demigods within their respective ranks. On the one hand it appeared that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham pushed his weight around during the most recent FNM convention, creating a most uncomfortable and some might say intimidating situation for some election hopefuls. Then, there was Perry Christie (with the PLP convention approaching), who made it clear that those opposing his leadership would have to be aware of the consequences. It sounded as though he was threatening anyone who would challenge his leadership, even though done democratically. So, the culture is well in place. Challenge the leadership at your own risk. Few want to speak to this aspect of our political environment, but we feel duty bound now to do so. Challenges of the respectful kind breed democracy. Would any of the FNM parliamentarians or Cabinet ministers dare to tell Prime Minister Ingraham that he was out of order for speaking so arrogantly when a reporter pointed out that he and the director of immigration were not on the same page regarding the proposed detention center for illegal immigrants in Inagua? "My name is Hubert Alexander Ingraham and I'm the prime minister," he roared. Did he think for one moment that the reporter had forgotten his political status? Does he not know that Director of Immigration Jack Thompson understands quite well who he (Ingraham) is? The prime minister embarrassed a hard-working and dedicated civil servant. He made the immigration chief look rather small and as if he was out of touch. Did the director of immigration give out false information on such a highly sensitive matter? Or, was he indeed so directed and was not advised that there would be back tracking? And, what's with the over emphasis on the FNM and PLP leaders during the Elizabeth constituency by-election campaign? The posters of the leaders are upstaging those of the candidates, Dr. Duane Sands (FNM) and Ryan Pinder (PLP). Those in the political fraternity must change the tide. They must bring about a shift from this great focus at all times on Hubert Ingraham and Perry Christie. Do the others have nothing to offer? That remains to be seen. Tuesday January 26, 2010