BY KEVA LIGHTBOURNE
GUARDIAN STAFF REPORTER
College of The Bahamas lecturer Zendal Forbes has indicated his intention to oppose Tommy Turnquest for the leadership of the Free National Movement.
Mr. Forbes, an educator for 19 years, made the disclosure Tuesday at a press conference held at the Bahamas Tourism Training Centre.
Election for party officers will be held during the national convention, scheduled for May 7-9.
He said while the year 2002 was seen by many as the year of the great disappointment for the FNM, he saw it as the year of rebirth.
"Like an overgrown forest in need of pruning and clearing, the electoral fires of 2002 has provided the party with an opportunity for regeneration, and opportunity to expose its thick, diverse undergrowth that was at risk of being smothered," said Mr Forbes.
He said with just the right husbandry, the party is destined to take the Bahamian people to unknown heights.
He said the success of the party depends on bold, visionary leadership that could chart a new progressive course convince the Bahamian people that the FNM represents their best hope for the future.
Mr. Forbes said while he has not been involved in front-line politics or held any political office, he has prepared himself to serve the people.
"I don't think it is a matter of holding position. I have started on this road a very long time ago. Back in 1992, if you would recall, at the tender age of 30, I resigned my job to seek political office. I have had an interest in public affairs, the direction that this country is going from 1992 and that has continued throughout the years."
Mr Forbes said he is prepared intellectually and professionally to make the challenges that the office will hold.
He said he has a lot to offer and is prepared to regroup, reflect, rejuvenate, and reposition strategies in the FNM.
"I am going to win," he said confidently.
"When I based my decision on whether I am going to run, it was not based on the present leadership of the party. It is whether or not I think I have something to offer. In terms of the leadership of the party I am going to leave that for the delegates and the Bahamians in general to make their opinion. I have my opinion, but I'd rather like to keep that private," he said.
Also being considered as a contender for leader is Montagu MP Brent Symonette, who told the Guardian on Monday that he "will be making a decision in short order."
Former FNM Senator, Sidney Collie, has announced his intention to run for the party's deputy leadership position.
Caption:College of The Bahamas Lecturer, Zendal Forbes announcing Tuesday his intention to seek the post of leader of the Free National Movement. Staff Photo by Donald Knowles
Posted Wednesday April 2,2003
