BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT - The FNM party in Grand Bahama congratulated the PLP on its victory and wished the new government the best as it moves forward to govern the country.

"The people of the Bahamas spoke loud and clear as to who they wish to govern them for the next five years; they chose the PLP headed by Perry Christie...and we accept their choice," said Neko Grant.

Mr Grant was elected as the FNM representative for Central Grand Bahama. Also joining him in Parliament as the representative for East Grand Bahama is Peter Turnquest.

A press conference was held at FNM headquarters on Tuesday. Defeated candidates Pakesia Parker-Edgecombe and Norris Bain were present, however, Kwasi Thompson, former MP for Pineridge, did not attend.

The party expressed thanks to its many supporters on Grand Bahama.

Mr Grant said that Hubert Ingraham, who has resigned as party leader, has worked hard on behalf of the Bahamian people. He said that on May 23, when Parliament resumes, he and Mr Turnquest will do their best to represent the people of Grand Bahama.

"We are preparing ourselves for the journey and giving GB the representation it deserves," he said.

Mr Bain thanked his supporters in Marco City and Mr Ingraham for the opportunity.

"It has been great. I was privileged to have been invited in so many homes in Marco City. I am a tough guy who is accustomed to wins and losses. The people have spoken clear and I accept it.

"I am disappointed, but I will take a couple of days to refresh and regroup," said Mr Bain, who said he will decide in the next couple day of whether he will remain in politics.

Pakesia Parker Edgecombe said the FNM party will recover.

"Prior to leaving my job before coming into the political arena, there were many options I could have taken. The option of following Hubert Ingraham was the one I chose, simply because of the fact I believed in his leadership and FNM party.

"I still believe in the FNM party and know that we will rebound from this. We will regroup and do what we have to do to make sure the FNM remains a strong party in the Bahamas."

Mrs Edgecombe has pledged to continue to serve her community.

She said that the votes received by the DNA did in fact hurt the FNM.

"The numbers are indicating that DNA did have an impact. The outcome is what it is and were very proud of what we were able to do and will continue work towards regaining the government," she said.

Peter Turnquest thanked the people of EGB. "We have a lot of work to do and we are committed to providing good representation and ensuring that the government meets the commitment it laid out in their plan," he said.