FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday criticised the Christie administration for its “incompetence” and “blatant disregard” for residents of the southern and central Bahamas, many of whom were caught off guard on Thursday by the ferocity of Hurricane Joaquin.

Dr Minnis said the “poor management” from government agencies who are mandated to ensure that the country was prepared for the fierce storm was not acceptable.

Joaquin strengthened into a category four hurricane yesterday and pounded the central and southern Bahamas.

There were reports of heavy flooding and storm surges entering homes on the island of Acklins in particular, with some claiming that emergency shelters on the island were not open yesterday.

“Unfortunately, we have again witnessed the incompetence and blatant disregard for the people of the southern and central islands of our country,” Dr Minnis said in a statement last night. “The apparent poor management of various agencies to ensure they were properly prepared is unacceptable and can’t be brushed off as another ‘teachable moment’ for our nation,” Dr Minnis said.

He was referring to an earlier statement from Prime Minister Perry Christie about the storm.

“A teachable moment for the prime minister equals a loss of property and potential life to many residents,” Dr Minnis said.

“The constant smile seen on Mr Christie’s face today (at a news conference) showed a lack of empathy on the part of the prime minister. This is no joking matter, Mr Christie. My fellow Bahamians are under siege and, therefore, this disaster cannot be taken lightly.

“We call on the prime minister to be fully prepared with all necessary agencies to provide relief supplies as soon as humanly possible. We demand on behalf of the Bahamian people no more PR stunts, as seen today, just clear communication and immediate action.”