By RICARDO WELLS

Tribune Staff Reporter

rwells@tribunemedia.net

DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Leader Branville McCartney says his party exists as a “chance” for Bahamians to “start over”, claiming that consecutive governments have neglected and disrespected the needs and demands of voters.

Taking the stage to deliver the closing address of the opening night of the party’s inaugural convention, Mr McCartney told the crowd of supporters in attendance at the Super Club Breezes resort, that the Bahamian electorate now finds itself in a “particularly unique situation,” declaring that the DNA offers “the opportunity of a lifetime.”

“Act now,” urged the former Bamboo Town MP.

Mr McCartney insisted that the DNA has not abandoned its mission to offer true representation to the people of this country. He proclaimed since its inception, the DNA has grown by “leaps and bounds” and now stands ready to reduce the challenges that face the country.

“That’s 260 weeks, 1825 days and 43,800 hours to be exact. During that time The Bahamas watched as the idea that everyone knew to be our only hope unfolded, grew and developed and changed the political landscape of our country forever.”

“When critics counted us out, we worked harder, and we have continued to work to keep the government’s feet to the fire and to hold them accountable to their many election promises, even in the face of criticism.”

He continued: “This, I firmly believe, is an indicator of the kind of governance you can expect from the DNA. Governance that is in touch with the needs of its people and a government that listens to the voice of the people and representation that is not only transparent but also reflects the will of the electorate.”

Recalling high-points of his brief political career, Mr McCartney  said he entered frontline politics because he wanted to make a real difference in the lives of Bahamians.

He said as the junior minister of immigration in the last Free National Movement Cabinet, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work, bringing passion, energy and determination to the post.

Mr McCartney said he had to learn very quickly that he could make no difference without a team of people who supported his vision for a better Bahamas.

“There is something about being in a position of leadership which makes you very aware of how limited you are as an individual,” he said.

Mr McCartney added: “I understand now, as I did then, that it takes the inclusion and participation of others – their ideas, their support, and yes  - even their criticisms – that allows for real and substantive impact to be made in any arena, be it the family, in business, or in politics; and while I may have been chosen to lead this organization, I am but a cog in the wheel that moves the party forward.”

“The DNA has, and will always be bigger than any one man. Whatever successes the DNA has achieved, has been the direct result of the time and effort put in by our executive team, our candidates, DNA members, and our supporters and for that I say ‘thank you’.”

Moreover, the DNA leader said the 2012 election campaign taught him many tough and valuable lessons.

Mr McCartney state that he personally had to learned that they must be brave, compassionate, patient and dedicated.

“I had to be willing to work and work hard. To constantly advocate for the rights of Bahamians, to be the kind of leader that Bahamians can be proud of. I am reminded of those lessons tonight and I will continue to learn from the electorate and adapt to the needs of our ever changing country.”

To that end, Mr McCartney said he has gathered a team of candidates and officers capable of moving the Bahamas into 21st century nationhood.

“Through the Democratic National Alliance we have a collective opportunity to stop the clock and hit the reset button on our country’s governance, but we must act now. If you have ever felt powerless this is your moment to reclaim your authority. To demand once and for all that your voice as a voter is not only heard, but respected.”

Day one of the party’s two-day convention featured addresses by several candidates and party officers.

In addition to Mr McCartney, all of the party’s leadership team was successfully returned to office without challenge.

The party is expected to continue its candidates roll-out over the next month.