EDITOR, The Tribune.

In an unprecedented display of unity and determination, the resilient people of North Andros gathered today for a peaceful protest in front of the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) main office, voicing their frustration and suffering caused by persistent power outages that have plagued their lives since the tragic burning down of the critical Bahamas Power and Light Powerhouse. Led by the passionate advocate, Lisa Sweeting, the protestors rallied under the banner of “Enough is Enough,” demanding immediate action and resolution to the ongoing power crisis that has exacerbated their already challenging circumstances.

The atmosphere was charged with emotion as North Androsians from all walks of life, including members of the police force, grocery and convenience store owners, other government workers, and concerned citizens, came together to raise their voices and stand up for their rights as citizens. With cries of “Enough is Enough” echoing through the air, the protestors painted a vivid picture of the neglect they feel they have been subjected to.

Lisa Sweeting, a prominent figure in the community and the driving force behind the protest, expressed her frustration in an interview, stating, “The power outages are severely affecting my business. Not all business owners have generators, and this, in turn, is affecting my freezer items like meats, eggs, and much more.” She went on to emphasize that the power instability was not only damaging to her livelihood but also to the entire community’s ability to access basic necessities.

Former Member of Parliament for North Andros and The Berry Islands Carlton Bowleg, in an interview, stressed the importance of transparency and communication. “We as North Androsians need to know what is happening. If we are kept informed, the frustration would not be as overbearing as it is right now,” he stated. He revealed that he, too, had suffered losses as a business owner due to the frequent power outages, including surge protectors and perishable goods.

The protest is not only a cry for immediate relief from the debilitating power outages but also a call for long-term solutions. It was highlighted that the generators provided by BPL as a temporary measure have failed to alleviate the crisis, with power outages becoming more frequent than ever before. The people of North Andros are united in their demand for a sustainable solution, urging BPL to invest in a full power plant in the region.

The tragic incident that led to the burning down of the Bahamas Power and Light Powerhouse resulted in the island’s loss of a power plant, leaving the community dependent on unreliable generators. The protesters assert that the full detrimental effects of these recurring outages on their lives, businesses, and overall well-being are not being fully considered by BPL.

As the protest unfolded, impassioned speeches and fervent chants resonated through the air, encapsulating the frustrations, hopes, and determination of the North Androsian people. The protest serves as a vivid testament to the community’s resilience and unity, as even those unable to attend the demonstration physically lent their support through social media platforms, embodying the spirit of “One People United in Love and Service.”

The future of North Andros hangs in the balance as the islanders’ voices rise in unison, urging those in power to take swift action and deliver meaningful change. The North Androsian community has spoken, and their plea is clear: it is time for the Bahamas Power and Light Company to recognize the urgency of their situation and work together to restore dignity, stability, and a brighter future to this resilient island community.

Isaac Barr

Andros.

August 9, 2023