EDITOR, The Tribune.

TWO weeks prior, the FNM and the nation at large witnessed two individuals whom I hold in high regard step up to vie for the position of leading our party into the upcoming general election. The former Prime Minister, Dr Hubert Minnis, whom I greatly admire, officially announced his intention to seek another term. Michael Pintard, who succeeded Dr Minnis, as leader, has also made it known that he is seeking re-election. Dr Minnis, as leader, has also made it known that he is seeking re-election. Dr Minnis, as I have been informed, advised his supporters not to attend the nomination day to avoid potential heated debates on Mackey Street between Pintard supporters, which could lead to negative media coverage and unjust blame placed on him.

There is a narrative being pushed by Pintard and his team, claiming that Michael Clifton Pintard “is a young man and he represents the next generation”. However, as a member for 40 years, I must say that this assertion is far from the truth. Pintard may have been considered young when he first ran as a candidate in 1997 at the age of 33, but the Pintard of 2024, who will be 60 years old, be classified as young. In reality, Pintard belongs to the baby boomer generation. Therefore, when individuals like former Deputy Prime Ministers Brent Symonette, Peter Turnquest, former cabinet ministers Darren Henfield, and Duane Sands, all esteemed members of the baby boomers club, claiming that Pintard is young and represent the youth, I am left puzzled.

The deliberate attempt to distance themselves from Minnis and fabricate false narratives indicates a lack of integrity and willingness to deceive not just the youth of our party but also an entire nation for personal gain, which is both disappointing and concerning. So, this view of making Dr Minnis sound old and should just go into the political sunset is not just laughable but a clear case of “the pot calling the kettle black” and since that is the case, then Mr Pintard and others should follow their request and allow members who are in their 40’s and below to take over this party and represent the very same people the wish to lead.

I can comprehend the reasoning behind their statement. This is because Dr Minnis has a proven history of actively seeking out fresh, young, talented, and ambitious individuals to work alongside him in various capacities such as the cabinet, senate, house of assembly, boards, and diplomatic posts. Unlike Ingraham, Minnis has made a commendable effort to include people from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that the parliament truly reflects the diversity of our nation. Previously, individuals from humble backgrounds had limited opportunities, which created the perception that the FNM only catered to the elite. Speaking of the elite, it is worth noting the prominent endorsements received by Pintard. It doesn’t take a college graduate to recognise the underlying dynamics at play here. It appears that Pintard has struck a deal, and if he succeeds in his bid, there will be a bill to repay.

Based on my understanding from reliable sources, Dr Minnis has outlined his plans to propel the FNM forward by recognising and considering younger individuals within the party who possess qualities such as patience, leader- ship, sound judgment, and a strong mind to take on prominent roles. It is encouraging to hear that Minnis intends to prioritise internal talent, with 70-80 percent of future standard bearers coming from within the party. This shift in approach could potentially revolutionise the candidate selection process, moving away from the traditional practice of seeking external candidates. I commend Minnis for his commitment to promoting deserving individuals from within the party ranks. While I welcome new members to join our party, I firmly believe that they should not bypass those who have proven themselves, as these individuals represent the core of our party.

I must also mention that I was impressed by Dr Minnis’ interview with Jerome Sawyer, where he candidly explained the rationale behind certain decisions, even if they were not popular, in the best interest of the Bahamian people. His willingness to acknowledge mistakes and strive for improvement demonstrates his humility and dedication to serving the nation. It is important to remember that he is only human, and we should not hold him to unrealistic standards. Therefore, I urge the editor and fellow FNMs to recognise that Pintard belongs to the baby boomer generation, not the millennial generation. It appears that Pintard’s actions indicate a return to the old guard occupying key decision-making positions, potentially sidelining deserving individuals.

MACKEY FIRE

Nassau,

May 12, 2024.