By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net 

KENO Wong, former chairman of the National Neighbourhood Watch Council, confirmed yesterday he is seeking the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) nomination for St Anne’s, a constituency long considered a Free National Movement (FNM) stronghold.

Mr Wong, 51, who has lived in the area since 2004, cited his deep roots and love for the community as motivation to enter frontline politics. He said his time there has given him a clear understanding of its needs, challenges, and opportunities.

He acknowledged the constituency’s decades-long loyalty to the FNM but said he believes it is time for change and fresh leadership.

“For 50 years plus, St Anne’s (Montague) has remained steadfast in its voting pattern, but I believe it’s time for new leadership and new focus for all,” he told The Tribune. “As your potential representative, I, Keno Wong, promise to be a servant leader, listening to your concerns, and working tirelessly to address the needs of our community.”

If chosen as the party’s standard bearer, Mr Wong said he plans to focus on neighbourhood development, youth outreach, fostering healthy initiatives, enhancing educational opportunities, and providing more support to senior citizens.

He added: “Guided by my faith with God and driven by my passion for public service, I aim to break the status quo and bring fresh perspectives to Parliament. Let’s break the 50 year plus hold and forge a new path forward, together.”

Since expressing interest in St Anne’s, Mr Wong said he’s frequently asked why he’s targeting the FNM stronghold, but noted that he welcomes the challenge.

He recalled that when he joined the council, the body lacked by-laws and a constitution, but he helped address this and secured membership in the affiliated US Neighbourhood Watch Programme.

Mr Wong, a businessman and founding member of the council, has been outspoken in the fight against crime, at times criticising the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF).

In January 2024, he publicly complained about the deteriorating relationship between the council and the RBPF under Clayton Fernander’s leadership, blaming it for increased crime in several communities.

The strain has since been resolved.

If selected, Mr Wong will face Adrian White, who was recently renominated as the FNM’s candidate for the constituency.