By LEANDRA ROLLE 

Tribune Chief Reporter 

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

AN aspirant for the Progressive Liberal Party’s nomination in Central and South Abaco raised eyebrows yesterday after boasting of branch support — even as the branch chairman throws his hat in the same ring.

The development unfolded after Acting Director of Local Government Donald Rolle confirmed to The Tribune that he intends to seek the nomination.

His decision to enter the race, he said, came after consultation with his family and a conversation with the newly elected PLP branch for Central and South Abaco.

He claimed he also has the backing of the branch, claiming a letter signed by President Bradley Fox Jr was sent to party officials on his behalf.

“It’s off to a great start,” he said. “I believe that this unity and support is needed for Abaco. I’m no stranger to Abaco. I lived, I’ve worked and continue to work closely with both public and private sectors in Abaco.”

Mr Rolle pointed to his experience as acting director, saying he has always ensured that local government continues to make progress throughout the country.

However, party insiders were reportedly caught off guard by the press release, especially since Mr Fox himself intends to enter the race and is said to be the frontrunner for the nomination.

The Tribune’s sources said Mr Fox has the backing of key party officials, who asked him to run.

It is also understood that Mr Fox wrote to party officials before Mr Rolle announced his candidacy acknowledging that many constituents supported the idea of Mr Rolle running.

However, insiders say the letter was not an endorsement and that Mr Fox had indicated he would support whichever candidate the party ultimately chooses.

Mr Fox did not respond to requests for comment when contacted by The Tribune yesterday.

Sources say the Abaco aspirants could be inter- viewed by the PLP’s Candidates Committee later this month.

Meantime, it remains unclear whether incumbent MP John Pinder will seek renomination amid criticism from some within his party about his performance.

He previously told The Tribune that he was undecided, citing ongoing discussions with his family.

The Free National Movement (FNM) has ratified Jeremy Sweeting as its candidate for Central and South Abaco.