FREE National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright has accused the Davis administration of failing to meet basic obligations, arguing missed payments underscored a broader pattern of mismanagement that “cannot be trusted to run the country.”

Mr Cartwright pointed to three flashpoints: the lockout of a Ministry of Works office in Abaco after prolonged rent arrears; delayed payments to National Health Insurance (NHI) providers; and what he called unacceptable conditions for public officers working in buildings under renovation.

The criticism follows The Tribune’s reporting that the Abaco office — rented space at Abaco Central Plaza used by Ministry of Works staff — was shut after more than a year without rent being paid, with the Pinder family owed more than $150,000 in rent and renovation costs. A meeting between the owners and Works officials was held after the closure, with assurances that payments would be made.

Minister of Works Clay Sweeting has said the controversy over a lease arrangement in Abaco should never have happened, noting that the Ministry of Finance had issued clear instructions to financial officers that were not followed, causing delayed payment to the landlord. He said the matter has been referred for administrative review on the basis of insubordination to a government directive.

Separately, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville confirmed to The Tribune earlier this week that key NHI providers were still awaiting payment for services provided during the first two months of the 2025–2026 fiscal year. Bahamas Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson has also claimed some school repair contractors remain unpaid, though she has not provided substantial evidence for the assertion.

Mr Cartwright framed the issues as evidence of a government that treats ordinary people differently from those with access and influence. He said there had been “three failures” in one week, arguing they point to a larger truth that “the PLP is creating two countries.” He added: “The irony is that the same government that delays rent, stalls payments, and ignores safety finds room for private jets, inflated travel budgets, and glossy PR campaigns.”

“I am asking a simple question on behalf of every Bahamian who pays a light bill, a rent, and a grocery tab on time,” he said. “How can this government be trusted to run the country when it will not meet its own obligations to landlords, health providers, or public servants?”

“Trust is not a slogan; it is proven by actions. It means paying what you owe, protecting the people who serve, and being honest about the state of our country’s finances.”

“After four years, it’s time Bahamians ask themselves: if a government cannot govern itself, how can it be trusted to govern a nation?”