NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – Opposition Leader Michael Pintard has retained the leadership of the main opposition Free National Movement (FNM), convincingly defeating former prime minister Dr. Hubert Minnis, who had made a challenge to regain the position.
Pintard secured 486 votes to 163 for Minnis, who has also denied reports that he intended to resign as a parliamentarian following his defeat.
FNM Chairman Dr. Duane Sands, who was re-elected to the post, said, “I believe that FNMs have spoken very loudly.
“They have reaffirmed Michael Pintard by a resounding margin, an overwhelming margin. And so, we’ve got the mandate. We heard the voice of our people, and so, now we go on to the general election,” he added.
Pintard told supporters he would change the status quo and reverse some policies of the Davis administration. He described the current government as one of excessive spending with little transparency and accountability.
“There is one law for the PLP (Progressive Liberal Party) and a different law for everyone else,” he told supporters, adding, “We are different from them.
Pintard promised to “continue to be even more resolute in my commitment to serving the Bahamian people and keeping the Progressive Liberal Party government accountable.
He said that if he is elected prime minister in the next general election, his administration would pursue a comprehensive land reform policy and eliminate “outside toilets” in the country.
“If you are a landlord, there should be a minimum standard for collecting rent on rental properties.
“We will reduce the regulations that would tie businesses down in this country. There’s no reason to get approval for a business startup in Grand Bahama and still have to come to Nassau and get approval from the Cabinet of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.”
Meanwhile, Minnis has “acknowledged the results of the Free National Movement Convention held on Saturday, June 1st, 2024.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Michael C Pintard on his victory and wish him well. I would also like to congratulate all of the other successful candidates today, wishing each of you the best,” he said.
“As I committed during my campaign, I intend to continue to support the Free National Movement, and to this end, let me clarify that there is no truth that I intend to resign as the Member of Parliament for Killarney. I will continue to serve as their representative in the House of Assembly,” said Minnis, who served as prime minister from 2017-2021.
He succeeded Hubert Ingraham as party leader following the party’s defeat in 2012.
In his statement, Minnis said he was “deeply grateful for your trust and support. I would also like to thank my entire campaign team for all of your hard work, countless hours of sacrifice, and unwavering commitment; I truly appreciate every one of you.” he continued.
“…I remain optimistic about what the future holds, and I plan to continue to be even more resolute in my commitment to serving the Bahamian people and keeping the Progressive Liberal Party Government accountable,” he added.
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