Bahamas News
Wife of Bahamas’ Majority Rule Prime Minister demands apology from the PLP
By Sherrica Thompson
Staff Writer
#TheBahamas, January 15, 2023 – Dame Marguerite Pindling, the wife of the first Prime Minister of The Bahamas, the late Sir Lynden Oscar Pindling, on Tuesday, January 10, demanded an apology from the Minister of Public Service and National Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Fred Mitchell, for forgetting to acknowledge her in the protocols of a wreath-laying ceremony held in honour of her late husband.
During her remarks, Dame Pindling ruffled feathers but demonstrated stern finesse when she criticised the PLP government for making the Majority Rule Day celebrations too political. She accused the party of using the holiday as a ‘stepping stone’ rather than a celebration of her late husband’s remarkable achievement and legacy.
“I come here today in respect of the work that my husband has done along with his other fellow workers in this country… and I do not want anyone to use this to pay him cheap because I will not stand for it,” she said as a matter-
of-factly.
She also noted that Majority Rule Day was only possible with Sir Lynden Pindling, who negotiated masterfully when the black-led PLP and white-led party UBP were tied for seats after the general election.
“There was a man called Lyden Pindling who walked, talked, didn’t know a thing about South Andros until I had to go and tell the people that he coming to run against Cyril Stevenson, cause if we hadn’t put Pindling there, Stevenson would have won,” Dame Pindling explained.
Though the former governor-general’s demand went viral, captivating the interest of the nation as it was a surprise to many, she never got an apology from Mr. Mitchell.
Majority Rule Day is one of the most critical events in the history of the country as it commemorates the day The Bahamas saw its black majority represented more equitably in the House of Assembly. The dramatic shift happened in 1967 and was the demise of the United Bahamian Party, a white led group of aristocrat Bahamians who until this event, had ruled parliament and the country with an uneven hand.
The day ushered in, what many said was a level playing field and greater fair play for Bahamians of all races, particularly those of African descent.
The comments of Dame Maguerite, also a former Governor General of The Bahamas has led to robust dialogue on how the day ought to be commemorated.
The wreath-laying at her husband’s gravesite, where she expressed her disappointment and demanded an apology was a PLP function.
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This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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