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Free National Movement Announces First Round of Ratified Candidates for Upcoming General Elections

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9 months ago

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The Bahamas, June 28, 2025 – The Free National Movement (FNM) this week announced its first round of 17 ratified candidates who will represent the party in the next General Election, reaffirming its commitment to proven leadership, integrity, and service to the Bahamian people. Together, the team represents the future of The Bahamas, united in their readiness to restore trust and transparency in government.

“The Bahamian people are tired of recycled promises and political pageantry. They deserve leadership that’s grounded in truth, driven by purpose, and ready to act. This is our first wave of candidates. These are the standard-bearers of the Free National Movement. They are community-rooted, credible, committed, and reflect the spirit and strength of the Bahamian people.”

“Together, they represent the next chapter of bold, people-centered leadership in The Bahamas.”

The first round of ratified FNM Candidates includes:

  • Adrian R. White – St. Annes

Adrian White is an accomplished attorney and sitting Member of Parliament with a track record of principled leadership and legislative action. As Shadow Minister for Legal Affairs, Works, and Family Island Affairs, he has championed transparency, environmental safeguards, and better planning systems. A 14th-generation Bahamian and lifelong FNM member, Adrian is committed to restoring integrity in government and improving life for every Bahamian.

  • Arinthia S. Komolafe – Carmichael

Arinthia Komolafe is a seasoned attorney, Chartered Banker, and former Managing Director of the Bahamas Development Bank, where she led groundbreaking reforms to modernize public finance. With a career spanning law, economic development, and global representation, she brings bold, visionary leadership to the national stage. Committed to empowering women, youth, and small businesses, Arinthia is running to deliver real opportunity and inclusive growth for all Bahamians.

  • Brian Brown – Golden Isles

Brian Brown is a longtime community leader, mentor, and public servant with over 30 years of experience in youth development and the insurance industry. As the founder of Camp Golden Isles and a recipient of the British Empire Medal, he has been a tireless advocate for families and young people. As a trusted FNM leader in Golden Isles, Brian is running to deliver steady, accountable representation and real results for his community.

  • Carlton Bowleg – North Andros and The Berry Islands

Carlton Bowleg is a veteran public servant and community leader with over 20 years of experience in government, business, and youth advocacy. As the sitting MP and former Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and Marine Resources, he has championed Family Island development and educational support. Deeply rooted in North Andros, Carlton is running to continue delivering real results with honest, hardworking leadership.

  • Darren Henfield – South Beach

Darren Henfield is a former Cabinet Minister, Defence Force officer, and seasoned attorney who brings decades of experience in national security, foreign affairs, and public service. Now serving as Leader of Opposition Business in the Senate, he has represented The Bahamas on the world stage and helped lead critical reforms at home. With steady, principled leadership, Darren is committed to serving with strength, integrity, and purpose in these defining times.

  • Debra Moxey-Rolle – The Exumas & Ragged Island

A lifelong servant of Exuma, Debra Moxey-Rolle brings over 30 years of leadership in local government, banking, and community development. As a former Family Island Administrator for Exuma, Ragged Island, and Mayaguana, she has delivered real results from new infrastructure to expanded economic opportunity. A proud FNM member and community advocate, she’s running to build a stronger, more united Exuma for the next generation.

  • Elsworth N. Johnson – Yammacraw

Elsworth Johnson is a former Cabinet Minister, Bar Association President, and police officer with decades of experience in law, public service, and national advocacy. Known for his work defending workers’ rights and expanding access to justice, he has helped shape major reforms with integrity and impact. Elsworth is running to restore trust in government and lead with courage, fairness, and service to the Bahamian people.

  • Kwasi Thompson – East Grand Bahama

Kwasi Thompson is a seasoned lawmaker, former Cabinet Minister, and current MP for East Grand Bahama with over 20 years of public service. From digital transformation to hurricane recovery and small business growth, he has delivered real results that impact lives. With a strong legal foundation and a deep commitment to fiscal responsibility, Kwasi is running to secure a stronger economic future for Grand Bahama and The Bahamas.

  • Dr. Jacqueline Penn-Knowles – Marathon

Dr. Jaqueline Penn-Knowles is a respected physician and healthcare pioneer with over 30 years of experience serving Bahamian families. As a leader in women’s health and fertility care, she has broken barriers in medicine and expanded access to critical services. Her record reflects the FNM’s commitment to people-first leadership and real solutions for better healthcare.

  • Jeremy Sweeting – Central & South Abaco

Born and raised in Man-O-War Cay, Abaco, Jeremy Sweeting has dedicated nearly 20 years to public service as Chief Councillor of the Hope Town District. A committed community advocate and proud family man, he brings proven grassroots leadership, deep faith, and a passion for serving the Bahamian people.

  • Marvin Dames – Mt. Moriah

Marvin Dames is a seasoned public servant with more than two decades of leadership in law enforcement and national security. A former Deputy Commissioner of Police and recipient of the Queen’s Police Medal, he brings unmatched experience in public safety, international policing, and crisis management. Dames has also served as Vice President of Security at Baha Mar and as Minister of National Security, where he championed reforms to modernize and professionalize The Bahamas’ security forces. With academic credentials from The Ohio State University, University of Leicester, and leadership programs at Yale and the University of Chicago, Dames is equipped to deliver strong, results-driven leadership for the Bahamian people.

  • Michael A. Foulkes – Golden Gates

Michael A. Foulkes is a former Member of Parliament, legal and financial professional, and public servant with more than 20 years of experience in law, policy, and economic development. As Chairman of the BAIC, he led national upgrades with a focus on transparency and community benefit. Michael is running to expand opportunity, empower youth, and bring principled leadership back to public service.

  • Dr. Nicholas Fox – Fox Hill

Dr. Nicholas Fox is a veteran medical professional, cancer survivor, and co-owner of The Medi-Center Group Clinics. With decades of service in healthcare and deep roots in the Fox Hill community, he brings a strong record of compassion, resilience, and public advocacy. As a candidate for the Free National Movement, Dr. Fox is committed to delivering better healthcare access and stronger community support for all Bahamians.

  • Omar A. Isaacs – West Grand Bahama & Bimini

Omar A. Isaacs is a public servant, entrepreneur, and policy professional with deep roots in West Grand Bahama and Bimini and a vision for sustainable, community-driven growth. With experience at the Ministry of Tourism, Bahamas Investment Authority, and the Office of the Prime Minister, he has helped modernize investment processes and empower local businesses. A proud FNM legacy-bearer, Omar is running to deliver forward-looking leadership that creates real opportunities for families and the next generation of leaders.

  • Philippa Kelly – Central & South Eleuthera

Philippa Kelly is a civic leader, business manager, and former Local Government Chairperson with over 15 years of experience serving the people of Eleuthera. From hospitality to development, she has championed local growth, empowered youth, and earned the trust of her community. Philippa is running to bring strong, compassionate leadership and real results to Central and South Eleuthera.

  • Rickey Mackey – North Eleuthera

A lifelong resident of Harbour Island, Rickey Mackey has built a strong record of community service, serving as a District Council Member, Justice of the Peace, and Chair of key local committees including the Licensing Authority, Junkanoo, and North Eleuthera Regatta. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to culture, governance, and public trust.

  • Terrece Bootle – North Abaco

Terrece Bootle is an educator, an award-winning public servant, and the first woman from Abaco appointed as a Family Island Administrator, with decades of experience across local governance and national recovery. From leading classrooms to coordinating hurricane response in North Abaco, San Salvador, and Long Island, she has earned a reputation for resilience, service, and results. Terrece is running to bring strong, informed, and compassionate leadership home to North Abaco.

“This unveiling marks the beginning of a national campaign focused on the real issues affecting Bahamian families, including rising costs and inflation, youth unemployment, stalled healthcare and housing systems, threats to public safety, economic exclusion, and the erosion of public trust and accountability.”

“The FNM is inviting Bahamians to build and believe – to join a movement grounded in courage, competence and a commitment to deliver real progress, not empty promises.”

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Bahamas News

Bahamas Warns Travellers as UN says Middle East Conflict May No Longer Be Contained

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2 weeks ago

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March 18, 2026

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The Bahamas, March 18, 2026 – Twenty days into the latest Middle East escalation, the United Nations is warning the conflict is spreading beyond its original battlefield, as the death toll rises and governments around the world issue urgent travel advisories — including The Bahamas.

In a March 17 statement, the UN Secretary-General’s office said the war must stop and called for all Security Council resolutions to be respected, noting with concern that countries in the Gulf continue to be targeted, raising fears of a wider regional confrontation.

The current round of fighting began February 28 with strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iranian-linked forces, followed by missile and drone attacks across Iraq, Lebanon and parts of the Gulf.

International monitors report more than 1,300 people killed in Iran alone, with additional casualties reported in Lebanon, Israel and Gulf states. U.S. officials confirm at least 13 American service members have died since the escalation began, while reports indicate additional senior Iranian military leaders were killed in recent strikes.

Despite the growing violence, several NATO countries including the United Kingdom, France and Germany have not joined offensive operations, instead calling for diplomacy to prevent the conflict from widening.

The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also issued a travel advisory, warning Bahamian nationals to avoid travel to Israel, Palestine, Iran and Lebanon and to reconsider travel across much of the Gulf region due to the risk of sudden escalation, flight disruptions and security threats.

Officials say Bahamians already in the region should remain vigilant and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.

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Bahamas News

The Bahamas Celebrates Andrew Young at 94 – A Legend Honoured with Love at Baha Mar Gala

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2 weeks ago

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March 18, 2026

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The Bahamas, March 18, 2026 – The Bahamas showed its deep affection for one of the world’s most respected civil rights leaders as Ambassador Andrew Jackson Young Jr. celebrated his 94th birthday in grand style at a gala held at the Eccho Art Gallery, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar on March 12, 2026.

The evening was filled with tributes, laughter and cultural pride, reflecting what many guests described as a genuine bond between Young and The Bahamas — a country he has long admired and visited often. Those in attendance said the celebration felt less like a formal event and more like a heartfelt tribute to a man whose life has helped shape modern history.

Prime Minister Philip Davis, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, Bahamas Ambassador to the United States Wendall Jones, and U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas Herschel Walker were among the dignitaries offering remarks, along with Andrew Young Foundation President Gaurav Kumar and other international guests.

The event was co-hosted by veteran broadcaster Karyn Greer of WSB-TV Channel 2 Action News and Bahamian journalist Dr. Deborah Bartlett, who both reflected on Young’s lifelong commitment to justice, diplomacy and public service.

Born in 1932, Andrew Young is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the American civil rights movement. He worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., served as a key leader in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and later became a U.S. Congressman, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations under President Jimmy Carter, and Mayor of Atlanta.

Over the decades, Young has been honoured by multiple U.S. presidents, including receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award, from President Bill Clinton. His diplomatic work, civil rights leadership and global humanitarian efforts have earned him recognition across the world.

Guests noted that even at 94, Young remains active, engaged and passionate about international cooperation and human rights, continuing to inspire new generations.

His wife, Carolyn McClain Young, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for what she called the warmth and love shown by the Bahamian people.

The celebration ended in true island fashion with a Junkanoo rush-out, bringing guests to their feet in a joyful close to an evening that blended history, culture and admiration.

For many in attendance, the message of the night was simple — Andrew Young loves The Bahamas, and The Bahamas loves him right back.

Developed by Deandrea Hamilton • with ChatGPT (AI) • edited by Magnetic Media.

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Bahamas News

Experts Analyze Economic Landscape; Opportunities and Challenges

Published

2 weeks ago

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March 14, 2026

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Nassau, THE BAHAMAS – From pressures on the independence of the US Federal Reserve and relations with China to the instability facing the global economic landscape and how it all impacts The Bahamas’ economy and prospects, Tuesday’s Central Banking Series hosted by University of The Bahamas (UB) in partnership with the Global Interdependence Center (GIC) peeled back the layers of the most critical factors impacting the world’s economic landscape.

At the one-day summit, top economic strategists, policymakers, academics, and economists gave frank and considered insights on the range of opportunities and challenges. In facilitating the high-level talks, UB’s Government and Public Policy Institute (GPPI) continues to provide the platform for evidence-based dialogue on public policy and reform.

“By convening world-class thinkers, policymakers, and practitioners here in Nassau, we affirm that The Bahamas is not solely a subject of global economic forces, but also a participant in the conversations that shape them,” said UB President Dr. Robert Blaine, III.

In his remarks, Minister of Economic Affairs Senator the Honourable Michael Halkitis acknowledged the ripple effects of financial shifts which put pressure on the Bahamian economy, yet he acknowledged that the economy is on the rise. He expressed confidence in the country’s readiness to adapt, citing a deep talent pool and expanding foreign and domestic investments.

“What makes this period particularly significant is the breadth of investment activity across sectors,” said Minister Halkitis, a UB alumnus. “Tourism development remains strong, but it is not the sole driver of growth. Investments are expanding into renewable energy, maritime services, digital infrastructure, agriculture, logistics and the blue and green economies.”

Economist and Former President and CEO of the Federal Reserve of Richmond, Dr. Jeffrey Lacker offered a sobering view on the independence of the US Federal Reserve, a topic that has attracted much national and international in the face of blistering pronouncements by US President Donald Trump.

Dr. Lacker said the Federal Reserve’s choice of monetary policy instrument and setting of the overnight interest rate that it controls should be “free of executive branch and congressional meddling.”

“And by meddling, what I mean is overtly expressed policy direction, opinions about where policies should go, expressed in a way that carries with it the implied threat of adverse consequences to either the individual or the institution, either in the form of legislative changes or some sort of political harassment,” he said.

“The value of insulating day-to-day, meeting-to-meeting monetary policy from pressure from elected officials with an eye on their next election is widely recognized. Neglecting that pressure, caving into that pressure is a road to short-termism, or short-term stimulus at the cost of inflation later on.”

Other pertinent conversations at the summit focused on digital initiatives for financial inclusion, monetary and fiscal policies and strategies in The Bahamas, and the impact of AI on macroeconomic conditions. There was also a special presentation on the history and value of gold. Students from Government High School were among the audience members gaining knowledge from experts.

“When we determined the theme for this year, being Challenges and Opportunities in a Dynamic Global Environment, we did not know what was going to evolve in recent times,” said GPPI Executive Director Zhivargo Laing, referring to the war that the US and Israel initiated against Iran. “So I would like to think that maybe there was a little bit of insight that was taking place during the course of our discussions. But we are here again for the third time with our partners at the GIC to entertain a deep discussion on just what are those challenges and opportunities in this very dynamic environment in which we find ourselves.”

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