Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

#TheBahamas, November 15, 2023 – Fred Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs is the Progressive Liberal Party’s newly re-elected National Chairman; he won over delegates during the November 9-10 convention of the governing party, securing 844 votes.

With the Prime Minister, the Honourable Philip Davis himself supporting him, Mitchell out-stomped his opponent Robyn Lynes in a close match which ended with Mitchell on top and Lynes, the former Deputy National Chairman, not too far behind with 630 party votes.

Marking the moment of victory for Mitchell, along with his supporters displayed great joy, nothing short of energetic.  The supporters cheered on his win in their bright PLP colors, shaking pom-poms and the continuous blowing of whistles while they shouted “one leader, one chairman.”

Additionally, the people had multiple posters with the new chairman’s photo printed on it.

Mitchell, in speaking on his victory, expressed that “it’s an affirmation” of his humanity, “given the nastiness of the campaign.”

He also gave thanks to Prime Minister Philip Davis, who made a public statement on his behalf.

“I’m pleased to be associated with someone who makes such a definitive statement,” he added, referring to Davis.

Mitchell further informed that they can now focus on the by-election in the West End-Bimini constituency, which is a five-way race.  The PLP’s candidate Kingsley Smith, is being positioned to recapture the seat left vacant by fallen PLP, Obie Wilchcombe, who passed away in late September.

Additionally, the chairman announced coming efforts to recruit younger people into the organization, “to build on the stable platform” that they currently have, delivering on his promise to do so.

In continuation, Mitchell in speaking to Candia Dames, Managing Editor of the Nassau Guardian was asked about his tenure as chairman.  The reply revealed that he will serve for a year at the party leader’s pleasure; it is possibly not a fixed notion however.

Robyn Lynes, runner up to Mitchell also spoke about the election and described the in-party run off as a beautiful display of the democracy of The Bahamas.  She also reminded that indeed she remains a member and a leader within the Progressive Liberal Party, who will volunteer her time and experience to help in the growth of the party.

“The future for my party and the future for me is really [bright].”