Tynia Brown
Journal Staff Writer

In a message delivered by Dr. Duane Sands, chairman of the Free National Movement (FNM),
he provided a critique of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and its handling of the economy
over the past three years. Dr. Sands emphasized the stark reality that the purchasing power of
$100 has diminished significantly, leaving many Bahamians struggling to make ends meet.
Dr. Sands began by highlighting the rising costs that have made everyday living increasingly
difficult for families. He pointed out that a significant portion of that $100 now goes toward high
electricity bills from the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), which have surged due to poor
decisions made by the current administration, led by Prime Minister Brave Davis. He
emphasized the burden of rising rents, which have escalated under the PLP’s governance, further
straining household budgets.
The former minister also criticized the skyrocketing prices of food and groceries, drawing
attention to the ongoing 10% VAT imposed on essential items. “The PLP refuses to remove VAT
on these basic goods, leaving families to pay more for what they need to survive,” he said,
underscoring the government’s failure to ease the financial strain on citizens.
In addition to these issues, Sands noted that fuel prices have also increased, adding yet another
layer of financial pressure. He expressed concern over the higher taxes and fees introduced by
the PLP, which he argues are used to fund excessive spending on consultants and lucrative
contracts for party allies. “While the $100 doesn’t stretch as far as it used to, the PLP continues
to prioritize its own interests, spending hundreds of thousands—if not millions—on themselves
while the people suffer,” he stated.
Dr. Sands also addressed public safety concerns, emphasizing the pervasive fear of crime that has
escalated in recent months. He criticized the government for its lack of a coherent crime
prevention strategy, stating, “People are scared—dead scared—because of the increasing crime
and murder rates, yet the PLP has no plan to address this critical issue.”
Further, Sands suggested practical measures to alleviate the burden on citizens, proposing that
the PLP consider waiving the 10% reconnection fee for BPL services to help struggling families.
He argued that such a move would show a commitment to supporting the community in a time of
need.
Turning his attention to unemployment, Sands pointed out that, while the government may boast
about recent employment figures, the reality on the ground tells a different story. He highlighted
that unemployment in Grand Bahama remains at 10%, with a troubling increase in youth
unemployment, which rose to 19% in the second quarter of 2024. The number of unemployed
youths aged 15-24 has increased by 465, bringing the total to 7,800.
“The truth is, many people have simply stopped looking for work because there are no jobs
available for them,” Sands stated. He stressed that the statistics being touted by the government

do not reflect the lived experiences of Bahamians, many of whom are feeling the economic pinch
deeply.
In closing, Dr. Sands urged the PLP to recognize the hardships faced by ordinary citizens and to
prioritize their needs over political interests. He accused the government of tricking the
Bahamian people while living comfortably, urging a return to policies that genuinely support the
well-being of all citizens. His speech served as a rallying cry for those feeling left behind in the
current economic climate, calling for accountability and change.