After one term as a Cabinet Minister, Youth Sports and Culture Minister and Member of Parliament for Carmichael, Dr. Daniel Johnson announced his exit from politics; and yesterday proclaimed that his replacement hopeful in his constituency, Senator Keith Bell, “will do a fantastic job”.

State Minister of National Security and Senator Keith Bell has reportedly expressed interest in running in the Carmichael constituency.

Meantime, Dr. Johnson told The Bahama Journal that his decision to leave can be attributed to personal reasons, reiterating that his move comes after a long and thoughtful process.

“I decided to for personal reasons. My family, my kids, and really some things I have to get sorted out for them; and that’s my job and I can get it done,” he said.

The Carmichael MP said he has decided to return to private practice.

However, he has vowed to continue to be a catalyst to the development of youth empowerment and sports in the country, adding that fully intends to participate in the process of informing public policy through social advocacy.

“It’s my job now to make sure I go into the party machinery and make sure the PLP is showing up, the young people know what we’re doing, and we’re going to win again,” said Dr. Johnson.

“I’m not going that far away. I’m right here pushing for particularly the youth agenda. We can get this thing done all the way,” he added.

Responding to how he felt about the transition from himself to Minister Bell in the Carmichael constituency, Dr. Johnson spoke optimistically about the state minister’s future performance.

“He will do a fantastic job. I thank the people of Carmichael. I thank the people of The Bahamas, but we have a lot more to do,” he said.

The Bahama Journal yesterday spoke to some affected constituents, who expressed that they would miss their current representative, Dr. Johnson, deeply.

Constituents described the outgoing MP as “someone who is for the Carmichael constituency as a whole and people in general, no matter the affiliation”.

Meanwhile, a constituent who identified himself as Captain Mills, spoke to whether residents are receptive to Minister Bell as the new PLP candidate.

“We have no issue. Keith Bell would just have to lead. The community would be ok with anyone who comes as long as they serve the people and the people like them. It doesn’t matter who it is. The people make the minister,” he said