Tynia Brown
Journal Staff Writer

Free National Movement (FNM) Chairman Dr. Duane Sands is scolding the Progressive Liberal
Party (PLP) government for what he described as “corrupt, scandalous behavior” and an ongoing
assault on the nation’s democracy.
Dr Sands, who has been a consistent and vocal critic of the PLP, outlined a series of allegations
and frustrations that have dominated the political discourse in recent weeks.
“The past week was a difficult, momentous week for The Bahamas,” Sands said. “The Bahamian
people and the official opposition have expressed legitimate anger, outrage and frustration over
the PLP’s actions that have damaged the reputation of our country.”
The FNM Chairman pointed to a series of recent events, including the PLP’s attempts to suppress
the opposition’s voice and silent criticism. He likened the current political climate to past PLP
regimes, particularly those that were associated with corruption and unchecked power. Drawing
historical parallels, Sands reminded the public of the “dark days of the previous drug era” when
mass corruption went unchallenged, and the government was accused of turning a blind eye to
illegal activities.
“People keep asking: How could so much cocaine and guns move through this country, and
nobody saw or heard anything?” Sands remarked. “The PLP initially refused to launch a
commission of inquiry, trying to shut down investigations because they feared the results. When
a commission was finally established, the findings were far worse than anyone could have
imagined.”
Sands emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Philip Davis, the PLP has
continued its disregard for democratic principles. “Today, the Brave Davis PLP government
keeps shutting down the voice of the loyal opposition in the House of Assembly,” he said. “They
allowed, some say they encouraged, senior members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force to
manhandle and rough up elected MPs. The police actions were disproportionate and outrageous.”
Sands accused the government of undermining democracy with what he described as a “Mugabe-
like vibe” and questioned what the PLP might be trying to conceal. “What are they scared
about?” he asked. “Who are they afraid will be named? Are they worried about what a
commission might uncover about certain people’s bank accounts?”
He welcomed the resignation of the Commissioner of Police, calling it a necessary first step in
restoring public trust. Sands also expressed support for the appointment of a new commissioner
but made it clear that the FNM’s focus would be on addressing the “explosive allegations”

against the head of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID). Sands demanded a thorough,
transparent investigation into the matter, suggesting that international partners may need to be
involved if necessary.
“Despite the difficulties of last week, our constitution is strong, and the resolve of the opposition
and the Bahamian people to secure our nation and restore democracy is stronger,” Sands
declared. “The FNM will do what it does every time the PLP leaves office we will restore the
reputation of this great nation.”
Sands ended his remarks with a call to action. “The first task is removing the scandalous, failed,
incompetent, unaccountable, and undemocratic crew. I call on all FNMs, all independent voters,
and all PLPs who are minded doing so, to join us to save our Bahamas.”
As the political storm continues to brew, the nation awaits further developments on the
investigation and potential consequences for those in power. The FNM has made it clear that
they are committed to holding the government accountable and ensuring that democracy in The
Bahamas is preserved.