A former parliamentarian is urging Bahamians to take note of their history.
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Chairman, Bradley Roberts said as much during a press conference yesterday highlighting the governing party’s 60th anniversary, making it the oldest political party in The Bahamas.
The PLP blazed trails back in November 1953 and over the past decades has played a pivotal role in the country’s development.
“During its formative years, the PLP stood in the vanguard of change for social and economic justice, equality and a level playing field; a message that is as relevant today as it was 60 years ago. Landmark and historic events such as the universal suffrage movement, the General Strike of 1958, women’s right to vote in 1962 and Majority Rule in 1967 were the embodiment of the spirit, tenet, ethos and philosophy of the PLP and this organization will forever be identified with the struggle for equality.”
Mr. Roberts said the country’s independence in 1973 was about defining who “we were as a people and believing in the ability of Bahamians to shape our destiny and make our mark in the world.”
“It should not surprise anybody that 59 years after its birth, the PLP ran on a platform of Believing in The Bahamas,” he said.
“This message that Bahamians were not being treated equally or fairly resonated with nationally with Bahamians of all socio-economic backgrounds. So, the fundamental tenet and message of the PLP has been tried and tested by time and is as relevant today as it was 60 years ago. The policies of the PLP government created the modern Bahamas beginning with Majority Rule, Independence, Bahamianization policy, Central Bank, College of The Bahamas, Industrial Training Center (now BTVI), BAIC, BMC, Bahamasair, RBDF, Bank of The Bahamas, Bahamas Development Bank, NIB and the list goes on and on.”
The PLP will mark its 60th anniversary with a gala luncheon to be held under the patronage of Prime Minister Perry Christie and Mrs. Bernadette Christie.
“This is a story which has an important place in Bahamian history,” said Luncheon Chairperson Donna Smith.
“We as PLPs must ensure that the story is told correctly for generations to come. The celebration is open to all. Whether you support the PLP or not, remember it is through the PLP that it made it possible for most Bahamians to exercise their rights in the country.”
The luncheon is scheduled for November 24. It will be held at the Sheraton Cable Beach Resort.
