Free National Movement deputy leader hopeful Dr. Duane Sands says he believes the FNM can be better and he and MP for Long Island Loretta Butler-Turner may be the answer to that.

 Dr. Sands added that sometimes you “have to rock the boat” and “go against the grain” in hopes that Bahamians will see they mean well.

 “There is a need for healing within the FNM,” he said.

 “If anyone tries to suggest that the FNM cannot be better than it is, they are being disingenuous.

 “The question is: Are you willing to be a part of the solution even if it means that you’ve got to rock the boat, even if it means that you’ve got to against the grain and say the things that need to be said even if they’re unpopular.

 “Hopefully Bahamians will see you for who you are and recognize that you mean them well.”

 Dr. Sands announced Sunday evening that he plans to run again at the party’s convention alongside Mrs. Butler-Turner.

 “I have decided to throw my hat in the ring (again) at our party’s convention. I shall run along with the Hon. Loretta Butler-Turner. She will contest the officer of leader and I will seek the office of Deputy leader,” he said.

 “The Butler and Sands ticket. I totally love democracy.”

 When asked by The Journal why he has decided to run alongside Mrs. Butler-Turner he said he’s reviewed other individuals in the party, he believes she will be an excellent representative for Bahamian citizens.

 “I’ve looked at the various individuals in my party and as far as I’m concerned, she would make a fierce defender of the Bahamian people,” he said.

 The FNM has decided to host their convention July 27-29 after much back and forth in the party.

 Just a few weeks ago, six MPs threatened to have leader of the Opposition Dr. Hubert Minnis removed as parliamentary leader.

 The MP for Long Island was among those that put fire under Minnis to host an early convention.

 Dr. Sands noted that he would continue to serve as a senator however the convention will open the door for more opportunities.

 “At convention every single office in the Free National Movement is open, it is the only time that it becomes open,” he said.

 “You have to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time. You can defend the cause of the Free National Movement acknowledging the role of the leader and the deputy leader even as you campaign for a convention.”

 The FNM convention will be held on July 27-30.