The Tribune PUZZLER
‘Not brave e N ough’
oN marital rape law
Senator says Davis govt is hesitant to pass legislation
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
SENATOR Michela
Barnett Ellis has accused the Davis administration of lacking the courage to criminalise marital rape, contrasting its hesitancy on the issue with the bold legislative moves the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has made in the past, such as legalising gaming
despite opposition from religious groups and others. “This PLP administration is not so brave. They are scared,” she said in the Senate on Monday.
She pointed to Prime Minister Philip Davis’ own words from February 2022 when he declared, “rape is rape”, and to the Attorney General’s assurance that legislation had been drafted
‘PassP ort verification Process weakened by outside decision’
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS
Tribune Staff Reporter
lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
ACTING Chief Passport
Officer Nicholas Symonette
said a previously made decision outside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs weakened the Passport Office’s verification process, creating an opportunity for fraudulent activity.
His comments came after Free National Movement Senator Darren Henfield expressed concerns about the protocols at the Passport Office following Monday’s arraignment of six people, including a 17-year-old Haitian boy,
He declined to specify who made the decision or when it was made but defended the protocols the office now follows to prevent fraud.
Alleged victims of police abuse and torture grilled by defence lawyer
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
ONE of the plaintiffs in an alleged police abuse case was pressed yesterday during cross-examination
v ictims
about details of his alleged mistreatment while in custody at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station in Eleuthera in January 2018.
Kenton Fines, one of three plaintiffs in the case, previously testified that
police officers beat him, poured hot sauce in his eyes, and simulated drowning him in the station’s shower by placing cargo pants over his face under
recount shark attack on us morning show
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter
TWO American tourists attacked by a shark while swimming in Bimini Bay last Friday recounted their harrowing experience on Good Morning America, describing the moment they realised they were in danger.
rileigh Decker being loaded into ambulance after a shark attack.
google Maps Street View Project, in partnership with World Travel 360 and The Bahamas will
sentation of the country on Google Maps. See PAGE TWO for more.
Photo: nikia Charlton
Googling The Bahamas at street level
Photos: Nikia Charlton
The MiNisTry of Youth, Sports and Culture is currently hosting the 66th E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival Adjudications from February to May 2025 on all inhabited islands of The Bahamas. As the festival ramps up in Eleuthera, students of Samuel G Pinder All Age School are pictured ready to perform at the festival’s Eleuthera Adjudications, at the Spanish Wells Methodist Church yesterday.
Photos: eric rose/BIS
‘Not brave enough’ on marital rape law
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to reflect that position.
However, she highlighted how, just this month, the attorney general suggested there was no political will to pass a law criminalising marital rape.
“The refusal to criminalise marital rape is a condonation of violence against women,” she said, arguing that the government is more afraid of backlash than committed to protecting its citizens.
Mrs Barnett Ellis further questioned how the country’s foreign service officers were expected to defend the government’s contradictory stance on women’s rights on the international stage.
“How,” she asked, “are foreign service officers supposed to explain — that while this administration says all of the appropriate things condemning violence against women and girls, its actions have been limited to rushing through a piece of legislation (the Protection Against Violence Act), that has been barely implemented, and a refusal to criminalise marital rape?”
Her comments came during a Senate debate on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Bill and Foreign Service Bill, where she also condemned lenient sentencing for sexual offenders.
She referenced a recent case in which a father received only five years in prison for sexually assaulting his three-year-old twin daughters.
“The lawyers wanted less, and I am grateful to the court for rejecting that foolishness,” she said. “They are his flesh and blood. His heirs. They are innocent. Too young to fight back. And five years does not feel like enough of a punishment for his heinous actions.”
She also denounced a ruling where a police officer was fined $15,000 after attempting to solicit sex from a 13-year-old girl.
“A police officer, a law enforcement officer with a duty to serve, protect, and enforce the laws of this country got fined for trying to have sex (unlawfully) with a 13-year-old,” she said, expressing outrage at the disparity in sentencing. She called for tougher
penalties, particularly an increase in the maximum sentence for indecent assault, which currently stands at seven years.
“We need to increase that! We need to send the clear message that sexual offences are extremely serious, and sentences will reflect our non-tolerance for this behaviour,” she said.
She argued that the government has been selective in its courage.
“It is unacceptable, disgusting, and heartbreaking that this courage to do what is necessary in the face of opposition is limited to financial gain but is absent when needed to protect the safety and dignity of women,” she said.
“We have been waiting for a hero, an administration that will protect us and our children. But it is time for us to rescue ourselves,” she added, calling on Bahamian women to take action themselves.
She urged more women to step forward as candidates in the next general election to ensure long-overdue protections for women and girls are finally implemented.
Rise Bahamas calls for harsher penalties for violent and sex crimes against children
RISE Bahamas has joined activists in demanding harsher penalties for violent and sexual crimes against children following last week’s sentencing of a man who molested his three-year-old twin daughters.
Denise Major, the group’s president, has recommended a minimum sentence of 25 years for such offenses, calling child sexual abuse in The Bahamas an “epidemic”.
“We can no longer allow
these issues to be brushed under the rug and are calling on the government to strengthen related laws.”
Debate over stronger protections for women and children reignited this week after the man, who pleaded guilty to molesting his twin daughters was sentenced to five years in prison—sparking outrage from women’s rights groups, who called the punishment too lenient.
The father, whose name is withheld to protect the minors’ identities, was
charged with two counts of indecent assault after reportedly rubbing the genitals of one of his daughters and climbing on top of her between June and July last year. His teenage daughter, who witnessed the incident, wept as she recounted what happened, leading him to change his plea on Friday. Under the Sexual Offences Act, the maximum penalty for indecent assault is eight years if tried on information and three
years if tried summarily.
Ms Major said lenient sentences for crimes against children have been an ongoing issue.
“Year after year, we have witnessed countless lenient sentenced given to adults that harm children, scarring them for life. Rise Bahamas and our supporters are calling for stiffer penalties for violent and sex crimes against children.”
She added that offenders should receive psychological evaluation, intervention,
Victims recount shark attack on US morning show
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Rileigh Decker, 20, who suffered severe injuries and remains in serious condition, said: “I kind of felt something nudge my leg, and I looked at her, and I was like, what was that? And we kept swimming. Then I felt a tug on my leg, and I knew right then and there that I was bit.”
Her friend, Summer Layman, 24, was also bitten — likely by the same shark — but didn’t immediately realise it.
“I didn’t realise that I got bit until they started screaming that my foot was, like, shredded,” she said. The attack occurred around 6.30pm on February 7, 2025, as the women were swimming back to their boat. Friends on board rushed to pull Rileigh out of the water, with one of them, identified as Austin, physically lifting her onto the boat as she lost strength in her leg. He quickly applied a makeshift tourniquet using a towel and rope to slow the bleeding.
Both victims were taken to a local clinic before being airlifted to New Providence for further medical care. Ms Decker has since undergone two surgeries and is expected to need a third.
Shark attacks remain rare, but experts warn that warming ocean temperatures and the practice of dumping fish scraps near marinas are drawing sharks closer to shore. “Most sharks are coldblooded, and the warmer water improves their
metabolism and functioning. Many will actually go to areas of warm water, especially in cold times of the year,” a marine expert told US media.
Authorities are urging swimmers to remain vigilant and avoid areas where fish waste is commonly dumped, as these can attract sharks.
Despite their terrifying ordeal, both women expressed gratitude for surviving the attack.
“All we can do now is just be grateful that we’re still
Transpor T Minis T ry concerned over repor T of shooT ing inciden T be T ween public bus drivers
THE Ministry of Energy and Transport has expressed deep concern over a shooting incident that occurred yesterday morning on Yamacraw Hill Road, reportedly stemming from an argument between two public bus drivers. According to police, the incident took place shortly after 8.30am when an altercation broke out between the drivers of two public buses, during which a firearm was discharged. No passengers or bus drivers were injured.
Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth
Coleby-Davis strongly condemned the incident, stating that no public bus operator or passenger should have to fear for their safety.
She said the government is committed to ensuring that public transportation remains safe and accessible for all Bahamians. The ministry confirmed that it is working closely with the Royal Bahamas Police Force as investigations continue. Officials also reminded the public that a vetting process is in place for all public bus franchise holders and public service drivers. Additionally, a
code of conduct outlines behavioural expectations and disciplinary measures, including the permanent revocation of a public service license if necessary.
“As the shooting incident represents a serious threat to public safety, the Ministry of Energy and Transport and the Road Traffic Department will take the necessary action once the investigation is completed,” the ministry said.
Police have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made but confirmed that they are actively investigating the matter.
here, because it could have ended very differently,” Ms Decker said. Meanwhile, police in Andros are investigating an unrelated boating accident that severely injured a US marine who was free diving near a Naval Base around 4.30pm on Friday. A white open-hull boat with two 150HP outboard engines struck the diver and failed to stop. He was assisted to shore and later airlifted to the United States for treatment.
Police are urging anyone with information about the vessel or its occupants to come forward.
treatment, and preventative programmes during incarceration.
The group is also pushing to raise the legal age of consent to 18 across the board.
SENATOR MichElA BARNETT ElliS
According to Rise Bahamas, over 3,000 people had signed its petition “ Improve child protection legislation in The Bahamas” up to press time yesterday.
AMERicAN RilEigh DEckER, 20, was injured in a shark attack in the Bahamas on Friday, February 7, 2025.
Healt H officials note vaccine rates fall sHort of pre-pandemic levels
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter
dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
VACCINATION rates among children in The Bahamas continued to fall short of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, the last year for which data is available.
Health officials said vaccination rates in 2023 show coverage hovering between 86 and 87 percent, while pre-pandemic rates were around 90 percent.
The national goal is to achieve 95 percent coverage against vaccinepreventable diseases.
Gina Rose, National Coordinator of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), said the 2023 statistics show that more children have missed their immunisations, largely because some young parents are opting not to vaccinate their babies.
She said the delay in releasing 2024 data is due to the extensive process of verifying birth records, tracking the current status of children, and calculating actual coverage. “That data will not be finalised until April at the latest,” she noted.
In July 2023, a representative from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that
The Bahamas is at risk for reintroducing polio and other diseases due to childhood immunisation rates falling far below the 95 percent target. In 2023, the coverage rate for the first dose of the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) was 86 percent. “So we need at least ten percent of those children we have to find in order to bring that number up to 95 percent or greater,” said Ms Rose. Coverage for the Polio and DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus) vaccines stood at 87 percent in 2023.
“If we look at prepandemic, the numbers were already on a slow decline worldwide, but they weren’t so far down,” Ms Rose explained. “So we were still hovering like between 89 and 90 percent and then the pandemic hit.”
She reported that between 2020 and 2021, vaccination coverage saw significant drops. In 2020, the lowest coverage for DPT and Polio fell to around 82 percent, while MMR coverage was 86.7 percent. By 2021, MMR coverage declined further to 82.4 percent.
Dr Philip Swann, former acting Chief Medical Officer, noted in 2021 that the COVID-19 pandemic affected vaccine uptake in two key ways:
reduced access to vaccines during lockdowns and increased hesitancy due to public debates surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine.
Ms Rose agrees, noting that many parents are now questioning vaccine safety and suspecting that the COVID-19 vaccine has been added to routine childhood immunisations.
“There are some persons who are opting not to vaccinate their children,” she said. “The problem with that is the less people who take the vaccine means that you have a lot more people who are vulnerable to contracting the disease.”
She pointed out that measles cases have recently been reported in Florida, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
She noted that these are countries with strong travel ties to The Bahamas, both for Bahamians travelling abroad and tourists visiting here. She stressed that if an infected person arrives, unvaccinated children will be at the greatest risk.
“We have to get the message out there that the vaccines have not changed,” she said. “They are the same as they were when they were produced years ago.”
“People argue that we don’t see cases of certain diseases, but that’s because the vaccines work and protected us from certain diseases.”
To combat declining vaccination rates, the Expanded Programme on Immunisation will seek to increase education and improve access to vaccines.
Ms Rose said the unit has been targeting preschools and nurseries since last year.
They have been visiting schools to check immunisation cards. For those children who are not immunised, the parents are contacted. She said some sign consent forms for vaccination at the school, while others choose to visit private physicians for immunisations.
She said private physicians and NHI doctors participating in the Ministry of Health’s immunisation programme are provided with vaccines and must report the number of children vaccinated.
“They don’t give personal information or name, but they give the numbers, which is what we crunch at the end of the day. The official numbers will be ready by April,” she said.
Ms Rose urged parents to ensure their children are vaccinated, stressing that the vaccines are safe and effective.
“If you don’t have a private physician, please take your baby to the government clinics where vaccines are free of charge. Get them vaccinated and protected,” she said.
Water and Sewerage GM faces questions concerning communications with Gibson
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
THE criminal trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and others continued yesterday, with the lead prosecutor frequently objecting to the defence’s line of questioning on the grounds of relevance. Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier raised multiple objections as defence attorney Damian Gomez, KC, questioned Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) general manager Robert Deal about past correspondence with Mr Gibson regarding options for replacing a water tank.
Mr Deal requested to review an email to refresh his memory before clarifying that the correspondence sought guidance on available options rather than making a specific recommendation. He further testified that no contract resulted from the discussion.
Mr Gomez then turned to the tank’s condition, suggesting it was in a severe state of disrepair. Mr Deal acknowledged that it had structural defects and was leaking.
As the questioning continued, Ms Frazier objected again, arguing that the line of inquiry was irrelevant. The judge upheld her objection but allowed two additional questions on the topic.
When asked whether the tank in question was included in the Blue Hill tank painting project, Mr Deal said he was unaware of any such inclusion. He also confirmed that no funding was allocated for repairs through a Caribbean Development Bank loan at that time.
Mr Gomez then asked
whether Mr Deal had approached Mr Gibson about including the tank in refurbishment plans after three other tanks had been repaired under the Blue Hill project. Mr Deal denied this, explaining that his communication with Mr Gibson was focused on addressing the tank’s urgent need for repairs, especially with hurricane season approaching.
The defence attorney also asked if this tank was the only one at the Blue Hill lower level not covered by the board resolution for repairs. Mr Deal confirmed that it was.
Mr Gomez later questioned Mr Deal about an email chain involving Mr Gibson and former WSC General Manager Leville, which he had been copied on. As the questioning continued, Ms Frazier objected once more, again citing relevance concerns.
She noted that she had allowed Mr Gomez to continue questioning but had yet to see its relevance to the proceedings. Gibson has been on trial since November 2023 alongside former WSC General Manager Elwood Donaldson Jr., as well as Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson, and Jerome Missick. The charges relate to contracts awarded by the corporation while Ms Gibson served as WSC executive chairman.
Approximately ten prosecution witnesses remain to testify in the case.
The defendants are represented by Damian Gomez, KC, Murrio Ducille, KC, Geoffrey Farquharson, Ian Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, and Raphael Moxey. The Crown’s legal team includes Cordell Frazier, Cashena Thompson, Karine MacVean, and Rashied Edgecombe.
AviAtion Director and Tourism Deputy Director General Dr Kenneth Romer takes part in a discussion on aviation competitiveness in the Caribbean with Windward Islands Airways International CEO Hans Van de Velde and InterCaribbean Airways CEO Trevor Sadler. The discussion was a part of Routes America 2025, a two day event, at Atlantis Resort.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
‘Passport verification process weakened by outside decision’
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who allegedly used forged documents to obtain Bahamian passports. Three of the accused were charged with two counts of possessing forged documents, uttering forged documents, and fraud by false pretences. The juvenile and two others were charged with conspiracy to commit fraud by false pretences.
Mr Symonette said “at some point in time”, protocols were weakened so the
passport renewal process would be less rigorous. He said a decision had been made so that people “not be asked for anything else”.
“What that was doing, that was creating a system where people were just clicking and renewing without any review,” he added.
“We have done away with that. We restored the protocols to what they should be, which is all documents are reviewed
regardless of whether you are a renewal application or you are a first-time applicant.”
He said he was not alarmed by the discovery of people engaging in fraud with passports, adding that this was not a new issue.
“Around the world, identity fraud and document fraud are on the rise,” he said. “It’s nothing new, and it’s nothing new to the Passport Office. The Passport Office, every
year, has been maintaining a large group of files that are suspected of fraudulent activity. The only difference now is that we are taking action on these cases, when cases come before us, when cases are found, which all of these cases are found out based on an audit that started at the Passport Office — not someone tipping us off — us doing an internal audit with Immigration and NIB.
“And this is how we have been finding out about
these cases, and we’re taking proper action on them. So, the only difference is that we’re taking action, so I don’t think it’s anything alarming, but I think it’s something that Bahamians should be proud of, that we are weeding out all fraudulent activity.”
Senator Henfield, in a statement yesterday, had called for stronger measures to safeguard the integrity of the Bahamian passport. “An integrated e-system
that screens passport applications against the backdrop of the Registrar General’s Office, the Department of Immigration, the National Insurance Board, the Ministry of Education, and others will go a long way in reducing the possibility of such fraud,” he said. “We encourage the government to prioritise digitising and integrating these and other systems to assist in verifying information purported to be authentic.”
Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries seeks aid to rebuild after fire
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
A KEMP Road community centre that burned down earlier this month is seeking at least $250,000 to rebuild and restart its operations.
The centre, located on the compound of Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries on Sutton Street, has served the community for 24 years, providing food assistance, clothing, after-school programmes, summer camps, counselling, elderly care, and shelter.
Pastor Laura JohnsonTaylor, founder of the ministry, said there has been no cleanup since the fire. She noted that her son’s fiancée launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds, but so far, only one donation of $120 has been received.
The fire destroyed the centre’s bathrooms, laundry room, kitchen, and storage area, along with months’ worth of food supplies. Several televisions, computers, and children’s bicycles were also damaged.
Pastor Johnson-Taylor explained that donations would help rebuild the structure, including six rooms necessary to restart their work.
At the time of the fire, three people were staying at the center. Her daughter is now living with her fiancé, her “spiritual son” is staying at her home, and her brother is sleeping on a nearby porch.
She acknowledged that the loss has deeply impacted those who relied on the centre’s services.
“It has negatively impacted them very badly because right now we haven’t stopped, but we’re stuck on a small scale,” she said. “We cannot do all that we were doing, but we’re still actively working.”
She added that they are still distributing supplies and trying to assist seniors as best as possible, ensuring they receive baths three times a week and are taken to their medical appointments. The centre is appealing for donations to assist with its rebuilding efforts.
Stanley Minnis searches through the rubble of Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries which was destroyed by fire on January 31, 2025. Mr Minnis received burns to his shoulder and face during the fire.
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
The Tribune Limited
NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI
“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH
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SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
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RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
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Don’t women deserve better?
WHEN Attorney General Ryan Pinder effectively sounded the death knell for marital rape legislation, it came with a calculation.
That calculation appears to have been decided in favour of votes over the legislation.
Mr Pinder essentially said as much, saying that every government has faced the same concern during a discussion at the University of The Bahamas last month.
He said: “There’s a reason why no administration has passed and every single administration has drafted a bill –every single one. I have them all.”
Noting the preceding discussion at the UB event, he said when asked if the government planned to table the bill during the current term in office: “I don’t think so. I think you would’ve heard the panel discuss about the political impacts on that.”
The response has been as you might expect from activists, with the government swiftly being called “spineless” for ditching the legislation.
Yesterday, FNM senator Michela Barnett Ellis accused Brave Davis’ administration of lacking courage – and contrasted how willing the PLP was willing to upset religious groups over gaming legislation while declining to annoy those same groups in order to protect women.
Let us be clear, this is not some abstract legislation to cover a crime that does not exist. A 2023 UB study found that 30 percent of Bahamian women were victims of rape in long-term relationships.
That survey also found that more than half of the adult population favoured changing the law.
Mr Davis has in the past done back and forth in his pronouncements on the subject. He has said such legislation was not on the party’s Blueprint for Change, its campaign document – and yet in the commitments that document made towards equality, such legislation was in fact embraced.
He has suggested that perhaps women are better off not being married – divorce your husband if you think he has raped you. You will have more rights to prosecute your rapist if you are not married to him. As we
said in this column previously, imagine a woman who has been raped by her husband hearing that. Never mind telling him not to commit the crime, but telling the victim to divorce him to get away from your abuser. Don’t expect help from the law, save yourself. And how is the government courting favour from the religious community by saying that you are better off not married than married? It’s true – the exact same action can be a crime with an unmarried partner, but if you’re married, then there is no help from the law for you. Don’t get married, you’ll be better off under the law.
There are other matters of inequality facing women – such as our country’s lop-sided citizenship laws. There seems as little enthusiasm from the government to tackle those as there is for protecting women from being held down and raped by their husbands.
It is hard to imagine the political calculus going on that makes a party think that yes, they can ignore the votes of women, because they need the support of pastors.
And yet here we are, that calculus appears to have been decided.
Heaven forbid our elected representatives actually lead the way. Instead, they fall foul of the old quote about leaders who, rather than leading, say: “There go my people. I must find out where they are going so I can lead them.”
Had those who have gone before done such a thing, we would never have made the progress we have.
Meanwhile, Senator Barnett Ellis is right. If a government can defy such objections to legalise an industry that makes money, and whose industry leaders are often now seen in close proximity to those in power, then the same decision could be made to benefit women.
Choosing not to do so only throws the spotlight further on why the previous calculus benefitted the wallets of the favoured ones. Women deserve better. And the least they deserve is for the government to live up to the promises made both abroad and at home, and give women the protection that they deserve.
Govt agencies not serving us
EDITOR, The Tribune.
WHAT is the point of setting up government agencies that were meant to serve the Bahamian people, only to have these same agencies working against them? Take the Department of Social Services as an example. I had written about this issue a few weeks ago, touching on the disregard and lack of empathy shown to those seeking help! Why? Is the system moving at such a slow pace, a pace that forces landlords to evict tenants from their homes? For years, Social Services has dragged its feet when it comes to assisting Bahamians. The process has always been designed to frustrate us, and now,
to make matters worse, tenants seeking rental assistance have to wait for landlords to provide tax compliance letters before any help can be given. How is this fair to tenants who have a limited time to pay rent or face being put out on the streets?
The Department of Inland Revenue, is already busy with daily duties, no telling when those letters will be given to landlords, so what that means for tenants is clear, because rightfully so, landlords just want the rent money. We all know that in this country, it’s often about who you know. So, here’s a possible solution to this serious problem, one that could also create job opportunities for
Child sex abuse epidemic
EDITOR, The Tribune.
THERE is an epidemic of sexual abuse of Children in The Bahamas. We have to stand up for their rights and protection because they cannot do it for themselves. Previous generations have failed, and many minors were subjected to abuse, predominantly at the hands of people known to them. We can no longer allow these issues to be brushed under the rug and are calling on the government to strengthen related laws.
In 2024, a man received just a two year sentence, per count, for unlawful sexual intercourse (statutory rape) of a 13-year-old girl on multiple occasions. The maximum possible sentence for rape is life imprisonment. We need mandatory minimum sentences for all violent and sexual crimes against Children. According to Google, mandatory
minimum sentences are sentences that require judges to impose a minimum term of imprisonment for certain crimes. They take away the judge’s discretion to consider other factors, such as extenuating circumstances or the defendant’s likelihood of rehabilitation.
Year after year we have witnessed countless lenient sentences given to adults that harm Children, scarring them for life. Rise Bahamas and our supporters are calling for stiffer penalties for violent and sex crimes against children. We want a law that establishes the least amount of time a convicted perpetrator can serve at the Department of Corrections for a particular crime. A minimum 25 year sentence
is what we propose for violent or sexual crimes against minors.
We believe that those convicted of violent or sex crimes against Children should be afforded adequate opportunity to be rehabilitated during their incarceration. As such, we are calling for mandated psychological evaluation, intervention, treatment and preventative programmes. We are also calling for the age of consent to be raised to 18 years old across the board.
Over 3,000 people signed the “Improve child protection legislation in The Bahamas” petition. www.change.org/ childprotection242 Here are some of their comments.
DENISE M MAJOR President, Rise Bahamas Nassau, February 11, 2025.
Minnis’ support of Pintard key
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Bahamians—especially young people entering the workforce. Since tax compliance letters are now required, why not create a designated area within the Department of Social Services where landlords can verify their tax compliance on their buildings? This would help speed up the rental assistance process for those in need. To our MPs, it’s time to wake up and stop waiting for the election to put on a show. My fellow Bahamians, stop being fooled by political antics. We need to demand real change in these government agencies.
PURPOSE DRIVEN Nassau, February 11, 2025.
A CHILDISH and vindictive president once said that he could stand in the middle of fifth avenue in New York, shoot someone, and Americans would still vote for him. To bring it closer home, I believe that Prime minister Davis could probably lie down in Rawson square bare back and still win the general elections in 2026 unless circumstances change within the (FNM) or unless the (PLP) self destruct. The previous statement might be a stretch, but you get the point. If past is prologue, the (FNM) under normal circumstances should win the next general elections because as Bahamians, we have changed government every five years within the last two or three election circles. But these are not normal circumstances. Despite his defeat for leadership at the (FNM’s) last convention, the ghost of Minnis still hovers menacingly over the head of Michael Pintard like a halo, and is threatening to derail any chances of an (FNM) victory in 2026. His supporters thus far, have not indicated whether or not they support Pintard’s leadership. Minnis still harbors the notion of becoming prime minister again. He envisions himself as a knight in shining armor, riding in on
a white horse to rescue the Bahamas from the clutches of the (PLP). He still believes that he is the best person to lead the (FNM),a belief that is detached from reality. With a divided FNM heading into the general elections, a defeat would be guaranteed under Pintard’s leadership. Minnis could then say “See, I told you so, he couldn’t get the job done; here am I” This could Minnis strategy. Think about it. Inflated egos, stubborn pride, and narrow political interests might be the key motivating factors for his political maneuverings. These can be summed up in one word(selfishness),which is the axis of humankind, and which has plagued the FNM from its inception in 1972.
Like many others, I believe that Dr Minnis’ time has passed. He should strive to become a team player by burying the political hatchet, circling the party’s wagon, and adopting the roll as an elder statesman of the party like those before him; on both sides. Dr Minnis has every right to offer himself as a candidate in the upcoming general elections, and no one can deny that as prime minister, he has advanced the cause of the Bahamas generally to an appreciable degree. But the underlying question is “what can Dr
Minnis possibly do at this stage as a member of parliament that he could not do when he was prime minister? The (FNM) would stand a far better chance of winning the next general elections if Dr Minnis were to publicly declare that he supports the leadership of Michael Pintard (which he will not do). He should demonstrate his support for the party by attending party meetings, press conferences and the like. Otherwise there would be no healing and the FNM would be staring defeat in the face in 2026. Victory is wrapped up in the package of reconciliation. Simply saying that one is a unifier is futile and rings hallow unless it is backed up by appropriate actions. The FNM would perhaps win more seats, but not enough to become the government. The PLP would have to become woefully unpopular or commit political suicide to loose the next elections. This is not impossible, but seems highly unlikely at this juncture, unless the situation in the FNM changes. Minnis holds the key to a divided FNM house and a possible victory in 2026. Time will bear this out. The late Norman Solomon would have said “As I see it”.
ZEPHANIAH BURROWS
Nassau, February 9, 2025.
Have a cool, fun, interesting, amazing photo? Have it featured here in The Tribune’s picture of the day! Email your high quality image to pictureoftheday@tribunemedia.net
Early morning watering on Baha Mar Blvd.
Photo: Debbie Dames
Alleged victims of police abuse and torture grilled by defence lawyer
running water. He claimed he was held in custody for three days without charge and never received an apology for his alleged ordeal.
During cross-examination, defence attorney Luana Ingraham challenged aspects of Mr Fines’ account. She asked how he could be certain that officers had used cargo pants on him in the shower if his eyes had already been affected by the alleged hot sauce incident. Mr Fines responded that although his vision was blurry, he could still see the pants.
He further stated that his eyes worsened in the shower, and he later realised he had pus in them after wiping his face upon returning to his cell.
Mr Fines confirmed that he was examined by Dr Smith at a clinic in Eleuthera, where the doctor noted lacerations on his wrists and ankles — injuries he said were caused by struggling against handcuffs. He was also referred to an eye specialist for conjunctivitis in his left eye, allegedly caused by the hot sauce. Ms Ingraham questioned why, despite claiming sensitivity to light and difficulty seeing distant objects,
Mr Fines never obtained prescription glasses. He acknowledged that he visited Dr Rodger, an eye doctor in New Providence, who prescribed him glasses in 2018 — something he had never needed before the alleged abuse. However, he admitted that he never purchased the glasses, saying they were too expensive. Mr Fines also confirmed that he was given antibiotic ointment and eye drops but eventually stopped using them. He read a medical statement that indicated no permanent eye damage was expected from his condition.
During re-examination,
Recently released man sent back to prison for possessing burglary tools
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN recently released from prison for armed robbery was sentenced to one year behind bars yesterday after admitting to possessing burglary tools on Dawson Street last Sunday.
Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr arraigned Solomon Higgs Williams, 34, on a charge of possession of instruments for burglary. Williams was reportedly found with a crowbar, screwdriver, gloves, and a black mask when officers stopped him on the night of
February 9. The prosecutor informed the magistrate that Williams had just completed a one-year prison sentence for an armed robbery conviction in 2023. It was also revealed that he previously served ten years in prison for an attempted murder conviction in 2013. Williams initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea to guilty, claiming the case was rigged against him due to his criminal history.
Before reversing his plea, he insisted that he was merely picking up tools for a friend and had no intent to commit a crime. He also claimed to work in
demolition, construction, and painting, arguing that the black mask was just a piece of cloth — a claim he later recanted.
Before sentencing, Williams asked for leniency, acknowledging that while his criminal record was “dirty”, he was trying to turn his life around and had been training to become a boat captain.
Magistrate Allen acknowledged Williams’ efforts to change but ultimately sentenced him to 12 months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
Williams was advised of his right to appeal the sentence within seven days.
Woman accused of three counts of conspiracy to commit stealing
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A WOMAN was granted bail after being accused of conspiring to commit multiple thefts in January.
Senior Magistrate Kendra Kelly arraigned Samantha Williams, 39, on three counts of conspiracy to commit stealing. Prosecutors allege that Williams and her accomplices conspired to commit theft on three separate occasions on January 13. Williams is reportedly employed as a manager at Typsy’s.
She pleaded not guilty to all three charges. Bail was set at $2,500 per charge, and under the terms of her release, she must sign in at Grove Police Station on the first Monday of every month.
Williams’ trial dates are scheduled for March 26, April 13, and April 14.
Charged for possessing firearm and ammo
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was granted bail after being accused of possessing a loaded firearm in New Providence.
Magistrate Lennox Coleby arraigned 25-year-old Deangelo Major on charges of possession of an unlicenced firearm and possession of ammunition.
his attorney, Fred Smith, KC, asked him why he still had not gotten glasses. Mr Fines reiterated that they were costly but mentioned that a follow-up visit at a Harbour Island facility reaffirmed his need for them.
Mr Fines also clarified details about his arrest, stating that while in custody, a police officer mentioned that a gas station had been robbed.
When he asked what that had to do with him, he said he received a vague response. He maintained that he had no prior knowledge of the robbery before being taken into custody.
Following this exchange,
Mr Smith closed the plaintiffs’ case but reserved his closing submissions until after the defence concluded its case.
The plaintiffs, Chavette Strachan, Dale Gibson Jr, and Kenton Fines, allege that they were subjected to abuse by police officers while being held between January 19 and 23, 2018, during an investigation into an armed robbery at C & AA Service Station in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera, which resulted in the fatal shooting of employee Joel Stubbs.
During previous testimony in September 2021, Ms Strachan tearfully recounted how officers allegedly threatened her, saying she would “hang” herself if she didn’t give the right answers. She claimed she was kicked to the ground while handcuffed, suffocated with a plastic bag, and had hot sauce poured into her eyes. Ms Strachan further alleged that an officer named Munroe, whom she identified as one of her abusers, conducted an interview with her the next day. Ms Strachan and Mr Gibson are represented by attorney Bjorn Ferguson, while Mr Fines is represented by Fred Smith, KC. Justice Leron Klein is presiding over the case.
Regist R a R geneR al’s Office
emplOyees and annOunces Rest
THE Registrar General’s Office recently held a 2025 Transformation forum to give staff members an indepth understanding of the current office restructuring that is in process.
As of February 1, 2025, the Registrar General’s Department launched a complete reorganization.
The department will be split into four sections under the management of four Registrars: Companies, Intellectual Property, Records, and eventually Land. The name ‘Registrar General’s Department’ will be changed to suit the split.
There will be teams working with each Registrar to create expertise, efficiency and synergy to dramatically improve service in all areas. Technological upgrades and new online portals will be developed for each of them in due course.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Ryan Pinder spoke with employees, explaining the reason for the transition and assuring them that their jobs would not be affected.
Mr Pinder promised that the transformation will provide proper career tracks for employees, increased productivity, provide more support from the administration, reduce bureaucracy in the registry’s functioning, and reduce complaints from the public.
Audrey Symonette was named the ‘Employee of the Year’.
Major pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was granted bail at $7,000 with one or two sureties.
The trial is scheduled to begin on March 27.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Lincoln McKenzie served as the prosecutor.
Prosecutors allege that Major was found with a black Springfield 9mm pistol and five rounds of ammunition on Graham Avenue on November 20, 2022. The weapon was reportedly recovered after a chase involving the authorities and members of the Fernander gang.
Also on the meeting’s agenda was recognition of employees:
And Retirees: Gayle Evans-Davis, 39 years of service
Judy Hamilton,18 years of service
Margaret Newbold,13 years of service
Focus on real support and tangible progress
A long way still to go for
There are many international days of recognition, celebration, and action in a calendar year. Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day and some of the better known days, widely promoted by those, like greeting card companies, that have been able to capitalise on them.
It is now widely accepted that these days are not just for acknowledging the people who hold special places in our lives, but days to spend money in order to show love and care. In many cases, the amount of money spent is meant to be indicative of the breadth and depth of love and respect. This can easily take away from the meaning of the day and reduce the attention on and plans for actions that would be valued by the recipients.
Mothers receive expensive cut flowers that soon die, expensive jewelry, and overpriced meals at restaurants that are certainly quite nice and appreciated. Many mothers, however, speak, many years later, with great passion, about the handmade cards they received decades ago from their children who wrote heartfelt, often misspelled messages that are remembered, word for word, to this day.
Many say that Father’s Day does not get an appropriate amount of attention and fathers themselves do not get the demonstrations of love and respect that mothers enjoy. Typically considered more difficult to buy gifts for, fathers receive socks, neckties, and tools, and this is a running joke as well as a trope that many work hard to avoid.
People spend an inordinate amount of time and money trying not to fall into the same old same old routine of cooking crab and rice and wrapping a pair of argyle socks or a bottle of cologne for the fathers in their lives. So much energy is spent on these tangible gestures that there is little or no time and energy left for genuine engagement. This is the way is often goes with these days, particularly when they have been commercialised and linked to goods, services, and, importantly, spending.
Valentine’s Day is this week and vendors are
equality for women
By Alicia Wallace
quickly getting baskets together, loaded with stuffed animals, chocolates, bottles of champagnes, and all manner of red, pink, and white items. It is a time that they are sure they will make great sales as people put their money to work for the affection of their romantic and sexual partners. The person in the office who receives an arrangement loads with carnations is obviously loved and appreciate less than the person who receives two dozen roses. The person who sends their partner roses wrapped in cellophane is clearly less serious than the person who sends roses in a vase.
The people who are not taken out for a fancy dinner on Friday night may assume that they are the unfortunate people who are in relationships with people who did not think or plan ahead, and this may be attributed to a level of care and interest that is below standard. The way people plan and spend for Valentine’s Day is easily taken as an indication or measurement of their love, so this is a stressful week for many people—especially those who are not financially capable of providing an abundance of roses, five course meals, and expensive gifts. Money has become the way we measure not
only the value of a good or service, but the people purchasing and receiving them. Some days go by with very few people noticing them. They do not always appear on calendars. Those who know know, and those who do not simply do not. Some of these days are recognised by people who find them convenient, whether for creating days of recreation in the workplace, championing causes, or personal gain.
International Women’s Day is less than one month away and the attention it draws in The Bahamas has been increasing in recent years. From a largely unrecognised day of little significance to the average person, it is now well known with flyers and corporate ads plastered everywhere, from newspapers and television to social media and church bulletins. Businesses use the day for public relations, parading the women employees in what seems to be an attempt at some show of interest in women’s issues, especially women’s employment and leadership. Government officials make rather useless statements about the “strength” of women and the importance of women in our communities without making or following through on any
commitments to improve conditions for women in political life, public life, the workplace, the community, or the family and household. even non-governmental organisations and faith-based organisations join in the supposed celebration of women which is really just a way for them to congratulate themselves for “allowing” women to exist in the same spaces as them, benefitting from women’s knowledge and labour.
Very few entities and individuals in The Bahamas acknowledge, much less participate in, the political aspect of International Women’s Day. It is not a day for grandstanding. It is not a day for empty promises. It is not a day for nonsense speeches. It is, of course, appropriate to acknowledge the accomplishments of women and the strides we have made in increasing access to human rights for women in all of their diversity. More than that, it is critical that we critically assess the status of women and women’s rights in the country, in the region, and around the world.
Progress at the national level has been stagnant, and the current administration has admitted to its disinterest in upholding and expanding women’s human rights. It has opted for inaction on its own commitments. It has cowered under the pressure of antirights groups and religious misleaders—which form a Venn diagram that is a circle—yet been unabashed in its insistence that getting votes in the next general election takes priority over
ending gender-based violence against women. The Bahamas ratified the Convention on the elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CeDAW) in 1993 and last reported to the CeDAW Committee in 2018. At that time, the Committee expressed concerned about several issues and made clear recommendations to the Government of The Bahamas which has only pretends, for a short period of time, to consider and act on them and is now openly obstinate. It has a draft bill to criminalize marital rape, claims to have drafted amendments to the Bahamas Nationality Act for gender-equal nationality rights, and has a draft gender-based violence bill, none of which are moving forward.
The country also participates in the human rights Council and underwent the Universal Periodic review in 2023, only to lie to United Nations Member States in its responses to questions. For example, the Government of The Bahamas stated that there are no incidences of femicide in The Bahamas. We can all recall at least one horrific genderbased murder of a women or girl that took place in the past few months and over the last several years.The participation of The Bahamas in these international human rights mechanisms is only as useful as it is willing to work toward compliance and non-governmental organisations are technically proficient and prepared to hold the government accountable.
In the coming weeks, there will be many purple flyers, self-congratulatory spreads, and flowery speeches for International Women’s Day. These are all easy, surface-level acknowledgement soft the day and are ins service to the entities that produce them. This year, pay attention to the organisations that actually advocate for the rights of women and girls throughout the year. As you consider events and calls to action, look at the entities and people organising, identify their motivations, and ensure that what they communicate to the public matches their initiatives
and actions. Consider the impact of the activities. Is it for capitalist gain, or will it benefit women in situations of vulnerability?
Be wary of the businesses promoting products, services, and events, using International Women’s Day, while doing absolutely nothing for women. There is no point to hosting an International Women’s Day brunch, for example, with no support for women’s rights issues. Think carefully about what you support, and avoid falling into the trap of spending money and time just to further a capitalist endeavor. There are real needs on the ground, and International Women’s Day is a time to draw attention to those needs, mobilise people, and make clear demands while creating opportunities for women to enjoy themselves at events that do not require them to work or spend money.
equality Bahamas has organised and hosted the International Women’s Day March + expo since 2017, and this year it will be held on Saturday, March 8. The march is an opportunity to make demands in solidarity with many other women, and the expo is a space for feminist joy.
There will certainly be other events taking place on that day and during the week. This event is the one that is decidedly political, bringing people together to participate in long-term advocacy with clear objectives. It is the one that longstanding and designed in response to community needs. It is the one that is a part of feminist movement building rather than coopting the feminist or women’s rights movements. It is the one that is grassroots, with no corporate sponsors and no fear of making necessary demands. It is the one that welcomes women in all of our diversity, including elderly women, women with disabilities, LBTQ+ women, women experiencing poverty, and young women.
As you decide where you will be, think about where women are today and where women will be in one year, five years, ten years, and 20 years, and how your choices this year factor in. We have a long way to go.
When Spring Festival meets Junkanoo: A celebration of cultural exchange
By HE Yan Jiarong
a mbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s republic of China to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas
On 23rd January 2025, the Compass rose Ballroom of the Margaritaville hotel in Nassau glowed with red lanterns and calligraphic “Fu” characters as the Chinese embassy hosted the Spring Festival reception. Bahamians tried traditional Chinese silk clothes, experienced traditional Chinese massage, and enjoyed a Chinese tea ceremony. The evening came alive with lion dancers leaping to the clash of cymbals while Bahamian martial artists showcased their skills. A particularly moving moment came when Bahamian children recited ancient Chinese poems, their voices bridging centuries and cultures. A defining moment of the Nassau celebration came when the 2024 Junkanoo champion, the Saxon Superstars, stormed onto the stage. Their feathered headdresses swayed under the glow of red lanterns, their powerful rhythms creating a striking counterpoint to the Chinese cultural performances.
While Junkanoo embodies Afro-Caribbean resilience and self-expression, the Spring Festival reflects 4,000 years of tradition centered on harmony with nature and family reunion. One celebrates freedom and creativity, the other continuity and ritual—yet together, they formed a vivid testament to humanity’s shared cultural heritage.
On December 4, 2024, the Spring Festival was officially inscribed by UNeSCO as an Intangible Cultural heritage of humanity, not only because of
its long history but also because it embodies values that transcend generations and borders. It marks the beginning of the new year on the Chinese calendar and serves as a time for family reunions, social cohesion, and cultural continuity. The celebration, known as “guonian” (crossing the year), is deeply rooted in shared customs that strengthen interpersonal and community bonds. Beyond participating in public festivities, people honor heaven and earth through sacred rituals and
pay tribute to their ancestors. Families clean their homes, prepare festive foods, and gather for reunion dinners, symbolising renewal and good fortune. Public festivities, including lion and dragon dances, connect people beyond family units, reinforcing social harmony.
Today, the Spring Festival is not only China’s festival but also the world’s. Dozens of countries have recognised it as a public holiday, and nearly one-fifth of the global population celebrates the Lunar New Year in various ways. From London’s Trafalgar Square to New York’s empire State Building bathed in festive red, the Spring Festival’s enduring message of peace, harmony, and unity transcends borders, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening global connections. The Nassau celebration was more than just a festive occasion; it was a powerful demonstration of cultural dialogue, proving that heritage is not confined by geography but enriched through exchange. The thunderous drums of Junkanoo and the cymbals of the lion dance did not compete but harmonised, just as the intricate strokes of Chinese
calligraphy share a deep connection with the craftsmanship of Junkanoo costumes. These moments of cultural blending reflect the core of the Global Civilisation Initiative, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which advocates respecting the diversity of world civilisations, promoting the common values of humanity, valuing the inheritance and innovation of cultures, and enhancing international cultural exchanges and cooperation. In today’s interconnected world, cultural diversity is not a divide—it is a strength. The 2025 Spring Festival, the firstever “World Intangible Cultural heritage edition,” marks a new milestone in this global journey. Just as Junkanoo and the Spring Festival found harmony in Nassau, civilisations worldwide have the opportunity to coexist, collaborate, and thrive together.
As President Xi Jinping once said, “A single flower does not make spring, but a hundred flowers in full bloom bring spring to the garden.” In the garden of human civilisation, let us ensure that all cultures blossom, illuminating a shared future of peace, cooperation, and cultural prosperity.
Full speed ahead for BTC
BTC has won four more Ookla Speedtest Awards for the second half of 2024.
This follows the company’s recognition last month as the first recipient of the Best Mobile Coverage Award for The Bahamas.
The newly acquired awards include Fastest Fixed Network, Best Fixed Network, Best Mobile Video Experience, and Best Fixed Gaming Experience.
The awards were presented by Marc Penesso, sales director for Ookla. Also present was the BTC board of directors, chaired by Inge Smidts who also serves as CEO of CWC. Balan Nair, CEO of Liberty Latin America (LLA) was also in attendance, along with several team members from LLA.
“It is an honor to recognise BTC with the Speedtest Award for Fastest Fixed Network, Best Fixed Network, Best Fixed Gaming, and Best Mobile
Video Experience in The Bahamas during Q3/Q4 2024,” said Mr Penesso. “This recognition is a testament to BTC’s determination in putting their customers first and delivering an industry leading fixed network and an enhanced experience.”
BTC CEO Sameer Bhatti, said this was a testament to teamwork and perseverance. He said: “These awards belong to the entire team at BTC! Over the last several months, I have challenged the team to step up even higher and deliver faster, stronger, and more reliable services that our customers want and expect. We remain focused on the quality of our network and the quality of our service. While we celebrate this achievement, we acknowledge that we are on a continuous journey of improvement as we strive to deliver more for our customers.”
DEPUTY PM TALKS ON THE POWER OF AI TECHNOLOGY
‘LEVERAGING the Power of AI Technology’ was the topic of remarks by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Chester Cooper on Monday, February 10, in George Town, Exuma, when he addressed school students at the 9th Annual Exuma Career, College and Entrepreneurship Expo at St. Andrew’s Community Centre.
on Tuesday warned global leaders and tech industry executives that “excessive regulation” could cripple the rapidly growing artificial intelligence industry in a rebuke to European efforts to curb AI’s risks.
The speech underscored a widening, three-way rift over the future of the technology — one that critics warn could either cement human progress for generations or set the stage for its downfall.
The United States, under President Donald Trump, champions a handsoff approach to fuel innovation, while Europe is tightening the reins with strict regulations to ensure safety and accountability.
Meanwhile, China is rapidly expanding AI through state-backed tech giants, vying for dominance in the global race.
The US was noticeably absent from an international document signed by more than 60 nations, including China, making the Trump administration an outlier in a global pledge to promote responsible AI development. The United Kingdom also declined to sign the pledge.
• A major outage of Sony’s PlayStation Network (PSN) on Saturday left tens of thousands of gamers unable to access online services, stores and multimedia apps.
“We are aware some users might be currently experiencing issues with PSN,” PlayStation said on its social media platforms, confirming users’ mounting complaints around the globe. Reports of connectivity issues spread quickly across social media, with users frustrated by error messages and login failures.
“PSN down on a Friday night is criminal,” a London-based user named Ramos wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
According to the Downdetector outage tracking site, users started to report issues with PSN late Friday.
Shortly after, Sony responded to users’ concerns, confirming the problems without providing details on the possible cause of the outage.
Photos: Kemuel Stubbs/BIS
BTC receiving the awards, clockwise from top left, for best mobile video experience, fastest fixed network, best fixed gaming experience and best fixed network.
US VICE PRESIDENT JD Vance
Vance rails against ‘excessive’ AI regulation at Paris AI summit
PARIS Associated Press
US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday warned global leaders and tech industry executives that “excessive regulation” could cripple the rapidly growing artificial intelligence industry in a rebuke to European efforts to curb AI’s risks.
The speech underscored a widening, three-way rift over the future of the technology — one that critics warn could either cement human progress for generations or set the stage for its downfall.
The United States, under President Donald Trump, champions a hands-off approach to fuel innovation, while Europe is tightening the reins with strict regulations to ensure safety and accountability. Meanwhile, China is rapidly expanding AI through state-backed tech giants, vying for dominance in the global race.
The US was noticeably absent from an international document signed by more than 60 nations, including China, making the Trump administration an outlier in a global pledge to promote responsible AI development. The United Kingdom also declined to sign the pledge.
Vance’s debut
At the summit, Vance made his first major policy speech since becoming vice president last month, framing AI as an economic turning point but cautioning that “at this moment, we face the extraordinary prospect of a new industrial revolution, one on par with the invention of the steam engine.”
“But it will never come to pass if overregulation deters innovators from taking the risks necessary to advance the ball,” Vance added.
The 40-year-old vice president, leveraging the AI summit and a security conference in Munich later this week, is seeking to project Trump’s forceful new style of diplomacy.
The Trump administration will “ensure that AI systems developed in
America are free from ideological bias,” Vance said and pledged the US would “never restrict our citizens’ right to free speech.”
A global AI pledge— and the US absence
The international document, signed by scores of countries, including European nations, pledged to “promote AI accessibility to reduce digital divides” and “ensure AI is open, inclusive, transparent, ethical, safe, secure, and trustworthy.” It also called for “making AI sustainable for people and the planet” and protecting “human rights, gender equality, linguistic diversity, consumer rights, and intellectual property.”
In a surprise move, China — long criticized for its human rights record — signed the declaration, further widening the distance between America and the rest in the tussle for AI supremacy. The UK also declined to sign despite agreeing with much of the declaration because it “didn’t provide enough practical clarity on
global governance,” said Tom Wells, a spokesman for Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“We didn’t feel it sufficiently addressed broader questions around national security and the challenge that AI poses to it,” Wells said.
He insisted: “This is not about the US This is about our own national interest, ensuring the balance between opportunity and security.”
A growing divide Vance also took aim at foreign governments for “tightening the screws” on US tech firms, saying such moves were troubling. His remarks underscored the growing divide between Washington and its European allies on AI governance.
The agreement comes as the EU enforces its AI Act, the world’s first comprehensive AI law, which took effect in August 2024.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that, “AI needs the confidence of the people and has to be safe”
and detailed EU guidelines intended to standardize the bloc’s AI Act but acknowledged concerns over regulatory burden.
“At the same time, I know that we have to make it easier and we have to cut red tape and we will,” she added.
She also announced that the “InvestAI” initiative had reached a total of €200 billion in AI investments across Europe, including €20 billion dedicated to AI gigafactories.
A race for AI dominance
The summit laid bare a global power struggle over AI—Europe wants strict rules and public funding, China is expanding statebacked AI, and the US is going all-in on a free-market approach.
French President Emmanuel Macron pitched Europe as a “third way”—a middle ground that regulates AI without smothering innovation or relying too much on the US or China.
“We want fair and open access to these innovations for the whole planet,” he
said, calling for global AI rules. He also announced fresh investments across Europe to boost the region’s AI standing.
“We’re in the race,” he declared.
China, meanwhile, is playing both sides: pushing for control at home while promoting open-source AI abroad.
Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, speaking for President Xi Jinping, said Beijing wants to help set global AI rules. At the same time, Chinese officials slammed Western limits on AI access, and China’s DeepSeek chatbot has already triggered security concerns in the US China argues open-source AI will benefit everyone, but critics see it as a way to spread Beijing’s influence.
With China and the US in an AI arms race, Washington is also clashing with Europe.
Vance, a vocal critic of European tech rules, has floated the idea of the US rethinking NATO commitments if Europe cracks down on Elon Musk’s social
media platform, X. His Paris visit also included talks on Ukraine, AI’s growing role in global power shifts, and US-China tensions.
How to regulate AI?
Concerns over AI’s potential dangers have loomed over the summit, particularly as nations grapple with how to regulate a technology that is increasingly entwined with defence and warfare.
“I think one day we will have to find ways to control AI or else we will lose control of everything,” said Admiral Pierre Vandier, NATO’s commander who oversees the alliance’s modernization efforts.
Beyond diplomatic tensions, a global publicprivate partnership is being launched called “Current AI,” aimed at supporting large-scale AI initiatives for the public good.
Analysts see this as an opportunity to counterbalance the dominance of private companies in AI development. However, it remains unclear whether the US will support such efforts.
Separately, a high-stakes battle over AI power is escalating in the private sector.
A group of investors led by Musk — who now heads Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency — has made a $97.4 billion bid to acquire the nonprofit behind OpenAI. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, attending the Paris summit, said it is “not for sale.”
Pressed on AI regulation, Altman also dismissed the need for further restrictions in Europe. But the head of San Francisco-based Anthropic, an OpenAI competitor, described the summit as a “missed opportunity” to more fully address the urgent global challenges posed by the technology.
“The need for democracies to keep the lead, the risks of AI, and the economic transitions that are fast approaching — these should all be central features of the next summit,” said Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei in a written statement.
Jomo Campbell hosts community breakfast giveaway
United States Vice-President JD Vance, centre, is welcomed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, left, and French businesswoman Clara Chappaz at the Grand Palais during the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris, yesterday. Photo: thomas Padilla/AP
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serving members having joined SOG in 1990, competes in athletics, basketball and soccer. Having represented the Bahamas in SO World Games in 1990, 2003, 2011 and 2015, he has won four medals. Aranha, the oldest serving member of the crew having joined in 1997, competes in bocce and basketball. He has participated in the SO World Games 1999, 2019 and 2023 and has two medals to his name.
“When you look at the résumé of these athletes, they all deserve it,” Williams said. “In fact, my argument was, is and will continue to do that some of them need to be in our National Hall of Fame. I won’t rest until that is done.
“Even when you come into the (Lynden Pindling International) airport, these are some of the photos that you need to be looking at.
So we have a long way to go, but we will get there.” Two of the five athletes on hand were thrilled to be included on the Wall of Fame. “It’s overwhelming for me to be able to get on the Wall,” Nottage said. “I know I made a lot of sacrifices, getting in shape and going to the various games to compete. I’m very pleased to be one of the few to go on the wall.” Nottage, who would definitely want to see some athletes, including himself on the Wall of Fame at the airport, said the other four selectees are all “outstanding athletes, every one of them” at the sport they compete in. He noted that he expected to compete in bocce this year, but he wants to get back to the level where he was when he won a silver medal at the World Games.
As for Aranha, he said he is “very pleased” because
he is up there with “some great athletes.” He said he hopes that he can continue to “excel” in sports, but he really wants
to get on the Wall of Fame at the airport. Shenique Taylor, a member of Special Olympics who plays bocce and
bowl, said the selection of athletes is “great. They did a good job as Wall of Famers.” But like everybody else, she said she
hopes that some Special Olympic athletes make the Wall of Fame at the airport.
This year, the SOB’s focus will be on their bocce national championships in preparation for the next World Games in 2027.
SOB also intends to participate in a bocce tourney in Aruba in May, as well as basketball tournament in Guadeloupe in November.
“By the end of this year, we will have to be submitting quotes to Special Olympics International and so we’re trying to get our crew ready on the ground to make sure that are ready to submit a quota to push forth so that we can be accepted,” Williams said.
SOB, however, will hold their major fundraiser, their BBQ grill, raffle and fund day in August, which they expect to make “bigger and better.”
So, Williams is encouraging the general public to come out and support SOB.
CLEAN SHEET FOR BAHAMAS SHOW JUMPERS IN CEA MINI CHALLENGE
LED by a trio of solid performances from Kelsey Pyfrom, Quinn O’Brien and Katerina Coello, Team Bahamas finished on a total of zero faults in The Bahamas leg of the Caribbean Equestrian Association (CEA) Mini Jumping Challenge held this past weekend at Camperdown Equestrian Centre.
Riders faced a track of nine obstacles set by FEI course designer Tatiana Kholodniakova of Russia.
FEI jumping judge and CEA president Heidi Mello was on hand to judge the performances.
The Mini Jumping Challenge is an Optimal Time competition, in which riders aim to complete a fault-free course as close as possible to a preset “Optimal Time”. Penalty points (faults) are assessed for knocking down fences or disobediences on course.
“The priority in an Optimal Time competition is going clear and finishing the course as close to the pre-set optimal time as possible,” explained Equestrian Bahamas president Cathy Ramsingh-Pierre.
“Riders are penalised for going too fast as well as too slow.
“This trains them to feel the appropriate pace on course.”
The top performers from each of three height classes were named to Team Bahamas, with their scores being combined for an overall
Team score. The top performers were:
Height Class A (0.50m): Kelsey Pyfrom riding her own pony Salt and Pepper - 0 jumping faults in 62.20 seconds (5.80 seconds off the Optimal Time)
Height Class B (0.60m): Quinn O’Brien riding Erika Adderley’s Vivawell
– 0 jumping faults in 68.51 seconds (0.51 secs off the Optimal Time)
Height Class C (0.70m):
Katerina Coello riding AHG Whiterock Duggie – 0 jumping faults in 63.45 seconds (4.55 secs off the Optimal Time)
The CEA Mini Jumping Challenge is one of a series of annual equestrian competitions contested by the 10 member nations of the CEA. These nations include Antigua, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname as well as The Bahamas.
The competitions take place in each country but the results are judged collectively at the end of the competition year. Local equestrians now look forward to the CEA Regional Jumping Challenge which is scheduled to be held on March 29 at Moonstone Stables.
FROM PAGE 16
ranked Kentucky as “phenomenal” at the postgame press conference.
“This was just a phenomenal win for team 50. We had been sowing - and I knew at some point we would be able to reap and I am just grateful that I had a chance to lead this group. I think they got tired of losing close games and the communication in the huddle was phenomenal. I thought our game plan was superb and I thought their execution of it was even better,” McPhee-McCuin said.
The Ole Miss Rebels had their work cut out for them
after falling behind 22-18 in the first period and then closing out the first half in a 37-31 hole.
Ole Miss stunned the Wildcats coming out of the halftime break with a strong 18-4 run. With the Wildcats neutralised on the offensive end, Todd-Williams made a two-pointer at the 1:48 mark to put Ole Miss within two (45-43). Her biggest shot of the quarter came with just eight seconds remaining.
Todd-Willliams mailed in a shot from long range off an assist from KK Deans to finally take the lead 48-47 with one to go. McPhee-McCuin described what she believed
was the difference maker for Ole Miss coming out of the halftime break.
“Just trusting our offence. We have been playing big games since the first game so there is a little bit of PTSD from losing those games.
“At halftime, I just said ‘y’all know the offence, run the offence, stop acting like you don’t know and stop leaving people out to dry’ and so we had better movement in the second half because they started playing for and with each other,” she said.
The Rebels continued their momentum into the fourth quarter to take a 55-49 lead with 7:43 remaining in the game.
The team outscored the Wildcats 35-20 in the second half, never allowing them to get closer than six in the final three minutes of the contest.
Rebounding played a factor in Ole Miss’ win. The team won the rebound battle 54-33.
Ole Miss shot 32.5 per cent while Kentucky made 44.6 per cent of their field goals, but their 27-4 advantage in the offensive rebound category gave them ample second chance opportunities.
“Coach Yo” and the Lady Rebels will return to action tomorrow against the Arkansa Razorbacks at 7:30pm in the Bud Walton Arena on the road.
COACH Yolett McPhee-McCuin and the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Rebels pulled off a big win against the University of Kentucky Wildcats 66-57 on Monday night.
FORBES WILLIAM NOTTAGE
SPECIAL Olympics Bahamas president Gilbert Williams and Wall of Famers William Mario Nottage and Bronson ‘B Man’ Aranha.
TEAM Bahamas for the 2024 CEA Mini Jumping Challenge (L-R): Katerina Coello on AHG Whiterock Duggie; Kelsey Pyfrom on Salt and Pepper; Quinn O’Brien on Vivawell. Equestrian Bahamas Federation President Cathy Ramsingh-Pierre stands at left; Caribbean Equestrian Association President Heidi Mello is at right.
GSSSA Best-of-3 Basketball Championships: Four teams secure 1-0 leads in series
game one of the senior boys’ series.
Junior Girls
National junior basketball player Tajhanique Morley and the Royals’ Makia Bowles went headto-head in game one of the championship series.
Although Morley finished with a game-high 31 points for CH Reeves, it would be Bowles and the Royals that had the last laugh.
Royals head coach Shakira Farrington said it felt good to get in the winning column first in the series.
“It feels good. We have been working on this for a long time so it feels good to get the victory today. We tried to keep them together and we knew once we played good defence we would be good offensively,” coach Farrington said.
With the score tied at 30 apiece in overtime, Morley scored the first bucket to put CH Reeves in charge 32-30.
Bowles answered the call on the other end with a layup in transition which led to a three-point play. She ended the game with 30 points and scored five of the Royals’ six points in OT.
The game went back and forth until the Royals’ Kyasia Rolle sealed the win with a free throw.
The Royals now own a 1-0 series lead and coach Farrington said in order to pull off the series win they need to keep one specific player under control.
Junior Boys
A second half surge was all the defending champions needed to put away the pesky Raptors.
Royals head coach Mark Hanna spoke about how it felt to get the first win of the series.
“In a three-game series it is always good to win the first game and draw the first blood and build our confidence going into game two,” he said.
After leading by just five (31-26) at the intermission,
the Royals kicked it into high gear in the third. The team ran ahead 41-30 on the scoreboard early in the third.
CH Reeves trimmed the double-digit deficit to 7 (44-37) but the Royals’ Joevardo Wright drained a three to drive the score up once again. He went on to wrap up the game with 24 points.
DW Davis capped off the third with yet another three, this time by Marc McCartney to lead 50-39.
Coach Hanna discussed the team’s strategy coming out of the halftime break.
“I know that I have a bench and I did a lot of substitutions. He was keeping his core players in the game so as the third and fourth quarter came in my core players were rested and his players were kind of winded.
“It was a good battle,” he said.
The Royals outscored the Raptors 40-19 in the second half.
Devante Crawl turned in a team-high 17 points for CH Reeves.
Coach Hanna said basic fundamentals along with energy and heart will be what his team needs to collect their eight straight chip.
Senior Girls
National junior basketball team player Ricarra Beadle laid it all out on the court against the Rattlers defence. She was a jill of all trades, torching the Rattlers en route to a game-high 29 points. She expressed how it felt to go up 1-0 against CI Gibson.
“It feels good to come out first with the win. It takes a little bit of the pressure off but all thanks to my team for their support,” she said.
Beadle cracked open the first period with three makes from long range, helping CV Bethel to gain an 11-3 lead early in the opening quarter.
ON THE REPLAY: High school students in action last night during the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) best-of-three championships at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.
76ERS DROP TO A SEASONWORST 13 GAMES UNDER .500 WITH LOSS TO RAPTORS
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Scottie Barnes scored 33 points, Immanuel Quickley added 23 and the Toronto Raptors snapped a fourgame losing streak with a 106-103 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers last night.
Gradey Dick added 17 points, including a clutch late 3-pointer. Barnes fed Ochai Agbaji for a layup with 1:32 left to put the Raptors up for good.
Joel Embiid had 27 points and 12 rebounds, but the 76ers (20-33) fell a seasonworst 13 games under .500. Jared Butler had 15 points off the bench, and Paul George added 12. Tyrese Maxey had just five points on 1-for-9 shooting. He was 1 for 7 from 3-point range, where the 76ers finished 9 for 38 (23.7%).
KNICKS 128, PACERS 115
CV Bethel’s standout performer said her shot felt good during warmups which translated to her play on the court.
“It felt easy. In the warmups I was hitting it so it felt normal,” she said.
The defending champions kept rolling in the second period, pushing the deficit to 20-6 late in the second period before closing out the half ahead 22-10.
The Rattlers showed some fight in the fourth period when they closed in by nine (32-23) but it was too late.
Porihanna Farrington scored a team-high 11 points for the Rattlers in the loss.
Senior Boys The Timberwolves completely outmatched the defending champions in their series opener.
Anatol had everything going for them on both sides of the ball. The team cruised to a 15-6 advantage late in the first period
before taking a 15-9 lead to end the quarter.
In the second quarter, Anatol continued to overwhelm the Rattlers.
Lavan Aritis cashed in on a two-pointer to push the Timberwolves lead to double digits (24-14).
Anatol sat comfortably in the driver’s seat 35-20 at the halftime break.
Despite trailing by double digits through three periods, the defending champions tested the Timberwolves late in the fourth. The team managed to trim the lead to just six (65-59) in the final period but Anatol’s Derek Francis made good on a go-ahead layup to widen the gap.
Francis cooked up 27 points for the Timberwolves in the victory.
Mario Rolle led CI Gibson in scoring with 19 points.
Teams will look to close out their respective series in game two slated for 4pm on Friday in the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Karl-Anthony Towns had 40 points and 12 rebounds, Josh Hart added 30 points and 10 rebounds and New York beat Indiana. New York won in Indianapolis for the first time since April 2023. The Knicks lost all three road games in last season’s seven-game Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Pacers. Towns scored 24 points in the first half, making 9 of 12 from the field. He was 14 of 23 from the field, while Hart did most of his damage in the second half and wound up 12 of 16 from the field.
Three-time All-Star Pascal Siakam had 24 points for Indiana. Thomas Bryant started in place of the injured Myles Turner (strained neck) and had 18 points and nine rebounds. Bennedict Mathurin also had 18 points.
PISTONS 132, BULLS 92
CHICAGO (AP) — Malik Beasley made seven 3-pointers and finished with 24 points, and Detroit built a franchise-record, 42-point halftime lead on the way to a romp over Chicago. Detroit outscored the Bulls 71-29 in the first half, eclipsing the previous mark of 34 points against Chicago on March 23, 1969. Beasley set a Detroit record for 3-pointers in a season with 212 after making 7 of 10. The previous mark was 211 by Saddiq Bey in 202122. Cade Cunningham added 20 points, seven assists and six rebounds as the Pistons came away with their most lopsided win of the season.
Tobias Harris scored 18 and Ausar Thompson finished with 16 points as the Pistons rolled to their third win in a row.
BAHAMAS SOFTBALL FEDERATION CONDUCTS UMPIRES’ CLINIC AT EMERA BASEBALL PARK
IT was a great weekend for Grand Bahama Baseball Little League and
UB Mingoes fall to United FC in nail-biter
THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes men’s soccer team dropped a 3-2 nail-biter to United FC Wednesday, February 5 at the Roscow Davies Soccer Fields.
That game marked the ending of the first half of the Bahamas Football Association (BFA) Bahamas Men’s Soccer League (BMSL).
UB finished in fourth position with a 7-4 win/loss record. They will play in the first division when the other half of the season resumes.
UB head coach Alex Thompson said that his team was the second-best team on the pitch.
“We weren’t as purposeful as we needed to be,” Thompson said.
“Scoring goals a lot of times comes down to wanting to score and we didn’t have enough players who wanted to score goals.
“Ronaldo Green and Marlon Barnes, who picked up knocks in the last game, can’t carry the weight for us.
“We need to find some other players who can help with that.”
Captain and midfielder Nathan Wells and substitute midfielder Green were the goal scorers for UB.
UB got the scoring underway in this matchup when Wells pounced on United’s defensive mistake
in the 18-yard box. Wells drove the shot low in the 12th minute.
It was a competitive game afterwards as UB looked to go up 2-0. That didn’t happen as United tied it 1-1 in the 40th minute.
Three minutes later, United went up 2-1. The game remained 2-1 when the half-time whistle blew.
Thompson made some substitutions to start the second half. It paid off as UB created more chances.
They won a penalty in the 54th minute.
Green stepped up and took the penalty-kick to tie the score at 2-2.
United broke the tie with a long range shot in the 81st minute to take the 3-2 lead.
UB stepped up their offence and kept pressuring the United defence. The 85th minute saw UB appealing for an apparent hand ball in the 18-yard box but the referee waved it off.
UB’s pressure was to no avail as the game ended 3-2.
UB returns to league action on Sunday, March 30 to take on the Western Warriors Titans at 4.45pm.
UB will be playing in the Knock-out Cup before that match but the schedule will be out at a later date.
Photos by UB Athletics
UB Mingoes midfielder Ronaldo Green controls the ball.
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas Mingoes midfielder Kevin Thomas advances the ball against United FC on Wednesday, February 5 at the Roscow Davies Soccer Fields. The Mingoes lost 3-2.
UB Mingoes winger Sidney Decius on defence against a United FC attacker.
UB Mingoes midfielder and captain Nathan Wells slide tackles a United FC attacker.
UB Mingoes winger Sidney Decius on the attack.
UB Mingoes forward Philip Pilgrim celebrates with goal scorer Nathan Wells.
Sprinter Payton Knowles has been ‘very consistent’
FROM PAGE 16
Brown, who currently has a total of three Bahamians on his roster at Clayton State University, said he’s looking forward to Knowles turning in a great performance on Monday when the Lakers team competes at the Peach Belt Conference Indoor Championships at the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Gainesville, Florida.
She will be joined by Dominic Archer, who is coming back from a slight injury. Desmond Major is also on the men’s team, but he won’t make his debut for Clayton State University until the outdoor season that begins in March.
“I’m just looking forward to her to lay it out, just run her best and just focus on her lane,” said Brown about Knowles.
“As long as she gives it her best and she crosses the finish line, I’m happy with that.
“But I’m looking forward to her running her best and just continue doing what she has been doing, focusing on her and executing her race to the best of her ability and just run fast.”
When Knowles left home last year, she was just 16. She was intimidated running as the “youngest athlete” on the team, but she saw herself going up after turning 17 on October 17.
“Running against athletes who were 20-21 and 22 years old was a push for me,” recalled Knowles, who was contemplating taking a year off to compete against her older peers.
“I never ran indoors, so it was different from running consistently outdoors in the Bahamas.
FROM PAGE 16
- Dynamos FC vs Western Warriors 9am - Cavalier FC vs Baha Jrs. Under-15 boys’ division - 9am - Baha
Jrs Athletico vs Western Warriors, 10:30am Renegades Chargers vs United FC, Noon - Inner Nassau vs Baha Jrs Yellow, Noon - Renegades Sharks vs Cavalier FC.
Under-18 boys’ division - 4pm - Baha Juniors vs United FC, Renegades vs Dynamos FC. Under-18 girls’ division6pm - Dynamos FC vs Baha Jrs, 6:30pm - Renegades FC vs Cavalier FC.
Sunday, February 16
Men’s division - 4:30pmInt. Nassau BLS vs Cavalier FC, 4:45pm - United FC vs WWR Gladiators, 6:45pm - IM Bears vs Future Stars, 7pm - Baha Jrs vs Int. Nassau.
DLT TRACK
CLASSIC
THE Roadrunners Track and Field Club is scheduled to hold its 19th annual Diana Lynn Thompson Track Classic at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium on Saturday, February 15.
For more information, contact club president and head coach Dexter Bodie at 434-7706 or 477-1198.
CYCLING
NPCA ACTION
During the month of February, the New Providence Cycling Association will hold two separate events, Saturday, February 15Cycling Clinic at the Queen Elizabeth Sprots Centre, eastern parking lot next to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium. The event will run from 9-11 am. Refreshments will be provided. Sunday, February 23King of the Hills Cycling Championships, starting 8:30am on Fort Charlotte
“But every meet that I’ve been competing in, I’ve seen progress with my running PRs every time. It gives me more motivation to keep going. So, I’m really excited about the championships, going in at 8.04 in the 60s. I’m excited about it.”
With the training she’s been getting under the tutelage of Brown, Knowles said she’s confident that she can run in the 7-seconds range at the conference or at least at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, from March 13-15.
“I feel good about my performances. I feel good about it. Every meet I’ve been improving and I’m just excited to run this 7-seconds in the 60m,” she stated. “I believe I could do it. It’s right there.
“I just have to believe in myself, trust my coach
Hill. The winner will be crowned the King of the Hills for 2025. Registration forms for this event can be picked up from the Cycles Bike Store or contact the NPCA. The categories include elite men, open women, under-23. male/female, masters’ male over 40 years, masters’ male over 55 years, 15-17 boys and girls, 12-014 boys and girls and 9-11 boys and girls.
SOFTBALL BBSF SEASON THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation will now start its first team competition for 2025 with its co-ed slow-pitch softball season on Saturday, February 22, at the Charles W Saunders High School, Jean Street. Teams have until Saturday, February 15, to register. The registration fee is $200 per team. Interested teams are urged to contact tournament director Thomas Sears at 424-2888 or federation president Brent Stubbs at 426-7265.
RED-LINE ATHLETES’ FIELD EVENT CLASSIC
THE Red-Line Athletics Track Club has announced plans to host its second annual Field Event Classic. The country’s all field events only meet is scheduled for Saturday, February 22 at the original Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium. The event is set to take place from 9am to 3pm and will be open to competitors from the under-11 to open categories for men and women. All winners will receive crystals and the top three will earn medals. Athletes can register at redlineathletics242@gmail.com or smnbutler@yahoo.com
NPA TRACK CLASSIC
THE Noble Preparatory
Academy is all set to hold its 2025 Track and Field Classic on Saturday, March 15 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and
and with God on my side, I know I can achieve it. The support from my family and friends and keeping God as the head of my life, trusting him 24/7, I just thank him all the time because if I didn’t believe in him, I would not be able to be here to do this.”
With a major in business management, Knowles said her grades have been extremely good, producing a 4.0 her last semester. She noted that her goal is to make her parents, Monica and Paul Knowles, proud as the first member of her family to attend college.
She wants to pave the way for the others to follow, including her niece, Parris Curtis, who is attending her alma mater at St John’s and is also a member of Unique Athletics under coach Ramon Miller.
While in the seventh grade at St John’s, Knowles began competing in track
Field Stadium from 9am to 6pm. The registration deadline is March 11. Athletes can register at info@npabahamas.com
UNCLE LOU FUN RUN/WALK
THE St Augustine’s College and the Alumni Association is inviting the general public to come out and participate in the Uncle Lou Fun Run/Walk.
Under the theme: “Paint the streets red,” the event will take place on Saturday, March 15, starting 6am at SAC’s campus off Bernard Road.
The route will leave SAC’s campus and head on Bernard Road, turn onto Soldier Road to Prince Charles Drive, turn east onto Prince Charles Drive and head back to SAC. The registration fee is $20 for adults and $10 for persons under the age of 20. The first 200 participants will receive road race t-shirts.
Persons can register now by logging onto www.saintaugustinescollege.com
Following the race, a health screening will take place. There will also be a souse out with chicken priced at $10, pig feet at $12 and sheep tongue at $15. Drinks will also be on sale. For more information, persons can call 242-324-1511or email Thesacalumni@gmail.com
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
BAHAMAS
OPEN HOUSE
SPECIAL Olympics
Bahamas is preparing to hold their open house on Dolphin Drive on February 18 and 25 and everyone is invited to attend any session.
Every Tuesday during the month of February, 2025 between the hours of 10am and 3pm, Special Olympics is iinviting the general public along with family and friends to visit our office at #24 Dolphin Drive to view our Wall of Fame. While there, they are asking
and field as a member of Kids Athletics and coach Sherry Murray-Francis. She was eventually recruited by Miller, a former relay teammate of Brown, when she was in grade nine.
“I was the first person in the track club. I was founding member of the track club,” Knowles said.
“Right now, he’s doing well. He thanks me each and every day for allowing him to step into the coaching profession.
“He decided to form the Unique Athletics Track Club and ever since, it has been building and they have been doing very well.”
To those who aspire to go off to college, Knowles’ advice is to keep “pushing” and never to “give up” because she was on the edge of quitting. But she got the call from Brown to attend Clayton State University and her whole perspective on college changed.
for guests to sign their Visitor’s Register and leave a phone contact for an opportunity to receive one of their “Special” Red Balls.
“Shake hands with our athletes and chat with one of our stars,” said a press release.
“Don’t give up. Keep trusting God and he will set a part for you. Just keep pushing and don’t give up.” When the offers from college started to come in, Knowles said she immediately decided on Clayton State because Brown was more “persistent” than the other coaches, who only called about once a month.
RUGBY GAMES AT WINTON
“Coach Brown was consistent and I felt more of a connection to him because of our home background,” she pointed out.
“I was able to meet him, unlike the other coaches who reached out in text messages.”
So far, Knowles nor Brown have any regrets at Clayton State University.
AFTER making some minor repairs to the Winton rugby pitch, the Bahamas Rugby Union is scheduled to play matches on Saturday, February 22, Saturday, March 8 and Saturday, March 22.
“Join the Inclusion Revolution today.” Donations of any amount are welcomed and appreciated during the open house dates.
All ages and all abilities are welcome, including men and women, ‘Golden Oldies’ teams and beginners and seasoned players. The BRU is also inviting persons to come and try rugby this year. The only equipment needed are tennis/cleats and PE kit.For further information, persons are urged to call (242) 812-0417.
PAYTON Knowles has been holding her own as one of the youngest sprinters competing for the Laker ladies’ track and field programme in the Peach Belt Conference.
GSSSA
Four teams secure 1-0 leads in series
By TENAJH SWEETING
The Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) best-of-three championships got off to a competitive start yesterday at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.
While the four teams are one win away from hoisting championship trophies, the remaining four are hoping to keep their title windows open.
The DW Davis Royals junior girls upset the defending champions CH Reeves 36-34 in game one of the series.
The Royals junior boys’ team followed suit and defeated the Raptors 71-45.
The CV Bethel Stingrays stung the pennant winning Rattlers 37-31 in the senior girls’ matchup.
The second seeded Anatol Rodgers Timberwolves upset the CI Gibson Rattlers 67-62 to claim
SEE PAGE 13
ON THE REPLAY: High school students in action last night during the Government
(GSSSA)
Special Olympics Bahamas looking for the national recognition they deserve
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
FOR a sport that has gained some international acclaim, Special Olympics Bahamas is still looking for the national recognition that they deserve.
SOB’s national director Gilbert Williams said they are excited to have selected its own Wall of Famers that
is on display in the headquarters at No.24 Dolphin Drive. They are currently holding an Open House every Tuesday between the hours of 10am and 3pm.
Hanging on the wall with their portrait and a list of their achievements are five inductees selected from last year. They include Anita Moncur, Colette Grant, Deron ‘King’ Forbes, William Mario Nottage and
THE Bahamas Football Association is scheduled to continue its 2025 soccer league at the Roscoe AL Davies Field with the following matches being played: Saturday, February 15 Under-13 girls’ division - 9am - United FC vs Renegades Chargers, 9am - Western Warriors vs Baha Juniors, 9:45am - Baha Juniors vs Dynamos FC, 9:45am - Western Warriors vs United FC, 10:30am - Dynamos FC vs Renegades Chargers. Under-15 girls’ division
SEE PAGE 15
Bronson ‘B Man’ Aranha. “We had a nomination where all of our members, athletes, coaches and volunteers were allowed to send in their nominees,” Williams said.
“We selected an independent panel and all of the nomination forms went to the panel. They sipped through the nominations and they came out with the top five.”
By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net
GRAND Bahamian coach Yolett McPheeMcCuin and the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Rebels pulled off a big win against the no.8 ranked University of Kentucky Wildcats 66-57 at the Pavilion in Oxford, Mississippi on Monday night. With the huge victory in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, the Lady
Moncur, who joined SOB in 1981, competes in athletics, bocce, bowling, horseback riding, soccer and swimming. She has represented the Bahamas at Special Olympics’ World Games in 1983, 1987, 1991, 1995, 1999, 2013, 2011 and 2019.
Grant, a member of SOB from 2000, plays bocce and is a swimmer who competed in the SO World
Rebels improved to 16-7 on the season and 7-4 in the conference.
The Wildcats picked up their third loss of the season for a 19-3 win/loss record and 8-2 record in the conference.
McDonald’s All-American (2020) Madison Scott shouldered the load for the Rebels in the comeback victory.
She powered her way to a game-high 22 points, six rebounds and two dimes. She shot 9-for-22 on field
Games in 2003, 2007, 2015, 2019 and 2023 with seven medals in the collection.
Forbes, who also joined SOB in 2000 and competes in athletics, basketball, soccer and swimming, attended the World Games in 2007, 2015, 2019 and 2023 and has won five medals. And Nottage, one of the longest
WHEN Golden Boy quarter-miler-turned coach Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown acquired Payton Knowles from home in the Bahamas, he knew he was bringing someone special to his athletic team at Clayton State University in Morrow, Georgia.
Knowles, the 2024 graduate of St John’s College and the first athlete to earn an athletic scholarship out of the Unique Athletics Track Club headed by former quarter-miler Ramon Miller, has been holding her own as one of the youngest sprinters competing for the Lakers ladies’ track and field programme in the Peach Belt Conference.
“She came in here, in her first indoor season, and she has been progressing every competition she competed in,” said Brown, the former Bahamas men’s 400 metre national record holder and a stalwart in winning numerous medals on the collegiate and international scene.
“She’s been very consistent and has been performing extremely well. She ran one or two 200 metres, but she’s primarily running the 60 metres now. She has dropped her personal best time from 8.3 seconds to about 8.04. She’s one of the top performers in the conference right now.”
goals and went 4-for-4 at the charity stripe.
Ole Miss starters Kennedy Todd-Williams, Starr Jacobs and Christeen Iwuala had eight points apiece to combine for 24 points in total.
Bahamian sophomore Rhema Collins pitched in two points and two rebounds in three minutes off the bench.
“Coach Yo” described the victory against the no.8
