“THE REASONS FOR A REPUBLIC IN THE BAHAMAS.”
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The time is now that we as Bahamians make that difference in the way our country is governed, and should think seriously to chose a new “transformational change in the system” that has deprived our Nation of its full potential from inception.
Let’s look at “Sir. Stafford Sands” “economic financial system” created, that details how our country’s economy is runned. It’s an “outdated unbalanced system.”
For, within the past forty seven years The Bahamas has been governed under “The British Westminster System,” literally termed the ‘Independence Pack.” However, most Bahamians refer to the pack agreement as… ‘Independence’… as they know it… and others were taught to believe in.’
This British ‘non obligatory participation agreement,’ which is termed the “Independence Pack” was entered into not by force, however by necessity. As a Nation was being forged. Even though the then first elected democratic Prime Minister, Sir. Lynden Oscar Pindling, the father of our Nation, whom had along with his delegation in 1963, addressed the British Parliament on the disadvantages and clear conflicts of interest imbedded in the “pack”, which parliament knew’ the implications of the “pack but stood inert,” he decided that allowing a Nation to be formed was necessary nevertheless. The matters addressed in 1963 was never again redress during the growing pains of The Bahamas as a Nation … until now.’ Now where we find our country in a state of dependency, as a result of a non beneficial divided system. We must then gather the strength to believe: 1) that a new direction that believes in you as Bahamians must be visual and tangible; 2) a direction that will protect your vital interests; 3) a new direction in governance which will bring about the true potentials of our Nation; and 4) the needed manufacturing industries that could bring benefits to each citizen is indeed more realistic for survival.
CONDITIONS OF THE WESTMINSTER SYSTEM
The “Independence Pack” imposes restrictions that includes, that our Nation allow the implementation of British Colonial presence, e.g., statutes, monuments, traditions, ect; British control over our banking institutions; the International Monetary Funding, the (I M F) a creature of The World Bank, will be the sole lender to our Nation; the World Trade Organization, the (W T O) as the Nation’s acting Trade Minister and accountant; with the World Health Organization, the (W H O), as our medical and medicine consultants. These must be adhered thereto in our Nation.
However, this arrangement has not benefitted our Nation, or the citizens of The Bahamas. For the “Independence Pack” was orchestrated not to achieve that purpose –which was to allow enjoyment of being free and to bring prosperity to our citizens–its premeditated mandates were in the abstract to remain controlling over our Nation’s resources and progress through an oligarchy enterprise.
The Westminster system was particularly designed to operate as a two party opposition regime, with the intent to keep balance in governance among leaders chosen to govern. This was accomplished throughout the commonwealth, Caricom Nations, and British Territory Nations under British rule.
However, the Westminster system overall objective is to keep Nations divided among themselves. While the idea of balance was central to the design and intent, the operation of the “pack” adversely, operates to divide and conquer.
PURPOSE OF POLITICAL PARTIES
Here in The Bahamas, there are two political organizations that literally becomes the dictatorship of law and vision for the country every five years. On one side is the Free National Movement, the (FNM), and on the other side is the Progressive Liberal Party, the (PLP). Both political parties have their own mantra and vision for governing the Bahamas. Therefore, every five years resulting from elections, the country goes into a regression as a result of the party that has won the election. If a new Administration, it takes a position to cease any and almost all contracts entered into under the previous administration for review. To examine them for validity. The economy stalls by this inevitable process as the norm, and at other stages falls into stalemate improvements that were ongoing. Thus, the progress of continuity of thought out programs by the previous administration ceases. In most cases, withdrawal of government compliance under the new administration or adoption of contracts previously entered into legally by the previous administration. Clearly, a complete conflict of interest involving the two parties of government as to what is constitutionally mandated for our country. Important to mention, and keep this in mind, both parties are Her Imperial Majesty of Britain royal oppositions.
We have heard many times that a Nation divided against itself shall fall. Yet, we actually fail to see that being “color lined decided” is a subconscious separation by differences. Our Nation have operated mainly on a system comprised of two political parties. However, not to say that other parties have not attempted to rise to the occasion in former years, they have not however, been able to break the color lines embedded in the fabric of the life styles of our population. Regarding, the political affiliations.’ Now is the time we revisit this dogma and dismantle its preambles for clarity.
The “color line” of both parties which are set forth are, “red for the free national movement, (FNM); and gold for the progressive liberal party, the (PLP) that represents a citizen’s political affiliation. But, what it does also subconsciously is create a partition between ideologies; it induces a lack of resolute determination as a whole unified body; or it brings a division in purpose; also discriminative thinking towards each other; and shadow’s true equality with a ‘mirage’ of possibilities unattainable within our society ruled under and by its policies. This is done by victimization of members of the party that is removed from governance by the new administration; and by the selective process of providing for their supporters alone with no trickle down effects to the masses of Bahamians. Wherefore, every five years is a restart of our economy and progress, that puts the Nation backwards. With reprieve against non supporters whom are indeed the same country man and
woman who did not support the party in office.
DIABOLICAL NATURE OF THE WESTMINSTER SYSTEM
This is the nature of the “Westminster System” known to many as “Independence.” It allows to be perpetuated the vivid conflicts of interest within the realms of governance without an offered solution. This is because, the governing party can rule with impunity if so choose, and act in a manner as if a dictator, once sworn into power even with, a meaningful opposition. ‘Her Majesty’s royal oppositions has never in the history of The Bahamas after 1973 ‘Independence Pack,’ enacted any laws; or influence for that matter any policy or constitutional amendments existing in the Bahamas known to date.
INTER-DEPENDENCE INITIATIVE
The period is now to vigorate efforts so that our Nation can quickly recuperate and take charge over our very own destiny. This however does not mean that, our Nation must cut ties with countries, who’s corporations are engrafted in our society; or moreover, release our country from prior commitments, unless it is identified that such arrangements were not beneficial to all parties involved making such contract invalid. The fear of forging a destiny appropriate for our successors, who are our young people, the future leaders of our country; or, our perseverance of our environment and natural resources; and the liberty to remain free’… should not remain a distant cry for our Nation.’ We have what it takes to sustain ourselves in building a better Nation that we can be patriotic once again about and proud to state… I am a Bahamian.’
The Commonwealth of The Bahamas have been victim for many years to befriending corporations, and malicious foreign investors, who has taken advantage in gaining an upper hand on untapped Bahamian resources through the avenues provided by non-patriotic government officials. Notably, this practice has existed within both Administrations that have governed our Bahamas lands. This is now to be placed under scrutiny and abolished. These two not just separate, but divisional parties, have kept the Bahamian people divided since inception as a Nation by their differences. Both believe in different ideologies which affect how our Nation exist among our neighboring countries and internationally.
We have been fortunate thus far, to be a striving Nation for the past forty seven years, however, very little have been done towards development and structuring of new domestic manufacturing industries. Most important is the fact, nothing much has been done for the masses of Bahamians known to reside within the jurisdiction of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas by either party once in office. This is due to the constraints unbeknown to the public that is placed on their hands by outside influences –“Westminster System”– and by their personal ambitions.
KNOWLEDGE OF DISENFRANCHISEMENT
Each party’s manner by which they govern, are constrained merely by what their hands can touch. Any immediate provisions are shared among grass root supporters first; those of the administration who are in office; and substantial contracts are given out to friends, family members and associates for kickbacks –clear conflicts of interest–that leaves the majority of the people fending for themselves. Defending against injustice and inequality for the next five years when general elections are held once more. In some cases, the same administration retains government and consequently, the same remains true of disenfranchised citizens.
This cycle of abuse is called “Westminster,” in its nature. Our Nation unfortunately have succumbed to its regulations, and policies for such a long time knowing its disadvantages, that the abuse has become a thing of the norm. But why change this system one may ask, especially when in times of a party’s reign the supporters alone experience some form of growth personally,’ simply, because of who they may be. Selfish behavior of survival and discord exist at the core of this system. Those who have, and those who will never be afforded the opportunity to have.
MENTAL UNCONSCIOUSNESS
When such a system is enforced on the will of a people, that subconsciously convinces them, that other than being divided one can not exist, the results must foster envy; also disagreements; differences in opinions; and separate mythology in deciding which courses to pursue. However, this was what was naturally intended by the “Westminster System.” To Divide and conquer.
On the other side, the ‘Westminster System’ compels our Nation’s elected officials to adopt policies of the World Health Organization (WHO); the ‘International Monetary Funding Organization’ (IMF) and ‘World Trade Organization’s’ (WTO). To adhere to suggestions on economic growth; or advice on medical systems and new vaccinations; on taxes and tariffs to be levied against or imposed on our people notwithstanding the condition of our economy or indigenous Bahamian people.’
The misrepresented contract termed “Independence” which was in fact, an “Independence Pack,” … an agreement of our Nation with Britain, have advanced nothing but the endeavors of those that our country does not know transparently. Our leaders are given privileges over the common people, without any meaningful way for redress. This is in the face of the mechanisms that control how our country operates to survive being abused. It acknowledges that there are clear conflicts of interest that are overlooked as ‘that’s just the way things are’ …is a farce of equality, denial of justice, and lacks protection provided by our constitutional mandates. The ‘Westminster System’ was designed to achieve these results from hindsight.
INTER-DEPENDENCE
A new system of sovereignty will embrace the real needs of our entire Nation and bring forth true transformation for our people, and the condition of our people economically. Why, and how come? Because its obvious, that a regime of fascism, will never dominate the entirety of intelligent Bahamians who are bold enough to face new challenges in the way our Nation progresses.
Our Rights to exist in these territories of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas was not given by words that slavery was abolished — but by blood, sweat and tears. Our indentured slavery period was our payment cost for our land assets. Slavery was our payment in full to be a Nation with land to call our own. Thus we earned the right to ownership by way of our sacrifices and forced services endured for over four hundred years and even to this day.
This is our heritage, every Bahamian’s wealth is blood stained and identified on the lands and natural resources within our territories specifically granted to our ancestors straight down to their descendants, and to every indigenous Bahamian citizen. Disappointing though is the fact, lands, natural minerals, and holistic herbs which have profited many others, other than the very owners–the citizens of The Bahamas — ‘continues nonetheless exported without benefit to all citizenry.’
Therefore, with these credentials are we, as a people, must demand back our country, without apology, from out of the hands of foreign and domestic aggressors, malicious investors and disloyal public servants. Those of them that care less whether there are people dying, suffering, starving, bare feet without nothing, and hopeless, once their coffers remain getting filled. We must if need be force compliance through the appropriate means for restitution and rectifiable ownership over properties and natural resources that have been intentionally misappropriated that has deprived our Nation of growth and prosperity. knowingly, that such laws and policies directly and adversely affected a great majority of less fortunate citizens. By depriving them of equal opportunities and beneficial investment projects of interest which should not have been allowed to fester. However, must not now be permitted to continue.’ Those that have grown fat off our economy without proper and just compensation being meet out to the Bahamian people, your time to explain and pay restitution is now. You knew this day would come.’
We can, and we must decide whether we will continue down this road of inequality displayed openly within the ‘Westminster System.’ Will we as Bahamians remain silent while merely a chosen few prosper and your neighbor lives deficient of their needs? Does it really make sense to trust a few rather than a majority with the decision over your future? Will Bahamians sit mute while peering at their own, our own, properties and natural resources being taken and shipped in front of our eyes out of our country knowing that there is nothing coming back to you, us? Importantly,’ Bahamians must know that, to allow the present regime of political foray to ponder the citizens wealth in The Bahamas is to continue down an oblique future for our children, grand children and all Bahamian people.
By changing our system of doing business under the Westminster system, to a system that entirely obliges the people to decide who takes care of their country is more rewarding for The Bahamas. It will be the greatest achievement for Bahamian people.’ The Bahamas in its best interest, should resign from the “Independence Pack, actually the Westminster system”… and believe in its abilities to create new ideas for doing business. Believe in its ability to forge new industries; or, enter new relationships with neighbors to do more trading; and by taking keen inventory of the known resources and investing in the people of The Bahamas. By educating them so that they would be able to embrace new technological advancement worldwide is surely a journey worth the sacrifice.
The term “inter-dependence” is more befitting for a Nation that has the resources to sustain itself. Meaning, complete sovereignty and autonomy. This must had been the hopes and aspirations of our founders. Their dreams could not have foreseen our country as it is now in disarray.’ The vision enshrined in our bill of rights invites the wayfarer to come to our shores to seek provisions. But after, they must assimilate to our culture and values in which we hold true that binds us together as a Nation. Surprisingly, today, this is far from being the norm.
RESOLUTION
As citizens of The Bahamas, no longer is needed some one to watch over our freedoms; to watch over who are we in relations with; how much should we be allowed to progress; and in which manners to do so; and who is credible enough to provide medical care to our sick children, or ailing and elderly. Will you not then, take this journey my Bahamian brothers and sisters to a more pristine and preserved future to a destination sure. Where we are not afraid of our previous captures in a way intimidated by what they choose to do.
… ‘The lesson taught at this point by human experience is simply this, that the man who will get up, will be helped up; and the man who will not get up will be allowed to stay down. Personal independence is a virtue and it is the soul out of which comes the sturdiest manhood. But there can be no independence without a large share of self-dependence, and this virtue cannot be bestowed. It must be developed from within.
Quote: Fredrick Douglas
There is no future for a people who deny their past,’ or more or less, rely on their oppressors and others to sustain them with provisions.’
Our People can chart our own destiny with the help of God’s guidance that is a beacon over our nation. Our people can forge new relationships with our close neighbors. The Bahamas can become the “mecca” of holistic medicines; and a hub for trans-Atlantic shipping lanes that are economically relevant but are relaxed under certain concessions under law as to date. The variable prospects of industries are unlimited within our borders of approximately 700 Islands, 300 Cays, and some 16 major cities.
Our domestic markets are visible, creatable and doable as it relates to each and every major Island in our archipelago. For each island has its indigenous properties that can cultivate economic empowerment for that particular island. With the assistance of a centralized government and capital injection from the country’s natural resources, each island will have an opportunity to grow stronger and become more relevant in the tourism sectors and to its own sustainability domestically.
So, if you hear the dogs, keep going. If you see the torches in the woods, keep going. If there is shouting after you, keep going. Don’t ever stop. keep going. If you want a taste of true freedom keep going.’
Quote: Harriet Tubman
For the strength to go on must be by the conviction of the mind; dedicated poise to believe in oneself; and souls resolved in knowing that we are indeed free men and women in a land paid for in full with blood service, sweat and tears that establishes our ownership. For we are indeed the possessors over The Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
My dear Bahamian country men and women, I have never before in my life felt the need to be compelled to defend what was passed down to me as a citizen of The Bahamas until now. where we find our nation so perplexed and divided. We have been blessed by having been placed in this land by God’s will, and by the strength of collective power we must defend our God given heritage. The fear of going backwards is merely conscience tampering, however the reality depends on you to make this change for the renewal of our values and prosperity of our Nation.
Written by:
Christopher F. Stubbs, Ceo, Awe
2021/22
AWE Production Bahamas 