We decided to share this article with readers of BAHAMAS CHRONICLE, which has a huge following among the Bahamian diaspora across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean. The Nassau Guardian published this article by Taneka Thompson on Monday, March 23, 2026. The article can be found here.
Taneka Thompson
Guardian Senior Reporter
taneka@nasguard.com
Island Luck CEO Sebas Bastian said yesterday he will step down from that role at the end of the month as he focuses on a political career.
Bastian was ratified as the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) candidate for Fort Charlotte in October 2025.
In a statement, Bastian said he decided to run for public office because he is not content sitting on the sidelines but wants to contribute.
“I believe that if we bring some of the key principles of successful entrepreneurship to government, and we embrace modern, innovative solutions, we can create new opportunities and really change how things work here,” Bastian said.
“A lot of young Bahamians ask for my advice, so I know we have a new generation ready to succeed, and in the prime minister, I see a leader who doesn’t settle for the status quo and embraces new ideas. Sitting on the sidelines isn’t my style; I want to contribute.”
Bastian said the responsibilities associated with public service will require his full attention, which necessitated him stepping down from his role as CEO. Bastian’s statement made no mention of him divesting ownership of the company he co-founded nearly 17 years ago.
Section 25 of the Gaming Act prohibits Cabinet ministers, Gaming Board members and their relatives from holding gaming operator licenses. This means that if elected to Parliament, Bastian would not be allowed to serve in Cabinet unless the law is changed.
In May 2023, the Gaming Board proposed amending the law to remove this prohibition.
Prime Minister Philip Davis has previously said his administration would not make such an amendment.
Island Luck, which began operations when the web shop sector was illegal and unlicensed, has grown into a “major Bahamian employer” since the businesses were regulated and became part of the formal company, Bastian’s statement said.
The company now has more than 1,000 employees across its operations.
Island Luck’s board of directors is currently in the process of identifying the company’s next CEO, Bastian’s statement said, adding that the board will oversee the leadership transition to ensure continuity and stability within the organization.
Bastian indicated that the company’s future leadership will continue to focus on responsible operations, regulatory compliance, and preparing the organization for the evolving technological landscape that continues to influence the entertainment and digital gaming sectors globally.
In addition to co-owning Island Luck, Bastian is the chairman of Verizon Media Group, parent company of Eyewitness News, among other business ventures.