LORETTA BUTLER-TURNER COMMENTS ON FIRST OPM PRESS BRIEFING

Press Secretary Clint Watson is pictured at his first press briefing on Wednesday, October 20. He noted that the administration of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis is reviewing an external report into the controversial termination of members of the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) board in 2018 , under the Minnis administration. Watson said the report, which was commissioned by former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, was presented to the government by the foreign company in November 2020 He said the report which is “a very interesting read” and has been sent to the Minister of Public Works for review.

GUEST COMMENTARY: BY LORETTA BUTLER-TURNER

NASSAU, Bahamas, October 20, 21 — Let me begin by saying that it has been exactly one month and a few days since the Davis Administration took the reigns of governance. Usually, it is customary to extend a honeymoon period to new governments. I might add that this being the accepted practice, then Prime Minister Davis and his elected team are technically yet in their honeymoon period. In other words, a period of adjustment and familiarizing themselves with their respective portfolios and areas of responsibility.

Admittedly, l personally had reservations about the continuation of a Press Secretary, primarily because of the disastrous failure of the post under the Minnis administration. Those reservations were not dispelled after the initial communicative altercations between the newly appointed Press Secretary and the local press corps.

Today’s OPM Press Briefing, from my perspective, and the portions that l actually viewed deserves commendations for professionalism, organization and information sharing.

Any reservations l may have harboured were erased by the overall presentations by Mr. Clint Watson and the panel of various ministers and technocrats.

It is my firm belief that the electorate deserves to be informed on all matters as it relates to the effective governance of the people’s business.

While not wishing to be premature in my commendation, l will not hesitate to add that this level of dialogue must be sustained. The updating and sharing of information, whether good or bad, can only augur well for us all while adhering to high standards of accountability and transparency.

We, the people, will never agree with all that our government proposes or undertakes, but through open dialogue — as what was established today — there will be much respect and goodwill fostered.

Respect given to the citizenry will build reciprocal respect in return to those elected to serve. Unity of purpose and clarity of reasons will be the best prescription for bringing us all together. Despite our creed, colour or political affiliation, we must all feel included.

Thank you to Prime Minister Davis, his Ministers and all persons in various arms of government.

It would indeed be a “New Day” if this level of openness becomes the hallmark of your administration.