Free National Movement Leader, Michael Pintard responded to the changes proposed by the Constituencies Commission outside of the House of Assembly on Wednesday.
Pintard told reporters the government has in no major way addressed the fundamental issues a Constituencies Commission is created to do. He said, “one thing for sure we know that you can change the lines, but you can’t change the minds of Bahamians. So we’re looking forward to contesting this election. One of the thing we will do when we’re in government is to address the issue of lack of parity in terms of the number of voters in the various seats. So for example, in their move of taking Bimini and putting it with the Berry Islands, clearly if they were interested in greater parity across Grand Bahama, you would notice that there is at least a 1300 vote difference between West Grand Bahama now and let’s say East Grand Bahama.”
The FNM Leader also drew reference to the Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador constituency represented by Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis. He pointed out that there are 1644 voters there as of 2025, less than there were in 2021.
Speaking of the constituency that he represents Pintard said, “Marco City, for example, 6200. So the parity issue is something that has to be addressed in future. You have MICAL, am difficult constituency to represent that has the same resources as every other constituency. I think they missed an opportunity to deal with a number of issues.”
Pintard appealed to voters to ensure that they transfer to the correct constituencies. “If you have questions on whether you are suitably, appropriately registered, if you’re in the right area, move quickly to go to Parliamentary and get these issues resolved, election is imminent.”
The opposition was represented on the Constituencies Commission by Member of Parliament for St. Barnabas, Shanendon Cartwright.
