Letter to the Editor – “Uphold the Law or Vacate the Office: The Time for Compromise Has Ended”

Dear Editor,

The public conversation continues as many weigh in on whether Sebas Bastian should be allowed to contest the seat as a Member of Parliament. I wish to add my voice and thoughts on the matter on behalf of the Bahamas Constitution Party, as the law is clear, and many Bahamians do not understand the concept of Ethics and conflict of Interest in Public Life.

The soul of our democracy is being tested. Today, I speak not only as the Servant Leader of the Bahamas Constitution Party, but as a guardian of the truth and a voice for every Bahamian who believes that no one—absolutely no one—is above the law.

We are deeply disturbed and utterly outraged by the audacity of any individual who seeks to serve in our Cabinet while simultaneously holding or justifying ownership of broadcasting or gaming licenses. Such behavior is not just morally indefensible—it is legally prohibited, constitutionally compromised, and a direct assault on the ethical foundation of our nation.

The Law Is Clear

• Article 78(1) of the Constitution demands that Ministers avoid any conflict between personal interest and public duty.
• Section 11(1)(b) of the Broadcasting Act states without ambiguity: “No license shall be granted to any person who is a member of the Cabinet.”
• And while the Lotteries and Gaming Act does not explicitly list Ministers, public service ethics, and common sense dictate that those in power must not be allowed to profit from industries they oversee.

Let me be crystal clear: There is no legal, constitutional, or moral loophole that excuses a Minister who holds or benefits from a broadcasting or gaming license. None.

The Consequences Are Grave.

When Cabinet Ministers become players in the very industries they regulate:

• Regulatory fairness collapses.
• The free press is threatened.
• Public trust disintegrates.
• And the rule of law becomes optional.

That, my fellow citizens, is how democracies decay—from within. 

A Line Must Now Be Drawn.

If we are to preserve the dignity of our institutions and the sanctity of our Constitution, we must act decisively:

1. We demand immediate public declarations from all Cabinet Ministers, affirming that they hold no direct or indirect broadcasting or gaming interests.
2. We demand the resignation or removal of any Minister in breach of these provisions.
3. And if the Government refuses to act, we are prepared to pursue constitutional litigation to enforce the law and defend the people’s trust.

Let those in power be warned: If you will not uphold the law, then you must vacate the office. The Bahamian people will not accept silence, excuses, or political spin. We will not be governed by self-interest cloaked in parliamentary privilege.

This is not a political issue. It is a matter of national honor, a test of constitutional faith, and a defining moment in the future of Bahamian governance.May God guide our conscience, strengthen our resolve, and embolden the righteous.

• The End .

Servant Leader S. Ali McIntosh, 
Bahamas Constitution Party   

—
Bahamas Constitution Party

‘Committed to the Preservation of the Next Generation”

Office of The National Chairman 

Servant Leaders

Servant Leader,  S. Ali McIntosh 242-524-1798

Deputy Servant Leader,  Dwayne AV Huyler  242-829-9892

Assistant Deputy Leader, Shantel Ryan Robinson  (Northern Bahamas)