Minnis concedes

Thursday, September 16, 2021

Minnis concedes

Free National Movement (FNM) Leader Dr. Hubert Minnis conceded defeat in the 2021 general election on Thursday night after early results showed the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) taking a comfortable lead.

The outgoing prime minister said he will lead the FNM into the House of Assembly as leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition.

“Tonight, I spoke with leader of the Progressive Liberal Party Philip Davis and offered my congratulations to him and his party on their victory at the polls,” Minnis said in his concession statement.

“I offered him my best wishes as his government now faces the continued fight against COVID-19, and the restoration of our economy.

“I would like to thank the tens of thousands of Bahamians from across The Bahamas who voted for FNM candidates. I also congratulated the FNM candidates who won seats in the House of Assembly.”

Minnis also thanked Killarney voters for making him their representative for the fourth consecutive time.

Early unofficial results suggest that multiple FNM incumbent candidates lost their seats including: Jeffrey Lloyd (South Beach), Renward Wells (Bamboo Town), Elsworth Johnson (Yamacraw) , Dionisio D’Aguilar (Freetown), and Darren Henfield (North Abaco).

Despite the heavy losses, Minnis said he is proud of his administration’s record over the last four years.

“During our term, we faced the most difficult times in Bahamian history,” he said pointing to challenges related to Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“…We did not win this time,” Minnis added. “But I say to the next generation of FNMs that you should stay firm to this party’s founding ideals. Always put the people first and be honest in government.”

Minnis thanked his wife, Patricia, and his family for their support. He also offered his gratitude to FNM officers, members and supporters.

“And to the Bahamian people, I say a warm and heartfelt thank you for my time being your prime minister,” he continued.

“You are a strong, hardworking and resilient people. Hurricane Dorian did not break you. The pandemic has not broken you.

“You trust in the God who has brought us this far. Trust that He will bring us further to brighter times.”