5 things Sebas Bastian brings to the PLP ticket
The Progressive Liberal Party has officially selected the famed gaming businessman and ambassador Sebas Bastian to run on its Fort Charlotte ticket in the upcoming general election— a move that could be seen as a strategic play by the governing party.
Here are 5 things Sebas Bastian brings to the PLP ticket—some of which could strengthen the party and stir backlash:
- Money
Bastian is one of the country’s wealthiest businessmen, making most of his wealth from gaming.
As the owner of Island Luck, one of the country’s largest gaming companies, and other business ventures, he brings deep financial resources that could supercharge the PLP’s campaign operations, making Fort Charlotte one of the most competitive constituencies in the next election.
- Media Influence
Bastian controls a popular private media outlet– Eyewitness News.
That gives him an audience, visibility, narrative control, and influence that few to no candidates possess.
- Youth
At 40, Bastian represents a perceived new generation of leadership within the PLP, one that could resemble what Bahamians have been calling for, rather than the party’s old guard.
He can be perceived as a fresh face with new ideas, possibly expanding the party’s base beyond traditional supporters.
- A brand as an innovator
Bastian has branded himself as a modern, innovative entrepreneur with investments in various ventures and constantly holds motivational conferences under the banner OWN Talks.
His inclusion on the PLP ticket could help the party appeal to younger, business-minded voters, which is a persuasion that the party is shifting toward innovation within its political circle.
- A controversial gaming connection
While his gaming business empire brings him success, it also carries baggage.
The gaming industry remains controversial among religious and conservative communities in the Bahamas, which have long opposed its legalization and increase.
