The election’s biggest shock? They won anyway.
When the dust settled after the May 12 general election, some of the most surprising results were those who survived politically.
Several incumbents widely viewed as vulnerable heading into the election, managed to hold onto their seats, despite criticism, controversy, shifting voter moods and constituencies known for political swings.
Among them were Myles Laroda, Michael Darville, Patricia Deveaux, Wayde Watson, McKell Bonaby, Leonardo Lightbourne, Sylvanus Petty, Kirk Cornish and newcomer Obie Roberts.
Many expected at least some of those seats to flip.
Incumbency and Progressive Liberal Party structure may have mattered more than anti-government frustrations in some constituencies.
Laroda entered the election still facing criticism over unresolved flooding problems that have frustrated residents for years. Pinewood has historically been a swing seat, frequently changing major parties depending on the national mood. Yet voters returned him for a second term.
Tall Pines presented another surprise. Darville faced sustained criticism over the state of healthcare nationally, an issue directly tied to his ministerial portfolio. The constituency itself has a history of moving between parties. Still, he survived and secured a second consecutive term.
In Bamboo Town, Deveaux was widely criticized by opponents and online commentators, with many believing she was one of the more vulnerable incumbents. Yet she retained the seat.
Bonaby also overcame political pressure tied to allegations surrounding the Beaches and Parks Authority, where he served as chairman. Despite the controversy, many constituents continued to describe him as a strong member of parliament.
Some victories came from seats many believed were temporary PLP gains after the 2021 backlash against the Hubert Minnis administration’s handling of COVID-19.
Petty held North Eleuthera again despite the constituency’s long-standing FNM history. Cornish also survived as a backbencher, many thought would only serve one term.
Meanwhile, Leonardo Lightbourne retained support in North Andros and the Berry Islands even as FNM challenger Janice Oliver appeared to gain strong momentum throughout the campaign.
Southern Shores may have produced one of the election’s most unexpected outcomes. Many believed FNM candidate Denalee Penn had the advantage because of long-term constituency work, and name recognition. But the race became complicated after incumbent Leroy Major ran as an independent following his previous PLP victory there.
In the end, Obie Roberts emerged victorious in a constituency known for constantly shifting political directions.
