goldenisles

Just five months after a closely watched by-election, Golden Isles is once again in the spotlight, this time as part of the general election battle for government on May 12.

The constituency, which delivered a win for the Progressive Liberal Party’s Darren Pickstock, is shaping up to be one of the more closely watched races in the general election.

Pickstock will again face Free National Movement candidate Brian Brown and Coalition of Independents candidate Brian Rolle, setting the stage for a rematch.

In the November by-election, Pickstock secured 1,873 votes, while Brown followed closely with 1,636 votes. Rolle received 348 votes, and independent candidate Karen Butler garnered 16.

The relatively narrow margin between the Pickstock and Brown immediately raised questions on whether it was an early sign of voter sentiment or simply the nature of by-elections.

Traditionally, by-elections in the Bahamas tend to favor the governing party. Lower turnout and reduced urgency often mean results do not fully reflect the broader electorate.

This time, the general election is expected to bring higher voter turnout, greater national attention and more at stake for voters.

This time, the result may better reflect the true political mood in Golden Isles.

For Brown, the loss in the by-election did not mark the end of his campaign. As a resident of the constituency, he has continued to engage with voters.

Meanwhile, Brian Rolle represents a growing but uncertain factor. With increasing public frustration toward the two-party system, Rolle is hoping to translate that sentiment into votes at the polls.

As the 2026 General Election draws near, the creation of two new constituencies, Bimini & Berry Islands and St. James has sparked questions about fairness in voting. Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper says the changes are meant to balance voter numbers. But some critics are asking: Is this gerrymandering?

What is gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is when political boundaries are drawn in a way that gives an advantage to one party over another. It usually involves “packing” voters of one type into a single area or “cracking” them across several areas to dilute their influence. The goal is to shape election results, sometimes at the expense of fair representation.

What’s happening?

The government says St. James was created by combining parts of Golden Isles and Killarney because those areas had far more voters than average, around 15,000–16,000, compared to the roughly 5,000 voters in most constituencies. On the surface, this looks like an effort to make voting more equal.

But critics say timing matters. The new boundaries come just before an election, which naturally raises questions about whether the changes could favor certain parties or candidates. While there is no clear evidence of political manipulation yet, the situation highlights why transparency in boundary decisions is important.

Why it matters to voters

For everyday citizens, gerrymandering can affect whose voices are heard in Parliament and how much influence your vote carries. Understanding these changes helps voters hold leaders accountable.

Balanced representation is key to a healthy democracy and voters have a right to know how the lines are drawn.

Newly elected Member of Parliament for Golden Isles, Darron Pickstock, officially took his seat in the House of Assembly today following his by-election victory.

Sitting on the government’s backbench with members of his family in the gallery, Pickstock used his first address to express gratitude and to outline his commitment to the constituency.

“I will work hard for Golden Isles, harder than anyone has ever worked. I will be present. I will listen. And I will act,” he said.

Pickstock also pledged to support entrepreneurship in the community, promising to be “a partner, not a barrier,” and outlined his vision of “a golden future for Golden Isles” rooted in “inclusivity, equity and shared progress.”

Reflecting on his early years, Pickstock spoke about the lessons learned from hard work and perseverance.

“I packed bags, bussed tables and cleaned floors as a teen, working nights to pay for day classes. If you want a better life, you have to be prepared to put in the work,” he said. “I come from a working family, raised on modest means, but with high expectations.”

Prime Minister Philip Davis praised Pickstock’s journey, calling him a symbol of what ordinary Bahamians can achieve.

“You asked the people for a chance. Now prove them right and go beyond their expectations,” Davis said. He also hailed the by-election result as a major victory for the Progressive Liberal Party.

“PLP is an unbeatable machine, once we get rolling, we take up everything in its wake.”

Opposition Leader Michael Pintard formally congratulated Pickstock and expressed hope that Golden Isles would see meaningful transformation under his leadership.

Former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has suggested the Free National Movement (FNM) should never have contested the Golden Isles by-election, sparking debate over the party’s resources, confidence, and strategy heading toward the next general election.

“I stayed quiet throughout the whole process, but I agreed with Ingraham,” Minnis told The Nassau Guardian, referencing former party leader Hubert Ingraham’s earlier claim that he advised against Brian Brown running in the contest.

“One seat would not have made a difference…I did not feel that they could win,” Minnis added.

On the surface, the statement sounds like political hindsight.

He said he is not optimistic about the FNM’s chances going into the general election.

“Now, you are going into the real battle where the government has all its ammunition stockpiled and ready for you, and you are coming in limping,” he said.

“I don’t need to say what the result will be.”

The big picture

In The Bahamas, by-elections — like many around the world — tend to favour the governing party.

Government machinery often tilts the odds in its direction.

Still, opposition parties traditionally contest these races for one reason: perception.

By-elections are not simply about filling vacant seats. They are seen as political temperature checks — moments that reflect public mood, momentum, and party strength.

Golden Isles became a measuring stick for all parties.

Had the FNM followed Minnis’ recommendation to stay out, it may have signalled something far more damaging than a loss–a lack of confidence. Voters and observers could have interpreted such a move as surrender, division, or fear of rejection.

A closer look at the numbers

Despite losing the seat, the FNM captured 9 of the 17 polling divisions — more than half of the ballots cast across the constituency.

Brian Brown lost by just over 200 votes, turning what some may label a defeat into a razor-thin, highly competitive race in a swing constituency.

That is not a political wipeout. That is a warning and an opportunity.

The results suggest, the FNM still holds a strong base in Golden Isles. Low voter turnout likely hurt more than helped and a general election could easily tilt it in the Opposition’s favor.

Minnis’ comments may rest in emotions more than sound political strategy.

What’s at stake

If opposition parties shy away from electoral contests, FNM voters may feel abandoned or disconnected. Independent or fringe candidates could gain a greater footing, and voter apathy may worsen.

Political analysts warn that a democracy without competition is a fragile one, and a democracy where opposition retreats is an endangered one.

Low voter turnout is no longer just a Bahamian political problem— it is now a global phenomenon. From the recent Golden Isles by-election to polls in the Caribbean, Europe, and the United States, millions of eligible citizens are choosing not to vote.

The big picture

Across democracies, voter participation continues to decline. In countries like the United States, France, and Australia, turnout typically ranges between 50 to 70 percent, and in by-elections, that number often drops to 30 percent or lower.

In the Bahamas, the Golden Isles by-election mirrored that troubling trend. Out of 7,926 registered voters, only 3,873 people turned out—a turnout of just 49 percent.

This follows a wider pattern. In the 2021 General Election, the Progressive Liberal Party formed the government with the support of only 34 percent of the total voting population.

Why it matters

When citizens do not take part in the democratic process, the power of decision-making is left in the hands of a smaller group. This can lead to governments being elected by a minority while the majority remains silent.

Low turnout weakens accountability, reduces representation, and raises questions about whether elected officials truly reflect the will of the people.

In essence, democracy still functions, but with reduced participation.

Several factors fuel this global decline:

• Voter apathy and disillusionment
• Broken political promises
• Distrust in institutions due to corruption
• Confusing voting systems
• Economic and time pressures
• Election fatigue
• Digital engagement replacing real-life action
• Younger generations feeling unheard

Political analysts warn that without reforms, such as easier registration, early voting options, better education, and stronger community engagement, the problem will become worse.

What’s at stake

The continued decline in voter engagement has serious consequences:

• Legitimacy of elected leaders comes into question
• Policies may not reflect the majority’s interests
• Organized groups may gain disproportionate power
• Public trust in democracy weakens
• Young people become more disconnected from leadership and governance

The bottom line

Voting is more than a right, it is a responsibility.

Low turnout is not just about people staying home, it is a reflection of broken trust, lack of motivation, and a growing feeling that leadership no longer connects with the people it serves.

For the Bahamas and democracies around the world, the real question is how do we get people to care enough to show up at the polls?

Featured Images: The Nassau Guardian

When a by-election is called in the Bahamas, many people expect it to shake up Parliament or send a strong message to the government. But history shows something different. More often than not, the governing party wins.

Here’s why:

1. The ‘power of incumbency’

The governing party controls the machinery of state: the various ministries and the budgets.

And in the lead-up to a by-election, constituencies experience sudden road repairs, community clean-ups, street lights fixed, park upgrades and new social assistance grants.

These visible improvements become closely associated with the party in power. And voters may feel, “If they are doing this now, imagine what more they can do if we support them.”

2. Voters may not want to ‘fight the Government’

A by-election does not change the government but only replaces one member of parliament.

Many Bahamians may ask: Will my constituency be penalised or ignored if I vote against the government? And who will be able to bring more resources to the community?

So voters may decide that it is better to stay with the government, so the area is not left out.

This mindset benefits the governing party.

3. Turnout is usually low, which favours the government

By-elections typically attract fewer voters than general elections.

Who usually has the strongest ground game, money, and transportation on election day mostly wins

The government party can mobilise known supporters by providing rides and spending more on outreach.

Meanwhile, frustration or voter apathy can keep swing and opposition voters home.

So the results may not reflect the national mood but just who decided to show up.

4. By-elections are not ‘protest votes’ like other countries

In some countries, voters use by-elections to punish the government. But in The Bahamas, by-elections are often viewed as one constituency vote and not worth ‘rocking the boat’.

Without the power to change the prime minister or government, many people do not see the point in making a statement.

Darron Pickstock’s win in the Golden Isles by-election highlights a strong moment for the PLP and raises questions for the FNM as both parties look ahead to the next general election.

Click here to watch Darron Pickstock’s victory speech.

The big picture

The by-election, held after the death of former MP Vaughn Miller, was regarded as a litmus test for the governing Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). Pickstock secured 1,842 votes to Brian Brown of the Free National Movement’s (FNM) 1,629, giving him a margin of about 213 votes. Turnout was low.

Pickstock, a former senator, campaigned on a detailed 10-point plan focused on infrastructure, community development and youth programs.

What it means

The win gives validation for the PLP, giving them momentum ahead of the general election.

His ten-point plan directly addressed Golden Isles’ needs — roads, drainage, transport, youth engagement — which suggests voters responded to his concrete promises.

Pickstock’s win was narrow, which shows Brian Brown for the FNM remains competitive in the constituency. For the FNM, this loss could be a sign that more work is needed in strategy and messaging.

What’s at stake

Both parties will use this by-election as a gauge. Pickstock’s win strengthens the PLP, and Brown’s loss puts more pressure on its leadership team to deliver.

Pickstock now faces the challenge of meeting his promises. If he does not deliver, the FNM could reclaim ground.

Mobilising voters remains a major factor. How each party activates its base in Golden Isles will matter going forward.

What the Opposition is saying

Brown said he will continue the work in the community, and his office will remain open, feeding five hundred people for Thanksgiving.

“Thank you, Golden Isles,” he said with hands in the air.

Michael Pintard called the loss “a journey” and “a setback”, but the party will go on.

“This was a close race, and we fell just a bit short…There is a lot more work to be done in this country. This is but one leg to provide better governance for the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The finish line is in sight. FNMs do not fold; we don’t faint. We will reevaluate, refocus, retool. We will be ready for the big dance, for the general election.”

He committed to inspiring voters who did not show up at the polls, highlighting corruption in government, the dire state of the healthcare system and rising crime.

Quoting the line of a popular song, Pintard said to FNMs, “Don’t worry about a thing because everything will be alright.”

The bottom line

Pickstock’s win boosts the PLP, perhaps, strengthens their mandate, and puts pressure on the FNM to recalibrate ahead of the general election, which could be called early.

Pickstock now has to deliver on his promises, and both parties must stay deeply engaged in Golden Isles if they want to maintain or change the political landscape.

With the Golden Isles by-election set for Monday, the race has taken on a highly personal tone, as former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has injected himself directly into the fray.

On Friday night, the former Free National Movement leader made a rare public appearance to endorse Brian Brown.

Known throughout the country as “Papa,” Ingraham revealed that he had originally advised the FNM not to contest the by-election, suggesting the party should instead wait for the general election.

But Brown refused to wait, insisting Golden Isles deserved representation now. It was that decision, Ingraham said, that earned his full support.

Ahead of the rally, the FNM announced his arrival in two words: “Papa reach.”

The phrase was widely interpreted as a direct response to Prime Minister Philip Davis saying he is often referred to by supporters as “Daddy”, which is a label that recently intensified after the returning officer, Neil Campbell, compared his relationship with Davis to that of a father and son.

Taking the stage, Ingraham leaned into the moment: “Fellow FNM’s, I hear Daddy been there. Well, Papa reach.

“Just a word of advice to Brave (Davis) my friend, Fox and Sebas (businessmen in the number business) does call Perry Christie (PLP Former Prime Minister) daddy.

“A word of advice is enough.”

Ingraham later praised Brown’s loyalty to the community, noting he kept his constituency office open even after losing in 2021, and compared Brown’s future to that of the late Frank Watson.

But by Saturday night, a third person entered the debate. Coalition of Independents leader, Lincoln Bain, held a rally of his own, rejecting both political labels.

Bain addressed the crowd saying:

“Philip Davis, catch yourself. Hubert Ingraham, catch yourself…Time to stop worshipping these people. They are not your father. It’s time to take our country back.”

His message reframed the conversation as the Bahamian people versus worship of political figures.

As voters prepare to head to the polls on Monday, this by-election has become a national conversation about loyalty and leadership.

With the Golden Isles by-election taking place on Monday, voters are not just choosing a candidate, but they are choosing between four very different political directions.

Brian Brown

On the Free National Movement side is Brian Brown, a familiar and deeply rooted candidate in the constituency. Brown previously served as campaign chair to the late Vaughn Miller, ran on the FNM ticket in 2021 and lost. But he kept his constituency office open and continued working on the ground.

Now, his candidacy has the full backing of former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.

Brown’s strongest appeal is his long-term presence and consistency. Supporters argue that he has already been serving the people, even without holding the seat.

Darron Pickstock

On the Progressive Liberal Party side is newcomer Darron Pickstock, who is campaigning on promises of upgrades to infrastructure, investment, and development. A PLP victory in Golden Isles would be seen as a strong public endorsement of Prime Minister Philip Davis’ leadership.

However, many critics question the timing of these promises, asking whether they came too late, and whether they would last beyond the campaign period.

Brian Rolle

Representing the Coalition of Independents (COI) is Brian Rolle, who is appealing to voters frustrated with the traditional two-party system. His message is rooted in empowerment, arguing that this election should be about returning power to the people, not political parties.

Karen Butler

Another independent candidate in the race is attorney Karen Butler, who is delivering a strong message about personal and economic independence. Butler said that no one’s livelihood should be tied to a political party, that Bahamians should not “eat when their party wins and starve when it loses.” Her message may resonate with voters who want fairness, and independence from party control.

So, who has the edge?

If voters prioritise history, familiarity, and loyalty to the constituency, Brian Brown appears strong.

If they lean towards governing power and future investment, Pickstock and the PLP could prevail.

If they want something different from the traditional political system, Rolle or Butler may prove to be the surprise and winning factor.

Voter turnout will certainly decide who wins.

After Monday’s chaotic close to the advance poll, we saw blocked exits, shouting matches, party lawyers stepping in, accusations of secrecy, and the Returning Officer Neil Campbell insisting everything was done ‘by the book.’

It is possible the chaos could spill over to by-election day on November 24.

Here’s what you need to know:

The tension was a result of mistrust in the system and due to confusion over procedures. There were disagreements about the transport and storage of ballots, claims about who was allowed to accompany the ballots, and confusion about where the ballots would be stored. If these matters aren’t clarified publicly before Monday, the same blow-ups may happen again, this time with more people involved.

That mistrust won’t magically disappear in seven days. It likely will intensify when the stakes are higher, and by-election day is as high as it gets.

Both the FNM and COI have already said things were handled incorrectly. And Campbell said everything was handled properly and they obliged when the parties disagreed.

That means each side will walk into November 24 with their own version of what ‘fairness’ and ‘trust’ look like. When varied expectations clash without the same rulebook, conflict is almost guaranteed to happen.

This isn’t just about ballots anymore. It plays on voter trust.

When voters see political parties blocking cars and arguing with police, it raises a deeper question: Will the final result — no matter who wins — be accepted as legitimate? If that doubt grows, the by-election becomes even more volatile.

What happened at the advance poll can spill over into November 24, because of mistrust, confusion, and the high political temperature.

Can the Parliamentary Department restore confidence before it’s too late?

Featured Image: Our News