Ingraham bows out of politics

Former Prime Minister of Bahamas Hubert Ingraham (FP)

Mon, July 23, 2012 - 11:32 AM

Bahamas' former prime minister Hubert Ingraham, 65, whose Free National Movement (FNM) was defeated in the May 7 general election, said his resignation becomes effective from August 31 this year.

He said one of the reasons for his postponement is to allow his preferred candidate, Greg Gomez, the opportunity to meet the one year constitutional residency requirement in order to be considered as a candidate to run in the North Abaco by-election on the FNM ticket.

“The leader of the party asked me to consider not resigning forthwith...and secondly I believe the Bahamian people ought to have an opportunity to reflect upon a proposed referendum and they want to ensure they are not rushed by the government and it is being said I have some part to play in the events to come.

“Thirdly and this is the most important one, Greg Gomez, who is one of the four people who have applied to the party for nomination, has spent some time in the United States of America and he hasn’t been back home quite a year yet. He has applied and I want him to be considered as a candidate and my postponement will facilitate that,” said Ingraham, who served as prime minister of The Bahamas for 15 years but stepped down as NFM and Opposition leader after he led the party into defeat in the last general election.

The by-election is due to be held in October.

Ingraham told reporters he intends to make a farewell speech in Parliament before his resignation becomes effective. Parliament next meets on July 25.

“It has been a singular privilege and honour to serve in this August House of Assembly of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas,” Ingraham said, adding he also remains a “full and faithful “ member of the FNM. (CMC)