Nassau, Bahamas - The following is a statement by DNA chairman, Andrew Wilson :

Patriotism over Partisan Politics

The country’s political landscape has changed drastically. Over the course of just a few days we have seen the strength of our democracy tested, the very structure of our system of government placed under a microscope and the electorate once again clamoring for a worthy alternative to this disastrous PLP government. In the midst of this period of national confusion however, the DNA’s lighthouse stands tall to offer hope and stability for all who seek it.

The very foundation of our Parliamentary democracy demands a strong and capable opposition; one that can represent the needs of the people and work along with the government to ensure that those needs are met. Unfortunately, we have seen the former official opposition fail at this most fundamental duty. Conversely, the Democratic National Alliance has demonstrated the will to challenge the status quo of political mediocrity. Since its inception, the DNA has worked to defend the rights of Bahamians across the length and breadth of our archipelago; to keep the government accountable and has offered real solutions to some of the country’s most pressing issues. Today, December 12th 2016, we step up to the plate once again! Today, we prove that the battle against ineffective governance crosses party lines.

The Democratic National Alliance wholeheartedly supports the appointment of our leader Branville McCartney to the Senate as Leader of Opposition business; a responsibility and title which he has humbly and dutifully accepted. Though Mr. McCartney may have a new official title, we expect his role as a passionate advocate for the rights of hard working and creative Bahamians to remain unchanged.

Contrary to social media speculation, this decision is not about individual power or titles - far from it. It follows intense discussions, meetings, and democratic debates amongst DNA stakeholders. Having said this, we do wish to dispel two rumors outright:

Firstly, The DNA is NOT disbanding - this party is here to stay!

As a part of our commitment to the development of our country, we have listened to the voice of thousands of concerned voters who have demanded that PATRIOTISM take precedence over petty partisan political interests. Through this alliance, we join a group of men and women who, despite differences in political affiliation, have found one common goal: To rid the Bahamas of this inept, ineffective and incompetent PLP government.

Truthfully though, the outcome we all desire cannot occur unless political figures are willing to lay down their egos and create consensus. In this new political paradigm, opposition for opposition’s sake is no longer acceptable. Our goal is not simply to oppose this regressive PLP government, but to replace it with something the Bahamian people can truly believe in. Through the senate, the DNA has a unique opportunity to preview the kinds of policies that will facilitate the kind of good governance that we’ve described for the last 5 years.

Secondly, ABSOLUTELY NO accommodations have been made to undemocratically transfer the leadership of the DNA to anyone. Not only would such a move be illegal under the DNA constitution, it would be a slap in the face to the thousands of Bahamians who have supported and continue to support us nationwide. Our duly-elected leader and deputy leader are Branville McCartney and Christopher Mortimer respectively. This will not change!

Bahamians can be assured, that the proactive, solutions-driven mindset that the public has come to expect from the DNA has not changed. In short order, you will be introduced to more candidates from our diverse 2017 roster. We look forward to putting the clear and sensible alternative represented by the lighthouse on your ballot next year. Until then, we look forward to playing our part in an opposition that the public at large can be proud of.