The Progressive Liberal Party has, in this instance, crossed a line that should trouble every
Bahamian who believes in fairness, transparency, and the rule of law. Crown Land is not a political
reward, it is a sacred national patrimony, held in trust for all Bahamians.
To see it seemingly parcelled out in a manner that appears selective, partisan, and opaque is nothing
short of an egregious violation of that trust. While thousands of hardworking Bahamians wait
patiently and lawfully for their chance at a “piece of the rock,” others appear to be fast-tracked
under circumstances that demand serious scrutiny.
The situation becomes even more alarming in light of the public statements made by PLP candidate
for East Grand Bahama, Monique Pratt. Her declaration, “This Land is Your Land?” rings hollow
when paired with her admission that she has in her possession other people’s long-awaited Crown
Land title deeds.
The obvious questions arise: Whose deeds are these? By what lawful authority did they come into
her custody? The issuance of title deeds is a formal governmental function, not a political favour
to be dispensed from a campaign platform.
Even more troubling is the assertion that she was instructed by the Prime Minister, who is also the
minister responsible for Crown Land, to “release” these deeds. Why were these documents
withheld in the first place? Why were they placed in the hands of a political candidate rather than
the appropriate government agency?
Crown Land applications are meant to be processed through established, transparent administrative
channels, not held back and theatrically distributed at partisan rallies. Such conduct raises the
spectre of political patronage at its worst, where access to national assets is contingent not on merit
or need, but on who you support politically.
Bahamians deserve answers clear, direct, and immediate. Was this land lawfully distributed? Were
these title deeds effectively held as leverage? Who exactly benefited, and on what basis?
And most importantly, what about the many citizens still waiting, still hoping, still playing by the
rules? This is bigger than politics; it strikes at the very heart of public trust. If that trust is to mean
anything, it must be restored through accountability, transparency, and an unwavering
commitment to fairness for all Bahamians not just a privileged few.
We need to hear directly and immediately from the Prime Minister. Did he instruct his office to
give these deeds to a PLP candidate to give out in the constituency for which she is running? Are
her remarks on this matter truthful and accurate? Are there other candidates who have also been
given deeds to handout? There are significant legal and ethical questions the Prime Minister must
answer on this matter.