The Opposition is deeply concerned by the findings in the Supreme Court of the State of New York in relation to its recent judgment in the civil matter involving China Construction America (CCA) and the Izmirlian family concerning the Baha Mar Resort.
In addition to the court ruling in favor of the Izmirlian family for the sum of $1.6 billion, the judgment referenced evidence of troubling allegations about the direct involvement and active support of officials in the then-PLP administration when Prime Minister Davis served as Deputy Leader.
Beginning at section 143, the court judgment reveals that CCA paid over $2 million for undefined purposes to a company owned by the son of a senior government official who was deeply involved in the government’s engagement on the Baha Mar project. According to the court, CCA leveraged this commercial relationship to further its efforts to oust the Izmirlian family from Baha Mar.
This court document presents a compelling case for an immediate investigation by the Bahamian government into potential illegal payments made by foreign actors to Bahamian officials to influence government policy and decisions. Such allegations tarnish the reputation of The Bahamas as a credible and legitimate place to conduct business.
Unfortunately, we have repeatedly witnessed from the Davis administration that its commitment to accountability and justice in public affairs stops short of examining themselves.
Nonetheless, the gravity of this situation demands that the Prime Minister act responsibly and ensure an immediate investigation by credible and independent parties into the claims that officials of the administration—where he served as Deputy Prime Minister— may have been illegally influenced in their decisions and recommendations regarding the Baha Mar matter.
The Prime Minister must rise above his instincts to protect members of the PLP and demonstrate that The Bahamas is a country of laws, where no one is above justice.
Hon Michael C. Pintard
Leader Free National Movement