FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Debra Moxey-Rolle, FNM Candidate for Exuma & Ragged Island: Exuma Deserves Answers, Demands Transparency on Hidden PPP Deal
“As a daughter of The Exumas and Ragged Island, I cannot sit quietly while this government continues to mislead the people about projects being done in our name. The PLP came into office promising transparency and accountability through their Public-Private Partnership (PPP) policy. Yet, as the Fiscal Responsibility Council made clear in its annual report, this administration continues to hide the details of major projects from Bahamians, including right here in Exuma.”
“The so-called PPP for the Exuma Road Project, estimated at $60 million, is a perfect example. Residents were told this would be delivered as a PPP. But more than a year later, we are still in the dark about what this project will actually cost the Bahamian taxpayer. What are the interest rates? What are the repayment terms? Why has this government refused to release the full agreement, even after being requested by the Official Opposition?”
“The current MP, Chester Cooper, along with the Minister of Public Works Clay Sweeting, owe the people of Exuma answers. If this project is truly in the best interest of Exuma and The Bahamas, then why the secrecy? Why can’t Bahamians see the terms of this so-called partnership? We deserve to know the truth.”
“Exuma needs investment, but it must be done responsibly and openly. When deals are made behind closed doors and details are withheld, it is the people who pay the price. This government has already shown it will not hold itself accountable. That is why we must hold them to account.”
“I call on Chester Cooper and Mr. Sweeting to come clean and release the full terms of the Exuma Road PPP, including the interest rates, the repayment schedule, and the total cost to taxpayers. Until then, the people of The Exumas and Ragged Island have every right to question whether this is really a partnership at all, or just another PLP scheme that puts us deeper in debt without delivering real value for our communities.”