Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis has declared victory for his Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) in securing a second term in office following a snap general election held on Tuesday.
Victory Rally in Nassau
Addressing a victory rally in the capital, Nassau, late Tuesday, Davis emphasized that the win was not just for his party but for the entire nation. “To Bahamians who voted today, but did not vote for us, I want you to know I’ve listened to you, I’ve heard you and I want you to know that I will continue to work hard for all Bahamians,” Davis stated, joined on stage by his wife, Ann Marie, and senior party officials.
Electoral Projections
According to local media reports, the PLP was projected to secure more than 30 of the 41 parliamentary seats. Official results have yet to be released. This marks the first time a party has won two consecutive general elections in the Bahamas since 1997.
Opposition Concedes
Earlier, Davis received a concession phone call from Michael Pintard, leader of the main opposition Free National Movement (FNM). Addressing supporters at the FNM headquarters, Pintard acknowledged the voters’ decision. “The Bahamian people made their choice, in a democracy that is the only voice that ultimately matters,” he said.
Regional Congratulations
Regional leaders, including Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley—both recently re-elected—were among those who congratulated Davis on his victory.
New Constituencies
This election was notable for being the first to include two newly created constituencies: St. James, and Bimini and the Berry Islands. These additions increased the total number of parliamentary seats from 39 to 41. In the previous election in September 2021, the PLP won 32 of 39 seats, with the FNM taking the remaining seven.
Campaign Issues
Campaigning in the weeks leading up to the election focused on key issues such as the state of public healthcare, crime rates, the cost of living, and immigration concerns.
International Observers
International election observers were present to oversee the electoral process in the Bahamas, which has a population of over 300,000. The Commonwealth, the Organization of American States, the U.S. government, and regional trade bloc CARICOM all confirmed sending observers.
