NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Cabinet Minister and outgoing Fort Charlotte Member of Parliament Alfred Sears has thrown his full support behind Ambassador and businessman Sebastian Bastian, describing him as the “best choice” to carry the Progressive Liberal Party’s banner in the next general election.
The endorsement coming just hours before the PLP’s Candidates Committee meets to interview hopefuls.
Fort Charlotte, spans communities like Chippingham, Farrington Road, and parts of Delancey Street and Hospital Lane, has long been known as a swing seat shifting between the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and the Free National Movement (FNM) over the past two decades.
Speaking with Eyewitness News today, Sears confirmed his endorsement of Bastian as his preferred successor, noting that the diplomat is no stranger to the community.
“Sebas has been there for Fort Charlotte for a long time,” Sears said. “He’s supported our programs, our youth, and our outreach for years. I believe he’s the right person to continue that work and move it to another level.”
When asked why he chose to endorse Bastian over other potential aspirants, Sears explained that several individuals who had initially expressed interest ( that he knows of) in the seat are no longer seeking nomination. He added that Bastian has both the heart for service and the vision to deliver real results.
Eyewitness News understands that Barry Griffin, Chairman of the Bahamas Trade Commission, is also seeking to be ratified for the seat. Both Bastian and Griffin are expected to appear before the PLP’s candidate selection committee at 4 p.m. today.
Sears first captured Fort Charlotte in 2002 and held it for two terms before being succeeded by Dr. Andre Rollins in 2012. Rollins, who ran on the PLP’s ticket, later defected from the party and crossed over to the Free National Movement (FNM) before the 2017 general election. The FNM’s Mark Humes went on to win the seat that year, ending more than a decade of PLP representation.
Sears reclaimed the constituency for the PLP in 2021, marking his third non-consecutive term.
Reflecting on his years in public life, Sears, who previously served as Attorney General and Minister of Education, said his focus now is ensuring that Fort Charlotte continues to be represented by someone who values its people and understands its unique challenges.
“ Bastian understands the people, he understands the issues, and he brings a skill set that can help strengthen the national conversation on economic empowerment,” Sears added.
If ratified, Bastian will likely face off against the FNM’s Travis Robinson and the Coalition of Independents’ candidate, Daphany Johnson.
By: Genea Noel
