“His Legacy Remains In Our Hearts and Minds”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Earlier this week, the country paused to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the passing of Sir Lynden Pindling, the father of the nation.

Sir Lynden is remembered as the architect of the modern Bahamas, leading the country to independence.

Today, his legacy continues to inspire generations – with leaders calling on Bahamians to recommit to the ideals of freedom, democracy and the opportunity he championed.

Among those were Prime Minister Philip Davis, who was present at Sir Lynden’s grave this week, reflecting on his legacy.

“The Bahamas today, particularly our people, perhaps you may not recognize, but you live on in the memories in the hearts of many of us and this nation. Despite what they may say, despite what they may not believe or understand. You’ll continue to be in their hearts and minds,” Davis said.

Pindling served as the first black premier from 1967 to 1969 and as Prime Minister of The Bahamas from 1969 to 1992.

He was the leader of the Progressive Liberal Party from 1956 to 1997 when he resigned from public life.

Three years later, Pindling died after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.

A state funeral was held at the Church of God of Prophecy on East Street on September 4th 2000, and he was laid to rest in Saint Agnes Cemetery.

Chairman of the New Providence Woman’s PLP branch, Kelverna Small, reflects on what the moment meant for her and other women in the party.

“This is very significant and emotional, because I would’ve been one of those persons who were there when Sir Lynden…served as the leader of this country. If it wasn’t for the women born in 62 when we were able to vote, we would’ve not been the government, [and he would not have been the leader]…I feel that [the] legacy that he has left behind with women, have something to carry on,” she said.

Despite the record number of women in currently in parliament, she says there needs to be more.

“Women are the largest building block in this country and I feel that we have the least amount in the House of Assembly right now, we need members. I think that should be increased at least 30 to 35% women in the House of Assembly, voices need to be heard since we are the most represented, our voices should be here in this country,” Smalls said.