Will Former PM Minnis Run Independent Or Form A Third Party?

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Former Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis has confirmed that he will contest the Killarney seat in the next general election, despite speculation about his political future.

Minnis’ name has swirled in rumors since the Free National Movement (FNM) announced he would not be running under the party’s ticket. Many questioned whether he would run independently or align with another political organization.

Responding to those questions, Minnis made his position clear.

“I’m running in Killarney. However it’s done, you will know because you will see Minnis’ name on the ballot,” he said. “I told my people when you go to the poll, you look for Minnis,  M-I-N-N-I-S. Many say menace, but it’s not menace, it’s Minnis.”

Speculation grew recently after photos circulated online showing Minnis alongside familiar political faces dressed in green, fueling claims he would lead a revived Democratic National Alliance (DNA). Minnis dismissed the rumors, saying his attire was for another reason.

“I’m wearing pink. This is breast cancer awareness month, and I advise the entire Bahamas to wear pink this month,” he clarified.

Names such as former Health Minister Renward Wells, former FNM Cabinet Minister Branville McCartney, and Desmond Bannister were all rumored to be part of the group linked to Minnis. While Wells declined to comment, Bannister admitted he had been approached.

“There’s no question that no matter where Dr. Minnis runs, I will support him because I saw what he did as Prime Minister,” Bannister said. “If Renward Wells runs, I will support him.”

However, Bannister stopped short of confirming his own candidacy.

“If I’m ever involved in frontline politics, the people of Carmichael will know before anyone else, because they will be the ones who tell me I should do it,” he explained.

Minnis, for his part, emphasized that his focus is not on party colors but on addressing the issues facing Bahamians today.

“I want to address improving the quality of life for the Bahamian people, dealing with the problems they are facing now. It’s not about red, it’s not about green. Let’s move beyond that. We’re experiencing a disaster; let’s deal with the disaster,” he said.