Michael Pintard: From the Stage to Frontline Politics

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – Born on July 3, 1964, Michael Pintard’s career spans politics, business, and the creative arts.

While he is leader of the Free National Movement, he is also a creative — a notable playwright and poet, using the stage and literature to tackle social issues.

He is also a former senator and a former chairman of the Free National Movement.

He was first elected to office in 2017 and served as a cabinet minister in the Minnis-led government until 2021, when the FNM lost the snap election that September.

The tough loss propelled Pintard to take on an even bigger role in the party. He took over a party trying to find its footing again.

His job was to rebuild the party, bring supporters back together, and prepare for another shot at government.

In June 2024, Pintard strengthened his position, winning re-election as leader in a decisive victory over former Prime Minister Hubert Minnis.

Since then, he has made it clear he intends to keep pressure on the Davis administration.

From the high cost of living to immigration to questions over government contracts, the Marco City MP has made himself one of the government’s loudest critics.

The biggest challenge was not across the aisle — it was within his own ranks.

For years, the presence of former Prime Minister Hubert Minnis hung over the party, with internal tensions becoming more evident when the party chose not to run Dr. Minnis for the Killarney constituency, choosing Michela Barnett-Ellis instead.

Talks about the party’s unity grew even more when Central Grand Bahama MP Iram Lewis switched sides, joining the Coalition of Independents.

Since then, the party has added several new faces to the movement, including Jay Philippe and former NBA star Rick Fox.

With election day inching closer, the big question now is whether Pintard has done enough to bring his party together and convince voters the FNM is ready to govern again.