New AG, Education, and Finance Ministers Sworn in at Govt. House

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The work of building the Davis administration’s new government is now underway, starting with today’s swearing-in ceremony at Government House.

Four members of Parliament took their oaths of office this morning, officially beginning their new roles in the Davis administration.

Family members, supporters, and senior government officials packed the hall at Mount Fitzwilliam for the ceremony, which comes just days after the Progressive Liberal Party secured another term in office.

Among those sworn in today, Deputy Prime Minister and former minister of tourism, investments and aviation, Chester Cooper, will now serve as Minister of Education, Science, and Technology.

Cooper calls the appointment a new challenge, while saying he’s looking forward to helping shape the country’s future through education.

Chester Cooper – Minister, Education, Science and Technology

“ Look forward to having my first briefing at the Ministry of Education….this is going to be a new challenge. Education spans all of the islands of The Bahamas, and I look forward to the opportunity to [travel to] the islands, speaking with the youngsters from across the islands, and listening to their hopes, dreams, and aspirations on how they would like to see the future shaped for them.”

Also sworn in was Former national security minister Wayne Munroe, who now takes on the role of Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs.

Munroe says his years of experience in the courts and legal field have prepared him for the position.

Wayne Munroe – Attorney General & Minister of Legal Affairs

“ I had acted as a Stipendiary and Circuit Magistrate for about 18 months, and I acted as a supreme court judge and of course I was president of the bar for an extended period of time. And so that was the orientation of my career before going into frontline politics.”

“It happens that in 2021, instead of being appointed attorney general, the prime minister asked me to be minister of national security. I trust his judgment and so I went there. I enjoyed it.”

Meanwhile, Michael Halkitis, who served as minister of economic affairs in the previous administration, is now taking over as the Minister of Finance.

Halkitis says the government’s focus will remain on growing the economy while addressing the high cost of living.

Michael Halktis – Minister of Finance

 ”It is our intention to continue to grow the economy and continue to give back to the Bahamian people. As we know, one of the main issues facing citizens even before election has been the cost of living., and we’re seeking as government to see how we can continue to do our part to impact that in a positive way….to bring down the cost of living.”

Fox Hill MP-elect, Fred Mitchell, was also sworn on Friday, and will remain the Minister of Foreign Affairs.