Will Shane Gibson Be Nominated for West Grand Bahama and Bimini?

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – With speculation mounting over who the PLP will select to run in West Grand Bahama and Bimini, Our News obtained these letters from the constituency chairmans nominating former PLP Cabinet Minister Shane Gibson.

The first letter from Bimini Branch Chairman Kitty Saunders to leader Philip Davis reads, “In the wake of the sudden and devastating passing of West Grand Bahama and Bimini MP Obie Wilchcombe, our constituency finds itself in need of a capable and experienced representative.”

“We believe that Mr. Gibson is the ideal candidate to fill this important role. Unlike a novice politician with no prior governance experience, Mr. Gibson has a proven track record of dedication and effective service to his constituents and his country.”

The second letter signed by three branch chairmans in West Grand Bahama reads, “Though he may have previously served as a member of parliament on new providence, the people of Grand Bahama have keenly felt the positive impact of his dedicated work during his time as a cabinet minister. Mr. Gibson’s response during critical moments in our island’s history speaks volumes.”  

However, a statement from the party says no former parliamentarian will be a part of the selection pool, adding the choice will come from the existing stock of aspirants from the 2021 general election.

Gibson served three terms as Member of Parliament for Golden Gates. He was also appointed Minister of Housing and Minister of National Insurance and Labour.

He was also a trade unionist, serving as BCPOU President.

Gibson’s most recent stint in the headlines came during a criminal trial in 2019. It ended in him being acquitted of 15 counts of bribery.

He also filed a lawsuit against the government.  In March 2022 it was revealed that Gibson received a $2.5m settlement from the government.

Despite his past, both branch heads say Gibson has made many notable contributions to the constituency during the times he served in Cabinet. 

They say his tenure led to the contract signing for the construction of the government administrative complex in Bimini and later the construction of new homes after being destroyed by fire.”

In West Grand Bahama they say he spearheaded the repair and reconstruction of hundreds of homes devastated by successive hurricanes and was pivotal in overseeing the contract signing for the administrative complex in Eight Mile Rock.

The party, however, says the selection process hasn’t begun yet.

When contacted Gibson declined to comment.