FNM Wants Full Accounting for Dubai Trip

A former cabinet minister is calling on the government to detail costs associated with its Dubai trip.

Former Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Iram Lewis says the money could have been used to fund the fight against COVID-19.

Amid the political firestorm that followed The Bahamas’ attendance at Expo 2020 in Dubai, Former Youth Sports and Culture Minister Iram Lewis is calling on the government to detail its expenditure for the trip. He called it reckless. Lewis argued the funds used could’ve been spent in areas like healthcare which has been under intense pressure during the pandemic. Lewis also knocked the lack of clarity in choosing performers for the expo.

The decision to carry more than 100 individuals to the event was widely criticized by many. The backlash intensified once videos went viral on social media of members of the delegation showing their hotel rooms. Given the recent surge in cases, the Central Grand Bahama MP questioned if this was a wise idea.

The delegation included Bahamian artists and performers, among them Shaback, a choir led by OPM Press Secretary Clint Watson, whose relatives also made up the delegation in other capacities.

OPM communications Director Latrae Rahming said cabinet approved up to $1 million for the expo, while the former administration approved $1.7 million. Former Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis said his government didn’t allocate any funds for the expo.

Coming to the government’s defence was Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville who said the trip is a good way to network on a global stage.