Fox Calls for Government To Implement Measurable Goals for Fiscal Performance

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – A new voice in the Senate, former NBA champion turned senator Rick Fox, is calling for greater accountability in how the government spends taxpayers’ money.

His comments came during his first budget contribution since being appointed to the upper chamber, with Senator Fox challenging the Davis administration to attach clear, measurable results to its 2026/2027 budget.

Rick Fox – Senator, Free National Movement

“There’s new money, and new money creates a choice. Does it disappear into old habits, or does it create economic freedom for the next generation?”

That was Senator Rick Fox during his maiden contribution in the Senate for the 2026/2027 Budget Communication. Fox says the government’s budget should be about more than just dollars and cents.

He’s also questioning whether new revenue being generated by the government is being used to create long-term opportunities for Bahamians or simply continuing existing spending patterns.

Fox says the budget operates without clear performance benchmarks, making it difficult for the public to determine whether those investments are producing results.

Rick Fox – Senator, Free National Movement

“Over half a billion dollars flowing out through our state enterprises, much of it on autopilot. Some of it is essential, and I say so plainly, but a great deal of it is lost cover for entities with no published performance contract and no scoreboard at all.”

He went on to say that a modern budget should clearly outline what the government hopes to achieve and provide the public with a way to evaluate whether those goals are met.

Rick Fox – Senator, Free National Movement

“A good budget tells you what it spends. An excellent budget tells you what it intends to change and then lets the country check its work a year later.”

To address those concerns, the FNM senator is recommending that every major ministry establish a small set of measurable targets linked directly to the funds they receive.

He says those targets could include improvements in education, healthcare, business development and public utilities, giving citizens a clearer picture of whether their tax dollars are delivering results.

Rick Fox – Senator, Free National Movement

“I urge every major ministry to publish three to five measurable targets with the dollars attached beside them. Reading proficiency, infant mortality, emergency room waiting times, days to start a business, hours of reliable power. And if a line cannot name what it changes, that line should go under review.”

Fox’s recommendations come as debate on the 2026/2027 budget continues in the Senate, with opposition members weighing in on spending priorities, revenue projections and the country’s long-term economic direction.