National

Philip Galanis Remembered As A Progressive Warrior and Nation Builder

NASSSAU, BAHAMAS – As news of the passing of former politician and veteran accountant Philip Galanis spread Friday morning, those who served with him all shared the same response – shock.

Published

1 year ago

October 11, 2024

Berthony McDermott

NASSSAU, BAHAMAS – As news of the passing of former politician and veteran accountant Philip Galanis spread Friday morning, those who served with him all shared the same response – shock.

The cause of his death was not immediately known.

Former Prime Minister Perry Christie shared fond memories of Galanis with us. One of them was his support for him when he threw his hat in the race for PLP leader after Sir Lynden Pindling stepped down.

Christie credited that win to Galanis and his team.

In a statement, Prime Minister Philip Davis said it’s not just a loss for him but a profound loss for the PLP and the entire country.

Free National Movement Leader Michael Pintard called him a compelling voice, brilliant mind, unafraid to speak truth to power in and out of his party.

Galanis served in parliament under Christie’s leadership. He was also appointed to the senate by former PM Christie.

But outside of politics, Galanis served as head of the Institute of Chartered Accounts of The Bahamas and the Caribbean, a testament to his reach.

Foreign Affairs Minister and PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell recalled he played a major role in the party’s 2021 election win, adding that he pushed for the party’s reform. He said Galanis’ death prompted a time of reflection.

Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin remembers Galanis’ as an extremely bright, shining personality and an overall nice person.

Christie called him another example of someone who has given his all to his country. He recalled the last conversation he had with him.