“Political Hijacking” Will Be Prevented At Monday’s By-Election 

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, K.C., who has oversight of the Parliamentary Registration Department, is pushing back after Monday night’s dramatic standoff at the Golden Isles advanced poll.

When asked about accusations made by Coalition of Independents Leader Lincoln Bain, Munroe did not mince words.

“That is a major problem with my cousin. He talks and talks and talks and lies, and he’s a writer of fiction.”

The tense confrontation unfolded as polls closed Monday evening. Supporters from both the Free National Movement (FNM) and the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) attempted to block the lead vehicle in a convoy transporting the ballot box from Remnant Tabernacle.

On Tuesday, Returning Officer Neil Campbell claimed poll employees are now threatening not to show up for work on Monday, fearing they may be attacked after witnessing the chaos.

Munroe says the Parliamentary Elections Act clearly outlines how elections should be conducted and that poll workers must feel protected.

“There’s a robust legal regime set out by the Parliamentary Elections Act that tells us how these things are to be conducted. It is unfortunate what has happened… Certainly poll workers must feel safe.”

The FNM has also raised concerns that the current returning officer is a PLP campaign general, claiming it undermines transparency. Munroe rejected the accusation.

“We don’t question the political allegiance of persons. That’s not our business. Public servants are free to political views but not to demonstrate them… If they have something they can produce to show he has transgressed any of the rules, they ought to produce it.”

Munroe says he’s already moving to ensure workers are protected heading into Monday’s poll.

“I intend to consult with the Commissioner of Police so poll workers can be confident the police will have robust security and support. I will also speak with the CDF about making a quick reaction force of the Defence Force available in case any political actor decides they want to hijack the electoral process.”