National

Speech from the Throne: A Social Contract With The Bahamian People

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – “A social contract with the Bahamian people” that is how the Communications Director in the Office of The Prime Minister, Latrae Rahming describes the speech from the throne.

Published

3 years ago

October 4, 2023

Megan Shepherd

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – In just a matter of moments, set against a red backdrop, adorned with the Bahamian flag and coat of arms, The newest governor-general will be ushered in to read the speech from the throne.

“A social contract with the Bahamian people” that is how the Communications Director in the Office of The Prime Minister, Latrae Rahming describes the speech from the throne.

Historical records indicate the ceremony has taken place since the middle ages while others date the tradition back to the 16th century when England was still an absolute monarch.

In the United Kingdom, the speech is known as his majesty’s most gracious speech, the gracious address, or, less formally, the king’s speech.

Rahming adds that the speech outlines the aspirations of the government.

As the speech lays out critical aspects of the government’s plan for the country, it takes months to draft and complete.

Rahming says the collection of policies and legislation is a collaborative effort and goes through a number of hands.

From there, a team would write a draft, that is then submitted and fine tuned by the prime minister and his senior writer.

The regal and historic ceremony traditionally takes place following a general election and closing of parliament done by a dissolution.

But in this instance, a prorouged house only means the end of a legislate session and not the end of the life of parliament.

Former Chief Parliamentary Clark Maurice Tynes points out that although the ceremonies differ slightly, this one looks the same

And did you know, that the speech from the throne has been read by two members of the royal family in the past?

This year’s speech will be read by the third female Governor-General, Her Excellency Cynthia Pratt, who has made invaluable contributions to the country.

Tynes believes the tradition of appointing older politicians to the position lies in years of experience and contributions.