National

Strong Eastern Turnout Marked by Emotional Moments

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – In Eastern New Providence, the energy was hard to miss from first-time candidates entering the race, to emotional moments with supporters, and confident incumbents who sought another term.

Published

2 hours ago

April 16, 2026

Denielle Miller

NASSAU , BAHAMAS – In Eastern New Providence, the energy was hard to miss from first-time candidates entering the race, to emotional moments with supporters, and confident incumbents who sought another term.

Denielle Miller – demiller@cablebahamas.com

“This was the energy across constituencies in the east Thursday, supporters turning out in numbers behind their candidates on nomination day, a key step that now puts them on the road to May 12.”

We began in Elizabeth, where Free National Movement candidate Heather Hunt, Coalition of Independents candidate Donna Dorsette-Major, and incumbent Progressive Liberal Party candidate JoBeth Coleby-Davis all completed their nominations.

Then over in Freetown, at the Palmdale Primary School, PLP incumbent Wayne Munroe, FNM candidate Lincoln Deal, Coalition of Independents candidate Olivia Ingraham-Griffin, and independent Andrew Johnson all secured their spots on the ballot.

Deal, one of the youngest candidates in the race, called the moment a humbling step.

Lincoln Deal – FNM Candidate, Freetown

“I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to serve first, and I look forward to serving Freetown with passion, joy, love, and excellence.”

For Johnson, a first-time independent candidate, nomination day marked his official entry into national politics, saying community support, not party labels, is what matters most.

Andrew “Blue” Johnson – Independent Candidate, Freetown

“Look at the people I got behind me. This is what matters, not the parties, the people.”

In Fox Hill, another first-time candidate, Dr. Nicholas Fox, became emotional after completing his nomination at the Sandilands Primary School, embracing his son as supporters looked on.

Dr. Nicholas Fox – FNM Candidate, Fox Hill

“I am filled with emotion to have this opportunity to represent the people and the community from which I came.”

Also nominated in that constituency was Coalition of Independents candidate Robert Brown and long-time PLP incumbent Fred Mitchell, who has represented Fox Hill for more than two decades.

Mitchell expressed confidence that his relationship with residents will carry him across the finish line.

Fred Mitchell – PLP Candidate, Fox Hill

“I don’t discriminate against people, and I don’t get mad at anybody. I think that’s how you do it. All the funerals, the weddings, the christenings, house burns down, you’ve got to be there.”