“The Opposition Has A Right To Be Heard, And Not Be Suspended”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Former Free National Movement Cabinet Minister, Branville McCartney, is defending the opposition’s recent actions in Parliament. McCartney also says he doesn’t think they’ve been treated fairly.

His comments come amid complaints from FNM Leader Michael Pintard, who claims the opposition is not allowed to address issues in Parliament—a claim that has been denied by House Speaker Patricia Deveaux.

But McCartney insists the opposition should have their say.

Branville McCartney – Former Leader, Democratic National Alliance
“The opposition has a right to be heard. From my understanding, they had the right to do what they had to do to try to speak for the Bahamian people.”

The opposition and supporters protested outside Parliament last week after FNM Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright threw the speaker’s mace outside a second-story window—an act the Davis administration called a B-rated performance.

Branville McCartney – Former Leader, Democratic National Alliance
“This government seems to have forgotten how many years ago they threw the mace out the window.”

As a result of their actions, six of seven FNM MPs were suspended from Parliament.

Branville McCartney – Former Leader, Democratic National Alliance
“The opposition did what they had to do, in my view, to get the attention, the reaction of the government. I think by the suspension was absolutely poor.”

Branville McCartney – Former Leader, Democratic National Alliance
“The bottom line is for them to really ensure that democracy is alive and well, the voices of all parties concerned, government members, opposition members, all are heard.”