Votes for Vouchers? FNM Responds to Criticism

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – Central and South Abaco PLP candidate Bradley Fox, is allegedly responsible for distributing around two hundred thousand dollars in gift cards labeled as “Dorian relief,” despite the hurricane occurring six years ago.

The FNM has since raised concerns, going as far as calling for action against officials, and alleged the funds may have been derived from taxpayer money and used to influence voters during the campaign period.

However, it appears that the issue isn’t limited to one side.

Southern Shores FNM candidate, Denalee Penn-Mackey has also come under scrutiny for distributing grocery vouchers for Super Value.

Critics said that the timing of such handouts raises questions about whether they may be seen as an attempt to win support.

However, Penn-Mackey pushed back against that characterization.

Denalee Penn-Mackey – FNM candidate, Southern Shores

“It’s not an election ploy for me. If you were to check my track record, you would see that I am one who has always poured into the lives of people. And so, for me, that’s not what it’s all about.”

She also responded to claims of hypocrisy after critics pointed to similar practices.

Denalee Penn-Mackey – FNM candidate, Southern Shores

“What Denalee has done, it is funded by me and my campaign. What the PLP does, I don’t know their source, but I can speak to mine. And when I give, I give from the heart. And like I said, it’s something that I’ve always done, and the record will reflect that.”

Meanwhile, FNM chairman Dr. Duane Sands defended the party’s position in an interview with local newspapers, saying the law centers on intent.

He said, and I quote, “But there’s nothing that says that somebody with food insecurity can’t be given a meal or access to the items to prepare a meal, so it really depends on what the intent is.”

On social media, the issue has also sparked widespread debate, with some users questioning the timing and motivation behind the distributions.

One comment reads:

“How do I get one, because after election they go missing.”

Chairman of the COI also weighed in, calling the practice a potential violation of the law, citing the Parliamentary Elections Act.

COI statement :

“This is a clear abuse of the electoral process. Under the Parliamentary Elections Act 1992, giving gifts or financial benefits to voters during an active election period to influence support amounts to bribery and is illegal.”