For Immediate Release
March 19, 2012

DNA encourages Peaceful Elections

National dailies reported that Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) supporters attacked Free National Movement (FNM) supporters in Freeport, Grand Bahama over the weekend. FNM candidate for East Grand Bahama, Peter Turnquest charged that his daughter and several supporters were sprayed on with a fire extinguisher.

Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader, Branville McCartney condemns the alleged act. He said, “Violence should not be accepted at any time, especially during the election season.”

Mr. McCartney is asking all Bahamians and all residents to remain calm during this election season. He says, “While Grand Bahamians have a lot to be upset about—failed government policies of the last 10 years, an unemployment rate that stands at 21.2% and continued neglect by both the PLP and the FNM; peace must persist.”

The Party recognizes that partisanship and politics have divided our country for far too long, preventing us from making significant progress into the 21st Century.

“We have more in common than we do in contrast, but past leadership has made us forget that. Regardless of your party affiliation, we all want well-equipped schools that will prepare our young people to compete on the world stage, we all want superior health care, we all want a flourishing economy and we all want to see The Bahamas excel,” Mr. McCartney said.

The DNA hopes that the victims of the alleged assault are in good condition and we want all to continue to realize that freedom of political expression is afforded to all Bahamians.

Moreover, the DNA is committed to encouraging its supporters and all Bahamians not to focus on the lines that divide us, but rather on the ties that unite us all. Ties like family values and national pride, like integrity and superior work ethic. This is evident on the Party’s website and Facebook pages, where there are photos of Mr. McCartney, candidates and supporters with those of different political affiliation.

“Rather than our children grow up to become DNA, PLP, FNM supporters or throw off the confines of our government altogether, they each deserve a stronger Bahamas—a 21st Century Bahamas, ONE Bahamas,” said Mr. McCartney.