Chester Cooper steps in as Acting Prime Minister

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, widely regarded as a rising star in Bahamian politics, is set to serve as Acting Prime Minister over the next few days as Prime Minister Philip Davis travels abroad.

Cooper, who also holds the portfolios of Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation, has been applauded for his hands-on leadership and results-driven approach. Since being elected Member of Parliament for Exumas and Ragged Island in 2017, Cooper has consistently distinguished himself as a transformative figure.

Today, in the House of Assembly, Cooper delivered a rousing and well-received contribution to the 2025/2026 Budget Debate. His address touched on the Davis administration’s accomplishments, ongoing investment strategies, and an optimistic roadmap for continued economic growth.

His contribution in Parliament came just after a productive start to the week in the United States, where Cooper held key meetings with several major executives in Orlando and Miami. These discussions centered around expanding airlift to The Bahamas, a strategic move that promises to enhance connectivity and bolster tourism across the Family Islands.

The results of his efforts are already being felt. Under Cooper's stewardship as Minister of Tourism and Aviation, The Bahamas continues to shatter visitor arrival records. In 2024 alone, the country welcomed 11.2 million visitors—a staggering 16 percent increase over 2023 and a clear signal of strong global demand for the Bahamian tourism product.

Industry stakeholders have credited Cooper’s data-driven strategies, public-private sector collaboration, and global outreach for the surge in travel to the islands. From luxury resorts to boutique family-island hideaways, the tourism sector is reaping the benefits of consistent policy execution and proactive leadership.