Dames under fire for row with young police officer

Free National Movement (FNM) candidate and former Minister of National Security Marvin Dames has come under fire following a tense confrontation with a young police officer outside Anatol Rodgers School on Nomination Day.

The incident unfolded after a scuffle broke out between police and boisterous FNM supporter Hiram Kelly, who reportedly became agitated during the lively nomination activities for the Golden Isles by-election.

Officers intervened to restrain Kelly, prompting Dames to step in, visibly upset, and chastise one of the officers while pointing his finger in the young man’s face.

The confrontation, captured by onlookers and shared widely on social media, has drawn strong reactions from political observers and members of the public alike.

Many criticized Dames’ conduct, calling it “inappropriate” and “intimidating,” particularly given his background as a former senior police officer and former Minister of National Security.

“Mr. Dames should have known better,” said one witness. “He’s been in law enforcement. He knows the importance of letting officers do their job without interference, especially in a tense political environment.”

During his tenure as Minister of National Security, Dames was often described by critics as “hot-headed” and “unwilling to be challenged.”

This incident could reignite questions about his temperament as he campaigns to represent the FNM in the next general election —and potentially reclaim the national security portfolio if the party wins the 2026 General Election.

Senior police officers intervened and the situation was quickly de-escalated, preventing the need for Dames to get involved.

Friday’s events marked an otherwise energetic day in Bahamian politics, with candidates from the FNM, Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Coalition of Independents (COI), and an independent contender officially nominated for the upcoming Golden Isles by-election.

However, what began as a celebratory occasion ended on a sour note.