FNMs at odds ahead of party conclave

Members of the Free National Movement are divided over who should be allowed to attend the party’s conclave this week, with some calling for a wider cross-section of members to have a say in the party’s post-mortem and the future of its leadership.

Some party members have questioned the decision to limit participation to a select number of representatives from each association, arguing that more members should be given an opportunity to share their views on why the FNM lost the May general election and what changes may be needed moving forward.

Those critical of the selection process have accused the party of cherry-picking a handful of members from each association, raising concerns about whether the conclave will adequately reflect the views of the wider membership.

The disagreement comes as the party faces questions about its leadership following a series of electoral defeats under the leadership of Michael Pintard, including the May general election, the Golden Isles by-election and the West Grand Bahama and Bimini by-election.

Within sections of the party, there have been calls for a change in leadership, with some members arguing that the FNM must consider whether a new leader is needed as it seeks to rebuild support and regain the confidence of voters.

Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, who previously publicly endorsed Pintard and appeared on the campaign trail in support of his leadership, has also weighed in on the party’s future. Ingraham recently told party members they need to find a leader who can win.

His comments add to the scrutiny surrounding Pintard’s leadership as the party prepares to examine the reasons behind its recent electoral setbacks.

The conclave is expected to focus on the FNM’s performance at the polls, including why the party lost the general election and why it struggled to mobilise its supporters to vote.