Former Free National Movement (FNM) leader Dr. Hubert Minnis has refused to campaign for the FNM in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini by-election, sparking speculation about his intentions within the party.
Sources within Minnis's inner circle suggest that he may be secretly hoping for an FNM loss in the by-election. According to them, Minnis sees this as an opportunity to highlight current FNM Leader Michael Pintard's perceived inability to lead the party to victory in the upcoming 2026 General Election.
Despite the FNM deploying heavy hitters like former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham and former FNM leader Tommy Turnquest to rally support, Dr. Minnis has been notably absent from all campaign events supporting FNM candidate Bishop Ricardo Grant.
Minnis, who served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021, reportedly harbors aspirations to reclaim the FNM leadership. However, this ambition faces challenges, especially considering his strained relationship with former FNM leader Ingraham, who has actively campaigned for Bishop Grant despite not appearing on rally stages before the 2021 General Election.
While Minnis strategizes on New Providence, Ingraham is actively canvassing constituents in Grand Bahama, adding an intriguing layer to the unfolding dynamics within the FNM leadership landscape.