Papa overshadows Pintard at FNM rally

Former prime minister Hubert Ingraham overshadowed FNM leader Michael Pintard at the latest rally held by the party, renewing questions about who is really calling the shots in the FNM.

The rally in New Providence marked Ingraham’s first appearance on the campaign stage for the FNM this election season, and his return immediately energized the crowd.

Speaking just before Pintard, Ingraham delivered a lengthy and fiery address that repeatedly drew loud applause, chants and standing ovations from supporters. The former prime minister hit his old stride as he rallied party faithfuls.

By the time Pintard took the stage, however, the energy inside the rally appeared to shift. While supporters listened attentively, some attendees began leaving before the opposition leader concluded his remarks, with several appearing eager to beat post-rally traffic.

The contrast between the two speeches quickly reignited longstanding political speculation that Ingraham continues to wield significant influence behind the scenes of the FNM despite stepping away from frontline politics years ago.

For years, critics and some political observers have suggested that Ingraham remains a powerful voice within the party and plays a major role in shaping its direction. Those claims intensified during the FNM’s internal leadership battle following the party’s 2021 election defeat.

Ingraham was widely seen as instrumental in helping Pintard secure the leadership, encouraging party supporters to back him over former prime minister Hubert Minnis.

Several supporters leaving the event described Ingraham as the “main attraction” of the night, with others praising the former prime minister’s commanding speaking style and ability to energize the base.