PLP: FNM Candidates “Not Ready for Prime Time"

The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has pushed back against the Free National Movement's (FNM) unveiling of seven additional candidates for the 2026 General Election, questioning both the readiness of the candidates and the leadership of FNM leader Michael Pintard.

In a strongly worded statement, the PLP said Pintard has yet to demonstrate the leadership necessary to guide the country and claimed that the FNM's latest round of ratified candidates reflects a broader lack of depth and direction within the opposition party.

“Michael Pintard has not presented candidates who are ready for prime time because he himself is not ready for prime time,” the PLP said. “He continues to surround himself with yes men who simply echo the views of those pulling his strings behind the scenes.”

The governing party added that at a time when The Bahamas faces complex challenges and requires “serious and innovative thinkers,” the FNM is instead “offering a slate built on appeasement, not solutions.”

The FNM has now ratified 24 candidates, including several political newcomers and a few returning figures, as it works to recover from its overwhelming defeat in the 2021 General Election.

That election saw the PLP secure a commanding majority, winning 32 of the 39 seats in the House of Assembly.

While the FNM attempts to rebuild its image and messaging under Pintard’s leadership, the PLP says it is focused on candidate preparation and governance.

The party recently concluded a training module for aspiring candidates, a move PLP leaders say reflects their commitment to discipline, policy development, and readiness for public service.