Robyn Lynes Gains Ground in Killarney

Momentum appears to be building for Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) candidate Robyn Lynes in the Killarney constituency, as political observers increasingly point to the race as one of the most closely watched contests heading into the next general election.

Lynes, a first-time candidate, has been steadily racking up support in the traditionally Free National Movement (FNM) stronghold. Her growing presence comes amid a dramatic shake-up within the opposition party that has transformed the Killarney race into a four-way contest.

Former prime minister Hubert Minnis, who has represented Killarney in Parliament since 2007, is now running as an independent candidate after the Free National Movement declined to renominate him for the seat. Instead, the party ratified Michela Barnett‑Ellis, an FNM senator, as its standard-bearer in the constituency.

Minnis, who served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021, still enjoys strong support among many voters in Killarney, a factor that may divide the traditional FNM vote, potentially leaving Barnett-Ellis with only the most loyal party supporters.

That scenario could create an opening for Lynes to capture the seat for the governing Progressive Liberal Party.

For Lynes, the campaign marks her first bid for elected office, but she is no stranger to internal party battles. She previously demonstrated her political resolve during the PLP’s 2023 convention when she challenged party chairman Fred Mitchell for the senior post.

Although Mitchell ultimately retained the chairmanship with 57 percent of the vote, Lynes captured a notable 43 percent of delegate support. Her performance was particularly notable given that Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis had publicly backed Mitchell.