Sebas pledges affordable housing, crackdown on bad landlords

Rising political star Sebas Bastian is staking part of his campaign on a promise many Bahamians say they urgently need: access to affordable, quality housing.

Bastian, who has already overseen multiple developments, says a PLP government would move aggressively to close the housing gap—rolling out a continuous pipeline of affordable homes not just in New Providence, but across the Family Islands.

The plan hinges on partnerships with high-capacity developers to speed up construction and meet growing demand.

At the heart of the proposal is a two-pronged approach: building new subdivisions in high-demand areas while also reclaiming what’s been left behind.

“This includes new subdivisions where demand is growing, as well as a Social Housing Acquisition Programme that will purchase and rehabilitate distressed and abandoned properties, bringing them back into the affordable housing pool,” Bastian explained.

Bastian says the private sector will play a key role in delivering results, particularly when it comes to rental housing.

“Through private sector partnerships, we will increase the supply of quality rental units at prices working Bahamians can afford,” he said. “This initiative will provide flexibility for families and ensure that housing options are available at every stage of life.”

Bastian’s plan also targets accountability. He pledged stronger tenant protections and issued a direct warning to landlords who fail to meet basic standards.

“And let me be clear,” he said. “Landlords who rent unsafe, unhealthy, and low-standard living spaces will be held accountable. Too many Bahamians are paying good money for places with poor plumbing, unsafe wiring, and conditions that fall below a decent standard of living.”

With housing costs continuing to strain families across the country, Bastian says the party is determined to tackle both the shortage and the standards crisis head-on.