Bahamian MP announces exit from general election race
Progressive Liberal Party leader Perry Christie said he believes Vincent Peet made the correct decision by agreeing not to stand in the next election.
NASSAU, Bahamas, Wednesday December 21, 2011- Opposition MP Vincent Peet is bowing out of elective politics, at least for now, after 10 years in the House of Assembly.
The parliamentary representative for North Andros & The Berry Islands said his decision to focus on his legal practice was taken after “prayerful deliberation and consultation with constituents, colleagues, family and friends, including party leader Perry Christie.”
“My decision in this regard is final and irreversible and I have informed my leader and the relevant councils of my party accordingly,” he said in a statement yesterday.
The MP thanked constituents and the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) leader for allowing him to serve in the parliament.
He promised his full support to the PLP’s replacement in the constituency as well as the party as it prepares for general elections next year.
The decision was greeted with “regret” by the PLP leader, who said, “I firmly believe that Mr. Peet has made the correct decision in agreeing not to stand in the next election.”
“I commend him for the completely unselfish and sensible position he has taken in this matter.
“He has been a loyal and dependable ally in Parliament and in the councils of the Party for many years. Moreover, he has given outstanding service to our nation, especially as a cabinet minister and as the representative for the constituency of North Andros.”
Christie said the party has begun the process of selecting a new candidate to replace the MP in the upcoming poll.
“This process is being conducted in close consultation with the Party's generals and supporters in North Andros, and is expected to be completed in very short order as we intensify our preparations for the imminent General Elections,” he added. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)