NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Hon. Halson Moultrie, Speaker of the House of Assembly, has called for a new perspective, a new mindset and new ways of thinking and doing business as the nation celebrates 290 years of unbroken Parliamentary democracy.

“As we strengthen and deepen our democracy, The Bahamas needs a more educated population, more involved and participating citizens and a more responsible, patriotic and positive perspective of who we are as a people and a nation.  We owe that much to the legacy of our predecessors, and we owe that much to the next generation,” said the Speaker.

Mr. Moultrie addressed the 290th Parliamentary Anniversary Church Service at Bethel Baptist Church, Meeting Street, on Sunday, September 29, 2019.  Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis headed the list of parliamentarians in attendance. The theme for the celebrations is ‘A Stronger, Deeper Democracy.’

The Speaker underscored the necessity for the nation to rise above the recent negative experience of Hurricane Dorian.

“Our expectations must cause The Bahamas to be strong and we must dig deep in our mental consciousness.  As a people, we must face the challenges of the 21st century and move The Bahamas forward, upward, onward, together.”

He also provided a review of the country’s parliamentary history, highlighting the period from Woodes Rogers’ appointment in 1728 to present.

Rev. Dr. Timothy Stewart, Pastor, Bethel Baptist Church, urged Prime Minister Minnis to be strong, courageous and unafraid.

“Be strong and courageous because there are going to be all kinds of agendas and all kinds of ‘special interests’ who are going to be trying to get more than they’re supposed to get in terms of what God’s people are supposed to get.  The only ‘special interest’ is God.”

He encouraged Bahamians to prepare for life’s disasters -- the vicissitudes, the winds of adversity, winds of trials -- that are Category 5 -- just as they would Category 5 natural disasters.