OBA MP: Image Of Country Has Been Tarnished
[Updated] OBA MP Leah Scott said “the image of this country has been tarnished,” and has apologised to her Southampton East Central constituents and the people of this country, for “the behavior that has been thrust upon you by this Government.”
Ms. Scott was speaking about the ongoing controversy involving “JetGate” and a donation from U.S. real estate developer Nathan Landow, which has seen the Premier come under fire and questions raised about who exactly received the money.
The OBA has launched an internal investigation, and confirmed that a joint meeting of Parliamentarians and members of the OBA executive will be held at OBA Headquarters in Hamilton today [May 17].
Bernews understands there are growing calls from within the party for Premier Craig Cannonier to step down, with the Premier coming under heavy internal fire.
Last night’s ZBM broadcast asked the Premier whether the account the money went to was held by Stephen DaCosta and Derrick Green, which the Premier declined to answer.
ZBM also asked Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell the same question, to which Minister Crockwell replied, “I think there is some consistency with the names you mentioned,” but declined to answer a strict yes or no saying he has not seen documentation.
Mr Dacosta is a private business associate of the Premier who was also on the “JetGate” flight last year, while Derrick Green has served as a consultant to the OBA.
Update: Ms Scott spoke to us today about her comments:
In a post on her Facebook page today, Ms. Scott said, “I cannot answer for the behavior or mindset of those who have created this intolerable situation. I can only speak for myself.
“I would like to apologize first to my constituents in Southampton East Central [#30], and secondly, to the people of this country, for the behavior that has been thrust upon you by this Government.
“It is reprehensible and I am sure it is not what you expected, and certainly not what you deserve. The image of this country has been tarnished and we must now begin the long journey back to restoration….
Ms. Scott also said, “From the day that Jetgate first erupted, the right thing should have been done by the Premier. And that right thing was to stand up, be transparent and accountable, and set out, for the people, and I might add, the Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament who were not privy to any information about the trip, with every detail of everything that happened, including attendees, meeting participants…everything.
“Bermudians are forgiving people. While they may not agree with what was done, they can appreciate honesty….because then, you are not treating folks like they are stupid.
“This situation, however, has been death by a thousand cuts,” added Ms. Scott.
Ms. Scott’s full post from Facebook is below:
“Oh What a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.”
I will no longer sit by and be quiet and allow myself painted by anyone’s brush as being one of those who is condoning this present activity by Craig Cannonier. And the fact of the matter is that this political and social situation has gone beyond even him. The OBA campaigned on transparency and accountability. Well, where is it?
I stand on principle….and principle has no allegiances. I am not willing to sacrifice my integrity and character over the actions of a few. Integrity means being totally honest and truthful in every part of your life no matter what the cost. I ran for office because I wanted to be able to be part of effective change for Bermuda. I believed that the team that I was joining wanted the same thing.
From the day that Jetgate first erupted, the right thing should have been done by the Premier. And that right thing was to stand up, be TRANSPARENT and ACCOUNTABLE, and set out, for the people, and I might add, the Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament who were not privy to any information about the trip, with every detail of everything that happened, including attendees, meeting participants…EVERYTHING. Bermudians are forgiving people. While they may not agree with what was done, they can appreciate honesty….because then, you are not treating folks like they are stupid.
This situation, however, has been death by a thousand cuts. As the saying goes, “Every time you hear from home, it’s worse.” I signed up to do the business of the people. I did not sign up to be caught up in and tainted by someone else’s duplicitous behavior. People are out of jobs and losing them daily. They are unable to pay their rent, unable to clothe and feed their families. They are living without hope for tomorrow.
It is my responsibility, more as a human being, then as a Member of Parliament, to do what I can to help make someone else’s life better, to the degree that I am able to do so. Unemployment and income inequality are palpable issues for Bermudians that must be dealt with. I thought that the plan of this Government, was to work towards a more secure, prosperous and stable economy by creating jobs, promoting sustainable development, peace, security and human rights. That was my plan, and remains my goal, notwithstanding this present turmoil.
But before we can even begin to move forward, the current level of mistrust between and among members of this Government and its party, between members of this Government and the Opposition, and between members of this Government and the people of this country must be addressed.
When people lose faith in the Government and those who are supposed to be leaders of this county, human rights are put at risk. What we do not want, and simply cannot have is for the streets to become an alternative to viable economic and social solutions for Bermuda.
Our political polarization, both internally and externally is undermining us, as Parliamentarians, to effectively serve the people of this Country. And if we don’t start addressing the needs of the people of this country in a very real and genuine way, we are going to see even more organized protests, such as the recent People’s Manifesto, organized by Reverend Tweed, from Somerset to St Georges.
This Government must start effectively managing the expectations of those who elected us. People are feeling less and less like their vote matters – that while they may be able to change WHO is in power, they are not able to affect WHAT actions their government takes.
Transparency is not about restoring trust in institutions. Transparency is about managing mistrust among people and unveiling lies and deceptions. Some people compromise their integrity and morals because they are desperate and need help or support, others do so because they are bored or aren’t thinking straight.
I cannot answer for the behavior or mindset of those who have created this intolerable situation. I can only speak for myself. I would like to apologize first to my constituents in Southampton East Central (#30), and secondly, to the people of this country, for the behavior that has been thrust upon you by this Government.
It is reprehensible and I am sure it is not what you expected, and certainly not what you deserve. The image of this country has been tarnished and we must now begin the long journey back to restoration….promoting our country as a place to invest in, live in and believe in and that journey must be led by a Government that is honest, efficient, responsive, transparent and accountable..because that is what WE, as a country, deserve.
I will concede with a short story.
A small boy was walking along a beach at low tide, where countless thousands of small sea creatures, having been washed up on the shore, were stranded and doomed to die.
A man watched as the boy picked up the individual creatures and took them back into the water. “I can see you’re being very kind” said the watching man, “but there must be a million of them; it can’t possibly make any difference.”
Returning from the water’s edge, the boy said, “Yes, but it will make a difference for that one.” That is what I signed up for and what I will continue to strive for…to make a difference, even if it is only for that one.
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- Live Blog: OBA Meeting Following ‘JetGate’ Row | Bernews.com | May 17, 2014
And so the bloodletting begins
I wonder how many of the OBA fans will join in her call. And how many OBA MPs will defend the madness.
There are no OBA “fans”!!!
This isn’t a sport.
I know I am getting a little on with age, but wasn’t a former Premier that said we had to deceive you. I think he was a doctor or a fool who did not know what a lie was.
Now I guess this jack bunny is going to come out and say,I had to tell a (white lie), SEEMS AS IF THAT CAME OUT OF A manual I once read,Unbelievable Bull…. Points(U.B.P)MANUAL.
How many millions did that rich oil tycoon John Deuss give to the PLP??? Or would anyone like to fine tune the exact amount he ploughed into the PLP from 1998 to 2012. No doubt he had to ease up after he became a fugitive. Memories are short on this little island.
What does that have to do with this? Are you saying that because that happened we should be ok with this? What I’m seeing is Bermuda is learning from past mistakes and making a change today.
It seems that what he’s saying is: why is it an outrage now, when it wasn’t then?
Pharrell Williams !
The REAL Problem the OBAubp have is their attempt to think they can call out an action by the PLP, as good enough reason, rationale or justification for them to engage in unethical, crooked, fraudulent form of corrupt politics. How in the world can anyone believe this is good enough justification, defense, or reason for the ineptitude, stupidity and incompetence actions of the OBAubp government? This is the weakest form of defense to present for any government. REALLY !! Past actions of any government is not good enough reasons for the present or future governments to think it is okay for them to act in such a manner.
This has to be taken to a higher level of discourse and folks must learn to except the government has fallen on their swords. This situation require serious critical analyses of Bermuda moving forward. The government has taken the wrong pathway, and now we in Bermuda are faced with a really bad situation.
The government must stand up and be held ACCOUNTABLE. The Premier & JETGATE 4 must AWAKEN UP and realize their actions has serious ramifications moving forward.
So glad you are the official accountant for Mr. Duess, always wondered what he gave, but in case he did not he should bring you up on charges for accusation you can’t prove.
Really? You deny it then? Why? We all know it happened.
The problem is not with the donations made to any political party. This is not the issue with the $300,000. You are being misleading or being just completely naive about this issue.
Not a penny.
The OBA government came to power because they said that they would do things differently. Easier said than done of course. They hammered the PLP every chance they got. Now that the shoe is on the other foot they can’t Stand the heat in the kitchen. Recourse, get the hell out of the kitchen.
“This too shall pass”
I’m surprised that someone drawing a Minister’s salary with no portfolio would be the first to throw Cannonier under the bus… no gratitude for free money, I guess. Scott has integrity now? Maybe she should return the Minister’s salary she’s been paid but did nothing to earn…
Wow. “We pay you, so shut up and sit down”. Does that sum up your comment? Apparently you don’t care for integrity.
and 35 people liked that comment,, wow!!!! Because a minister stands up for her morals and ethics, she is considered to be ungrateful.. Mercy mercy me..
So the implied message is,, “Take your money, you don’t do s***, now sit in the corner, shut up and be happy, and if you have a issue with how we do things, keep your comments to yourself”
I think your image has been tarnished as a SARROGATE.
*gump*
“When people lose faith in the Government and those who are supposed to be leaders of this county, human rights are put at risk. What we do not want, and simply cannot have is for the streets to become an alternative to viable economic and social solutions for Bermuda.”
Well MRS.SCOTT your the first OBAubp MP that has stood up and spoken. It has taken you a “Very LONG Time,” but you finally grew a conscious. I take it your Conscious was eating at you, and you found the need to speak. I can only say that I am glad that you did speak, and wrote an article that reflects you are concern and disappointed in the OBAubp government’s actions. I now hope you will encourage the government to do the RIGHT THING…let the JETGATE 4 GO….
It is correct that the OBAubp have indeed “the image of this country has been tarnished,” This is a big problem moving forward, especially for any form of HOTEL development in Bermuda. I hope the OBAubp would WAKE UP AND BE HONEST. I hope the diehart fans would also be HONEST and TRANSPARENCY.
I hope that you will continue to work in the best spirit of Honesty and TRANSPARENCY….
MRS SCOTT, I wished you would have read or spoken these same words on the Floor of the HOUSE…NOT one MP spoke to the LIES the OBAubp continue to tell the public each week. This situation has been going on for more than over one year, and yet NOT ONE WORD. WHAT MAKES YOU SPEAK TODAY…I hope next week you will speak on the Floor of the House these same words, and call your government out…This would ensure your serious and make a big different to Bermuda…. SPEAK ON THE FLOOR OF THE HOUSE>
Betty, as an OBA supporter, if there was any wrong done, whether unethical or illegal then I will join the call for those involved to step down.
If the OBA were to fall into the same behaviour as the previous government and lie, hide the truth, protect its own at all costs, protect itself for the sake of maintaining power, then I would also do everything I could to remove them from power. And if the “PLPbiu” (to use your own attempt to manipulate) were somehow to present a competent, racially diverse, non-xenophobic, financially responsible alternative, I would vote for them as an alternative.
And that in summary is the problem – I’m not a fan of a team, the OBA aren’t my brothers or sisters, and I have no intention of drinking the kool aid. However, you and many others seem to have treated the PLP (oh, wait PLPbiu)as a social club/church/family where they can do no wrong, have done no wrong, and will do no wrong in the future. That is an immature and irresponsible view of the world.
Parties, when the fall into poor behaviours, do not DESERVE loyalty.
Sounds like your hurting and disappointed over the actions of your party. I understand, but I think your disappointment needs to directed towards them, and assist them in making the necessary changes required. But your pain is real, after all the kicking of the PLP by OBAubp made many believe the OBAubp was not capable of such falsehoods or lies, but the opposite has proven to become true. Enjoy the sunny day we are having.
First the Royal Gazette. Now Leah Scott. The end of the Cannonier experiment is near.
You just came to this epiphany now? What is this a last ditch PR stint? Where was your voice in the house of Assembly all of this time? Who else is with you? What will be done? If it was about Bermuda first go back to the polls and trust the people will choose what they want to lead them forward in the isms and schisms of making laws and policies. Otherwise it looks like some are merely trying to save face because the writing was on the wall over a year ago
I wonder who is going to leave the OBA? could it be Pettingill, Crockwell and Scott ?
Wow !!!!!
Better hope all three (and maybe Cannonier if he’s dethroned, making it four) don’t cross the floor of the House of Assembly. If I’m not mistaken (and I don’t mind if I’m corrected on this) the PLP could then go to the Governor and have themselves declared the government. Am I right on this???
Nobody will leave. all for one and one for all.
Thanks OBA for having your meeting anf deciding that Premier Cannonier will be replaced
we look forward to seeing the new Cabinet next week without the BDA unethical Jetgate MPs
bring back John Barritt for Constituency 12 while you are at it please
Leah, getting your flip flops ready?
Call 1-800-FURBALL to get your pair…
well it is about time leah said something but leah is sounds like you are not happy with what your party has been doing
if that is the case then lead by example and step down
and come right out and ask the premier to do the same
leah just step down
Interesting! I have been to the house several times and what I have noticed is that I am there more than Ms. Scott. Where was she last week where was she yesterday. They tell me she comes for about 30 mins and leaves. Ms. Scott tell the public the truth your self. You are getting paid bit not working for them.
Watching
You’re taking the position of a coward, attacking Ms. Scott for having backbone for standing on principle….”and principle has no allegiances.”
You need to get some testicular fortitude and stand up for what is right, or not shut up and get of the way and let people of good conscience speak up for this island.
Lea Scott, is all about herself and showing off on facebook….how the hell did she win her seat in parliament ?
Ms. Scott responded back to you in the audio clip http://bernews.com/2014/05/oba-to-host-meeting-following-jetgate-row/
Looks like Bermuda is stuck between a rock and a hard place.
An untrustworthy OBA or an incompetent PLP.
Maybe we should bring foreigners in to run the Government.
The citizens of Bermuda deserve better.
Dan Moody, you are right.
You have echoed my sentiments “Truth shall not set you free”. She is one of the silent MPs along with Nandi Davis, Susan Jackson and Kenneth Bascome. This situation has been going on for over a year and now she’s speaking up. I am not impressed. Maybe she trying to make sure she’ll be put back in the Cabinet.
@LaVerne Furbert..
But you and Lea Scott need to substantiate your claims and/or allegations. Just because the atmosphere is swirling with allegations does NOT make them facts.
If there is a problem on where the $300K went, it is an internal matter of the OBA, not a PLP or a matter of public interest UNLESS it has been wrongfully used.
Nathan Landow has been transparent and answered all questions put to him in a forthright manner and without skirting the issues, or having an opaque memory on the details. But UNLESS you have tape recorded conversations between all parties, and there are grave discrepancies between the two (tapes and the word of Mr Landow), then there is nothing worth discussing on the issue.
And please do not attempt to rebut with the Nandi tapes episode, I have used it as a hypothetical scenario to highlight my point.
And one final note, where were you when Dr Brown lost his political way? Defending his back with your bizarre rationales for his inexcusable behaviour?
So, now you want others to defect based upon your logic? Nandi Davis, Susan Jackson and Kenneth Bascome are individuals who the PLP would rip a part based upon your bent desire to wrestle control of the Government from the OBA. And you attempt to appeal to their sense of outrage? If the toxic actions of Dr Brown had NO affect upon you, you should be sipping tea and remaining very silent here.
Then again, freedom of speech is constitutional right that all Bermudians enjoy under this Government, so you have no fear of what comments you make.
And Lea, please show me the hard evidence that Premier Cannonier has “tarnished Bermuda’s international reputation?” That comment is always thrown about when politicians want to justify their attempts of Machiavellian acts, and LaVerne knows only too well about the Machiavellian hidden camps in politics, just mention Dr Brown and she in a tailspin.
London, England
go get a cup of tea
I don’t remember Paula Cox speaking up about any of the alleged wrongdoings of the Doc while she was Finance Minister. Guess Ms. Scott isn’t more concerned about her position within the party more than her constituents. Matter of fact, I’m pretty sure anyone within the PLP that spoke out against Papa Doc was shown the door pretty quickly.
I can agree was in the house on Friday ms scott was not there nor was Nandi davis Jackson and bascome were present but again said nothing infact the plp had the most to say
just an observation while I was there in one hour one mp left the chambers 6 times
As a Bermudian I had some faith in the OBA, but now I have lost all faith in this so called leader.
A frequent caller to the talk shows once said “Cannonaire would be the down fall of the OBA… how true he was.
I don’t know why the oba continue to lie and say that cannonaire is the leader when they no that he is not.
the milk man is the leader the only reason craig is there was the consultant told them in order to get the black vote you need a black person out front.not a former white ubp.
the rest of the black people in the oba are just there to make up the numbers
Paleaseeee
Good point ‘Truth’.
This is save ass week and I will not let you down.
Sad really. OBA could have done better.
Of course we won’t hear similar from the million airs in OBA.
Shake up and get the peoples work done.
Shalom.
They say “stick to the wicket and the runs will come”. Well done PLP and good on you Leah Scott. This reminds me of “I DID NOT have sexual relations with that woman”. I’m guessing the pending court cases will be back tracked. Oh what tangled webs we weave.
It’s more like “Keep throwing mud… something’ll finally stick”.
Or – Keep dishing out MUD to throw and soon some will stick.
I usually ignore you but even you have to admit that he has to step
Nothing to do with what I said, but yes, if the allegations are true – and that’s not been proven yet… the only thing that we’ve seen is that there WAS, in fact, a donation – then yes, he should probably, as you say, step.
I’m interested in your reasons for ignoring me…
anyone with any sense ignores you. Do you really think this is about the $300k donation? Who cares about stuff like that? This is about misleading the House of Assembly, the people and his Party. Ever heard of Nixon and Clinton? No-one went to jail for what was committed, they went to jail for the cover-up. Duh.
Wow. The things you’ll say because I ask for people to be honest and not be hypocritical. THAT is a reason to be ignored? Wow.
Says a lot about you.
As does your post.
So… NOW, it’s about misleading the House of Assembly?
Careful, last time folks protested about that, they were called a lynch mob!
You should really look to your own before pretending to be outraged.
It’s more than a little hypocritical to howl to the sky about this now.
Oh ok. I see that you’ve mistaken me for someone who gives a crap about what’s happening at The Music Box today. This script was written ages ago, the Premier’s bumbling has just accelerated it. I am not howling about anything related to this. I only sought to better inform your ignorance on politics. The $300k is not illegal, its not even unethical. There are no rules and I really don’t care who got it or what it was spent on. The issue is that the Premier has either failed to or refused to answer legitimate questions about his actions in the House of Assembly. They could’ve asked him about what kind of dog food he feeds Rover. If he didn’t tell the truth he is in breach of the Ministerial Code of Conduct. It really is that simple.
What I really want to know is, when he is disciplined by the House for his conduct, what will you say? Will it also be the magical works of the PLP like everything else you don’t like that happens in this country?
And so far, the only outrage has come from “your own” not mine (whatever the hell that means).
@Mike
It’s OK at times to be biased, but even for you this has to be a new low. This shows that you’re not as “non-partisan” as you attempt to portray.
PLP didn’t throw mud, three OBA ministers were less than honest, misled parliament, their cabinet colleagues, party chairman, and broke the ministerial code of conduct. Now after the constant questioning of the matter, Mr Landow himself had to spill the beans. (And as you know it’s better for him to do so willingly before US officials get involved and comb through his affairs as it is a federal crime for an American to buy persuasion over a foreign government)
Resignations must be given in the highest order, as this tarnishes the credibility of our rule of law.
Are you even remotely kidding me?
“PLP didn’t throw mud”?
All they DO is throw mud! And when it doesn’t stick, they ignore it and move on!
This is EXACTLY what this is!
It was all about them asking for a couple million dollar handout and about the jet and about the other guy on the plane and about Landow getting a casino here… or did you suddenly forget all that?
Now Mr. Landow has “spilled the beans” about a donation from a group of people – which, as far as I know, isn’t illegal… I stand to be corrected – that seems to be ALL this is about.
This newly found faux outrage – that was sorely lacking in recent years – is ridiculous.
As for my bias?
I have never denied an anti-PLP (and I have to emphasize this next bit) AS THEY STAND NOW AND IN THE RECENT PAST bias. Not once. I have explained this bias time and again as based on the behaviour and tacit approval of this behaviour from members, representatives and supporters of the Party.
I believe in what the Party is SUPPOSED to stand for – so much so that I voted for them in 1998 – but I feel that those standards and qualities are not being followed.
However, this in no way means that I am an OBA supporter. Not at all.
Speaking out against the constant false attacks, the lies, the misrepresentations of the truth, of reality, the racially hostile statements, the trolling, the incivility, the disgusting tactics, propaganda and demagogy of some members and supporters of the PLP does NOT indicate support for the OBA.
Not even a little bit.
Thinking that, even with the complete and utter cockups, and I don’t deny them, they’re still doing a better job than the previous couple of administrations and would do a better job than those in control of the Party at the moment does NOT mean I’m an OBA supporter.
I’m not sure how to make this any clearer.
I’m as non-partisan as I can be with an admitted bias against the behaviours and tactics of the current and past couple of administrations of the PLP.
That is EXACTLY “as “non-partisan” as [I] attempt to portray”.
I’ve never claimed to be anything but exactly this.
YOUR attempt to portray me as claiming something else is false, as is your attempt to rewrite reality for political gain.
As an individual that has gone back and forth with Mike on numerous occasions, I can completely agree with his post above. He is absolutely right when he says that he is non-partisan – - or his definition above at least.
The truth is that Mike hates (my words, not his) the current leader of the Opposition and has described him as “hateful”, and “homophobic”.
Mike, for me – - this entire situation is not about the money. For me, it is about the fact that this entire chaotic mess could have been avoided if the Premier simply provided the information when first asked.
I hope that after the meeting today, we can all resolve this situation and move Bermuda in the direction she needs to go – - – I believe that the leader of the government and the two ministers present on that trip should all resign from the Cabinet and the OBA government elect a new leader and continue on as the government. The PLP, in my opinion, do not need to become the government over this.
Do you agree with my logic, Mike?
Q
Yet another lie from “Question”.
I have never said that I hate the Opposition leader. Yes, he is homophobic and hateful, but I have never said that I hate him. Those are not my words. Please stop spreading lies.
As long as you are willing to outright lie like this, ESPECIALLY while hiding like a coward behind a fake name, you cannot be taken seriously.
The last sentence of the 4th paragraph, I agree with. The rest, not so much.
Mike,
I just have one simple question, because I haven’t read all of your posts.
For the point of clarification, do you find anything wrong with the entire Jetgate incident?
Sure! It was stupid to get on the plane. Rookie mistake. But step down? Nah. Precedent shows that this isn’t as bad as to warrant that.
So the entire events of this Jetgate scandal is belittled to a ‘stupid rookie mistake of getting on the plane.’
What about the blatant lies from the beginning?
We didn’t know Mr. Landow before the trip, now we did know him before the trip.
He wasn’t on the plane to he was just bumming a ride. He wasn’t involved in the meetings now he was involved in the meetings.
We didn’t ask for money, but $300,000 was sent.
Read Mr. Landow’s comments in The Sun. Do they add up? There are a lot of contridictions in his comments.
Do you know of the legal implications for this island if Mr. Landow gets any contract for hotel/casino development in Bermuda. The possible years of litigation as a result of ‘a rookie mistake.’
Do you believe the island’s reputation has been tarnished because of this? Especially when high ranking officials in other jurisdictions have expressed concern over the handling of Jetgate by the OBA.
Look at all of the events, it is more than ‘a rookie mistake.’
I have some questions for you…
Did you have this much outrage when there were “blatant lies” before this? The “blatant lie” (as blatant as this, in any case) that the Uighurs were vetted by the police when they weren’t springs to mind.
Is it blatant lies that you have a problem with or is it just because it’s the OBA?
And can you quote the blatant lies for me? Verbatim, please?
What ARE the legal implications? What “years of litigation” are you talking about? Care to elucidate?
Which high ranking officials in other jurisdictions are you referring to?
I answered yours… how ’bout you answer mine?
Rookie mistake my foot.
Mike:
This proves my point from previous posts – thank so very much!!
This proves you are so busy disliking the “messenger” versus the “message” that you simply don’t read or overlook information posted in my posts.
If you slow down and stop hating on me for a quick second, go back to my original post on the article, YOU WILL SEE I NEVER SAID THAT YOU SAID THAT YOU HATED THE OPPOSITION LEADER – - this is what I actually posted:
“The truth is that Mike hates (MY WORDS, NOT HIS) the current leader of the Opposition and has described him as “hateful”, and “homophobic”.”
I was trying to have a “kumbaya” moment with you and you attack – - very sad day in Bermuda, very sad indeed.
Doesn’t make it not a lie. You said “The truth is…”
What you posted is NOT the truth. It is a lie.
It has nothing to do with you posting it and everything to do with the fact that it is completely untrue. You are a liar.
As for my feelings for you? I have none. I can’t. I don’t know who you are.
Oh, and you didn’t make that point in your original reply. You’re moving the goalposts and rewriting reality again.
I’ve asked before. Now I’m pleading.
PLEASE try honesty. It’s SO much better.
It is you who is rewriting history – - – the point of that above post was to highlight that you, in my opinion (which I truly shouldn’t have to write as any post here is actual opinion), did not read my post correctly on this particular article.
We have gone back and forth previously on Bernews and I have, in those posts (to which I was referring in my 2nd post on this article) were the ones where I indicated that you focus on me versus what I say – - not my original post on this particular article.
Now that I have spoken to that point, let’s move on, shall we?
What is truth? The truth to me can certainly be a lie to someone else – - but does that change its validity?
Since you want honesty, I will concede this point – - my truth is not your truth – - and to state it (in an obvious opinion piece) was wrong.
Q
Amazing. You try to spread lies about me, then, when called on it, it’s “let’s move on”?
You’re pathetic.
I know you’re desperate to defame and denounce, but it’s much better to use the truth and things that actually happened.
Problem is, you can’t, so you just make things up, then run away.
So, yeah. Let’s move on. You sad, little thing. I’ll keep asking for honesty and integrity and you keep playing ridiculous little games from under your hood.
@Mike
How could Mr Landow’s $300k donation be a political contribution if it never made it to any political party? Again let’s not blur the lines due to one’s bias.
Landow himself isn’t a foolish man. Knowing that the money didn’t make it to the OBA, he had to come clean because if the money wasn’t a campaign contribution than it potentially contravened the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act 1977 and the other amendments.
I’m not understanding why those who are defending the OBA don’t see the severity of this matter. People saying, “it’s only 300k.” Absolutely sad and completely missed the point!
Now what I focused on was Landow’s potential problem in this matter, when it comes to the Premier, and two ministers knowingly lying to parliament, accepting gifts and the sort we all know it contravenes the Ministerial Code of Conduct which calls for them to resign immediately.
What is so hard to understand about that? And what does that have to do with PLP? These acts were of their own doing!!!
Now getting to you, in a two party system where someone like you is active in civics, saying that you’re anti-PLP (last few and current batches) but you’re not necessarily for the OBA is supposed to make you a neutral? Come on mate you’re better than that.
I enjoy your commentary regardless if we agree or not but you have to admit that explanation is hogwash.
Never said I was neutral. I explained my position in my post pretty clearly.
Mike we know your true colors. If OBA wanted PATI and honesty surely they should be giving Cannonier the door by now. Or you are all hypocrites and racist?
Keep playing that OBA fiddle Hind…
Please read above.
I know you’re desperate to denounce me, but PLEASE try to have a little honesty when you post.
The little guy plays the ukulele, not the fiddle.
Little guy?
Thank you Ms Leah Scott there must be more than one who is not drinking the koolaid stand up for something or fall for everything. Is there anyone else who has backbone in the OBA SMDH
From 1998 – 2012 no PLP MP ever stood up and took a stand like this. Good for you MP Scott – showing that the OBA at least has one MP who has the courage to stand up for what is right for BERMUDA. Lets see if the rest of the OBA can do the right thing this afternoon!
No one seems to remember July 2009 when Terry Lister stood on the floor if the House and called for the then Premier’s resignation! Why? Because he saw where the country wad heading economically. His reward and by his choice a seat on the back bench.
Dale Butler over the Uighurs issue -Quit! And he was very vocal about this.
Patrice Minors refused to work with Dr. Brown because she refused to compromise her values.
If people really paid attention they would know these things. But if course Bermudians prefer drama over facts!!
Time will tell.
I wonder when Chris Famous and his regulars will begin to speak up about the madness his PLP party put out for 14 years! No one is perfect and therefore, neither will be any political party – EVER! A few on the OBA, especially the Premier, have made a huge mistake. I hope Craig Cannonier is booted out as Premier so the party can get on with business. IMO, he should have stood down knowing darn well that what he has done is disrespectful to all of us, including his own family. Shame on him! He’s no different from the lies and deceit we put up with under the Brown and Cox leadership!
@Marge: My father once said (about 35 years ago), “If the PLP ever reign, this island will never be the same.” How right he was!!!
@LaVerne: If this situation has been going on for a year, as you say, and you didn’t like what you were hearing, why didn’t you stand up back then and organize a march on Parliament to show your “solidarity”?
Your father sounds like a racist.
Awake was referring to what would happen to the economy if the PLP got in.
Oh puhlease!
What was the real motive of Craig Cannonier when he and two of his Government Ministers accepted a ride on that private aircraft?
If Civil Servants shouldn’t seek or accept free accommodation, travel or entertainment vouchers for services performed in connection with their official duties, why did the trio of Government Ministers, who should be leading by example, accept the plane ride? The position our inexperienced Premier now finds himself in, should be a lesson to ALL politicians.
Premier Cannonier should be familiar with the scriptures, especially that of St. Luke, Chapter 8, verse 17: “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shal not be known and come abroad.”
Civil Servants aren’t the only ones who should not use their positions to obtain a private benefit for themselves or anyone else.
These are definite signs of a weak foundation!
how much did the defunct plp pay you to write this drivel Leah Scott
and how soon before you flip over on your donkey’s rearend to the green kool aid party.
I wonder if he’ll move outa Camden House by the end of May.
I doubt if he is living at Camdem. That is merely where they have some functions.
I think you are referring to Clifton mate!
The result of allowing amateur inexperienced politicians test drive the most powerful machine known to man….the Permiership
If Cannonier weathers this storm, the political integrity of this island will be shot to hell…that’s too big of a sacrifice for this country to make for an inexperienced politician at the helm of government. Craig needs to take one for the team
Political inexperience combined with being hung out to dry by his ‘team’…..still, he’s no EB. Stumbling/Bumbling, yes…..
If Cannonier is really guilty of wrong doing, then maybe he should get his Ministers to sign an Oath of allegiance, like EB did.
Can’t put poor people and felons in charge of the public purse. Let Grant Gibbons run it – his family is worth Billions.
Nahhhh Loooonk……give me the 300,000…..and I….”The Great MumboJumbo”….will lift this great burdon from yoouuu!..
When aspersions are past I will shoulder the responsibility!Let me take this money…and spend it untill it is gone….in this way I will cleans the air so to speak….thusley enabling the blessins o’billy to prevail en total.be nice to have some peace and quiet ennit?….Then give it to me and say 17 and 1/2 Hail Marys….and an act of contrition (you may wash my car if this will suffice your need)….and wvallah!….hunky dory….no more beanie weinie…no moah marchin aww ovah de place…
“Oh What a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.”
let him or her that is without sin cast the first stone!
now,Leah Scott,
how much do you get paid for not being in the House when you should be?
like many on this island,you are in a position that you should not hold.
Tired of this OBA Gov. What are they doing to help people, seems they are lining their own pockets. I have voted UBP/OBA for many years, not any longer! This government is tired!
Sigh…l It was ok for Ewart and his flunkies to …Bermuda and leave us high and dry but this money isn’t even the peoples it was a campaign donation and now you all want him to resign lmao! The lies an deceit was wrong but the PLP has done worst! O how fast we forget those famous words.. “We had to deceive you”…. Anyways no matter what governments in power they are going to line their pockets with the peoples money
Don’t dismiss the issue here.
Yes, by comparison these lies are next to nothing alongside what the PLP did, but this Government was voted in for change and lies are lies.
Now, I’ve not yet read a confirmation of an out and out lie, not yet, even though it does seem to stink to high heaven.
Remember, this is politics we’re talking about here. When a direct question is asked, that question will be answered. Not necessarily what was meant by the question.
The irony of all this is that Special branch have not bee doing a good job.
Would love to see what is sent to HE.
I have always had the upmost respect for Ms. Scott. This has now increased tenfold. It takes tremendous guts to speak up in a situation like this. She is right to apologize to her constituents, who may be feeling a bit let down.
I, for one, voted for a change. This is absolutely stomach churning for me, because I never expected the OBA to mired in controversy a mere year and a half after taking office. They need to get it together and quick. What will we be left with if they fail?
And her relation to the ex Premier is……
Wonder where all the Oba D*** riders are now? Usually they on here talking about the past.why aren’t they on here talking bout this Joker they voted for now?
Politicks who voted for Premier.
Get your facts straight.
‘…And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.”
Mark 3:25
Ms. Scott, it is nice to be honourable and to have integrity but you are not making this any better. Please be quiet until all is said and done.
The PLP doesn’t even have to do anything anymore and they know it-they’re just sitting back and letting the OBA self-destruct in front of our very eyes.
Too many egos at play here and Bermuda loses. The people have had enough-the OBA came in with good intentions; what happened??? The Bermudian public didn’t vote for this…get it together!!!
So let’s look at this from a different angle. Landow and Scott throw Cannonier under the bus. Oh and don’t forget Crockwell (“there is some consistency with those names you mentioned”) too.
It is all orchestrated by the person who is waiting in the background to become the next Premier of the country which was the original plan from the beginning.
I applaud Ms. Scott for speaking out on this… wish the others would do the same…
The TRUTH at last , honesty , integrity ,transperancy . Leah I’m so proud of you for exemplifying everything the OBA promised us the electorate .
Ms Scott I to applaud you for speaking up. The other OBA backbenchers need to speak up as well.
Applaud her all you want, she should have never joined that party and she knows it ! Her reasons for joining were self serving, and when i see her i will remind her once again !!!
Ms. Scott should have kept quiet until the fact finding mission was over. Her pre-emptive strike appears to be self-serving.
So Ms Scott thought she’d put her own name into the hat with those whose integrity is now questionable? I can’t imagine what on earth she was thinking.
The smartest thing to do would have been to keep her mouth shut.
If she felt the need to speak up, she could have announced herself as being deeply concerned with the developments and would be keeping close watch on the progress and outcome of the investigatin in order to keep her promise to her constituents.
They need to get rid of Leah and Nandi . They are both useless
time for Craig to replace his cabinet… like Fahy for starters….Continue on Craig show them leadership…
Was praying for this country last year and The Lord gave me the scripture about being lead in the way of balaam in reference to some of the leaders of this country. If you read the story about baalam ( the old and New Testament references) then you will see exactly what I’m talking about. Briefly, balaam was a prophet of God who accepted money from someone in exchange for saying and doing whatever that man wanted him to say and do. He sold out his divine calling and purpose for a quick buck. I couldn’t see exactly why The Lord gave this scripture back then but, I sure do understand now! God knows everything even when it doesn’t make sense to us at the time. Jude 1:11, 2 Peter 2:15, Rev. 2:14, Deut. 23:4, numbers 22:1-39.
Dear Ms. Scott,
You will be mocked, scorned, insulted and belittled but do understand that there are many who don’t have the venom and tenacity of CERTAIN bloggers/OBA supporters BUT fully endorse your actions.
At a time when many of us have lost faith in the political process, you have shown us that not everyone is up to political games, even if it means that you are potentially in for serious political consequences.
I can’t thank you enough for standing up. May more in your party have the guts to be counted.
So…..Landow contributed $300k plus to help the OBA get voters to the polls? How? To put gas in their vehicles? Smdh!
bless u sis, u did the right thing. u have a mind and u have feelings and u have a mouth. I really respect u.
So where is your resignation MP Scott? If you have really lost faith in Premier Cannonier and the OBA then you have an issue. You should at least resign as Jr Minister of Education, and probably should sit as an Independent.
I am wondering if our Ms. Scott has become a shill for the PLP and if we can expect her to take a stroll across the floor….