Michael Fahy, a former immigration minister known for his controversial proposed Pathways to Status initiative during the One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) administration, has been announced as the OBA candidate for the Pembroke South West constituency in the upcoming General Election on February 18. Fahy will face off against Iesha Musson from the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) and independent candidate Vic Ball, who previously represented the OBA.
During his time as home affairs minister, Fahy was at the forefront of the Pathways to Status immigration proposals, which sparked immediate backlash from the PLP when they were in opposition. The proposed legislation led to mass demonstrations in 2016 that effectively blockaded the House of Assembly, which led to the scrapping of the initiative.
In the wake of the protests, the PLP called for Fahy’s resignation, criticizing his decision to eliminate term limits on work permits.
This policy change, which Fahy justified as necessary for Bermuda’s economic growth, has been a focal point of contention between the two parties.
David Burt the then leader of the Opposition, famously labeled Fahy as “Mr. Unaccountable” during a heated debate in the House of Assembly in 2015, accusing him of acting without oversight from the party. Despite the criticism, Fahy has remained steadfast, insisting that he would not waver on OBA commitments and dismissing accusations of irresponsibility.
As the election approaches, the dynamics between the OBA, PLP, and independent candidates will be closely watched, particularly in light of Mr. Fahy’s contentious legacy in immigration policy.
Meanwhile there is talk of dissatisfaction among the OBA ranks with the decision to bring Mr Fahy back into the fold and be given a so-called safe seat in the process.
The Progressive Labour Party has already criticised the move as an indication that “the OBA or UBP has not changed.”
Making the comment at a press conference held at PLP headquarters, Owen Darrell stated “This election has now changed. This election is now about what it means to be Bermudian.”
He warned voters, “If you want to protect the opportunity in the future to stop Pathways to Status 2.0 vote solidly PLP on February 18th.”
Photo courtesy of Ber
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