There are many voices blaring out on the gambling issues… but those of us who see what is really at stake cannot afford to let this moment pass and not voice our concern.
Topic: gambling
The people’s vote to legalize the numbers industry will not legalize lottery gambling for Bahamians and legal residents. The Parliament must pass legislation amending the gaming laws.
Most people assumed the promised referendum on gambling would address the full issue for the people to decide upon, however, the referendum will only address lotteries.
You could argue that there is economic benefit from gambling, drugs, prostitution, or pornography, but the Bible is still right when it says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people”.
Bahamas Christian Council President Rev. Dr. Ranford Patterson has called for members of Parliament to publicly disclose their individual positions on gambling.
In waging a fight in this referendum the numbers men are doing more than attempting to legalize their businesses. They are challenging the role of the church in the modern Bahamas.
The Christian Council has no interest in meeting with the numbers bosses and stands strong against gambling, saying “it’s not a savior… It’s killing communities. It’s killing the country.”
Baha Mar’s senior vp of external and governmental affairs said that he does not support Bahamians gambling in the casino because “We are not a disciplined enough community.”
Pastor Lee suggested Mr Christie’s first promise to the citizens of the Bahamas should have been to immediately and aggressively shut down all illegal web-shops and stop further business of this type.