Reports of a physical altercation between two Members of Parliament were confirmed yesterday, as one of the MPs, finally breaking his silence, issued a statement of apology about an incident that transpired earlier this week at the Cabinet Office.
Kennedy MP and Chairman of the Gaming Board, Kenyatta Gibson said he was “deeply saddened that human frailty led to behaviour that he deeply regretted.”
“I realise that these events declined to an unacceptable and undignified level,” Mr Gibson wrote. “I therefore sincerely and unreservedly apologise for my conduct, and I hope that the Bahamian people, my constituents and my colleagues can forgive me.”
Mr Gibson, however, did not apologise to Mr Smith, but stated he wished Mr Smith the very best and prayed they could work together for the benefit of all Bahamians. On Monday night, tempers flared at the parliamentary meeting when an argument between Gibson and Smith progressed to the physical level. Prime Minister Perry Christie said the published reports about the alleged bust-up had been “exaggerated,” even though he admitted he was not present at the meeting. Mr Christie’s response also angered some talk radio listeners who called for both men to apologise or resign. Shortly following the incident, the Free National Movement called on the Prime Minister to apologise for the fight and requested a full and frank disclosure of the facts.
Mr Gibson said to date, there has been much pubic attention on Monday night’s events. He claimed such happenings have been sensationalised and overstated and he has become the “fodder for political exploitation.” He added, however, that his remorse and regret are unconditional. “The last few days have been spent in deep contemplation and reflection. Indeed, I am sorry,” the statement read.
“I sincerely hope that I can put this unfortunate incident behind me and request your support in this regard. To err is human, perfection is divine.”
Up to press time yesterday, no statement of apology had been issued by Mount Moriah MP Keod Smith, and all attempts to reach Mr Smith failed.
By: TAMARA McKENZIE, The Nassau Guardian
