Former Free National Movement Cabinet Minister Zhivargo Laing issued a statement yesterday formally announcing his decision to withdraw from frontline politics.
“Over the past three years, particularly the past several months, I have given serious consideration to the direction I wished my life to take,” he said. “There remains daily inquiries and speculation about my political future.”
In announcing his decision, Mr. Laing said, “This means that I will not offer myself for any political office within the Free National Movement nor a seat in the House of Assembly in the next general election.
“It is my determination to focus on other interests more in line with my personal, family, professional and spiritual interests. This decision is a deeply personal one. It is mine and mine alone, arrived at simply by deep soul-searching.”
Mr. Laing added that he enjoyed his experience in politics and remains deeply interested in the development of the Bahamas.
“Perhaps I will return to public service one day. For the time being, however, it is my choice to remove myself from frontline partisan politics to follow a different course.
“I have conveyed my decision to Sen. the Honourable Tommy Turnquest, Leader of the Free National Movement and to many of the party’s officials. I want to thank them all for their understanding and for having given me the opportunity to share in their noble efforts.”
Mr. Laing also thanked former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham for giving him the opportunity to serve in government at such a high level and at such an early age.
“He has been a mentor, friend and father-figure,” he said. “I also wish to thank all the political colleagues with whom I have served over the years. Each has assisted my growth and development in so many ways.”
Mr. Laing also thanked the people of Fort Charlotte, whom he represented, and he also thanked Grand Bahamians.
“My gifts and talents will always be available to The Bahamas,” he added. “Indeed, it is my hope that my experiences over the next several years will further enhance those gifts and talents, enabling them to be of even greater service and benefit to our nation in years to come.”
From The Bahama Journal
