Bahamas gov’t defends purchase of new vehicle for Prime Minister

NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC –  The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in Bahamas has defended the government's purchase of a US$192,000 BMW for Prime Minister Phillip Davis, following widespread debates in public circles about the timing of such a purchase as the cost of living soars.

In a statement on Wednesday, the OPM said the BMW replaces a US$300,000 Mercedes acquired under the Ingraham administration in 2011 that was used by four prime ministers.

“For the first time, an electric vehicle was chosen for the Office of the Prime Minister, reflecting broader government policy to transition government vehicles to electric ones, which are cleaner and offer cost-savings over time,” said the statement that was issued after documents about the transaction were leaked on social media on Tuesday, sparking heated commentary.

“This vehicle is currently being customised to meet the stringent security and functional requirements necessary for transporting a prime minister. Additionally, a Lexus is currently being repaired and is thus not in use. To ensure no interruption in the prime minister's official duties, a BMW has been temporarily loaned to the Office.”

The OPM said once repaired, the Lexus and the new vehicle will be the two vehicles in rotation.

When asked about the appropriateness of buying the luxury car, acting Press Secretary Keishla Adderley told reporters that the Office of the Prime Minister needs to cope with a very rigorous schedule that the prime minister has to deal with on a daily basis.

She said the new car is also expected to last at least 10 years.

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