Only in the fantasy land of New day Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) politics could rising unemployment be spun as a sign of confidence. Yes, you read that correctly—Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis now wants us to believe that the surge in joblessness is proof that Bahamians are suddenly optimistic about the economy. Because apparently, being unemployed in the Bahamas is now a badge of economic faith.

Let’s get the facts straight:

• According to the Department of Statistics, unemployment sat at 8.7% in the first and second quarters of 2024, dropped briefly to 7.2% in Q3, but has since climbed again.
• Instead of showing alarm or offering a clear plan, the Prime Minister first blamed the closed grouper season for the rise (because of course, seasonal fishing explains national unemployment).
• Now, after ridicule, he insists he’s not downplaying the numbers but is “encouraged” because more Bahamians are “looking for jobs.”

Here’s the rub: if, after four years in office, your big defence is that more people are looking for work, then what you’re really admitting is that your government wasn’t prepared to create or sustain jobs in the first place. Confidence doesn’t pay rent, nor does it put food on the table. Jobs do.

So, what happened to all that “vision” Davis preached about in opposition? Back then, he famously declared that rising unemployment was the hallmark of visionless leadership. By his own “logic”, the PLP has graduated with honours in the school of failure.

The reality is this: the Davis administration had years to anticipate a post-pandemic labour market surge, to implement training programs, to invest in sustainable industries, and to empower Bahamians with real opportunities. Instead, they are offering excuses that are equal parts lazy and insulting. Grouper season? Confidence spin? That’s not leadership—it’s a comedy routine gone stale.

Right-thinking Bahamians deserve better than a government that pats itself on the back while families are struggling to find meaningful employment. Unemployment isn’t a punchline, and it certainly isn’t a confidence metric.

At the end of the day, the Progressive Liberal Party fails for one simple reason: it is in their nature.

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