There is an old saying that “success has many fathers, but failure is an orphan.” Judging by the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP’s) latest political messaging, that saying has never been more appropriate.

PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell recently painted an optimistic picture of Grand Bahama, citing rising property values, positive comments from Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce President Ralph Hepburn, Carnival Corporation’s economic impact, and reports that Norwegian Cruise Line has completed the purchase of the former Xanadu Beach Resort with plans for redevelopment.

No Bahamian should object to good news for Grand Bahama. Every investment is welcome. Every job created is needed. Every redevelopment is a step in the right direction.

The question is not whether these developments are positive.

The question is: who deserves the credit?

The proposed redevelopment of the former Xanadu property did not suddenly materialize because the PLP discovered it in 2026. Public reports and individuals familiar with the transaction have long indicated that discussions surrounding the Donato family’s property had been underway for years, with negotiations predating the current administration. While the reported purchaser may ultimately complete the transaction during the PLP’s term, that does not mean the government originated or negotiated the private commercial sale.

Yet once again, the PLP appears eager to wrap itself in the ribbon of achievements that were already moving before it arrived.

Ironically, whenever the government is challenged over problems that originated under previous administrations, we are reminded that “governments are continuous.”

Apparently that principle only applies when it is politically convenient.

If governments are indeed continuous—and they are—then continuity works both ways.

It means a government may inherit projects already underway.

It also means a government inherits unresolved problems and is ultimately accountable for addressing them while it is in office.

By that same standard, Bahamians are entitled to ask:

What is the status of the long-promised redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Resort?

Where does the replacement of the Grand Bahama International Airport now stand?

What measurable progress has been made beyond repeated announcements and photo opportunities?

These are projects the current administration has repeatedly highlighted as priorities. After nearly five years in office, the public is justified in asking for timelines, milestones, and results—not simply promises of what is still to come.

The selective application of “government continuity” raises another interesting question.

Jamahl Strachan, now Chairman of the Beaches and Parks Authority, has publicly defended his predecessor, McKell Bonaby, amid continuing public criticism regarding the Authority’s financial management.

But if governments—and by extension, public institutions—are continuous, then leadership carries more than the privilege of inheriting the office. It also inherits the responsibility to answer legitimate questions from the public.

Defending previous management is one thing.

Providing transparency and accountability is another.

The Bahamian people deserve explanations—not simply political solidarity.

Perhaps that is the lesson Mr. Mitchell unintentionally taught us.

If the PLP wishes to celebrate investments that began before it took office because “governments are continuous,” then it cannot suddenly abandon that philosophy whenever difficult questions arise about projects that have stalled, public agencies under its control, or controversies inherited—or continued—under its own watch.

Continuity is not a political buffet where governments select only the accomplishments they like and leave the responsibility behind.

It is an obligation.

And that obligation belongs to whoever occupies the office today.

The Commonwealth of The Bahamas deserves better.

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