Z Live: Off The Record with Zhivargo Laing - October 15 2026

[00:00:01] Speaker A: The views and opinions of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the management and staff of Guardian Radio. [00:00:12] Speaker B: I'm not afraid I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody come take my Come take my we'll walk this road together through the storm Whatever weather, cold, the warm Just let me know that you're not alone if you feel like you. [00:00:51] Speaker C: Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome ladies and gentlemen to Z Live. I'm Chifago Lang, your host. So glad you could join us here today on Guardian Radio 96.9 FM on this beautiful Wednesday, Thursday, Thursday afternoon. I trust and hope that you are doing well. Forgive me, today is one of them days when the day is escaping me. I am actually in Toronto, Canada today on my way to Asia. And so the next time after Friday you hear us, you'll be hearing us from Asia which means that I'm going to be doing some of these shows. What would be Asia's time? 12 midnight to 2am your time, 12 noon to 2pm and that's a task but we get through it and how that works out. If you want to give us a call today, the numbers are 323-6232 or 325-4316 or 325-4259. You can call us if you are in the Family islands toll free on 242-300-5720. That's 2423-00-5720. You can text us on 422-4796. That's 422-44-22-4796, or you can WhatsApp me on 439-3043. That's 439-3043. Just making sure that you all are hearing me okay. We don't have any issues. We're good. You can catch us live on Cable Bahamas channel 969 or you can catch us on BTC Flow channel 612. Of course we also streaming live on guardian radio.com I have a number of things to talk about today, most of which emanate out of the House of Assembly. Yesterday I watched the House of Assembly as the government as there were exchanges going on with respect to an amendment to the Terrorism act as the government seeks through that amendment to bridge a gap, as the Prime Minister says, between the extent of coverage of that law to newly evolved obligations of the United Nations. And so they were discussing the amendment to that bill which was supported by both the opposition and the government of course and Then there were discussions around the resolution that the government tabled to borrow. I get confused sometimes about the amount. I know it's $280 million to cover the previous borrowings by the special purpose vehicle used to acquire the shares of the Grand Bahama Power Company. The outstanding shares of that company and [00:04:59] Speaker D: then [00:05:02] Speaker C: that was guaranteed by the government. The special purpose vehicle owned exclusively by the government guaranteed was took out. That loan was a short term loan just weeks before the general election, maybe even days to acquire and then government is now subsequent to that, no longer guaranteeing that loan but taking that loan on. And in addition to that taking on some $131 million of loan loans that the Grand Bama Power Company was carrying before the purchase which the prime ministers indicated they knew about. So it didn't take them by surprise. They knew about it, but the Prime Minister didn't mention anything about that loan when they were doing the guarantee for the acquisition and the borrowing of $80 million. It was $200 million to buy the outstanding shares of the power company and there was $80 million which would be used to fund some capital expenditure and the working capital of the power company. But Prime Minister didn't mention that at the time, but he says they knew of it. So now. So to my calculation 280 +131 right is 412 or so million dollars. I hear them saying 330 something, maybe I missed something. But to my knowledge that's what my calculation says. And so the opposition opposed this resolution saying that they need more information. Where is the business case? Where are the financial statements of the power company? How do we know there are not other outstanding debts, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera. So there were exchanges in relation to those two items on the House Assembly. Now before I get to those particular pieces of documents, the resolution in particular, I listened to the dialogue taking place in the House of Assembly. And let me tell you something. It was very strange. In some ways it was. It was dirty, right? It was very strange and in some ways, ways it was dirty. So let me tell you what I observed. The first observation I made was of responses coming from the Minister of national security, the Honorable Miles LaRoda. And let me tell you all something I happen to believe and Miles Laroda is one of the most. This is my experience. Now don't get me caught up in your experience. My experience, one of the most decent individuals that I have connected with in politics and public life even from the time he was chairman of the Public Disclosure Commission. He was chairman of the Public Disclosure Commission under Christie and under Ingram. Ingram kept him even when Christie had appointed him because he's always been a level headed, fair minded, judicious person and nothing has changed about that. To me, I mean, I think he is a less vocal national security minister than the previous one, but that might be a good thing. But he is to my mind a decent. [00:08:55] Speaker D: Of course. [00:09:02] Speaker C: And so I heard him. So firstly, the Member of Parliament FOR Long Island, Ms. Dr. Andre Rollins, in the course of his discussions on the Terrorist Terrorism Act Bill, Amendment Bill was really. [00:09:27] Speaker D: Was. [00:09:28] Speaker C: He was insinuating. Okay, he was insinuating. Well, let me back up. He was connecting terrorism, drug trafficking and money laundering, which is not a far stretch. Okay. It's not a fast stretch to do that because there can be connections that we got. But then of course, you know, he was, he was alluding to Eric Gardner's situation, the politician one situation. And, and he in some ways was, you know, alluding. It was in some ways kind of making some kind of innuendos about, you know, the PLP and these things. And Miles Laroda, the honorable Minister of National Security and responding to him said these things to this effect. To this effect. Listen, you all needs. I have information. You have information. But we don't want to go there because people have families. People have families. He even said a. I know of a former Prime Minister who used to associate himself with a former drug dealer who he said was a reformed drug dealer and that that person, great drug dealer, used to campaign with the FM and so forth and so forth. So, so we don't want to go there when it comes to matters related to the beaches and parks. You know, we know and you know, there's patronage that go on. I mean I think that was a moment of great honesty and it's a true in both administration. But then he said, he said, he said so we what we do what? The what the FM and PLP do the same thing. And so I'm listening to this and the truth of the matter is this is what many people in the public do. Many people do. The public say all the end are the same, FM and BLP the same. All you all do the same things. And therefore we shouldn't call no names and we should just don't. We should stay out of that and so forth. Lots of people stay say that. So I want to say a couple of things in relation to that. First of all, the FNM and the PLP may both in terms of governing administrations have had accusations of corruption may have even had. May have, maybe. May have even had instances of corruption not proven or prosecuted or otherwise not even even discovered. It's all possible have had instances of corruption discovered where people have actually been sentenced in plp, FNM and plp. Not at the political level, but you know, in the, in their administration to the same degrees. Ain't none. Look, none of us can try to equivocate that. None of us can try to equivocate that and say, oh, it's the same amount. It's the same. I can only tell you this much me, Chicago Sean Langer tell you this morning the Hubert Ingram administrations. No wasn't prevalent, wasn't tolerated, wasn't promoted, facilitated and no way the things, maybe things happen around behind the scene was back maybe, probably. But he ain't cushioning, he wasn't cuddling, he wasn't trying to make any excuses for or give any opinion that he was defending no corruption, no cerebral. I could say that for the administration in which I served, the administrations in which I served unobserved, okay, the best of my knowledge, Christie's administrations and accusations, innuendos and these kinds of things. But to say that I was aware of or even heard any preponderance of corruption in respect of his administrations, I, I can't say that. I can't say that. Listen, talk for yourself. I telling you what you like knows and believes and observed. That's all I'm telling you. So this, this, this equivocation bull crap, I don't care who it comes from. Absolute bull, absolute bull. You're not gonna make, you're not. I am not gonna let you comfort yourself by suggesting that that is so. Okay? Now, do I know of any corruption proven demonstrated in the Davis administration? I do not. So I will not come on radio and say the Davis administration is a corrupt administration. I will not say that. I would not. But I can't say. I can say that there is a degree of. Failed transparency and accountability in this administration that I have not yet seen ever. Except maybe in the first PRP administration because that was one of the things Ingram was wont to who campaign against was the fact that deals were being made, not being tabled or published agreements and that kind of stuff. And that is true of the Davis administration for sure. I do know that there is substantial challenges confronting the Davis administration insofar as the arrest indictment of. Law enforcement officers, questions about government's dealings with individuals whose past and maybe even perhaps present was called into great question. Now Some of that in one instance that relationship began under Christie. Okay. In the last day is rebounding Christie. I do know that there are affiliations that are known, you know. Yes. Between some characters whose histories are questionable and whose present questionable associated with the prp. That is true. That does that mean. Because you could support who you want if you could be a drug dealing supporter F and M plpa whoever you want, nobody could stop you from doing that. But now whether the relationship amounts to more than simply support and cozying then that's a different story. Okay. And let me say, say say this too because when asked about a former police officer who admitted to taking money out of the monies that were stolen from Commonwealth Bank $1.7 million but who was subsequently. You know, I don't know what to call it. Nothing happened. He wasn't prosecuted because I think he turned crown witness or something who. It was brought to the attention of the public by the opposition that this gentleman served on the promotions board of the police recent promotions to that the Hon. Minister of National Security said he wasn't convicted or charged and that kind of stuff and matters ongoing. And I just want to say to the public one thing, right? If that's the standard by which people are able to get away scot free, we are one hypocritical society. We are. If I used to cuss, I would use a cuss word just now. If the standard of clearance and okayness is you haven't been convicted or charged, [00:19:04] Speaker D: we have a problem. [00:19:05] Speaker C: Let me tell you why we have a problem. If you applied for a license today, a bank license in the Bahamas never having been convicted or charged with anything. If the Central bank of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas does their search on you and finds that you are not a fit and proper person without any conviction, you will not get that bank license and you don't have to have one conviction or job. But if they come in the course of their search find things to tell them you are not a fit in public racist, you'll not get that license. The words fit and proper doesn't mean that you are cleared of any legal convictions. So don't let's start that bullcrap. Because why? Why do politicians go around sullying people's names who have not been convicted, who have not been charged. Why do they go around asking for people to resign who have not been convicted or charged of anything? Because they are suggesting that your your behavior and your conduct known to themselves make you unfit for office. So don't let's do that don't let's do that because we got far too many young people whose behavior, maybe in school or otherwise have not been convicted or charged, could not get a government job, a permanent pensionable job because when SIB does a search on them, they might conclude they are not a fit and proper person. So don't let's do that in the Bahamas. Otherwise let's change our politics and stop doing the crap we doing when we keep sullying people's names. And then, and then secondly, secondly. First, secondly, bro, if you have knowledge of something illegal somebody has done who is in office, you should not be negotiating. Well, I wouldn't say what I know if you don't say what you know. Because all we just did was said we are one muddy stinking country and let's stay in the mud. And as long as we don't say nothing, everybody appears to be clean. Really. If it was me and, and, and, and the minister say that to me, I didn't listen. Call your names. Call your name. Say what you say. It ain't my job to, to, to pursue the law and enforce the law. It's your job. I'm playing cute with you, but that's tough. That doesn't help or advance the Bahamas. We stay quiet and oh. So our families. Listen to me, man. My brother Stephen Seymour, now deceased was witness on the commission of inquiry because his history in drug trafficking was a known quantity and his knowledge was something with the. The commission of my inquiry sought to get information from him for Hubert Alexander Ingram in the House of Assembly. Used to allude to the fact that my mother had me and she had him. You think I'm stupid enough? I believe that because your daddy, your mommy, your uncle, your auntie, your brother, your sister was dealing something that. I'm going to put that on you. I'd be a jack leg. I'd be stupid and wicked to do any such thing. So don't tell me nothing but oh, you don't want to do nobody harm people. Family members know that if their people get convicted, prosecuted or been doing certain stuff, they all know people can sell you with it anyways, right? They don't feel sullied when you're making all that money or made all that money and parading around the world with like a, like a crown prince. Ain't no problem then. No, man, no. We should, we, we gotta be, we gotta, we got. Let's be serious, man. You're listening to Z Live. I'm Chicago Line, your host. We'll be back after this break, I'm not afraid. [00:23:15] Speaker B: I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody Come take my Come take my. [00:23:25] Speaker A: Did you know that world class medicine is just a quick flight away in Tampa? Tampa General is Florida's premier academic health system and one of America's top hospitals. Our Global Medicine program delivers advanced treatment options, assists with coordinating travel and provides cultural support from a multilingual team. Discover the power of academic medicine at Tampa General's Global Medicine program. For more, visit tgh.org Southwest Plaza has [00:23:55] Speaker E: so many stores, I've been trying to find a sensible way to list them all. There's cbs, Bahamas, the Ashey Institute, B E MC Snack World, Bamboo Shack, Bahamas. 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Fidelity [00:25:14] Speaker B: we're good for you [00:25:19] Speaker C: you try to rest roll with the best for all your printing these there ain't no one better know for posters and banners magazines and flyers for window decals reading cards and newsletters no job to too big and there's no job too small to name it we can print it [00:25:39] Speaker B: just give us a call Let print [00:25:43] Speaker C: masters bring your masterpiece to Located the Nassau Guardian Building. Telephone 302-2361. [00:25:51] Speaker B: I'm not afraid I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody come take my hand Come take my we'll walk this road together through the storm Whatever weather cover the war Let me know that you're not alone. [00:26:17] Speaker C: Welcome back. Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen, to Z Live. I'm Chivago Lang, your host. So glad you could join us here today on Guardian Radio, 96.9 FM on this beautiful Thursday afternoon. If you want to call, the numbers are 323-6232 or 325-4316 or 325-434259. You can call us from the Family Islands on 242-300-5720. You can text us on 422-4796 or you can WhatsApp me on 439-3043. So I was talking about things I observed in the House of Assembly last night. Let me, let me, let me, let me, let me say this. I don't care if you FM or your plp. You should not go in the House of Assembly casting aspersions, innuendos on any particular person if you don't have evidence of their wrongdoing. And I'm not talking about what. No, no, nobody tell you on the street or on the corner. You shouldn't do that. That's like, this is nonsense. If we want to elevate the psyche and the posture and behavior of our society, we have to begin with our leaders. Don't go in the House. And if you don't, if you, if you have evidence of wrongdoing by a cabinet minister, by a member parliament, and this goes both ways, the government and the opposition, and if it's of a criminal nature, carry it to the. Carry it to the police. If it's of an ethical nature, presented to the House of Assembly for review by the Ethics Committee. But don't, don't be running around trying to pass aspersions on people, man. That's nonsense. Because I. Trust me when I tell you, and the prime minister was right when he made mention of this. You hear all kind of things in the Bahamas. And I hear prime minister say all kind of people. We all hear things. All hear things, right? I'm not nearly foolish enough to simply believe that that is substantial enough for me. It might well be true. It might even be, well, coming from a credible source, to go in the House of Assembly under the coverage of immunity from prose, from libel, and what have you to do that. That's not right. [00:28:39] Speaker E: That's right. [00:28:40] Speaker C: Not right. Okay. I've heard many things about many members in the House of Assembly. Many things. And I've heard things on both sides of the political divide. Good things, bad things, ugly things. But that's what I heard. [00:28:56] Speaker A: This. [00:28:56] Speaker C: I live in the Bahamas, man. My mother, God bless her soul, used to say things to me. And I said, molina, you read that right in the punch. And, you know, she used to say to me, she said, yeah, but, you know, it can't be far from the truth. I said, well, when your son end up in the punch, you remember that too. You remember that. And I meant that. But I meant that. I meant to tell her. To tell her, to tell her, you know. No, man, we can't. You could listen to it, read it, but you don't know. And so we should not be casting aspersions on anybody. Not because of that, not because you don't want to hurt their family, because it ain't. Because it's not the way that we conduct and should conduct ourselves. [00:29:39] Speaker D: Period. [00:29:40] Speaker C: Period. You could. What we need to be focused on are the policies, man. With the greatest respect to you and all. I don't care. Listen, who you sleeping with is between you and God. What you sleeping with is between you and God. Right? Them private things in your life, if they are not bleeding into your public conduct. That's not my business. My business is what you've done in the name of the people of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. That's. That's my business. And there are enough things to comment upon in respect of the public policies of the Bahamas to give the Bahamian people an awareness, to make the choices about what they think, about anything. So the government has enough information about its own policies that it can be fulsome and the opposition has enough that it can comment on those same policies. You now suddenly commenting on each other, that might be salacious and it might even be sexy and it might even be entertaining, but that is not our business and you are not doing us any favor. So you all need to stop that nonsense. All right. I heard the Prime Minister say of Michael Pintard, who questioned the surplus, [00:31:18] Speaker D: that [00:31:18] Speaker C: the government just now, this is policy. Michael Pentad, the opposition leader, questioning the surplus. Why can't he? Why can't he? The Prime Minister didn't like that. Not a problem. He shouldn't like it. But the Prime Minister then stands up in House of Assembly and starts talking about something loose in Michael Pintard's head. What the hell is that? That's nonsense talk. Nonsense. Nonsense. And if Michael Pentad had done it to the Prime Minister, I tell him it's nonsense talk. I hear all this little foolish rumor, oh, he's take pills for this and oh, he every is one of the most intelligent men in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Gets and does his work, does what he has to do and does it with sanity and does it with great professionalism. What the hell does it make difference? Does it make if something loose in his head. What do you mean something loose in his head? You standing up in the House of Assembly talking with a leader of the opposition who you have a constitutional responsibility to consult with. And you think some loosen his head. Why? Because he questioned that surplus? Well, some loosen my hair too and something is loose in a lot of other people's heads. So we got a lot of loose people, loose haired people running around the Bahamas. I'm an, I'm a trained economist. I have a master's degree in business administration and finance and investment. I have been a minister responsible for finance in the Bahamas. I've been a minister of economic affairs in the Bahamas. I've been a student of Bahamian economic for a long time and I have questions about the surplus. Is some loose in my head too? He says the reason why some loose in Michael's head is because Michael said he doesn't want to. He would stand up with the government if the government gave them information to tell them why they felt that the US was trying to destabilized the Bahamas. He said and if he gets that information they would stand with the government and defend the reputation of the Bahamas. Makes good sense. I mean absolutely good sense. Prime Minister says. But Michael would say they don't want to damage the reputation of Obamas but then turn around and question the surplus to us to suggest that he is a liar. Let me tell you what the statement as to suggest that he is lying is. It's called a straw man. That's what we call a straw man. In argumentation you set up something that seems so vile and unbelievable that people will say yeah, they must be crazy for saying that. That's a straw man. You don't, you could have a surplus. That ain't a lie that you didn't lie about. You could be inaccurate. You could be inaccurate, period. You could have made a mistake. You could also have manipulated the numbers in such a way that isn't illegal. It may be questionable but not illegal. You could have done things outside the parameters of the normal fiscal operations that other people can't question. But people who know better might question and therefore question your surplus. And I am telling you today that is where I stand. I do not, I do not do at this point in time believe that the Bahamas has achieved a surplus other than as written on the books of the government. I do not believe it yet [00:35:16] Speaker D: and [00:35:16] Speaker C: I have many reasons to tell you why. I believe that. We can talk about it on the other side of the break. But to suggest that a man is trying to damage the reputation of the Bahamas because he points that out. Michael Pinta from his seat, said to the prime Minister, were you not the one who put up billboards of murders in the Bahamas? And that don't damage the reputation of the Bahamas? And you know what the prime minister said to that? I am here talking about surplus. And he's talking about something else. [00:35:46] Speaker D: What? [00:35:47] Speaker C: Now that's what you call a dis. Intellectual disconnection. Because Michael Pindad was absolutely right to point that out. Absolutely right. Those billboards could have been extremely damaging. And the prime minister said. And the prime minister, when he was leader of the opposition or deputy prime minister, he said, are we not about the truth? Well, if Michael Pintad wants to question the surplus, all you could do is give him some assurances about the surplus. And then he could answer it. And then you then. Because he could say, are we not about the truth? What I heard, and I was obsemetting yesterday was just absolute crap. And you know what? What bothers me about it, People are. People are there protect. You know, people are there talking about this stuff with this level of ethical etherealism when they know what they're doing, they know the nonsense that they are doing. They are not, some of them being authentic in their efforts, but merely trying to cast aspersions on people. And I could tell you, one person I don't believe was doing that was Myers Lorda. I don't believe his approach to the matter, talking about. We all know, I don't believe that approach was right, but I don't believe that he was trying to be cute, trying to cast aspersion on anybody. I think any effort to suggest that any member of parliament is insane should be rebuked. Any effort to question even a person's health status, whether it is mental or physical, I think should be rebuked. It is unprofessional. It is immature and is stupid. And we should. We should know better. It is absolute nonsense. Because all we do is take the same nastiness and we mirror. We model it before the population. And then we wonder why our children, when they get upset and angry with each other, treat each. Treat people like they are not human. Where do you think this starts? No child starts out stabbing nobody or shooting nobody. They start telling you, you ain't nobody. Use a Haitian, you so stupid, use a dog, that kind of nonsense. And then when you get a little bit more sophisticated, you don't count people, actual names. You say, you don't say you're crazy, you say, but some must be loose in your head. Where do you think it starts? And it escalates for people who don't. Don't know how to contain themselves. Do what you want to me. I'm not gonna. I'm not gonna support that nonsense in the Bahamas. I don't care who you are. If Mr. Pinta do it, I will call him out. And I've. And I've seen occasions where in reacting to people he's done it too. Not that particular. But you know where they went in reaction. It ain't make no sense. We don't need to go there. But let me say this before I take a break. It was my observation that Pintard and Mr. Davis have been two of the more cordial and professional and teamed combatants in the political arena. I heard them say how Michael sounds angry and all the time and all the kind of stuff. Well, you. There's plenty of things to be angry about in the Bahamas today though. What's wrong with anger? God is getting angry. What's wrong with that? You nobody who knows him and sees him all the time to say he's always angry. That's nonsense talk. Yeah. You get angry when you see stupidness. Me too. Just because you. Just because you ain't one of them persons who, who. Who could show the kind of passion other people show because you think that's part of your Persona and that's yourself doesn't mean you know better than anybody else who. Whose passion calls them into be caused them to be angry about nonsense. What's wrong with that? And they blame. With their children, they angry and they put. When they're with their wife, they're angry. When they talking to the public and dealing with the public and having the bump, they're angry. They're angry with you because of the behavior and the conduct and things they see. And frankly, maybe some people need to get more angry in the Bahamas about some of this stuff. Just maybe. You're listening to Z Live. I'm Chaga Lang, your host. We're gonna take a quick break. Be right back. [00:40:37] Speaker B: Walk this road together through the storm. Whatever weather, cold, the warm. Let me know that you're not alone. [00:40:51] Speaker C: It's feast season. [00:40:53] Speaker A: Marco's October feast. [00:40:56] Speaker C: Get two medium one topping pizzas, one [00:40:58] Speaker A: liter soda and your choice of cheesy bread set. A square for apple cell bites, all for just $31. Two pizzas, a drink and a sweet savory side. [00:41:07] Speaker C: The October feast awaits at Marco's Pizza. Prepare your appetite. 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Our Star General Gold package also gives you up to $2,500 for accidental damage to a rental car anywhere in the Bahamas. Go Gold with Star General Insurance Made simple. [00:42:26] Speaker A: This is Guardian Radio 96.9 FM. Fresh news Smart talk all day. [00:42:36] Speaker B: I'm not afraid I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody come take my hand come take my this road together through the storm, whatever weather, cold the warm Let me know that you're not alone. [00:43:08] Speaker C: Welcome back. Welcome back ladies and gentlemen to Z Live. I'm Chevalgo Lang, your host. So glad you could join us here today on Guardian Radio 96.9 FM. If, if we want to make government about the personal lives of people and so forth, I could assure you I don't have nothing to do with government. I don't want to have to be in this country doing it because that is nothing but bull crap bull crap. Because I assure you God can have enough textbooks to write on all us, all of us. And if you want to sit up there and play like you you are some pretty prom perfect a holier now righteous moral ethical person and so forth and so forth. The textbooks can be written but that, but, but but your your decisions and choices in public life is the public is the concern of the public and should be questioned at every turn. Even if you do a good thing in public life, if you make a policy and the policy is great, it should be questioned, it should be critiqued, it should be analyzed and where they could be better you should say so. And if you take that personally something wrong with you and you need to get out of government, get out of politics and get out of public life. [00:44:33] Speaker A: Man [00:44:35] Speaker C: sitting around who are you? Who are me? Who's me? It's our decisions in public life that matters. That's what we should be commenting on. That's all. That's it. This text says, doesn't the PM take medication? And hasn't he fallen out and been late to events because of his illness? I don't know. I know he had Covid. I don't know if there's something else. This text says the moment PM Davis became so personal and tried to attack the competence of the opposition leader, now for sure I knew that the public must scrutinize the numbers and the $700 million that are not accounted for. The public should scrutinize it anyhow and will scrutinize it and then stop scrutinizing it and will scrutinize the so the Chamber of Commerce, Obama's Chamber of Commerce has just finished saying that they're going to look at the numbers and review the numbers and and just to make sure and see if the numbers are authentic. Some loosen their head too, [00:45:35] Speaker D: huh? [00:45:36] Speaker C: Some loosen their head too. This Texas laroda, he has a very similar approach to attack politics as Desmond Ban was a very subtle could be, could be, could be. You know, I think a shame on anybody who takes that approach. Absolute nonsense. This says the PRB government has taken politics in the House of Assembly to a new low. So sad. Everyone is crazy or stupid except the actual ones. Questions must always be asked when there is no good information given or transparency. In my opinion, there's nothing good about this pm. He's acting and doing exactly what he wants to. Still can't see why people think there's something good in him as it applies to good governance. You're listening to Z Live. I'm Chevalang, your host. We're going to take our break for news. We'll be back after the news break. [00:46:27] Speaker B: Everybody, everybody come take my. Come take my storm. Whatever weather. [00:46:49] Speaker A: Great news. Ron's Electric Motors new location on Cowpen Road right next to Island Lock is open Saturdays and Sundays. So for those needing repairs on electric motors, generators, welding machines, water pumps, battery charges, electric lifts, transformers and power tools, Ron's Cowpen Road location can have you up and running on weekends. Don't forget you can still visit Ron's Electric Motors on Wolf Road and Claridge Road. And now Ron's new location on Cowpen Road. Dial 356-0249 or 323-5267. [00:47:21] Speaker C: Calling all merchants and business owners, join us for the second annual Tee Offer Tiny Hearts Merchant Invitational presented by V's Infidelity bank on November 1st at the Royal Blue Golf Club. Enjoy a great Day of Golf Network with the corporate community and help provide life saving heart procedures for children in the Bahamas. Bring your team, make valuable connections and support a great cause. Register today with the Bahamas Heart Association. Tee off the tiny hearts and help save a life. [00:47:50] Speaker A: This is Guardian Radio, your station for up to the minute news and intelligent, interactive and engaging conversations. 96.9 FM. [00:48:04] Speaker B: Not afraid I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody come take my Come take my we'll walk this road together through the storm Whatever weather Cover the wall Let me know that you're not alone I love if you feel like you make. [00:48:30] Speaker C: Welcome back. Welcome back ladies and gentlemen to Z Live. I'm Chevalang, your host. So glad that you could join us here today on Guardian Radio 96.9 FM on this beautiful Thursday afternoon. If you want to give us a call, you can call us on 323-6232 or 325-4316 or 325-4259. You can call us from the Family Islands on 2423-00-5720. You can text us on 422-4796. His text says Good day. That is now the depth we have sung to and accepted says that text. This text says hi Mr. Lang, I watched the House proceedings yesterday and the Prime Minister deflected at every opportunity he had when given the opportunity to speak clearly and honestly and precisely to the supposedly suppose a surplus under $700 million. Also Mr. Lang, more than half of the MPS wasn't in the House of Parliament yesterday. I don't think they are taking the people's business seriously. Well, people know what to do about that when they get a chance. That's all I can tell you if it's a problem. So let's talk about the surplus. The government says that it realized for the 2025, 2026 year a surplus of 40 of $39 million about now mind you, it said it would have a surplus of $75.5 million, but it came in lower than that. The rich said the government would have a deficit of some $45 million. I guess Fitch also has something loose in its head. So let me. Let me be clear on a couple of points. First, if the government puts it has a surplus of $39 million, I am not going to say the government lied. I'm not going to say it's untrue. I can't say that that's the government's books. The government writing what's on its books. I Didn't audit the government's books. So I can't say the government lied. And I'm not going to tell you the government is not telling the truth. I can't say that the government is able to declare whatever it wishes to declare. Okay? Able to. I want to remind the Prime Minister and others that there was a time when, when the Free National Movement produce numbers, they question the numbers. Okay? So I guess what's good for the goose is good for the gander. So. So you can declare a surplus. Anything you want to declare. It's your books. It's your numbers. You're the one putting them out. Here is what is not true. You cannot make an analyst accept your numbers because you put them out. And just because you get emotional about the fact that you think someone is saying you're lying, that doesn't change the fact that an analyst could look at your numbers and say I am suspect of these numbers. Let me tell you why. First thing, the government of the Bahamas has ran more than $700 million through an account it is holding or accounts holding at the Central bank of the Bahamas. An account held at the Central bank of the Bahamas. It's not a special fund approved by Parliament. It's not a national investment fund under the National Investment Funds Act. So it is a government account. And the government has used that money, at least part of it by its own admission, for ordinary capital expenditure that we are accustomed to. Airports, roads, acquiring assets, etc. Under any circumstance of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas that I live in and anybody with knowledge of public finance knows that is ordinary capital expenditure and it should hit the books of the government of the Bahamas. And if that is so, I am telling you the surplus would not be $39 million. It wouldn't be a dollar. There would be a deficit perhaps in the hundreds of millions of dollars period. Now, if the government wants to come and bring me an explanation to tell me why I shouldn't see its capital expenditures on the things it admitted it used the account at the central bank for, then I could listen to that. But until then, to my mind, there is a question mark over that surplus number. That's the first thing. Question mark over that surplus number. Secondly, why in a surplus yield does the government of the Bahamas borrow an excess of $700 million? Why? How would I explain that? There is no year in which you will see the government of the Bahamas having a deficit and having a under amount of borrowing. Let me say it again. In every year we've had a deficit, the government has borrowed enough money to cover the deficit and whatever refinancing of debt it needed to do. Why then, in a surplus year of $39 million forecasted at 75, does the government borrow in excess excess now $700 million? That puts a question mark over the. The government of the Bahamas declared. I want you to look at the fiscal, the fiscal numbers month by month for the 2025, 2026 period. Look at the revenue numbers and in case you haven't seen them, I'll give them to you. These are the revenue numbers of the government of the Bahamas for the fiscal year 2025, 2026. At the beginning of that year, the government collected $327.2 million. This is a summer month. In August of that year it collected $204.4 million. It's a summer month. In September it collected 218.5 million. That's a fall month. In 299.3. In October it collected 299.3 million. That's a fall month. In November it collected 189.3 million. That's a fall month. We are now entering the winter months when the, when the government, when the Bahamas receives most of its tourists in that month. Revenue in December was $233.8 million. In January. I want you to listen to these numbers carefully. In January 2026 the number was $320.9 million. In February, it was $281.1 million. In March, this is the height of the, the height of our winter tourist period. The number was $437.4 million. In April it was $363.3 million. Now listen, we are now tapering off. Now out of that height of the tourist period in May, the government collected $271.7 million, the highest amount of money in any year, peak tourism or not. The government collected and revenue was $437.4 million. Do you know what the government collected in June, the last month in the fiscal year? At the beginning, the beginning of summer month, the government says they collected $771.1 million. Do you hear me? The government said I couldn't collect $600 million in the height of winter, but in June I collected $777.1 million. I find that incredulous. So I put an asterisk over the surplus number because until somebody tell me what extraordinary receipt you get to collect $777.1 million in June. Mind you I ain't saying it is so, but I can see why the chamber say we want to look at the numbers because I'd like to know. I'd like to know that 777 number represents. That 777 number represents almost 20% of revenue for the whole year. 20% of one month and not even a tourism month. Okay, so forgive me man. I do have questions. That's also the month, that's also the month after the general election. General election. Month after general election. In that same month the government of The Miami spent $570.5 million in the whole year. The most the government spent in any month. The whole year. The most the government spent in any one month was $394.7 million. They spent in June 570 and raise in revenue. It says $777.1 million. You know what I'm curious to see? I'm very curious to see what July's revenue was. 2026, August and so forth. And see how much of an anomaly this June revenue is. So forgive me as an analyst. Forgive me. No, don't forgive me because I ain't done nothing wrong. I will question the numbers. I will. I do. I have questions. Anybody should. Anybody should. His text says Chicago. On a serious note, do you think members of the government who bank on desk, buying on desk understand numbers, finance and accounting? I don't know. But I know what, I know what that's like you and gov, you, that's your government. You say something you can bang on the desk, That's what you can do. And you know if you see a positive in your administration, you should bang on the desk. There are nothing wrong with that. But I'm just saying when you present something, your members could support it and love it. But there are analysts out there who will have questions and rightly so. And we're not the only ones we like to point to. Oh, look at the international community said Fitch has been saying for the longest time the government of Bahamas wasn't going to have any surplus. And you all will recall that I told you guys, I said this if y' all I could, if I could find. I'll. I'll find the, the recording if I could. I said there is no question the government is not going to record a surplus this year. I said that. I said not a possible chance. It wouldn't if only the proof it's wrong. I said it will do so. So said so done. We have a call on the lango air caller listening to you. [01:01:13] Speaker D: Hey, Survival. Hello. [01:01:16] Speaker C: How you doing, brother? Hey, how you doing? [01:01:18] Speaker D: I'm well. And, sir. [01:01:20] Speaker C: Good, man. I'm good, thank you. [01:01:22] Speaker D: Yeah. You know, we've been listening to stuff for years, and there is a. I will call it a theory. There's a quoted phrase called a perfect storm. When you look at governance in the Bahamas. We have governance in the Bahamas. That's. That is a perfect environment for lawyers to govern the way they wish to govern. There is no real measurement of accountability, so they are left to tell the citizen whatever they deem is necessary. [01:02:07] Speaker C: No, there are some. There's accountability. That's what we do on these shows. That was. That's what they do in the press. That's what the Public Accounts Committee does. That's what the opposition does. No, there's a. [01:02:17] Speaker D: Yes. [01:02:17] Speaker C: No, that's. They're looking at it every day. [01:02:20] Speaker D: You see, the Public Accounts Committee have problems getting information from the Ministry of Finance and from the. Is that the treasury or. The Treasury. [01:02:31] Speaker C: Yeah, yeah, yeah, but that's, but that's. So they may be acting up if they. That's what is happening. But there are others who are Providing Information Act. [01:02:39] Speaker D: Yeah, but see, but you see, but you see, the, the, the, the information should be coming from the Ministry of Finance. Yeah, it should not be any guesswork. [01:02:51] Speaker C: Yeah, but it, but it, but, but I, but, but again, you're right. It should be coming from them. But, brother, but, brother, let me tell you something. And, and take my word for this. If I ask you a question and you don't answer me, I. [01:03:05] Speaker D: Well, if you're the opposition and you have an answer just like how the Prime Minister said, and I think the chairman said, the opposition is looking for relevance and whatever else they said. You see, this is the play of this kind of environment where, you know, people are saying what they want to say because they have that leeway to say these things. [01:03:35] Speaker C: Let me, but let me ask you a question. Let me ask you a question. If the, if the opposition is irrelevant, why was the Prime Minister standing up in the House of Assembly responding to an irrelevant opposition leader? [01:03:46] Speaker D: Well, you know. [01:03:48] Speaker C: No, no, no, no, no, no. I want you to answer my question. If, If I'm irrelevant and you are standing up, giving a talk about me to me, then what does that make you? [01:03:58] Speaker D: Well, it makes me relevant. Yes, I agree. But, but to the, but to the average bohemian. [01:04:04] Speaker C: And I don't agree. I don't, I don't agree with you. No, I don't agree with you. Average behemoths are Picking up. I don't agree with you. Average Bayments are picking up. [01:04:11] Speaker B: Stop speaking. [01:04:13] Speaker C: I just meet them every day. I just meet average Baymans every day. They are picking up. [01:04:17] Speaker D: Okay, let me. Let me change that. Let me change that to a good percentage of people in this country who, who are programmed to be blind to this side or that side and don't have the sense of objective. Objectiveness. [01:04:36] Speaker C: But that doesn't matter. But that doesn't. That doesn't matter. You could be F M&PLP and be blind FM&PLP. That's irrelevant. There are lots of people who are not who will listen to good sense, and there are lots of PLP and F M's who will listen to good sense. So we don't need to go there, man. That's not. So that you. Speak for yourself. Speak for yourself. [01:04:54] Speaker D: We need a system that, that forces people who are. [01:04:58] Speaker C: There's no such. There's no such thing in the democracy. There's no such thing in the democracy. [01:05:04] Speaker D: That's why I always tell people democracy is a deception. [01:05:07] Speaker C: No, democracy ain't no deception. Democracy is not perfect. But I can tell you one thing. We haven't found a system better than it. And so when you find one, you call me and let's try and see if we can advocate for that one. Thanks a lot. Next caller, please. Go ahead, caller, please. Hi, go ahead, caller, we're listening to you. Hi, caller with this. Okay, we have a text here says, tell Dr. Surplus stop playing with baming Intelligence. This text says, good afternoon, Mr. Lang. Instead of the Prime Minister, explain the conditions of the Grandmama Power Company purchase. He tried to belittle Mr. Pintard by commending MPS MP Rollins, Bartlett and Gibson and criticizing Thompson and Pintard, saying that he would vote for Rollins for Leader of the Opposition, trying to create division. But I could tell you one thing. Anytime my opponent wants something, I don't want that. If my opponent wants something for me, I don't want that for me. You could believe that because my opponent ain't trying to undo himself and the Prime Minister ain't gonna ever vote for no F M period. So I don't even know what the comment means, so I did. So. So, so if any, if anyone's, stupid enough to believe that nonsense and follow up on that, well, doggy dead lunch. I don't. I don't. If you are my opponent, I'm not listening to nothing you say. If you tell me turn right, I get left. If you tell me go straight again, backwards. Because you are my opponent and you do not have my best interest at heart. Do not. I'm not talking about your governing the country. You ain't interested in my party succeeding because the fit to succeed you got to be undone. I wouldn't even listen to that. So if my opponent calling for A or B, I don't want your B. But if they call in for C or D, give me C or D. I don't want C or D. If they don't want cod, give me cod. This text says I don't agree 100%. While every person has character flaws or can make bad decisions, sexual relationships among politicians in particular are looked at internationally as security risk. With the nature of those relationships is discovered, examined by irregularities. That is true. I can't argue with that. I mean, that's true. But remember now, this isn't about every sexual relationship. That's nonsense. This is about whether you get to sleep and sleep around with somebody who could compromise you because they are spies and all that kind of stuff. That's not what we're talking about, man. So. But I'm not disagreeing with you. I'm not disagreeing with you, but whatever other people think my nonsense, nonsense stuff. So you could disagree with me all you want. Say, what a bad act to want to place a baming politician in a compromised position. Of course, but that's why you, you all don't listen, you know, that's why I said unless your private life bleeds into your public affairs. That's what I said, but you missed that. You didn't hear that. It says yes. I don't believe a line should be drawn at personal if its nature allows it to become questionable. But you and I are agreeing because if you listen, listen carefully. You would have heard me say unless your private life bleeds into your public affairs, right? But I do draw a line and you don't have to draw a line. That's your business. Come and ask me about my business and private don't nothing to do with public affairs and see if you get an answer. That's nonsense. Absolute nonsense. You yourself, you doing all kind of stuff you doing. Does your boss them ask about it? That could compromise them, eh? Come on man, let's stop talking stupidness. Come on, please, let's, let's wake up and stop being, being so hypocritical and, and, and, and self righteous. Come on man. You sleep around with somebody who then wants to blackmail you. Of course that could be a problem for you, right? Could be a problem for You. But I mean, that's not. That doesn't mean. If you're not dating this one and you're dating the next one and the next one, that's my business. Come on, stop talking nonsense. This text says, hello, sir. Your show is blazing hot, hot, hot. I'm loving it. Whilst catching the cool breeze on the beach we were told to go to, Huntington said the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce dropped the board big time. Where were they all this time when all of the noise and questions were being asked? Well, you remember now, chambers change administrations just like others. And administrations have different approaches. So it depends. It says, good afternoon, Say Bahamas. We need more than bragging about a surplus. You all know that the Bahamas is. Bahamas has had surpluses before, right? But not in an independent Bahamas. The UBP used to carry a surplus all the time. And look how terrible the family islands and public education and health and stuff in the Bahamas was. They said it is disappointing to see the way the country's affairs are being handled. While ordinary Bahamians continue to struggle with the rising cost of living, we are dealing with high gas prices, expensive groceries, poor road conditions, concerns about electricity, and the troubling conditions at Princess Margaret Hospital. It is heartbreaking. People who need medical care must also worry about the conditions in which they are expected to receive it. Other people deserve better. Our people deserve better. Especially when it comes to their health, safety and dignity. Yet we continue to hear about government surplus. My question is simple. What does that surplus mean for the bamboo people? Oh, this is too long. I cannot read that. But I. It's very. You know what? No worries. It's very long. No, that's too long. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. Well said. But it's too long. Too long to. This text says the numbers may look good on paper, but what matters most is whether the Bam and people are actually better off. It's time to stop bragging and start showing the people the results. That is true. That is true. The experience of people matters too. But the numbers also matter. Whether the numbers are right, accurate, misleading or not, that also matters. That's for sure. It matters because it has implications. Because you could be. You could be running down a path of financial instability, but pretending that everything is okay. What they call whistling past the graveyard, right? And so we want numbers that reflect the truth. We don't need no numbers that look pretty for pretty sake. You need to know the truth. This text is. My question is simple. What does that surplus mean for the Baming people? If the country is doing so well financially, why aren't ordinary Bahamians feeling some relief? Why can't we see a meaningful reduction in the gas pumps? Why must families continue to stretch every dollar, struggle to pay their bills and bear the weight of rising expenses? And why are concerns about our public health care facilities still part of the national conversation? Just to be sure, your personal, financial and economic circumstances need not reflect the circumstances of the government. But what is true is if your financial, if your fiscal situation is so good, why all these arrears? Why all these vendors who can't get paid? Why all this non transparency? Why can't you tell me what you're doing with the money and all that kind of stuff? If you're doing that well, there's no reason for you to not tell me what you did with every nickel and every dime my money. No reason. Because apparently you're doing good things with it. This text says to me when a country speaks of a surplus, it is not a number on page. It has a much broader context. It is the state of the nation. The 1992 Ingram administration was an administration in a true state of surplus. Not overall surplus though. It was a surplus on the recurrent side. Infrastructure was being upgraded. You're right. Ordinary people are healthy amounts of money in their pockets and access to disposable income. That is all true. We have the opposite that in the Bahamas today of that in the Bahamas state it is a state of starvation of the masses. In fact, during Ingram's term the greatest equality, income equality we had experienced was experienced during Ingram's time. In one year that equality, according to what we call the Lorenz curve or the Gini coefficient, was the most equal it had been in our recorded history in the ones that since that number was being recorded, this text says the government is aggressively extracting billions from the economy from people's pockets to the benefit of government and enrichment of friends of the government, crumbling infrastructure, victimization, high prices and massive PR to refute reality. In my opinion, if this strategy doesn't end, infrastructure will not be the only thing crumbling. [01:14:11] Speaker D: Wow. [01:14:12] Speaker C: This text says I did miss that. My apologies. This text says good day and PM loves belittling Pintad. Tell him to finish reading Pintad book. PM explained his association with the money man on the plane that crashed on election day. Perhaps Pintad should start writing the real story on Brave Expose this okay this Texas. Good day. Good afternoon, Mr. Lang. I was so disappointed to hear the government bragging in the House about collecting more taxes. Shake my head. The government should be looking into investments and new way ways to create new money in this country. I tell you all before, only in the Bahamas does the government take to the airways to brag about implementing successfully a new tax. Only in the Bahamas. Most governments even want, you know, a new tax anyway. Ladies and gentlemen, they're listening to Z Live. I'm Chicago Langios. We'll be back after this break. [01:15:38] Speaker E: The power goes out and suddenly everything stops. 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Need your Kalena ID card? Pull it up on your phone. See your paid to date and cash value. Even make a payment. Your policy is within reach wherever you are, whenever you need it. 24, 7 because it's your insurance. [01:17:07] Speaker E: This October, the Caribbean takes center stage at Bahamar. The 5th annual Bahamas Culinary Arts Festival, presented by Scotiabank, returns October 21st through 25th for five extraordinary days of food, art, music and culture. Experience an incredible lineup of culinary talent including Daniel Bulou, Marcus Samuelson, Nina Compton, Simeon Hall, Tristan Epps, Maneet Chauhan and more. Friday night Taste of Bahama Art takes over the Jasmine Lawn with signature dishes, inventive cocktails and spectacular live performances by what One Republic. And this year, Fuse is coming home. Celebrating Bahamian and Caribbean creativity with art, culture, interactive workshops and special passes for kids, students and everyone ready to experience it. From master classes and exclusive dining experiences to culinary expo, Fuse Art fair and live entertainment, there's so much to discover. Come experience the flavors, come experience the art. Come experience Bahamar, the Bahamas Culinary and art fair festival October 21st through 25th at Bahamar. Get your passes today at festival.bahamar.com Managing [01:18:08] Speaker A: your investments just got easier with RF bank and Trust. You can now deposit funds directly into your investment account from any local bank using your brokerage cash account number. It's simple, secure, and funds available within one to two business days. Just log into RF online to find your account number. Add RF bank and Trust as a payee in your preferred banking app and send your funds directly to your RF account. To learn more, visit rfgroup.com or call 603-6000- RF bank and Trust Money at work. This is Guardian Radio, 96.9 FM. Fresh news, smart talk all day. [01:18:50] Speaker B: I'm not afraid I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody come take my, come take my we'll walk this road together through the storm, whatever Weather, cold, the warm Let me know that you're not alone I love if you feel like you. Foreign. [01:19:42] Speaker C: Welcome back, welcome back, ladies and gentlemen to Z Live. Welcome back. Welcome back. So glad you could join us here today on Guardian Radio, 96.9 FM. Lots of text here to read. This text says, Mr. Lang, was there a reason the PM read the surplus document instead of the Ministry of Finance? Yeah, because he's the first Lord of the treasury, the Prime Minister, and he wanted to declare this historic thing himself. So I believe that's why. Nothing, nothing, nothing surprising about, about that, that he would want to do that and he has a right to do it. You remember, he's the head of the government. He can speak for any ministry he wants, anytime he wants. He's the head of the government. This Texas suck my, suck my teeth stupid. Who would want what their opponent wants? Not me. You could believe that they may have bone in hand and me a piece of cake. Take a bite and swallow face. You can believe that. This text says today. Why can't the government give a detailed account of the millions missing from national investment fund? That's yesterday. With the supposed surplus stated yesterday. Yeah, could have, could have, could have put it right alongside it then. Two piece of good news, but have been two pieces of good news. Listen, man, let me tell you what I did with your $700 million in detail. And by the way, I got a surplus. Boy, that'd be like a news headline. This text says, good day, Mr. Lang. How can we have a surplus? And so much work to be done by done they living in twilight. Well, you could have a surplus, but you just could be neglecting a lot of things too. So your numbers might look good, but your country might look bad. So you could do that. That's possible. Let me tell you something. Achieving a surplus in the Bahamas is not difficult. It's not. You send. You send 20% of civil servants home, that might save you. That might save you about $100 million a year. So you could cut that off, the deficit, Right. You could send all them consultants home, that can save you another several hundred million dollars and so forth and so forth. You cut lots of things out. Easy surplus. But what would be the implications of it? So you could stop fixing this stuff, Giving out all these contracts to this one and the next one. Yeah, surplus. Easy, easy, easy, easy. Achieving a surplus with appropriate attention to public infrastructure and services and people who actually could see manifested the results of my spending is a feat to accomplish. That would be something. I got a surplus, you ain't complaining. But the kitchen at the airport, at the hospital, you ain't worried. But not enough dialysis machines, you ain't worrying. But no fire engines, you ain't got. Nurses can't be paid and this one can't be paid. And. And people shutting down services or insurance and that kind of stuff. Nah, now you're talking something. This text says, good day, Mr. Lang. How so? We have a surplus. No wonder. Why Sparky there. [01:22:57] Speaker D: Oh, my. [01:22:58] Speaker C: Come on, come on. Okay. All right. This text says, Mr. Lang. I don't think Mr. Davis realizes that the taxes that he was bragging about was collected on the backs of struggling behemoths. No, he only wants his numbers. He doesn't see what is happening to the everyday behemoth side. I didn't tell you all before, only in the Bahamas, people is bragging about taxes and taxes and taxes. Growing an economy to the extent that that economy's growth is feeding the bulk of your revenue growth, growing that economy, that is hard work. Taxing people only requires you to go to the House of Assembly, pass a law, and then people have to comply with the law. A tax is what we call legitimate coercive force. You want me to say the words, the phrase for you again? Legitimate, meaning you have a legal authority to do it. Coercive, meaning forced. So. So you can legitimately force people to pay. [01:24:06] Speaker D: All right. [01:24:07] Speaker C: So. So when we talk about taxing, we talk. We call it legitimate coercive power. That's what the government has, and it is the only entity in the country that has it. It is the only entity in the country that can walk up to you by law and say, give me some money out your pocket. Give me some money out your pay. Give me some money out Your wealth, that's easy business for government. Growing an economy and growing your revenue through the growth of that economy significantly, that's a different story altogether. So let me give you an example. The government of the Bahamas has not grown the economy of the Bahamas sufficiently to extract from the economy of the Bahamas on an annual basis $1 billion since 2015, and now on an annual basis, one plus billion dollars. But it went to the House of Assembly pass a value added tax law and did that. That's the difference. So bragging about taxation, Well, I mean, you know, if you love it, if you love being taxed, then you don't mind. So you could say, you could say amen. Thank. Thank. Thank you, Lord. Mind you, the government has to tax. But I'm saying bragging about taxation, recognizing what taxation is a distortion to the discretionary income of people is a little bit tricky. His Texas, they need to stop wasting our money on sidewalks that don't need any work. Fix the bloody road. Says that person. [01:25:41] Speaker D: Okay. [01:25:43] Speaker C: All right, ladies and gentlemen, we're gonna take our final break and when we come back, we'll wrap up our conversation. We'll be back after this final break. [01:25:55] Speaker B: Everybody, everybody come take my, come take my we'll walk this road together through the storm Whatever weather call the warm Let me know that you're not alone I love if you feel like you. [01:26:20] Speaker A: If you want more food for less money, you gotta go to BK Nassau where value is king. Start your morning with a sausage and cheese croissant for just $3. And when lunchtime rolls around, the King's got you covered with King deals for only $5. Including that. That's more food, more flavor and more value. So whenever your hunger hits, Burger King Nassau has got your back with a $3 sausage and cheese croissant and $5 king deals more food for less money only at Burger King Nassau. Did you know that world class medicine is just a quick flight away in Tampa? Tampa General is Florida's premier academic health system and one of America's top hospitals. 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[01:29:15] Speaker A: This is Guardian Radio, 96.9 FM. Fresh news, smart talk all day. [01:29:37] Speaker B: We'll walk this road together through the storm, whatever weather, cold, the war. Let me know that you're not alone. I'll ever. If you feel like you. [01:29:52] Speaker C: Welcome back. Welcome back, ladies, Ladies and gentlemen to Z Live. I'm Shabagolang, your host. I think we have a call on the line. Go ahead, caller. We're listening to you. [01:30:03] Speaker D: Hey, good afternoon. How are you? [01:30:06] Speaker C: Good man. How are you? [01:30:07] Speaker D: Right on my radio holding. And good afternoon to the nation. I was listening to your conversation the entire show. Very interesting. Your. Your mark. [01:30:21] Speaker C: That's why we do. That's why we do the show, to keep people's interest. [01:30:25] Speaker D: I got a lot because you. You said you find it nearly impossible to believe that the government collected $771 billion in the month of June, 2026. [01:30:38] Speaker C: Yeah, yeah, I said. I used the word incredulous. [01:30:42] Speaker D: Incredulous. Yes. Let me ask you, did you. Did you read or did you follow along the lines of what Prime Minister Davis explained accounted for the increase of over $400 million collected in the month. [01:31:01] Speaker C: But for the June month. [01:31:03] Speaker D: Yeah, for the June month. That, that, as you put it, incredulous increase. [01:31:08] Speaker C: No, no, no, no, no. I didn't follow it though. [01:31:13] Speaker D: I know there's just a few of the factors that. That went into that, that Prime Minister spoke about would have been the multinational corporate tax, Right? [01:31:22] Speaker C: That was. That was $68 million. [01:31:24] Speaker D: Yeah, yeah. And then, of course. [01:31:26] Speaker C: Okay, so. [01:31:27] Speaker D: And then, of course, the. The B. And the compliance, right, which was a [01:31:34] Speaker C: massive careers and compliance, all collected in June. And I. My brother, My brother. I hear Antoine, I hear all of that, but I'm sorry. No, no, no, I'm sorry. [01:31:45] Speaker D: I'm asking you, do you find it hard to believe that. [01:31:48] Speaker C: I do. I find that extremely difficult to believe. Extremely difficult. [01:31:52] Speaker D: Do you find it hard to believe that taking into consideration that a lot of persons would have paid their rest along with the usual compliance, along with the multinational corporate tax, along with the increases? [01:32:06] Speaker C: I do, Anton, because these things are happening during the course of a given year. Why all of a sudden it jumps in June? No, Anton, I'm sorry. No, I don't believe that. [01:32:19] Speaker D: Okay, let me ask you this, Chivago. Once the word comes in through the reporting from the international credit ratings agencies right now, that the numbers are in for the final fiscal period, right. Of 2025, 2026, would it be more believable to you at that time if they verify. [01:32:40] Speaker C: First of all, first of all. First of all, Anton, I'm a Bahamian. I'm a student of economics. I am a student of public finance in the Bahamas. I'm a former Minister of State for Finance. I do not rely on the standard and pause of Fitch or anybody to tell me anything about my country. [01:33:00] Speaker D: Let me ask you. [01:33:01] Speaker C: I do not need them. Let me tell you. Let me tell you what's going to convince me. Let me tell you what's going to convince me. [01:33:07] Speaker D: After you finish. [01:33:09] Speaker C: No, no, but I mean, you. Let me tell you what can convince me more. I have a central bank that provides me with quarterly statistical digest. [01:33:16] Speaker D: Yes. [01:33:16] Speaker C: And then, Then. And then I need to see the government's numbers a couple of fiscal years out, because we know that these numbers also get revised. [01:33:27] Speaker D: Okay. [01:33:27] Speaker C: Always. So they always provisional. [01:33:30] Speaker D: Okay, let me ask you this question, because you always made that statement with your training and you're looking at numbers yourself. Do you believe, Trivago, that it's factual that the international credit ratings agencies receive access to. To government's financial affairs that you do not have access to, even through those reports that you receive? [01:33:54] Speaker C: What I do, what I do know is they do not spend as much time in my country poring over my data as I do. I know that to be true. [01:34:02] Speaker D: Right. That's fine. [01:34:04] Speaker C: So, Therese Turner Jones, a Bahamian economist, fleshed and Standard and pauses analysis. [01:34:10] Speaker D: So do I. I understood. I heard. Me and you had a discussion the last time when I. When I. When I spoke about what? The minister. [01:34:18] Speaker C: Yeah, so I'm just. So I'm just saying they. They don't spend us on. [01:34:22] Speaker A: And. [01:34:23] Speaker C: And standard standing pause them in above reproach. And me and Ingram have differed with them before. [01:34:31] Speaker D: Understood. Understood. All I am all I'm. All I'm trying to find out from you, Chivago. Despite they may not spend as much time. Time. Perhaps they may not need to spend as much time because the doors are open for them more so than they are for others. [01:34:47] Speaker C: Nonsense, nonsense, nonsense. I was the Minister of State for finance, man. Standard and pause came to the Bahamas on the invitation of the Ingram administration. Prior to that time, there was no such assessment by standard and pause. When they come to the Bahamas, they had to come and sit down and talk with me in Ingram them. So I mean no access. They get. They don't get no special access to nothing. Nothing. [01:35:11] Speaker D: So. So you believe that the information that you receive is far more detailed. [01:35:16] Speaker C: I have better. I have better information than them on my country. [01:35:20] Speaker E: Better. [01:35:24] Speaker C: You know, boy, Chicago, Your own deputy prime minister told you that. Told Michael Pintan you would rather believe the international people then you would believe our own statistical people. Your own deputy prime minister said that. [01:35:37] Speaker D: And. And. And I'm. I'm of that view as well, which is why I'm speaking. [01:35:40] Speaker C: Okay, so that's why I'm telling you. Why you asking me about standard and pause then why are you asking me about something that I know better than them? [01:35:47] Speaker D: Chicago, to my mind, it is very sad that this is where we have come to in fiscal communications dealings and credibility. [01:35:56] Speaker C: And it's Antoine Anton, with the greatest respect to you, it is sad because you are a PLP and you want to support your body and I understand that. I am an analyst of public data. No, I'm a. I'm a. I'm a analyst of public data in the B. And I have a right to question it. The way to get deal with me is to answer my questions, not to talk to me. But what's sad objectively not facade. You can't be objective. You can't talk to nobody. But objective. You can't be objective in this matter because I know what you. I know what your. Where your heart is. And that's okay. Don't call me. Don't talk to me about objective. [01:36:35] Speaker D: Chavago. [01:36:37] Speaker C: Anyway, Anton. Anton. Thank you very much, bro. I gotta go because I have some Other text to read. If we can be straight, let's be straight. [01:36:49] Speaker D: Right? [01:36:49] Speaker C: I understand what you're doing, Anton, but you're talking. Listen to me. I look at numbers. Just now I didn't give you my impression about nothing. My feelings about nothing. And you can't talk to me about. About objectivity. I listened to Prime Minister Davis when he was Leader of the Opposition and the PLP when they were in opposition and how they castigated Dr. Minnis and his administration when he was in office, questioning everything. Don't pretend like there's something new. Nonsense. The numbers that. That surplus has a question mark for me. And I told you why I'm not changing that. Because you, you, you, you, you, you. If it feels bad to you and. And it feels sad to you. When you happy, I don't have to be happy. When you sad, I don't have to be sad. This text says. Good afternoon, Mr. Lang. Great show. As usual. The Government's books may show a surplus, but too many Bahamian households are still living in deficit. Their hardship deserves the PM's attention just as much as his balance sheet. By the way, I hear the Minister Finance say that the same people are in the Ministry of Finance who was there when we were there. First of all, that's untrue. And when he says we, meaning the F M was there. Right, when the Ingram was in. In Minister of Finance first, the same people wasn't there. Ruth Miller was Financial Secretary. Simon Wilson became financial secretary after Mr. Christie became prime Minister and Minister Finance. When minister covers Minister of minister, Prime Minister Finance, what's his name wasn't there. Simon Wilson wasn't there. Marlon Johnson became Financial Secretary. We all also know that just because civil servants are in a place doesn't mean that the political directorates don't get to determine and to direct how things can go. So I don't want nobody put that on. Try to sell me that political directors are political directors for a reason. Right? Anyways, I gotta go. Ladies and gentlemen, you've been listening to Z Live. I'm Cheval Go Lang, your host. So glad that you could join us. God spare life. We'll be back with you again tomorrow and then I'll take up some of your text. I'm sorry, I couldn't read them. Y' all have a fantastic afternoon. [01:39:35] Speaker B: I'm not afraid to take a stand Take a stand Everybody, everybody come take my, Come take my Walk this road.