Beware of the Megalomaniac

 

 "The Megalomaniac" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

 Beware of the Megalomaniac

Observe the man upon the height, who claims to own the very sun,
Who views the world as mere domain, and life a race already won.
Behind the gaze of frozen glass, where empathy has gone to die,
There dwells a mind of grand design, built on a tower of a lie.
So harken now to every verse, and let the warning bell be struck,
For those who walk within his path shall surely find a bitter luck.

The Golden Mask of Vanity

He walks with heavy, arrogant stride, a king without a noble cause,
Demanding all the world obey his whims and self-invented laws.
His ego is a bloated sail that catches every passing breeze,
He does not walk upon the earth; he expects us on our knees.
An idealized vision of the self, a god carved out of common clay,
He believes the light was made for him to herald in the coming day.

The Delusion of Invincible Might

He counts himself invincible, a titan who can never fall,
To him, the highest mountain peak is but a short and simple wall.
No obstacle can block his path, no river deep enough to drown,
For in his warped and fevered mind, he wears a permanent, bright crown.
But this is not a courage found in hearts of gold or spirits brave,
It is a madness of the soul that leads him closer to the grave.

The High Cost of Living in The Bahamas

 

 "Living in The Bahamas" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

  

The High Cost of Living in The Bahamas

 

Introduction

Living in the Bahamas has long been associated with images of tropical beauty, beaches, and luxury tourism. For many Bahamians, however, daily life is marked by a very different reality: households face persistently high prices for basic goods and services, and earning enough to cover those costs remains a struggle for a large portion of the population. The cost of living in the Bahamas sits among the highest in the world, far exceeding what many local incomes can comfortably support. Understanding why this is so — and what can be done — is essential to grasping both the everyday economic challenges facing Bahamians and the broader political dynamics leading up to the 2026 general election.

The Bahamas Public Procurement Act: A Comprehensive Analysis

 

 "Bahamas Public Procurement Act" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Bahamas Public Procurement Act: A Comprehensive Analysis

 

Introduction

The Public Procurement Act of The Bahamas represents foundational legislation designed to govern how public funds are spent on goods, services, and works across all sectors of government. Its purpose is to ensure that government procurement is conducted transparently, competitively, responsibly, and in a manner that delivers value for taxpayers while supporting broader policy goals. Although initially enacted in 2021, the Act has been revised and replaced with newer versions (notably the Public Procurement Act, 2023) to address implementation issues and incorporate policy priorities such as support for small businesses and economic diversification.

Globalist Agenda

 

"Changing World" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Globalist Agenda

The term "globalist agenda" typically refers to two distinct concepts depending on whether it is used in a formal political context or a populist/conspiratorial one.

  

Bahamas Voting Secrecy

 

"Bahamian Voter" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Bahamas Voting Secrecy

When we vote in The Bahamas there is a number on a counterfoil attached to each voter's ballot. Can this be used to tell who a citizen voted for?

Short answer: No

Under Bahamian law and standard electoral procedure, the counterfoil number cannot be used to tell who a citizen voted for.

Here’s the full explanation:

The Architect of the Sacred State: An Analysis of Fascist Theocracy

 "The Church of Fascism" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Architect of the Sacred State: An Analysis of Fascist Theocracy

The fusion of fascism—a far-right, ultranationalist political ideology—and theocracy—a system of government in which deity-guided laws and clerical authority prevail—creates a singular and devastatingly potent form of governance. While classical fascism often treats religion as a tool for state utility (or an "ersatz" competitor), a Fascist Theocracy elevates religious dogma to the status of state law, viewing the nation not just as a political unit, but as a divine instrument.

This essay explores the ideological pillars, historical manifestations, and the chilling mechanisms of control inherent in the hybrid of the cross and the fasces.

The Bahamas as a Republic: Possibilities, Challenges, and Prospects

 

"The Republic of The Bahamas" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Bahamas as a Republic: Possibilities, Challenges, and Prospects

 

Introduction

The Bahamas is an independent nation that gained sovereignty from the United Kingdom in 1973. While independent, it remains a constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch serving as head of state, represented locally by a Governor-General. From time to time, public discussion arises about whether The Bahamas should transition to a republic. This essay explores what a republic is, the advantages and disadvantages of republican systems, examples of successful and unsuccessful republics, and whether The Bahamas could realistically become and thrive as a republic.

---

Definition of a Republic

A republic is a form of government in which the country’s head of state is not a monarch, but is either elected by the people or appointed through a representative process. Sovereignty rests with the citizens, and political authority is exercised in their name.

Most republics operate under a written constitution that outlines the structure of government, the separation of powers, and the rights of citizens. In many republics, the head of state is a president, though the role may be largely ceremonial or may carry significant executive power, depending on the system.

It is important to note that being a republic does not automatically mean having a president with sweeping authority. Many republics retain parliamentary systems similar to constitutional monarchies, differing mainly in how the head of state is chosen.

The Darkness of Xenophobia

"Alien Xenomorph" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Darkness of Xenophobia

 

A chilling fog that shrouds the open mind,
A baseless dread of those we fail to find
Familiar in their custom, speech, or creed,
This is the fear called Xenophobia, indeed.
It is the hatred born of ignorance,
The sudden shiver at a foreign glance.

The Definition and Its Roots

It is not simply bias or dislike,
But deep revulsion striking like a pike,
Against the stranger, alien, or new,
A desperate drawing up of walls by few.
It is a mechanism, harsh and crude,
That sees all difference as an ill-intent, construed
As menace to the safety of the known,
A seed of malice that the heart has sown.

Causes: The Seeds of Anxiety

The fear takes root where understanding's slight,
And thrives upon the absence of the light.
One cause is economic anxiety's strain,
The false belief that gain requires loss and pain.
A local culture fears its way of life,
Will be consumed within a global strife,
And turns upon the newcomer in need,
Mistaking fellow humans for a greed.

The rhetoric of politics provides the fuel,
When leaders preach exclusion as a rule.
They paint the "other" as a cunning foe,
Distorting facts to make the hatred grow.
A lack of contact seals the hardened case,
When no shared meal or laughter sets the pace;
The human face, behind the veil unseen,
Remains a monster on a distant screen.

No More Mumbo Jumbo

 

 "Mumbo Jumbo Dance" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

No More Mumbo Jumbo

In the land where whispers roam and tales unfold,
Where the winds of nonsense scatter, wild and bold,
There came a cry, a call to arms, a plea so loud,
To shake the chains, and lift the foggy shroud.

No more mumbo jumbo, the people said,
No more the twisted lies, the truth misled.
For ages now, we’ve danced in circles tight,
Chasing shadows, turning day to night.

The mystics spoke in riddles, wrapped in smoke,
Their words were clouds, their promises a joke.
They promised answers, but their tongues were veiled,
Leaving us to wander, lost and frail.

Golden Isles By-Election: Analysis and Indicators

 

By-Election Results

 

 

Golden Isles By-Election: Analysis and Indicators

• The by-election was officially called for Golden Isles, under a public notice by the electoral authorities. By-Election Public Notice

• Voters in Golden Isles reportedly showed up in steady flow at polling stations, with some early-morning crowding at one station (people rushing the gates) but overall police and election officials said voting proceeded in a relatively orderly fashion. The Tribune

• According to “unofficial results,” the candidate from Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Darron Pickstock, won the by-election. The Nassau Guardian

• The main challenger from Free National Movement (FNM), Brian Brown, lost — reportedly by just over 200 votes. The Nassau Guardian

• Other candidates (including independents or from smaller groupings) also ran, but did not secure enough votes to win. The Nassau Guardian

Politics is a Dirty Game

 "Vote For Me" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

Politics is a Dirty Game

 

The lights are on, the cameras gleam,
Upon the stage of power’s dream.
A hopeful face, a tailored suit,
Preparing for the bitter root.
They speak of change, of cleaner ways,
To usher in bright, better days.
They wave the flag and quote the creed,
And plant the brightly painted seed.
But listen close, beyond the sound,
Where truth is lost and faith unbound,
For in this realm of high acclaim,
Politics is a dirty game.

The platforms built on shifting sand,
A promise made throughout the land.
To tax the rich, to feed the poor,
Then close and lock the chamber door.
The manifestos, crisp and new,
Are broken vows, by me and you.
The lobbyist with velvet tread,
Whispers the words that must be said.
The wealthy donor’s silent plea,
A cheque for vast immunity.
The laws are bent, the rules are swayed,
For those whose fortunes are well-made.
The public trust, a fading flame,
Politics is a dirty game.

Guy Fawkes: The Man Behind the Gunpowder Plot and His Legacy

 

 "Guy Fawkes" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

 

Guy Fawkes: The Man Behind the Gunpowder Plot and His Legacy

Introduction: Who Was Guy Fawkes?

Guy Fawkes is a name forever etched in the annals of British history as one of the central figures in the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Born on April 13, 1570, in York, England, Fawkes grew up during a period of intense religious conflict between Catholics and Protestants in England. A devout Catholic, Fawkes became deeply disillusioned with the Protestant rule of King James I and took part in the Gunpowder Plot, a failed attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate the king.

Though his mission was unsuccessful, Fawkes' actions left an indelible mark on British history and culture. His legacy is still remembered annually on Guy Fawkes Night, also known as Bonfire Night, celebrated on November 5th. This event commemorates the failure of the Gunpowder Plot and the survival of King James I. However, this tale of treason and rebellion has also spread beyond British borders, influencing various cultures—including in The Bahamas, where Guy Fawkes is remembered in a unique and lively fashion. Read full article>

 

Don't Let Politics Cloud Your Judgment

 

"Protest" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Don't Let Politics Cloud Your Judgment

In the modern landscape, politics has ceased to be merely a sphere of public policy and has morphed into a core component of personal identity. This transformation has intensified societal polarization, making it increasingly difficult to separate one's ideological commitments from objective reality. The resulting phenomenon—the clouding of judgment by political bias—poses a significant and often unseen threat to rational decision-making, affecting everything from professional competence to personal relationships. The increasing totalization of political identity thus demands a conscious and sustained vigilance to uphold objective, merit-based judgment in all facets of contemporary life.

Pressure and Influence: US Over The Bahamas

"Pressure and Influence" - Bahamas AI Art

©A. Derek Catalano

Pressure and Influence: US Over The Bahamas

 

Does the United States, a democratic nation, has the right and power to dictate to The Bahamas, another democratic nation?

 

1. The Nature of “Democratic Nations” and Sovereignty

Both the United States and The Bahamas are sovereign democratic nations.
That means each has full authority over its own:

• Laws

• Governmental systems

• Internal and external affairs

Under international law, particularly the United Nations Charter (Article 2), every sovereign state has the right to self-determination and political independence. This means no state has the legal right to dictate or impose its will on another sovereign state’s internal matters.

So legally, the United States has no right to dictate to The Bahamas what to do as a nation.

 

 "Sun Tribe" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

Political Tribalism: Dynamics and Implications with a Focus on The Bahamas

 

Introduction

Political tribalism is one of the most powerful forces shaping modern societies. It transcends rational debate, policy concerns, and ideological nuance, rooting politics instead in identity and group loyalty. The term "tribalism" evokes allegiance to a group not because of reasoned agreement, but because belonging provides security, affirmation, and power. In political contexts, this loyalty often supersedes facts, compromises, or the broader common good. This essay explores the nature of political tribalism, its causes and consequences, and applies the analysis specifically to The Bahamas, where politics has long been defined by party loyalty and the deep cultural and historical forces that sustain it.

We Are Watching You

"Eye on You" - Bahamas AI Art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

The people of a nation stand vigilant, observing their government and leaders, holding them accountable for their decisions. This poem, "We Are Watching You," is a reflection of this dynamic, a powerful expression of the public's watchful eye and their collective voice demanding justice, transparency, and good governance.

We Are Watching You

We are the many, the unseen, the quiet hum,
A tide of faces in the gathering storm.
The promises you make, we count each one,
The laws you forge, the future you transform.
We watch you as you walk the halls of power,
With every word you speak, each whispered plea.
For in this fragile, ever-ticking hour,
Your choices echo through eternity.

We are the farmers in the sun-scorched field,
The mothers cradling a child's soft hand.
The scholars whose bright minds will not yet yield,
The laborers who toil across the land.
We are the people, a vast and vibrant throng,
And you are not the kings on high,
You are the servants where we all belong,
Beneath the same wide and indifferent sky.

 

"Obey" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Dictatorship and Broadcasting: Control, Propaganda, and Power

 

Introduction

Broadcasting has historically been a decisive instrument of authoritarian regimes. Dictatorships, by nature, depend on information monopolies to maintain legitimacy, suppress opposition, and mold collective consciousness. Radio, television, and more recently digital platforms, have provided dictators with unparalleled means of propaganda and surveillance. This paper analyzes the role of broadcasting in dictatorships, the mechanisms of control, notable historical case studies, the transformation of authoritarian broadcasting in the digital age, and the enduring struggle between propaganda and resistance.

The Dictates of Public Opinion: Influence, Fractures, and the Democratic Ideal

 

 "Public Demands" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Dictates of Public Opinion: Influence, Fractures, and the Democratic Ideal

The concept of public opinion as a guiding force for those in power is a cornerstone of democratic governance. The phrase “the dictates of public opinion” refers to the collective influence and demands that the sentiments of the public place on political leaders and policymakers. In theory, this dynamic ensures that government is responsive to the will of the people, upholding the democratic ideal of popular sovereignty. However, the reality of public opinion is far more complex than this simple ideal, characterized by significant internal fractures, susceptibility to external manipulation, and a frequent disconnect between theoretical principles and practical application.

Neo-colonialism, Neoliberalism, and Post-Democracy: A Caribbean Perspective

 

Caribbean Map - (source)

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Neo-colonialism, Neoliberalism, and Post-Democracy: A Caribbean Perspective

The complex interplay of neo-colonialism, neoliberalism, and post-democracy has profoundly shaped the political, economic, and social landscapes of developing island nations, particularly within the Caribbean Commonwealth. While these concepts are distinct, they often function in a mutually reinforcing manner, perpetuating a cycle of dependency, inequality, and diminished sovereign power. This essay will provide a comprehensive and extensive analysis of these ideologies, focusing on their historical roots, key tenets, and specific manifestations within the context of the Caribbean Commonwealth, with an emphasis on the challenges they pose to genuine development and self-determination.

Consequences of a REFERENDUM on CARICOM Membership

 

 

ℂ𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕖𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕒 ℝ𝔼𝔽𝔼ℝ𝔼ℕ𝔻𝕌𝕄

𝕆𝕟 ℂ𝔸ℝ𝕀ℂ𝕆𝕄 𝕄𝕖𝕞𝕓𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕡.

 

By ©Winston Drexel Munnings /ChatGPT

& ©A. Derek Catalano/ChatGPT - NativeStew.Com

Question!

 

As a citizen of any of the 15-member Nations that are part of the Caribbean Community CARICOM, have you EVER (seriously) reflected on the potential advantages and/or disadvantages of full membership of your Island Nation in this regional organization?

 

I believe this introspection is essential, though the wider public rarely discusses it. Full disclosure, however, is that (understandably) the decision for countries to join CARICOM mainly depends on government choices, influenced by a complex mix of legal systems, economic policies, and diplomatic strategies, rather than being decided by public votes or referendums.

 

I can recall, however, that when my country, The Bahamas, officially became a member of CARICOM on July 4, 1983, there was a conspicuous absence of any demands for a public referendum from either the ruling government or any of the opposition elements. Such a referendum, if it were held, could have facilitated direct citizen engagement in this significant decision-making process. Nevertheless, I firmly believe (and accept) that the government of that time conducted comprehensive due diligence, engaging in in-depth discussions and consultations, whether independently or in collaboration with opposition factions. This diligent process ultimately paved the way for The Bahamas' membership in CARICOM, underscoring the essential nature of regional cooperation and integration for our nation’s development and economic advancement.