Dear Editor,

There seems to be a whole lot of concern about the leadership style of Dr. Hubert A. Minnis. Admittedly, charismatic leaders, and leaders who are aggressive, create a lot more sensationalism. They also sell a lot more newspapers. And it's all good. I love that kind of leadership style myself.
Leaders with humility, however, recognize that they are no better or worse than other members of the team. A humble leader is not self-effacing, but rather tries to elevate everyone. Leaders with humility also understand that their status does not make them a god. Mahatma Gandhi was a role model for Indian leaders, and he pursued a "follower-centric" leadership role.
Good leaders are able to suspend judgment while listening to others' ideas, as well as accepting new ways of doing things that someone else may have thought of. Openness builds mutual respect and trust between leaders and followers, and it also keeps the team well supplied with new ideas that can further its vision.
Reference has been made over and over again to why Dr. Minnis did not "deal" with Dion Foulkes when he made some public statements about Dr. Minnis' views on victimization without consulting him first. Ironically, many of them are the same people who insist that Hubert Ingraham was too much of a dictator and the people around him were afraid to open their mouths.
I would be the first to agree that it was wrong of Foulkes to do what he did. It is not the way a team player goes about doing things but as far as I know, this is a free country. He is entitled to his opinion, and while giving it he also showed Dr. Minnis what kind of loyalty Dr. Minnis can expect from him: None.
Comments have been made about other press releases made by other FNM's, most of which I believe were approved by Dr. Minnis, who clearly has no problem elevating other members of the team.
Dr. Minnis is showing a side of leadership that we need more of in this country. I am happy to see that we have a leader who is willing to let those around him shine and not throw a tantrum every time someone objects to his position or opposes him.
While many so-called supporters are beating down Dr. Minnis' style of leadership, do you know what Dr. Minnis is doing? He is doing what leaders do. He is working to keep this party strong. He is beating the street, sweating with Greg Gomez, knocking on doors and working to keep North Abaco FNM. He did it in Killarney, (where he kept his seat in spite of the devastating loss that the FNM suffered on May 7) and I am certain that he will not give up without doing everything he can to win North Abaco. FNM supporters need to decide, are you going to stand with him, or are you going to stand against him? What have you done recently to keep the party strong?
To Dr. Minnis, I say stay stand firm, stay focused and keep your eye on the prize. One day your enemies will become your footstools and the day that happens, I want you to remember to do good to those who tried to hurt you. "Vengeance is mine," says the Lord.

- A loyal FNM and Minnis supporter

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