Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Deputy Leader Chester Cooper was sworn in as the deputy prime minister of The Bahamas and minister of tourism, investments and aviation by Governor General Sir Cornelius A. Smith during a ceremony at Baha Mar today.

In his first speech as deputy prime minister, Cooper said he is humbled by the appointment and pledged to commit himself to service.

“I assure you I have no delusions about the enormity of the task before us and what it entails,” Cooper said.

“We are beset by a raging pandemic that must be brought under control.

“We are in perilous waters as our economy is depressed and we have major financial commitments to fulfill. We confront that without a clear understanding yet of the true state of our government finances.

“Businesses are on life support and Bahamians from all walks of life are crying out for change and hope.

“We still have a deep level of inequality that has left too many in need.

“Government relations with many in our business and investment community have frayed.

“There is a sense of fear about the way forward and we need to guide our country with steady hands.

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