IN his first speech as Prime Minister, Philip Davis committed to removing the veil of secrecy from governance and to act in ways that build trust from the Bahamian people.

Mr Davis said an administration under his direction will treat people fairly and ensure the same rules apply to all.

His speech outlined how the new Davis administration intends to steer the country in a COVID-19 environment and in the face of fiscal challenges.

Mr Davis received his instruments of appointment from Governor General Sir Cornelius A Smith at the Baha Mar convention centre on Saturday, a day after he was sworn in during a private ceremony at the Office of the Governor General.

The media learned about the private ceremony after the fact.

At 2pm on Saturday, Chester Cooper was sworn in as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Aviation and Investments.

 “We are going to listen,” Mr Davis said on Saturday.

 “We are going to consult widely. And we are going to bring people together. That is the best way to make progress as a nation. No leader and no government should be isolated from the people. I also commit to lifting the veil of secrecy on that which has gone before us, so that all of the arrangements under which we have to live are transparent, and those who authored them are accountable.

“We will govern in the interests of all Bahamians, not just the privileged few. We will act in ways that rebuild trust between the government and the Bahamian people.

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