The referendum vote today on the gaming questions is a first in the modern Bahamas. We collectively will vote on a matter that is not about electing a government or changing the Constitution. We actually get to vote to advise our government on a matter of public policy.
Parliament will ultimately decide if the gambling laws are changed. However, all major political parties at the last general election committed to hold gambling referenda if elected and the assumption is that the party now in power, the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), will follow the will of the people in changing or maintaining the current laws in place based on the vote today.
There has been much back and forth regarding this referendum over the last few months. The debate has been inspiring, thoughtful, rigorous and silly. Such is the nature of democracy. Now, with all the arguments having been laid out, it is time for the citizenry to make its statement. You should get out and vote.
Democracies only function well when people care about the quality of governance given. The people are the ultimate guardians of their own freedoms. Democracies can be tyrannical if those people are aloof and disinterested, leaving governance to others to do. In such situations, those who hold high office do as they like, usually dispensing the powers of the state to friends and associates.
On matters such as gaming we should all offer our voices so that the result given at the end of today is representative of our collective view on the two questions under consideration. Whether you like the prime minister or not, you should vote. Whether you like web shops or not, you should vote. Whether you gamble or not, you should vote. And those of you who vote should do so from a considered opinion.
It is fine for the church, web shop owners and political parties to suggest a position to you. You should take seriously the arguments offered by well-respected stakeholders. However, your final decision should not be just because someone told you to. Reflect, listen to the arguments posed and come to the decision that best represents your beliefs, thoughts and feelings on the matter. This is the key to the democratic process.
What has again been refreshing during this referendum campaign is that we have been able as a people to argue forcefully without resorting to organized violence. This tradition continues and speaks well of Bahamian culture.
So, make sure that you take part in the historic event today. Let your voice be heard.

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