10 January - Majority Rule Day Bahamas

 

Majority Rule Day is a public holiday in the Bahamas that commemorates a significant political event in the country's history. It is observed annually on January 10th. The holiday marks the day when, in 1967, the Bahamas achieved a major milestone in its political development by holding its first general election under the principle of majority rule.

Before Majority Rule Day, the Bahamas was a British colony, and political power was concentrated in the hands of the white minority, while the majority of the population, consisting mainly of Black Bahamians, had limited political influence. The introduction of majority rule aimed to address issues of social and political inequality.

On January 10, 1967, the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), led by Sir Lynden Pindling, won a majority of seats in the general election. This victory marked a historic shift as it was the first time that the majority Black population gained political control in the Bahamas. Sir Lynden Pindling became the first Black Premier of the Bahamas, and the achievement of majority rule was a crucial step toward the eventual independence of the Bahamas from British rule.

Majority Rule Day is a time for Bahamians to reflect on their nation's journey toward self-governance and to celebrate the progress made in achieving political equality and independence. It is a day marked by various events, ceremonies, and activities that highlight the significance of majority rule in shaping the modern political landscape of the Bahamas.