Obediah Wilchcombe

Obediah (Obie) Hercules Wilchcombe (14 November 1958 - 25 September 2023) was a Bahamian journalist, politician, and Cabinet Minister.

Early life and education Wilchcombe was born in Grand Bahama on 14 November 1958, the son of Jackson and Mary (née Arthur) Wilchcombe. He attended Queen's College high school in Nassau, Bahamas.

Career

Journalism Wilchcombe began his career in 1975 when he joined the Broadcasting Corporation of the Bahamas as a journalist.

He became a nationally-known journalist, rising through the ranks to hold senior positions, serving as Deputy Director of News, News Director, and from 1990 as Assistant General Manager. In 1995, he became Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). He served as Minister of Tourism in two Christie governments. During his ministry, the country saw a record rise in tourists and tourist dollars and four new airline partnerships. In 2017, Wilchcombe lost his seat but he was re-elected in 2021.

Controversies Wilchcombe was a close friend of John Travolta and Kelly Preston, and was accused of extortion following their son's death in the Bahamas in 2009.

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, Wilchcombe expressed his desire for the nation to reject the British monarchy.

Death Wilchcombe died on 25 September 2023 in Grand Bahama at the age of 64. A by-election was held for his vacated seat, which was won by Kingsley Smith.