The "Canton and Gourmet Kitchen" culture at the Sir Gerald Cash Centre epitomizes the excess and entitlement that have diverted resources away from the RBPF's core mission. Daily celebrations and indulgences not only waste resources but also symbolize a lack of focus on public service. Commissioner Knowles must prioritize dismantling this culture and redirecting resources toward operational efficiency, training, and community engagement.
Political Interference and Leadership Accountability
The recent resignation of Clayton Fernander as Commissioner of Police underscores the need for leadership that is not influenced by political agendas. The longstanding culture of political appointments, cronyism, and victimization has contributed to an atmosphere of corruption and dysfunction. Commissioner Knowles must assert her independence, ensuring that decisions are guided by professionalism and public interest rather than political loyalty.
Rebuilding Community Trust
Rebuilding trust between the RBPF and the community is paramount. The force must focus on:
Community Policing: Engaging with communities to understand their concerns and demonstrate a commitment to serving their interests.
Public Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing accessible and anonymous channels for citizens to report complaints and concerns.
Ethical Leadership: Leading by example, with a focus on transparency, fairness, and accountability.
The challenges facing the Royal Bahamas Police Force are profound, but they are not insurmountable. Commissioner Shanta Knowles has an opportunity to lead a transformative era of reform, addressing the entrenched practices of favouritism, protectionism, and excess that have tarnished the RBPF’s reputation. By fostering a culture of transparency, professionalism, and accountability, she can restore public trust and ensure that the RBPF serves as a pillar of justice and integrity.
This moment calls for bold leadership, systemic reforms, and unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness and equality. The Bahamian people deserve a police force that upholds the law impartially, protects their rights and operates with the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. Anything less would be a disservice to the nation and its citizens.
> Reforming the Royal Bahamas Police > Force: Challenges and Opportunities
The recent corruption scandals and political unrest in The Bahamas have exposed deeply ingrained issues within the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and the broader governance structure. From allegations of cocaine trafficking involving senior officers to the chaotic scenes in Parliament, these events highlight systemic dysfunction and the urgent need for reform. The appointment of Assistant Commissioner Shanta Knowles as the new Commissioner of Police offers a critical opportunity to address these challenges and rebuild public trust.
**Eliminating the “Blue Wall of Silence”** One of the most pressing issues within the RBPF is the entrenched culture of "protection of the blue," or the blue wall of silence. This practice, where officers protect one another by suppressing complaints and shielding misconduct, alienates the community and erodes trust. When citizens report theft, misconduct, or violations of their rights, it should be the RBPF that takes the lead in initiating investigations and ensuring accountability.
**To dismantle this culture, the RBPF must:**
*Commit to Transparency: Every complaint must be thoroughly investigated, with the findings and actions taken communicated transparently to the public.*
*Protect Whistleblowers: Officers who expose misconduct must be shielded from retaliation, creating a system where integrity is rewarded.*
*Prosecute Proven Misconduct: When bad behaviour is substantiated, the RBPF must act decisively, including criminal prosecution and dismissal if warranted.*
Accountability must become a cornerstone of the RBPF’s operations, ensuring that officers understand they are held to the same standards as the citizens they serve.
**Addressing the Culture of Favoritism** The practice of "my friend is the police, he can fix it" further undermines the RBPF's credibility. This system of favouritism, where officers intervene to help friends or family bypass proper procedures, falsify reports, or tamper with evidence, creates a two-tiered system of justice. It erodes public trust and perpetuates a culture of impunity.
**Reforms to eliminate favouritism must include:**
*Strict Enforcement of Protocols: All police actions must follow established procedures, with zero tolerance for deviations due to personal relationships.*
*Independent Oversight: An external body should monitor police activities to ensure impartiality and accountability.*
*Training on Ethics and Professionalism: Officers must be educated on the importance of impartiality and the consequences of favouritism.*
These measures will reinforce the principle of equal justice under the law and restore confidence in the RBPF’s integrity.
> Statement on the Creation of the > Office of the Minister: Ensuring > Ministries Serve the Public, Not > Politicians
In a bold step toward modernizing governance, we are introducing a significant reform designed to redefine the relationship between elected officials and ministry operations. At the heart of this initiative is establishing a dedicated Office of the Minister, an independent entity that ensures ministries act exclusively in service to the public, free from political interference or influence.
This change reflects a commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability in government operations. The Office of the Minister will enable elected officials to focus on policy oversight, strategic leadership, and accountability to Parliament and the public, leaving the day-to-day management of ministries to qualified civil servants. This separation eliminates the perception and reality of cronyism while fostering trust in public institutions by ensuring fairness and impartiality in decision-making and service delivery.
The establishment of the Office of the Minister is not merely a structural adjustment; it is a clear declaration that ministries exist to serve the people. This reform removes political influence from the management of public resources, ensuring that the needs of citizens are prioritized over political interests. By empowering civil servants to execute policies effectively and transparently, we are building a system where ministries operate with integrity and a singular focus on delivering high-quality public services.
This initiative represents a fundamental shift in how governance operates, creating a framework that prioritizes public trust, enhances efficiency, and restores confidence in the role of ministries as impartial and professional institutions. By separating political oversight from operational management, we affirm our dedication to serving the people with transparency and excellence. This reform ensures that government institutions function with the highest standards of integrity, reinforcing our commitment to a system where public service remains paramount.
> People for a Better Bahamas (PBB)
*Empowering the People, Building the Nation*
**Vision Statement** People for a Better Bahamas (PBB) envisions a nation united by equality, progress, and sustainability. We are dedicated to fostering a Bahamas where every individual has the opportunity to thrive through bold leadership, innovative policies, and a steadfast commitment to collective well-being.
PBB stands as a beacon for transformative change, promoting a governance framework that prioritizes transparency, professionalism, and public service. Together, we aim to empower the people and build a nation that reflects the values of fairness, opportunity, and progress for all.
****Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.****
For nearly 70 years, the Bahamas and its people have endured a legacy of incompetence in leadership, a lack of vision, and stagnated growth. Over this time, our nation's potential has been squandered, and the standard of living, safety, and security of Bahamians have steadily eroded. Hope and prospects for a brighter future have been replaced by despair, leading our small, close-knit communities into the grips of gangs, drug wars, delinquency, and social decay.
This is not the future we deserve, nor is it the legacy we should leave for our children. People for a Better Bahamas (PBB) stands as a transformative force, committed to reversing decades of neglect and inefficiency. We recognize the urgency of change, and we are prepared to implement the bold, necessary reforms to rebuild our nation from the ground up. We can fix this. Through strong leadership, innovative policies, and a relentless dedication to the people, PBB will restore hope, opportunity, and prosperity to every Bahamian. Together, we can reclaim our nation's promise and build a future where our communities thrive, and our people rise.
***Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.***
> Core Message of "People for a Better > Bahamas" (PBB):
For nearly 70 years, the Bahamas and its people have endured a legacy of incompetence in leadership, a lack of vision, and stagnated growth. Over this time, our nation's potential has been squandered, and the standard of living, safety, and security of Bahamians have steadily eroded. Hope and prospects for a brighter future have been replaced by despair, leading our small, close-knit communities into the grips of gangs, drug wars, delinquency, and social decay.
This is not the future we deserve, nor is it the legacy we should leave for our children. **People for a Better Bahamas (PBB)** stands as a transformative force, committed to reversing decades of neglect and inefficiency. We recognize the urgency of change, and we are prepared to implement the bold, necessary reforms to rebuild our nation from the ground up. We can fix this. Through strong leadership, innovative policies, and a relentless dedication to the people, **PBB** will restore hope, opportunity, and prosperity to every Bahamian. Together, we can reclaim our nation's promise and build a future where our communities thrive, and our people rise.
***Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.***
**Core Message of "People for a Better Bahamas" (PBB):**
For nearly 70 years, the Bahamas and its people have endured a legacy of incompetence in leadership, a lack of vision, and stagnated growth. Over this time, our nation's potential has been squandered, and the standard of living, safety, and security of Bahamians have steadily eroded. Hope and prospects for a brighter future have been replaced by despair, leading our small, close-knit communities into the grips of gangs, drug wars, delinquency, and social decay.
This is not the future we deserve, nor is it the legacy we should leave for our children. People for a Better Bahamas (**PBB**) stands as a transformative force, committed to reversing decades of neglect and inefficiency. We recognize the urgency of change, and we are prepared to implement the bold, necessary reforms to rebuild our nation from the ground up.
We can *fix* this. Through strong leadership, innovative policies, and a relentless dedication to the people, **PBB** will restore hope, opportunity, and prosperity to every Bahamian. Together, we can reclaim our nation's promise and build a future where our communities thrive, and our people rise.
***Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. **PBB** – People for a Better Bahamas.***
> ...today's organization leaves much to > be desired.
Some of what Fred (Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell said on Friday) is correct. However, in the spirit of openness, Fred should acknowledge that the culture within the force is far from ideal. Younger, brighter members are often held back by "dinosaurs" who leverage their political or other connections to maintain their positions. Relying on a straight back and a stiff upper lip as the sole qualifications for leadership is delusional.
While the force has indeed produced excellent officers, administration is an entirely different matter. Very few, either in the past or present, have acquired the administrative skills necessary for such critical positions. These are the cold, undeniable facts that have led some of the brighter members to abandon the force altogether, as they see "dinosaurs" and the politically—or otherwise—connected excel through the ranks.
My friend Greenslade made some inroads in introducing a level of professionalism to the force during his leadership. However, today's organization leaves much to be desired, especially considering some in the current leadership lineup.
The Commissioner’s awareness of the issues within the organization, including the presence of homosexual officers, cannot be dismissed. Must officers resort to extreme measures, such as coming to work in drag, to force an acknowledgement of their identity and role within the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF)? With a dedicated intelligence section that provides comprehensive briefings to all appointees, and Commissioner Fernander’s over 30 years of service, there is no reasonable excuse for ignorance on such matters. To suggest otherwise is to undermine the competence and responsibilities of leadership within the force.
From the "Nation for Sale" scandal of the 1980s to the current controversies, the issues within the RBPF have been an open secret. These matters speak to a broader systemic challenge in addressing accountability, transparency, and inclusion within public institutions in the Bahamas. It is not merely an internal issue for the RBPF but a reflection of the political and social climate that tolerates selective blindness to longstanding issues. The time for dismissing these realities has passed; it is now a matter of political will and moral responsibility to confront them head-on.
> Response to the Police Commissioner’s > National Statement:
The Commissioner’s statement, while appearing earnest, reflects an inability or unwillingness to address systemic failures that have been public knowledge for decades. His narrative of shock and devastation at the recent indictment of Chief Superintendent Curtis rings hollow to many Bahamians who have witnessed, time and again, the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) 's inability to police itself effectively.
When the bubble bursts, it is often the public left to pick up the pieces while institutions scramble to control damage. Yet, when these same bubbles of corruption are being celebrated, few in positions of power seem eager to address the root causes. The Commissioner’s declaration of initiating a review of events dating back to previous leadership and political administrations raises more questions than it answers.
The indictment of Chief Superintendent Curtis is not an isolated event; it is a symptom of a deeply entrenched system of corruption that permeates not only the RBPF but also other facets of governance. The IDB report cited in the statement confirms what Bahamians have long understood: corruption has been normalized across sectors.
the subservience of the police to political figures in office is a critical factor in perpetuating corruption and undermining the independence of law enforcement. When law enforcement agencies operate as extensions of political will, their ability to act impartially and uphold justice is significantly compromised. This dynamic fosters a culture of patronage, where political loyalty often supersedes professionalism and accountability.
Until the RBPF and the government embrace true accountability and independent oversight, the Bahamian public will remain sceptical of any claims of reform. The international community, including the United States, will continue to withhold sensitive information, viewing the RBPF as a compromised institution.
It is time for Bahamian leaders to confront these challenges with honesty and courage. This moment demands more than words; it requires decisive action to dismantle a culture of impunity and rebuild trust with the people. Without this, the RBPF risks losing the confidence of both its citizens and international partners—a loss that would be devastating for national security and sovereignty.
IslandWarrior says...
Tackling the Culture of Excess
The "Canton and Gourmet Kitchen" culture at the Sir Gerald Cash Centre epitomizes the excess and entitlement that have diverted resources away from the RBPF's core mission. Daily celebrations and indulgences not only waste resources but also symbolize a lack of focus on public service. Commissioner Knowles must prioritize dismantling this culture and redirecting resources toward operational efficiency, training, and community engagement.
Political Interference and Leadership Accountability
The recent resignation of Clayton Fernander as Commissioner of Police underscores the need for leadership that is not influenced by political agendas. The longstanding culture of political appointments, cronyism, and victimization has contributed to an atmosphere of corruption and dysfunction. Commissioner Knowles must assert her independence, ensuring that decisions are guided by professionalism and public interest rather than political loyalty.
Rebuilding Community Trust
Rebuilding trust between the RBPF and the community is paramount. The force must focus on:
Community Policing: Engaging with communities to understand their concerns and demonstrate a commitment to serving their interests.
Public Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing accessible and anonymous channels for citizens to report complaints and concerns.
Ethical Leadership: Leading by example, with a focus on transparency, fairness, and accountability.
The challenges facing the Royal Bahamas Police Force are profound, but they are not insurmountable. Commissioner Shanta Knowles has an opportunity to lead a transformative era of reform, addressing the entrenched practices of favouritism, protectionism, and excess that have tarnished the RBPF’s reputation. By fostering a culture of transparency, professionalism, and accountability, she can restore public trust and ensure that the RBPF serves as a pillar of justice and integrity.
This moment calls for bold leadership, systemic reforms, and unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness and equality. The Bahamian people deserve a police force that upholds the law impartially, protects their rights and operates with the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. Anything less would be a disservice to the nation and its citizens.
On ACP Shanta Knowles recommended to become new Commissioner of Police
Posted 4 December 2024, 7:27 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> Reforming the Royal Bahamas Police
> Force: Challenges and Opportunities
The recent corruption scandals and political unrest in The Bahamas have exposed deeply ingrained issues within the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and the broader governance structure. From allegations of cocaine trafficking involving senior officers to the chaotic scenes in Parliament, these events highlight systemic dysfunction and the urgent need for reform. The appointment of Assistant Commissioner Shanta Knowles as the new Commissioner of Police offers a critical opportunity to address these challenges and rebuild public trust.
**Eliminating the “Blue Wall of Silence”**
One of the most pressing issues within the RBPF is the entrenched culture of "protection of the blue," or the blue wall of silence. This practice, where officers protect one another by suppressing complaints and shielding misconduct, alienates the community and erodes trust. When citizens report theft, misconduct, or violations of their rights, it should be the RBPF that takes the lead in initiating investigations and ensuring accountability.
**To dismantle this culture, the RBPF must:**
*Commit to Transparency: Every complaint must be thoroughly investigated, with the findings and actions taken communicated transparently to the public.*
*Protect Whistleblowers: Officers who expose misconduct must be shielded from retaliation, creating a system where integrity is rewarded.*
*Prosecute Proven Misconduct: When bad behaviour is substantiated, the RBPF must act decisively, including criminal prosecution and dismissal if warranted.*
Accountability must become a cornerstone of the RBPF’s operations, ensuring that officers understand they are held to the same standards as the citizens they serve.
**Addressing the Culture of Favoritism**
The practice of "my friend is the police, he can fix it" further undermines the RBPF's credibility. This system of favouritism, where officers intervene to help friends or family bypass proper procedures, falsify reports, or tamper with evidence, creates a two-tiered system of justice. It erodes public trust and perpetuates a culture of impunity.
**Reforms to eliminate favouritism must include:**
*Strict Enforcement of Protocols: All police actions must follow established procedures, with zero tolerance for deviations due to personal relationships.*
*Independent Oversight: An external body should monitor police activities to ensure impartiality and accountability.*
*Training on Ethics and Professionalism: Officers must be educated on the importance of impartiality and the consequences of favouritism.*
These measures will reinforce the principle of equal justice under the law and restore confidence in the RBPF’s integrity.
continue in reply:-
On ACP Shanta Knowles recommended to become new Commissioner of Police
Posted 4 December 2024, 7:25 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> Statement on the Creation of the
> Office of the Minister: Ensuring
> Ministries Serve the Public, Not
> Politicians
In a bold step toward modernizing governance, we are introducing a significant reform designed to redefine the relationship between elected officials and ministry operations. At the heart of this initiative is establishing a dedicated Office of the Minister, an independent entity that ensures ministries act exclusively in service to the public, free from political interference or influence.
This change reflects a commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability in government operations. The Office of the Minister will enable elected officials to focus on policy oversight, strategic leadership, and accountability to Parliament and the public, leaving the day-to-day management of ministries to qualified civil servants. This separation eliminates the perception and reality of cronyism while fostering trust in public institutions by ensuring fairness and impartiality in decision-making and service delivery.
The establishment of the Office of the Minister is not merely a structural adjustment; it is a clear declaration that ministries exist to serve the people. This reform removes political influence from the management of public resources, ensuring that the needs of citizens are prioritized over political interests. By empowering civil servants to execute policies effectively and transparently, we are building a system where ministries operate with integrity and a singular focus on delivering high-quality public services.
This initiative represents a fundamental shift in how governance operates, creating a framework that prioritizes public trust, enhances efficiency, and restores confidence in the role of ministries as impartial and professional institutions. By separating political oversight from operational management, we affirm our dedication to serving the people with transparency and excellence. This reform ensures that government institutions function with the highest standards of integrity, reinforcing our commitment to a system where public service remains paramount.
> People for a Better Bahamas (PBB)
*Empowering the People, Building the Nation*
**Vision Statement**
People for a Better Bahamas (PBB) envisions a nation united by equality, progress, and sustainability. We are dedicated to fostering a Bahamas where every individual has the opportunity to thrive through bold leadership, innovative policies, and a steadfast commitment to collective well-being.
PBB stands as a beacon for transformative change, promoting a governance framework that prioritizes transparency, professionalism, and public service. Together, we aim to empower the people and build a nation that reflects the values of fairness, opportunity, and progress for all.
****Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.****
On Minnis: It’s time for a full inquiry
Posted 3 December 2024, 10:34 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> "People for a Better Bahamas" (PBB):
For nearly 70 years, the Bahamas and its people have endured a legacy of incompetence in leadership, a lack of vision, and stagnated growth. Over this time, our nation's potential has been squandered, and the standard of living, safety, and security of Bahamians have steadily eroded. Hope and prospects for a brighter future have been replaced by despair, leading our small, close-knit communities into the grips of gangs, drug wars, delinquency, and social decay.
This is not the future we deserve, nor is it the legacy we should leave for our children. People for a Better Bahamas (PBB) stands as a transformative force, committed to reversing decades of neglect and inefficiency. We recognize the urgency of change, and we are prepared to implement the bold, necessary reforms to rebuild our nation from the ground up.
We can fix this. Through strong leadership, innovative policies, and a relentless dedication to the people, PBB will restore hope, opportunity, and prosperity to every Bahamian. Together, we can reclaim our nation's promise and build a future where our communities thrive, and our people rise.
***Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.***
On Investment fear on corruption charges
Posted 2 December 2024, 11:24 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
People for a Better Bahamas (PBB)
Empowering the People, Building the Nation.
Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.
PBB – People for a Better Bahamas: We Can Fix This.
On Pintard: ‘We would end political appointments in uniformed branches’
Posted 2 December 2024, 11:13 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> Core Message of "People for a Better
> Bahamas" (PBB):
For nearly 70 years, the Bahamas and its people have endured a legacy of incompetence in leadership, a lack of vision, and stagnated growth. Over this time, our nation's potential has been squandered, and the standard of living, safety, and security of Bahamians have steadily eroded. Hope and prospects for a brighter future have been replaced by despair, leading our small, close-knit communities into the grips of gangs, drug wars, delinquency, and social decay.
This is not the future we deserve, nor is it the legacy we should leave for our children. **People for a Better Bahamas (PBB)** stands as a transformative force, committed to reversing decades of neglect and inefficiency. We recognize the urgency of change, and we are prepared to implement the bold, necessary reforms to rebuild our nation from the ground up.
We can fix this. Through strong leadership, innovative policies, and a relentless dedication to the people, **PBB** will restore hope, opportunity, and prosperity to every Bahamian. Together, we can reclaim our nation's promise and build a future where our communities thrive, and our people rise.
***Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. PBB – People for a Better Bahamas.***
On Bahamas’ debt jumps to just below $12bn
Posted 2 December 2024, 5:13 p.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> "Clueless"
**Core Message of "People for a Better Bahamas" (PBB):**
For nearly 70 years, the Bahamas and its people have endured a legacy of incompetence in leadership, a lack of vision, and stagnated growth. Over this time, our nation's potential has been squandered, and the standard of living, safety, and security of Bahamians have steadily eroded. Hope and prospects for a brighter future have been replaced by despair, leading our small, close-knit communities into the grips of gangs, drug wars, delinquency, and social decay.
This is not the future we deserve, nor is it the legacy we should leave for our children. People for a Better Bahamas (**PBB**) stands as a transformative force, committed to reversing decades of neglect and inefficiency. We recognize the urgency of change, and we are prepared to implement the bold, necessary reforms to rebuild our nation from the ground up.
We can *fix* this. Through strong leadership, innovative policies, and a relentless dedication to the people, **PBB** will restore hope, opportunity, and prosperity to every Bahamian. Together, we can reclaim our nation's promise and build a future where our communities thrive, and our people rise.
***Join us in this mission for a stronger, safer, and better Bahamas. **PBB** – People for a Better Bahamas.***
On Pintard: ‘We would end political appointments in uniformed branches’
Posted 2 December 2024, 9:49 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> ...today's organization leaves much to
> be desired.
Some of what Fred (Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell said on Friday) is correct. However, in the spirit of openness, Fred should acknowledge that the culture within the force is far from ideal. Younger, brighter members are often held back by "dinosaurs" who leverage their political or other connections to maintain their positions. Relying on a straight back and a stiff upper lip as the sole qualifications for leadership is delusional.
While the force has indeed produced excellent officers, administration is an entirely different matter. Very few, either in the past or present, have acquired the administrative skills necessary for such critical positions. These are the cold, undeniable facts that have led some of the brighter members to abandon the force altogether, as they see "dinosaurs" and the politically—or otherwise—connected excel through the ranks.
My friend Greenslade made some inroads in introducing a level of professionalism to the force during his leadership. However, today's organization leaves much to be desired, especially considering some in the current leadership lineup.
On ‘We must rebuild trust in police’
Posted 2 December 2024, 9:35 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
The Commissioner’s awareness of the issues within the organization, including the presence of homosexual officers, cannot be dismissed. Must officers resort to extreme measures, such as coming to work in drag, to force an acknowledgement of their identity and role within the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF)? With a dedicated intelligence section that provides comprehensive briefings to all appointees, and Commissioner Fernander’s over 30 years of service, there is no reasonable excuse for ignorance on such matters. To suggest otherwise is to undermine the competence and responsibilities of leadership within the force.
From the "Nation for Sale" scandal of the 1980s to the current controversies, the issues within the RBPF have been an open secret. These matters speak to a broader systemic challenge in addressing accountability, transparency, and inclusion within public institutions in the Bahamas. It is not merely an internal issue for the RBPF but a reflection of the political and social climate that tolerates selective blindness to longstanding issues. The time for dismissing these realities has passed; it is now a matter of political will and moral responsibility to confront them head-on.
On NATIONAL STATEMENT: The full text of statement by Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander
Posted 2 December 2024, 7:25 a.m. Suggest removal
IslandWarrior says...
> Response to the Police Commissioner’s
> National Statement:
The Commissioner’s statement, while appearing earnest, reflects an inability or unwillingness to address systemic failures that have been public knowledge for decades. His narrative of shock and devastation at the recent indictment of Chief Superintendent Curtis rings hollow to many Bahamians who have witnessed, time and again, the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) 's inability to police itself effectively.
When the bubble bursts, it is often the public left to pick up the pieces while institutions scramble to control damage. Yet, when these same bubbles of corruption are being celebrated, few in positions of power seem eager to address the root causes. The Commissioner’s declaration of initiating a review of events dating back to previous leadership and political administrations raises more questions than it answers.
The indictment of Chief Superintendent Curtis is not an isolated event; it is a symptom of a deeply entrenched system of corruption that permeates not only the RBPF but also other facets of governance. The IDB report cited in the statement confirms what Bahamians have long understood: corruption has been normalized across sectors.
the subservience of the police to political figures in office is a critical factor in perpetuating corruption and undermining the independence of law enforcement. When law enforcement agencies operate as extensions of political will, their ability to act impartially and uphold justice is significantly compromised. This dynamic fosters a culture of patronage, where political loyalty often supersedes professionalism and accountability.
Until the RBPF and the government embrace true accountability and independent oversight, the Bahamian public will remain sceptical of any claims of reform. The international community, including the United States, will continue to withhold sensitive information, viewing the RBPF as a compromised institution.
It is time for Bahamian leaders to confront these challenges with honesty and courage. This moment demands more than words; it requires decisive action to dismantle a culture of impunity and rebuild trust with the people. Without this, the RBPF risks losing the confidence of both its citizens and international partners—a loss that would be devastating for national security and sovereignty.
On NATIONAL STATEMENT: The full text of statement by Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander
Posted 2 December 2024, 1:58 a.m. Suggest removal