NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Organization for Responsible Governance (ORG) has commended the government for tabling the Independent Commission of Investigations Bill, 2024, calling it a significant step in addressing recent allegations of corruption within government security functions. The move it noted also recognizes the need to strengthen public trust in law enforcement and defense institutions.
“Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good governance. The tabling of this Bill is an important acknowledgment of the public’s call for meaningful reform in critical sectors like law enforcement and national security,” said Matt Aubry, Executive Director of ORG.
He continued: “To fully restore confidence, it is important to take these individual measures a step further and work to ensure they are applied within a comprehensive, systemic approach to addressing corruption. It is crucial that we seize this opportunity to create a more transparent and accountable framework that benefits all Bahamians.”
While this Bill marks progress, ORG continues to emphasize that a sufficient response to corruption will be achieved through a whole-of-society approach that fosters cross-sector collaboration and restores public confidence. These measures were outlined in ORG’s national anti-corruption framework proposal.
ORG has strongly urged the government to prioritize the establishment of an Integrity Commission, as proposed in prior legislation and reaffirmed as a priority in the current administration’s Blueprint for Change. Such a commission ORG noted would provide nationwide oversight of corruption risks across all sectors, including procurement, public finance, and regulatory frameworks. It would integrate preventive measures, such as mandatory asset declarations and anti-corruption education, with investigative and enforcement capabilities. The commission would also foster civil society collaboration by engaging citizens, businesses, and non-governmental organizations in promoting a culture of integrity. Additionally, it would strengthen compliance with international anti-corruption standards and improve The Bahamas’ global standing.
“Combatting corruption requires more than isolated reforms. A holistic framework, including an Integrity Commission, will close the gaps bad actors exploit and ensure progress is comprehensive and sustained,” Aubry added.
ORG acknowledges the government’s efforts in introducing the Independent Commission of Investigations Bill, 2024. To maximize the impact of the legislation, ORG calls on the government to extend and broaden the public consultation process beyond 14 days, ensuring widespread awareness and input.
“ORG encourages all stakeholders—citizens, the private sector, and civil society organizations—to review the Bill, provide feedback, and actively participate in shaping this critical measure,” stated ORG’s Deputy Executive Director, Steffon Evans.
This legislation follows a US federal indictment highlighting serious corruption allegations involving Bahamian law enforcement officers and government officials. The indictment, filed by the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, claims that drug traffickers have smuggled tons of cocaine through The Bahamas since 2021 with the support of corrupt Bahamian government officials, including members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF).
Police Chief Superintendent Elvis Curtis and Defence Force Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker were arrested in Florida on charges of conspiracy to import cocaine, firearm possession, and firearms conspiracy. They will face trial in federal courts in New York. Additionally, retired officer Sergeant Prince Albert Symonette was named in the indictment and has also been discharged.
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