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VOLUME:114 No.250, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2017

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Minnis: It’s okay to change your mind

Defends his THE ROAD ENDS FOR RONNIE BUTLER about-face over MPs’ pay

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert has suggested he is not wrong for changing his mind regarding a pay raise for Members of Parliament, adding that correcting the “dire” structure of the public service is needed to change the “unfair” pay scale in the government sector.

“If I am headed out east then somewhere I decide to turn around and head

out west, am I wrong?” was the prime minister’s response when The Tribune drew his attention to his 2014 stance against MPs receiving a pay raise, as proposed by the former Christie administration.

His position then was: “As long as I am leader of this country, the FNM would not support any pay increase with all the pain and suffering that is going on in this country.”

SEE PAGE SIX

press has a broader obligation to report on “policy matters that will have a greater impact than some stories that are less substantial.”

Dr Minnis also claimed the media had not reported on his administration’s plans to amend the Immigration Act to give children of Bahamian men and women equal access to citizenship, although the matter has been covered repeatedly in this newspaper and other media outlets.

SEE PAGE SIX

HUNT DRAGS ON AS FIRST ‘ILLEGALS’ SENT HOME

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net

MORE than a week after a large empty sloop was discovered on the shoreline of Adelaide Beach, immigration officers have still not captured any of the Haitians suspected to have been on board, according to Kirklyn Neely, head of the Immigration Department’s Enforcement Unit.

However, Mr Neely said the intensive search continues. Over the weekend, he said eight different nationalities were repatriated and he was arranging two Bahamasair flights for Haiti this week.

SEE PAGE 14

SLS OPENS WITH 50% OCCUPANCY

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net THE SLS at Baha Mar officially opened in grand style on Friday night despite the incompletion of its top two floors and only 50 per cent of the hotel’s 300-rooms filled.

At the event, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis dodged questions over whether the sale of the resort to purchaser Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) was complete.

“The hotel is open. Are you not happy?” the prime minister responded when he was asked by The Tribune to comment on the status of the deal. “You are happy, right? I am happy.

Good.”

SEE PAGE THREE

PM FINDS FAULT WITH NEWS MEDIA

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis criticised the Bahamas media on Saturday for concentrating mostly on the “clashes and drama of politics” and under reporting “important and more consequential stories” on public policy.

While addressing the media at the Press Club Awards at the British Colonial Hilton, Dr Minnis compared the country’s leading newspapers with “tabloids” and said the

HOME

BAHAMIAN music legend Ronnie Butler has died, aged 80. He is pictured above in his younger years as he became one of the most influential Bahamian musicians ever. See page five for the full story.

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Deputy Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net

JOLLY SMILES AT JOLLIFICATION THE gardens of the Bahamas National Trust were packed with crowds for the traditional preChristmas Jollification event over the weekend.

There were plenty of gift ideas on show, as well as arts and crafts, and food and drink galore for visitors to enjoy .

See page 12 for more photographs from the event.

PENSION OR SALARY - NOT BOTH

YOUNGSTERS enjoying Jollification at the Bahamas National Trust yesterday.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

RETIRED civil servants who are re-engaged by the government will have their pensions stopped in a bid by the government to “unclog” the public sector, Public Service and National Insurance Minister Brensil Rolle said yesterday.

In an interview with The Tribune, Mr Rolle said the Minnis administration made the decision to revert to the practice birthed under a former Free National Movement administration SEE PAGE SIX

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, November 20, 2017, PAGE 3

SLS opens with 50% occupancy from page one Speaking on the sidelines of the elaborate opening, SLS general manager Richard Alexander said while only 150 of the rooms at the hotel were occupied, this was expected to increase to at least 60 per cent over the Christmas season.

There are also 460 staff at the SLS Baha Mar, Mr Alexander said.

He said: “So we have 300 very stylish bedrooms. Most of them face the ocean. We have five restaurants right across the resort. I should mention Cleo Eastern Mediterranean Restaurant.

We have Katsuya, which many people have already found and find it delicious, serving Japanese Asian food and we have many more to come. But I think the beauty of this resort is there is something for everyone no matter where you come from what nationality you are there is always something to excite you and entertain you.”

Asked to state the number of rooms filled, Mr Alexander said: “Tonight [Friday], we have 50 per cent occupancy tonight and we are on day three. That’s quite an achievement and I really want to shout out all

the people who work here that make it happen.

“We will dip after this opening, but then Thanksgiving is looking really good and Christmas is looking really amazing. We’ll see at least 60 per cent occupancy over Christmas.”

He also said: “All of the rooms are open except for the top two floors but they just need some final detailing and they’ll be ready by Christmas.”

Regarding the Bahamians to expatriate ratio of the staff complement, the general manager was unable to give specifics, telling The Tribune that “pretty much all of them” are native to the country.

“We have 460 staff now operating the whole complex and they have been absolutely wonderful. I’m already getting many good comments on the hotel, but I’m getting even more comments about how engaging and friendly and smiling our associates are.

“Pretty much all of them, except for me and a few others, [are Bahamian].

We deliberately looked for Bahamian people that had personality and character rather than people who had experience and capability because you can always teach those things and we believe at SLS and SBE

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis at the SLS Lux opening at Baha Mar. that our role is to teach and pass on our skills to the local associates,” Mr Alexander said.

For his part, the prime minister stressed the need to add more Bahamian culture into the property to help the brand to succeed, urging officials to ensure that additional ways are always found to weave Bahamian arts into the resort experience.

“Even as SLS brings its signature vision and principles to The Bahamas, I trust that the company may also appreciate what The Bahamas may impart to, and add to their brand,” Dr Minnis said as he addressed scores of people gathered for the opening on Friday night.

“I note, for example, the rich collection of Bahamian art at Baha Mar. This artistry represents some of the spirit of the Bahamian

and Caribbean imagination, helping visitors to experience some of our cultural heritage.

“I imagine this collection will continue to grow, including at SLS, helping to feature the extraordinary talent and diversity of Bahamian artists at home and abroad,” Dr Minnis added.

He also urged officials at the resort to provide opportunities for their guests to get a taste of the Bahamian experience outside of their doors, even as they move to create a Bahamian experience within.

“Even as visitors experience the delights of Baha Mar, there should be opportunities to venture beyond the resort to experience our culture and heritage, including through heritage tours.”

This, he said, would produce opportunities for tour

ROBERTS: MINNIS A HYPOCRITE OVER BAHA MAR FORMER Progressive Liberal Party Chairman Bradley Roberts has accused Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis of being a “hypocrite” after an appearance at the opening of the SLS hotel brand at Baha Mar on Friday, saying the nation’s leader did everything in his power to “destroy that project for narrow political gain”.

“Bahamians, that was not a hologram or a PR stunt, that was the hypocrite in the flesh; live and in living colour,” Mr Roberts said in a statement released Sunday.

“The opening of the casino hotel, the convention centre, the golf course and club house under the PLP were not actual official openings but PR stunts staged by the PLP government. This according to Minnis and the FNM while he served as opposition leader. Apparently, Baha Mar is only open when the FNM says that it is.

“The facts however tell a totally different story. Former Prime Minister Christie outlined in meticulous detail the strategy and timeline for the phased opening of Baha Mar in a heads of

agreement, at press conferences, from the floor of the House [of Assembly], in multiple media interviews and from the rally stage. To date, everything announced by the PLP surrounding the rescue and opening of Baha Mar turned out to be true and are coming to pass just as the former prime minister and former AG outlined them.”

He added: “The unsecured contractors and thousands of displaced Baha Mar employees were paid over $100m at no cost to the tax payers of this country; a buyer with impeccable international credentials in the hospitality industry was secured and Baha Mar was rescued and placed back on track to realise its full economic potential.

“Had Baha Mar gone the route of bankruptcy in Delaware as Minnis and [Dionisio] D’Aguilar had publicly suggested, Baha Mar would still be closed, thousands of Bahamians would still be unemployed and hundreds of contractors would still be owed hundreds of millions of dollars with little to no chance of financial recovery.”

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Since taking office, the Minnis administration has said very little of Baha Mar’s sale to CTFE. Back in June, Tribune Business reported the resort’s original developer Sarkis Izmirlian urged the Minnis administration to impose “a moratorium” on the completion of Baha Mar’s sale and warned he was considering legal action against the Christie administration’s “state sponsored discrimination”.

Last month, Attorney General Carl Bethel confirmed the government received a letter from Mr Izmirlian in response to questions from The Tribune over whether the

government would investigate the issuance of a casino licence to the resort’s purchaser CTFE. The letter, said to be dated October 17, and sent to the Office of the Attorney General purportedly called on the Minnis administration to look into the previous government’s April 5, 2017 issuance of the licence, a source told The Tribune.

According to the source, the letter also referred to multiple agreements, records and documents outside of those which were already made public regarding Baha Mar. But when this newspaper questioned what the letter referred and its details, Mr Bethel would not say.

PAGE 4, Monday, November 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

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Trump and the issue of sexual harassment WASHINGTON (AP) — “You can do anything,” Donald Trump once boasted, speaking of groping and kissing unsuspecting women.

Maybe he could, but not everyone can.

The candidate who openly bragged about grabbing women’s private parts — but denied he really did so — was elected president months before the cascading sexual harassment allegations that have been toppling the careers of powerful men in Hollywood, business, the media and politics. He won even though more than a dozen women accused him of sexual misconduct, and roughly half of all voters said they were bothered by his treatment of women, according to exit polls.

Now, as one prominent figure after another takes a dive, the question remains: Why not Trump?

“A lot of people who voted for him recognised that he was what he was, but wanted a change and so they were willing to go along,” theorises Jessica Leeds, one of the first women to step forward and accuse Trump of groping her, decades ago on an airplane.

The charges leveled against him emerged in the supercharged thick of the 2016 campaign, when there was so much noise and chaos that they were just another episode for gobsmacked voters to try to absorb — or tune out.

“When you have a Mount Everest of allegations, any particular allegation is very hard to get traction on,” says political psychologist Stanley Renshon.

And Trump’s unconventional candidacy created an entirely different set of rules.

“Trump is immune to the laws of political physics because it’s not his job to be a politician, it’s his job to burn down the system,” says Eric Dezenhall, a crisis management expert in Washington.

Now Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore, accused of assaulting teenage girls when he was in his 30s, is waving that same alternative rulebook.

Long a bane to establishment Republicans, Moore is thumbing his nose at calls by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and other GOP members of Congress to drop out of the campaign, and accusing them of trying to “steal” the race from his loyal insurgents.

As for Trump, the president who rarely sits out a feeding frenzy is selectively aiming his Twitter guns at those under scrutiny.

He quickly unloaded on Democrat Al Franken after the Minnesota senator was accused Thursday of forcibly kissing and groping a Fox TV sports correspondent, now a Los Angeles radio anchor, during a 2006 USO tour.

Yet Trump has been largely mum as Washington Republicans try to figure out what to do about Moore. McConnell and company have zero interest in welcoming an accused child molester to their ranks nor in seeing their slim 52-48 Senate majority grow even thinner should Moore lose to Democrat Doug Jones in a special election on Dec 12.

Trump did support moves by the national Republican Party to cut off money for Moore. But he hasn’t said whether he still backs Moore’s candidacy.

Spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders, pressed repeatedly on the matter this week, would say only that Trump “thinks that the people of Alabama should make the decision on who their next senator should be”.

As for the allegations against Moore, Sanders said Trump finds them “very troubling”.

As for Franken, presidential adviser Kellyanne Conway told Fox News that Trump had merely “weighed in as he does on the news of the day” when jabbing at the senator.

But Trump’s broadsides at Franken served as an open invitation for critics to revisit his own history of alleged sexual misconduct.

Leeds, for her part, called the president “the walking definition of hypocrisy”.

Look no further than the bipartisan howl that greeted Ivanka Trump’s statement this week about Moore for a demonstration of the perilous crosscurrents around Trump on the issue.

“There’s a special place in hell for people who prey on children,” Trump’s daughter told the AP, adding that she had “no reason to doubt the victims’ accounts”. She did not call for Moore to leave the race.

Liberals and conservatives both pounced. Those on the left noted she had waited a week to chime in and had never given similar credence to the claims of her father’s accusers. Some on the right faulted her for buying into unproven accusations.

Liberal movie director Rob Reiner tweeted: “Ivanka believes Roy Moore’s accusers. But the more than 12 women who accuse her father of sexual abuse are all liars. The difference is? ...”

The sexual assault drama is playing out as a painful sequel for Leeds and other women who came forward during the 2016 presidential campaign to accuse Trump of harassment and more — only to see him elected president anyway.

“My pain is everyday,” Jill Harth, a former business associate who claimed Trump put his hands under her dress during a business dinner in 1992, tweeted in October. “No one gets it unless it happens to them. NO one!”

It’s the same for those who accused former President Bill Clinton of sexual misconduct, their charges once written off as “bimbo eruptions”.

“I am now 73... it never goes away,” nurse Juanita Broaddrick, who accused Clinton of raping her in 1978, tweeted Friday.

Allegations of womanising, extramarital affairs and abuse dogged Clinton over the course of his political life, culminating in his 1998 impeachment — and acquittal — over his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. He also agreed to an $850,000 settlement with Arkansas state worker Paula Jones, who had accused him of exposing himself and making indecent propositions when he was governor. The settlement included no apology or admission of guilt.

Leading feminists and Democraticleaning groups stayed loyal to him throughout — though some are rethinking that stance now.

Even in the current charged environment, when every new allegation can produce screaming headlines, Trump may well be able to go his own way — and take a hands-off approach to Moore.

Trump’s base likes him when he’s gratuitously ornery: Insulting war heroes, Gold Star families and the disabled have all been good for him, so what does he gain by strongly opining on Moore?” asks Dezenhall. “Nothing that I can see, so as a guideline, he doesn’t need to do all that much.”

An efficient solution EDITOR, The Tribune.

CAN we reduce our use of electricity by simply throwing out our high BTU equipment and buy the more efficient?

The Chamber of Commerce proposal but has one enormous miscalculation or redundancy - can Joe Public afford the more efficient appliances as they usually cost a lot more?

We build homes with low ceiling heights and without

taking advantage of God’s breezes so Ale is needed even in Mama’s shack.

The solution is and has been biting us if only incumbent Governments will research as the Christie government should have from 2012 opportunity after opportunity - proposal after proposal which would have saved us Joe Consumer millions in the gouging fuel surcharge.

However, Chair of BP&L holds her mouth

there is no possibility short term of BP&L reducing appreciably our electricity costs – they can tender here and there as we see but reality is all they are doing is basically small housekeeping improvements.

Reality.

We have to bite the bullet ... and cause a smile on every consumers’s face.

LOREN SMITH Nassau, November 16, 2017.

Ban the export of conch EDITOR, The Tribune.

memory, so depleted that the commercial harvestI APPRECIATE that ing of conch was banned in there are a large number 1975 and the recreational letters@tribunemedia.net of issues which need harvesting was added to to be addressed by the those illegally harvested by the ban in 1986. Despite Government, however, the poachers. the ban, the conch has not I am disappointed that One only has to visit the returned and yet here we the Government has not spots in Nassau where live are a mere hundred miles appreciated the need to conch are sold and note or so from the Keys and we address the severe deple- over the years the reduc- refuse to learn from their tion of the conch stock in tion in the size of the conch experience and to react to the country as a matter or that is being offered for what is happening in front urgency. sale. Many of the conch of us.

During the last Parlia- being sold are clearly juveLet us learn from the fact mentary term, I raised nile conch which should that the “Conch Republic” the issue in the House on still be enjoying the beauti- has in the blink of an eye several occasions and sug- ful waters of The Bahamas. become the “No Conch gested that this issue was The general test is that Republic”. If we sit by a serious matter which the lip of the conch must and do nothing, we will in needed immediate atten- be curved as an indication another blink of an eye, tion and that, for a start, that it is mature, however, find ourselves in the same the Government should in many instances, the edge state as the “No Conch ban the export of conch. of the conch is broken Republic”.

I found no support from by the vendor to prevent If we continue to ignore the PLP Government as anyone being able to dem- what is happening in front the Minister of Conchs onstrate that the conch is of us then I can only sugsuggested that before he immature. gest that when the cost of made any decision he Any lover of conch the conch salad hits $30, it needed another survey, salad will have witnessed will probably be too late even though he had at the constant increase in to address the problem as least three professional the cost or the reduc- we will have arrived at the reports looking at him, and point of no return. tion in size of the bowl in another Minister suggested We hear so much which the salad is served that I didn’t know what I these days about the over the last few years to was talking about as there natural resources of The the point where a bowl of was a place in the Exuma Bahamas, and here is a natCays known as Conch Cut conch salad from the Fish ural resource that we can in which there was an end- Fry to any of the hotels or feel and touch. Let us preless supply of conchs. With restaurants in Nassau will serve this natural resource this type of reaction it was cost anywhere from $12 to before it is lost forever. Inievident that the PLP were $18. Close your eyes and tially, there may be a few content to sit back and you will be looking at a $30 persons who are adversely watch the gradual disap- conch salad. affected by a ban on the Anyone over the age export of conch, but stop pearance of the conch from the Bahamian menu. I of 30 would remember and consider how many trust that the FNM Gov- walking in to the sea off thousands of Bahamians ernment will, however, virtually any beach in the will be adversely affected take a serious approach to Bahamas and picking up when there is no conch to a few conch without look- make conch salad, cracked the issue.

Under the existing laws, ing. At this point in time, conch, conch chowder or it is legal to export 500,000 you will have to go many conch fritters. pounds of conch per miles further to achieve any The banning of the annum. Stop and reflect success. Even more signifi- export of conch will not for a minute that you are cant, however, than the cost of itself address the issue, probably destroying 1 mil- of the conch is that without but it is an essential beginlion conchs in order to a certain density of conch ning to the discussion. A provide 500,000 pounds of (about 50 adult conch per ban would not require conch. How many conchs hectare) there will be no any legislation as it can be do you think there are in reproduction. achieved at the stroke of Let us not forget that the pen.

The Bahamas? Certainly not enough to sustain the Key West in the Florida Stroke that pen!! present level of depletion, Keys was once referred

not to mention the millions to as the “Conch RepubRICHARD of pounds which are con- lic” for an obvious reason. LIGHTBOURN sumed within The Bahamas The conch stock in the Nassau, each and every year and Florida Keys was, in living November 17, 2017

LETTERS

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, November 20, 2017, PAGE 5

The Road ends for Ronnie Butler

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net MUSICAL legend and cultural icon Ronnie Butler died at his home early yesterday morning after battling a long illness.

He was 80.

Referred to as “The Godfather of Bahamian Music,” Butler’s career spanned more than five decades.

Many people paid tribute to the musician after news of his death spread.

Progressive Liberal Party Leader Phillip “Brave” Davis described Butler as a “musical treasure.”

“Our nation’s national musical treasure Ronnie Butler has passed into eternity. Now he belongs to the ages. He can sing his sweet music in heaven as he travels Burma Road on the way to the Pearly Gates,” Mr Davis said in a statement.

“Ronnie Butler helped us to build our sense of national identity. Almost 50 years ago, just as we ushered in majority rule, he reminded us from whence we came. He told us that he remembered when we used to go to high mass on Sunday with high top tennis with no socks on. That was Ronnie Butler. It seems that his voice has always been with us. He leaves a great legacy. I am sure all of the nation feels this loss.”

Free National Movement (FNM) Chairman Carl

RONNIE Butler at a We March event, above.

Culmer said Butler was wider Bahamas has lost a an “extraordinary human giant. being, mentor and friend “As chairman of the to many young musicians” Bahamas Independence locally and throughout the Secretariat, I was tremenCaribbean. dously honoured when Mr “We honoured him Butler agreed to our request during his life and we will to be the centrepiece of our honour him even at his 44th independence celebradeath, for making such tion,” Mr Humes said in remarkable contributions a statement. “Without a to the Bahamas through doubt, his performance was his music, which often by far the highlight of the addressed his political ide- celebrations. I, like many ology and values on the in attendance, could not be struggle of our people as we more grateful to him for fought for inclusion in mat- sharing his God-given gifts ters affecting our country with us one final time. We before independence,” Mr were and will continue to be Culmer said. truly blessed by the legacy Butler was a longtime that he has left behind. resident of Fort Charlotte.

“To a grieving nation, I The area’s member of would wish to encourage Parliament Mark Humes each of you to cherish and said the community and the be thankful for the many RONNIE Butler with then prime minister Perry Christie and minister of culture Dr Danny Johnson.

A LIFE IN MUSIC

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net

RONNIE Butler was born August 17, 1937, in New Providence and first entered the music business at the age of 16 while simultaneously working in construction.

He later joined the group King Eric and His Knights where he established himself as an entertainer. After six years, he left to form his own group, Ronnie and the Ramblers, which flourished for 17 years.

Ronnie and The Ramblers performed nightly at the Big Bamboo, which was an underground club on Bay Street. From there, Butler went to work in The Rum Keg Room of the Nassau Beach Hotel. He then took a year off and travelled to Washington DC, where he performed in a club known as Alfio’s.

Butler returned to the Nassau Beach Hotel in the Out Island Bar in 1971, around which time he recorded the smash hits “Burma Road,” “Crow Calypso,” “Native Woman,” and “Bahama Rock.” All of these songs were featured on the album titled, “Burma Road.”

In September of 1973, Butler started performing in Ronnie’s Rebel Room, where he remained for ten years. It was during the transition from the Nassau Beach Hotel and Ronnie’s Rebel Room that

Butler recorded most of his records with Eddie Minnis as well as those recorded on his own. He then went on to perform in the Tradewinds Lounge on Paradise Island.

He continued to perform there until January 1990.

The Bahamas Guild of Artists’ Association has acknowledged Butler as one of its top five vocalists who have achieved international acclaim during their musical careers.

The icon’s most famous hit to date is “Burma Road,” which he wrote in 1967. He has sung calypso, rock, bluegrass, funk, and popular love songs in order to gain mass international appeal. “Burma Road” was one of his bestselling albums.

Butler achieved much success and longevity in his career and most recently his single, “Married Man,” was featured in American director and producer Tyler Perry’s, “Why Did I Get Married Too?” which was shot in The Bahamas.

Butler received many awards for his contribution to the growth and development of his community, including a Cacique Award, Bahamas Icon Award and was given the Queen’s Honour of Member of the Most Excellent Order of The British Empire (MBE) in 2003 for service to the music and entertainment industry.

He is survived by five children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

colourful memories that you have of Ronnie and live a life that will be speak to the fact that our living, like his, was not in vain.”

Former Attorney General Alfred Sears, who represented Fort Charlotte from 2002 to 2012, said Mr Butler was “a national cultural hero and patriot.”

“He helped to shape the Bahamian identity, through his creative lyrics, wit, powerful voice and principled views,” Mr Sears said in a statement.

“He believed in the ideals of the majority rule struggle, mentored younger artists, shared his musical gifts with the Fort Charlotte community and the country freely whenever requested and was courageous in speaking truth to power in defence of the ideals of majority rule and building the cultural institutions of the Bahamas. I am proud to call him my friend and brother. Rest in peace.”

Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin said the musician helped shape Bahamian culture.

“We are reminded that when your legs became weak, your voice got

stronger,” Mrs Hanna Martin said in a statement posted to her Facebook page. “You epitomised the powerful, independent and creative essence of this the Bahamian people. You brought us joy and laughter; your rhythms kept awake our indigenous spirit, a unique Bahama rock. In gratitude for your rich and happy presence.”

Local singer and activist Terneille “TaDa” Burrows said she and Butler became friends after a performance nearly 10 years ago.

“We first shared the stage in 2008 at Fort Charlotte and became quick friends thereafter,” she wrote on Facebook. “We also shared talent, drive and a burning desire for national advancement in arts, culture and entertainment.

You’ll always be the ‘Godfather of Bahamian Music’ and you were my friend.

“The legend lives on through many songs and in our hearts. . .”

Arinthia Komolafe, deputy leader of the Democratic National Alliance, said Butler embodied “the indomitable Bahamian spirit and exemplified all

that defines the people of this great nation.”

She added: “The Godfather of Bahamian Music was loved and admired both at home and abroad.

Ronnie, as he was fondly called, captured the hearts of many and captivated audiences from all walks of life. This son of the soil made us proud to be Bahamians and never stopped believing in the Bahamian Dream.

“The legacy of Ronnie Butler will be defined by his selflessness and sacrifice.

He delighted in using his gifts and talents for the benefit of his people whether he was compensated or not.

A grateful nation salutes one of her illustrious sons.

Ronnie Butler has now flown away and has taken his place alongside angels in the Heavenly Orchestra.

Adieu Ronnie. Your footsteps in the Bahamian sand will endure for generations to come.”

His son, Ronnie Butler Jr, posted a short statement on Facebook on Sunday.

“There are no words, except, perhaps ‘I love you Dad.’ On angels wings,” Mr Butler Jr wrote.

PAGE 6, Monday, November 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

Minnis: It’s okay to change your mind from page one

However, three years after this rejection, the prime minister told Parliament it was the government’s intention to bring a pay increase for MPs during the next budget cycle. Since then and amid fierce public backlash, Dr Minnis’ Press Secretary Anthony Newbold has seemingly attempted to walk back the comment, saying a raise is dependent on an economic upturn.

Absent from this debate over the last several weeks was further explanation from Dr Minnis, who was questioned about his proposal on Friday night on the sidelines of the opening of the SLS Hotel at Baha Mar. Earlier in his interview with this newspaper, Dr Minnis said: “Listen to me carefully. We look at things globally. We will have committees that will review the entire public service, public service reform. A part of it will look at the salary scales of each minister, [this is] Members of Parliament, prime ministers, corporations, etc.

“It is unfair and you don’t carry what I [don’t] want you to carry. Carry this.

It is unfair for some individuals to be [paid] half a million dollars a year and others getting paid $18,000.

It’s unfair. That has to be

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis speaking at the SLS Lux soft opening at Baha Mar. corrected and that is why you need public service reform looking at the dire structure and correcting it so that individuals will receive what is due.

“At the same time, in correcting [the sector] you look at the placement of individuals to ensure that they are placed in the right position because individuals’ performance are bad, not because they don’t want

to work but they are misplaced. So that is all a part of public reformation.”

Earlier this month, Dr Minnis painted the intended increase as a sensible development, especially in light of the substantial salaries the former Christie administration paid some contract workers in the past five years.

“I only want to put the nation on notice that the

the House of Assembly on a constitutional amendment bill to create an independent Office of the Director of Public Prosecution.

“I will establish an independent committee who will look at the members’ salaries, who will look at salaries for these half-a-million, these $800,000 and these contracts signed a few hours before election, all of that will be reviewed. [The committee

will] review all salary structures for government entitles,” he said at the time.

When asked for comment on the planned salary increases moments after Dr Minnis made the announcement, Bain and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson said parliamentarians should make $60,000 to $70,000 per year, likening their current pay to “janitorial salaries.”

He said increasing the pay of politicians would help stamp out corruption.

House Speaker Halson Moultrie last week said the Judges’ Remuneration and Pensions Act could be used as a precedent for the establishment of a review committee or commission to bring parity to salaries of those in the parliamentary and executive branches of government.

While he pointed to sections three and four of the act as a benchmark, it is unclear whether he was also referring to the pay scale outlined in the legislation governing judges’ salaries.

According to the Judges’ Remuneration and Pensions Act from 2008 and onward, the chief justice is the highest paid of the judiciary with a salary of $110,000 per annum.

Any senior justice or other judge receives a salary of $103,000 and $97,000 per annum respectively.

Members of Parliament make $28,000 a year.

roles,” Dr Minnis said.

“Nor the editors of The New York Times or Globe and Mail in Canada, nor the editors at the British Broadcasting Corporation would allow their editors to write commentary or to host a radio programme driven by personal opinion as well as commentary that purports to be news analysis...There has been a considerable blurring of reporting and commentary.

“It is telling when certain standards have been breached, that some in the press do not even realise that a standard has been breached. Journalists are not supposed to be champions of any political party, business, group or interest in a country. Journalists must avoid conflicts

of interest, and must be allowed to report fairly and honestly on where a story takes them. “The best journalism criticises, celebrates and inspires.

“I note that while some journalists are often more prone to negativity and cynicism, there are many wonderful and positive stories reported by the press, though I sometimes believe there can be more such stories.”

Dr Minnis thanked members of the press and editors for informing and educating viewers and readers and expressed gratitude to the Press Club for “developing as an association of journalists committed to the values, ethics and principles of your craft”.

Photo: Terrel W. Carey/Tribune Staff

time has come when individuals are being paid by that government half-a-million per annum, individuals are receiving contracts up to $800,000 and the members of Parliament are being paid $28,000. I want to put the country on notice that at the next budget I will come forward with a pay increase for the members of Parliament,” he said as debate wrapped up in

PM FINDS FAULT WITH NEWS MEDIA from page one

He also chastised editors who take on dual roles as columnists or talk show hosts, saying such practice is not common in other jurisdictions.

“There has been a tendency by political journalists to mostly report on the clashes and drama of politics. Such reporting is fairly easy and exciting.

Still, while there is news in such events, there is considerably more, much more, when reporting on

politics and the workings of government. Some in the press often miss important and more consequential stories on important public policy questions,” Dr Minnis said.

“By example, the landmark legislation that will be introduced to enable a certain classification of women and men denied equal access to citizenship in the Constitution, has been unreported, while some other stories have gained more traction.

“Drama undeniably excites viewers and

readers,” Dr Minnis said on Saturday. “This is much easier to report on but certainly the press has a broader obligation to report on policy matters that will have a greater impact than some stories that are less substantial.

“I have often found that the better reporting in our daily newspapers is to be found in the business sections, where the writers report in more detail on critical issues, which will have a significant and longterm impact. It is telling that the headlines in the

business sections are not tabloid in nature.”

Dr Minnis also said that while he understands that journalists in The Bahamas must take on multiple roles given the number of reporters and limited resources, it is still “surprising that editors also regularly write or offer commentary”.

“This is not a practice that would be allowed by journalists in other countries. I am not speaking here of editorial writing, a journalist and a columnist are distinctly different

PENSION OR SALARY - NOT BOTH from page one to not only add structure to the public sector, but to ensure talented people have equal opportunity for promotions.

“We just reverted to the policy established by the Free National Movement in 2007 where you could not get both [pensions and salary] if you were receiving a pension and the government needed you to work,” Mr Rolle said yesterday when contacted by The Tribune. “You had to make a decision whether you wanted to continue with your pension and not work.

“For example, if your pension is $50,000 and the position that we’re offering is $70,000, we’ll pay you the difference as opposed to someone getting a salary and a pension.

“The primary reason why we are doing that is to not only add some structure to the public service but to make sure those persons who are talented in the service would get an opportunity to be promoted.”

He also said: “People are brought back and they are brought back in the case of a few senior technical officers and permanent secretaries for example with a salary of say $70,000 and say if you had served for two terms in the public service as a PS, it means that your pension would be $70,000 and if you are brought back you are brought back to a salary equal to $70,000 or a bit more than that.

“In our view that has clogged the system because there are many serving officers who could have been promoted to that position and if we cannot do without you, the position is we will assign somebody to you to be trained for the period of the contract so

that when you leave there will be somebody in the service able to take over your position.”

Last month, a memorandum was circulated announcing this policy change among others.

Officers who retired before the mandatory age of retirement maybe reemployed on a temporary month-to-month term, contract or 12 months’ probation in a post scale and salary commensurate with qualifications, experience and needs of the agency, the memo stated.

In addition, these persons would have their pensions ceased during the period of re-employment on contract, temporary month-to-month terms of 12 months’ probation and if qualified to be re-appointed to the permanent and pensionable establishment, they will have their pensions recalculation in accordance with the Pensions Act on final retirement from the public service.

These officers may be considered for promotion, it said.

Regarding officers who retire at the mandatory retirement age, they may be considered for re-employment but only in exceptional cases for nurses, medical doctors, critical allied health professionals and teachers.

Such officers may only be re-employed up to age 70 if special circumstances with permission of the minister necessitates reemployment beyond this age. Other officers are only considered in exceptional circumstances and with the permission of the prime minister, the memo noted.

Additionally, the pensions of these persons will cease during the time of reemployment and they may not be promoted.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2017

THE STORIES BEHIND THE NEWS

The power of a dollar means more than passing on a birthright - Bahamians are betraying their own people

By MALCOLM STRACHAN

to finding a solution. However, the same cans have AST week’s been kicked around for landing of a decades to no avail. sloop containing The reality is that some perhaps as many find it far too difficult to as 250 illegal migrants has have this conversation withadded fuel to what already out allowing emotions to has been a fiery debate. For overtake them and slanting as long as we can remember, their sense of reason. This even the most dispassionate is perhaps why any headBahamian has not been shy way that can be made in to voice his or her opin- this regard is stalled. We are ion about immigration. too sensitive when it comes In this context, the clash- to what must be done with ing perspectives on illegal illegal immigration. immigrants – or if we are The narrative plays out to be honest with ourselves the same way, one adminisand speak plainly – our tration after the other. Once problem with the illegal a stance is taken, the best migration of Haitians, has defence is for those with been a subject of intense opposing views to decry the debate all around the coun- government for its inhutry this past week. mane treatment of Haitian From the migrants.

It Haitianis not long The government Bahamian before the population to must surely general public human rights know they are becomes conactivists, many fused on the losing this fight have lashed issue, along the govern- tactically, which with the ment in the they often do. We international wake of the community, constantly focus apprehenwhich leads sion exercises on treating the to the governtaking place symptoms rather ment softening since the its approach. images of the than attacking Hence, every empty sloop the cause. government within sight term, we end of the Royal Bahamas up right back at square Defence Force headlined one without scratching the the front pages. surface.

Bahamians were outBut if we are truly experaged. Rightfully so. Any riencing a changing tide in Bahamian travelling to our country, maybe it’s time Haiti, or any other coun- to take the kiddie gloves try, for that matter, has to off. enter legally through the What we face is a sysfront door – the airport. It is temic issue that will not a simple and undisputable solely be solved by Immifact. gration officers scouring the Yet, we become so dis- streets apprehending illegal combobulated trying to migrants. It won’t be fixed unravel ourselves from the by detaining and deporting web of emotional perspec- them. The only thing that tives which this national happens then is what always issue evokes. Perhaps, it happens – the migrants, is because the manner in or a whole new group of which the issue re-emerged them, make the next jourthat has caused so many ney to what they perceive within our country to have to be a “better life”. And their knickers in a twist. the government dispenses The prime minister’s much-needed funds from announcement last month the public purse to support cautioning all illegal immi- these efforts. grants to either become Despite what many of the regularised or face deporta- “Monday morning quartertion by the end of the year backs” view as inhumane if they do not leave has treatment, they certainly caused quite a stir. After aren’t deterred enough that what has been a rocky start they pick a new destination to governing the country, some saw it as him reachIMMIGRATION officers ing for the oldest stopping traffic on the trick in the political Paradise Island bridge. playbook to pander to the electorate.

Others have seen it as potentially opening the floodgates for an intense battle on an issue which attracts unwanted international attention. Human rights leader Fred Smith, who was once very chummy with the new administration, has been on the offensive since the announcement was made in Parliament.

For what should be a discussion strictly on the legality of this matter is now being turned into a debate on humanity.

The pastor of the as a result of the “cruelty” Metropolitan Church of they face when illegally the Nazarene, the church landing on Bahamian Prime Minister Minnis vis- shores. And we certainly ited after his announcement don’t see them complaincreated a shockwave in the ing when they are allowed nation, has also expressed to utilise public services for his views on the matter. free that Bahamians typiPastor Nelson Pierre said he cally end up having to pay would like to see the illegal for. If there is anything that migrants treated humanely is inhumane, it is the living and called for increased conditions they subject diplomacy between Haiti themselves to by choosing and The Bahamas as a path to live outside of society

L

THE SLOOP that was found on the shoreline of Adelaide Village in this photograph posted to Facebook. in makeshift shanty towns.

Yet, this is what they refer to as a better life.

Their version of a better life should not come at the expense of a worsening of a Bahamian’s life in their own country.

As much as this has been placed on the backburner, the problem continues to fester and has grown into a cancer that has infected the fabric of Bahamian society.

This cancer will continue to grow and eat away at us, making us more hateful and, perhaps, xenophobic as we struggle to hold on to the remnants of what makes us feel intrinsically Bahamian.

The government must surely know they are losing this fight tactically, which they often do. We constantly focus on treating the symptoms rather than attacking the cause.

Indubitably, there is a sophisticated network that is responsible for trafficking thousands of illegal migrants, year after year through our borders. This is not occurring without the help of Bahamians. It cannot happen without Bahamians who know the waters, and not without moles that have infiltrated our marine corps.

We are at an unfortunate place in our country’s history where the power of a dollar means more than passing on a birthright. Bahamians are betraying their own people for financial gain.

The government has to ensure the law reflects that any Bahamian involved in the human trafficking of illegal migrants faces the harshest repercussions possible. Moreover, punishments must become deterrents for Haitians that reside here legally who have information on incoming sloops, as well as those who lend assistance to their brothers and sisters

upon their arrival.

Bahamians employing undocumented Haitians should not be exempt from increased penalties either.

The price of participating in this egregious act against Bahamian society must be far greater than the financial or opportunistic benefits.

Certainly, this is now a matter of national security. When a boat pulls up a stone’s throw away from the RBDF base undetected, it is a matter of national security.

Those up in arms about the treatment of Haitians who break the law

by entering the country illegally must put on their “big-boy pants”. These individuals are breaking the law, and by that act alone, are criminals. A government of a law-abiding land must never be complicit or pliable when faced with such acts.

As it stands, we recognise we have a plethora of social ills and it is beyond the shadow of a doubt that illegal immigration sucks the life’s blood out of our society – be it through increased crime, fewer jobs, or the government directing resources to assist illegals.

While, we agree any

apprehension exercise must be carried out humanely, where does the narrative that it has been done in an inhumane fashion come from? As far as we know, the officers of the Department of Immigration conduct their duties in a very professional manner.

Further, if that has not been the case, then any officer that has carried out their duties in such a way should be relieved of same.

That being said, when we hear the sensationalised statements about the treatment of illegal migrants, we must consider how mischievous and misleading it is to the general public and the international community. It is disappointing that Fred Smith continues to put out statements exaggerating what is taking place on the ground.

As a learned attorney, we lean on his expertise, as well as the other legal minds within the community to add value to the discussion – not stall efforts.

However, Prime Minister Minnis does not get a free pass in all of this. His statements were poorly planned.

And yet again, he finds himself in a situation where he wrote a cheque with his mouth that we hope he and his government can cash.

December 31 will be here in a matter of weeks.

He can expect the pressure from the local and international community to mount as this issue continues to churn in the spotlight. We hope that they can finally get this one right.

The government has to lead in this regard. To that end, we have to be responsible and do our jobs as Bahamian citizens to look at the issues from a balanced lens and keep them accountable. We must not allow this to become about hate towards Haitians, but rather, about our country and what it needs to be sustainable.

Everything else is just noise.

PAGE 8 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2017

INSIGHT

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

Fighting for everyone’s rights

By FREDERICK SMITH, QC

BAHAMIANS must begin to think of the fight to protect immigrant rights as part of a larger battle to defend the rule of law for the benefit of all who reside in this country.

This runs counter to the usual narrative about immigration enforcement. But the truth is the systematic violation of immigrants’ legal rights is symptomatic of a much larger disregard, by successive governments, of the constitutional protections that shouldbe enjoyed by each and every person in this country. When it comes to the victimisation of civilians by the authorities, it turns out Bahamians are in the same boat as immigrants.

What are the rights of suspected undocumented immigrants which are violated each and every day in The Bahamas?

They are subjected to illegal raids, roadblocks, roundups and ordered to produce “papers” or else be detained. The roadblocks have been declared unlawful by the Supreme Court, yet they continue.

Officers have no legal right to demand that anyone produce “papers” proving anything, yet this has become routine practice.

Such actions constitute a direct violation of the constitutional right of freedom of movement and the right to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Immigrants are held indefinitely at the Carmichael Road Detention Center, an illegal facility – as even the former PLP Minister Fred Mitchell admitted. The Constitution states quite clearly it is not lawful to hold people without bringing them before a court, but this continues to be normal procedure in The Bahamas.

Their property is often confiscated, never to be returned, and during raids, front doors are kicked down and belongings left to looters once the occupants have been taken away.

Thus, the property rights of these individuals are systematically violated.

Often, detentions are based upon the fact a person looks a certain way, is of a certain race, or because their last name sounds unfamiliar. Thus, their constitutional right to protection from discrimination is violated.

This is not to even mention the routine physical and sexual abuse to which

virtue of being a member of the human race.

FRED SMITH immigrants are subjected, which quite clearly constitutes illegal assault, battery, rape, etc.

The inherent value of human beings ‘So what?’ say many Bahamians, ‘Immigrants or “Illegals” (whatever that means?) are breaking the law and therefore don’t qualify for these rights and protections. Constitutional rights are only for legal citizens and residents.

Nothing could be further from the truth. First of all, our constitution is the supreme law of the land, and any other law, policy or official procedure that clashes with it is by definition null and void. Take, for example the assumption that detainees have broken the law. Actually, the constitution states quite clearly they are innocent until proven guilty. Legally speaking, we deport people who have committed no crime on a regular basis.

Even if the government did take every suspected undocumented immigrant before the courts and secured convictions – as both the constitution and the Immigration Act demand – this still doesn’t mean their fundamental rights go out the window.

Nowhere in the Constitution does it state the right to protection from lengthy detention, assault and discrimination is for citizens and residents only. There is no such thing as an “Illegal”. Nowhere does it say you have to enjoy some official immigration status to have a right to privacy, freedom of movement and the presumption of innocence.

The constitution is more than just a foundational law; it is a declaration of our moral and ethical duties as a nation to each and every human individual within our territory. It is, as such, a declaration that every person – citizen, resident, immigrant, public servant, rich man, poor man, hero, liar, murderer – has an inherent worth and certain inalienable rights, simply by

First base But few in The Bahamas see things this way.

Our understanding of the concept of human rights remains at a woefully basic level. The moral and ethical parameters of our democracy, and what they imply about how we should regard and respect each and every individual, rarely if ever enter the conversation.

Right now, the rest of the world is moving to decriminalise undocumented migration and treat it as a humanitarian problem, recognising people who leave their homes are fleeing violence, starvation and total societal breakdown. Yet we in The Bahamas continue to treat such people, and those Citizens in Waiting in our midst, as if they were the worst kind of terrorist and serious offender, beneath even the right to an attorney and the jury trial we afford the worst murders and rapists.

We have not even begun to have a real conversation about how to deal with refugees and there is no discussion whatsoever about domesticating the international norms contained in the various humanitarian treaties we’ve signed upto.

The rights of everyone The average Bahamian sees immigration issues as totally separate from their own day-to-day lives. The experience of the undocumented immigrant is an alternate universe with its own distinct rules and realities. But are the rights listed above, denied to immigrants every day, not also routinely withheld from Bahamians?

Don’t thousands of Bahamians suffer hardship while the government decides to make up and apply rules that don’t exist in the law?

Politicians issue arbitrary edicts like “No more taxi plates” or “No more gambling houses for 10 years” or “No more jet skis on the beach” – as if they had the legal power to do so. The result is Bahamians suffer economically.

Or, the police just assume they have the power to go into someone’s bar or restaurant with no warrant, remove the owner’s business licence, confiscate their goods or equipment and close the place down.

Or, in the name of fighting crime, they simply cordon off an entire area of Bain Town, Nassau Village

THE CARMICHAEL Road Detention Centre. or any other inner city community, then go from house to house, search every car and hold young men in cells over the weekend with no charge.

These are violations of the right to privacy, property, freedom of movement and the presumption of innocence – the very abuses visited upon immigrants.

Bahamians suffer these injustices routinely in the name of some lofty ideal or other, but the result is always the same – a violation of their constitutional rights as human beings.

These are rights the government, the police the Immigration Department, do not have the lawful power to take away.

It has always been easy to find an excuse to take away people’s rights, whether citizen, resident or immigrant. And, coming out of the mouths of politicians that we respect, especially in small communities, it seems reasonable because “They are fighting crime for us,” or “Getting Guns and Drugs off the streets”, or “They are getting rid of illegals”.

In reality, it amounts to a total systematic breakdown of the rule of law.

Whenever this has happened in other countries, the result is always a huge increase in arbitrary power in the hands of the authorities, who in turn become increasingly anti-democratic and oppressive.

The worst kind of lawlessness We tend to excuse government when it breaks the law. MPs fail to disclose their assets for years; ministers approve developments that clearly damage the environment; law enforcement makes up rules as it goes along – all without so much as a slap on the wrist.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

For some reason, Bahamians assume the law only really applies to regular civilians and that indictable offences are somehow less illegal when officials commit them.

It is actually the other way around: crimes committed by government officials amount to the worst form of lawlessness imaginable. If I as an individual rob a store or commit a violent assault, this does not alter the basic rules and standards of society. In fact, law enforcement’s role is to reinforce social norms by making an example of those who stray.

But when the governing authority breaks its own rules arbitrarily and without consequences, the effect is the opposite. A glaring example is set that lawlessness pays and that there is no downside to oppressive behavior.

How can a society expect underprivileged, undereducated, deprived, marginalised, poor, struggling people to “respect the law” and not commit crimes, when their political leaders openly and brazenly trample on the constitution whenever it suits them?

Eventually, if allowed to continue, this trend will threaten the very fabric of our society. ‘One rule for us, another for them’ is the attitude that leads to and facilitates dictatorship.

And then they came for me This may seem far fetched, but we already live in a country far more coerced and controlled than it should be. We see no problem with police ordering us not to photograph them while on duty.

We don’t mind that we can’t watch a film at the movie theatre unless the Play and Films Control Board says so, or that the Christian

Council gets to decide if a band can perform here.

No one is up in arms about the fact the use of our own money is undemocratically limited through Exchange Control or that some Investment Board decides who can buy or sell property.

Every day, Bahamians settle for being arbitrarily controlled by means that have no basis in law. We are a frightened, cowed society.

There could be no more fertile ground for the seeds of dictatorship to flourish.

How would we get there? By little, incremental steps along the very path described above: the curtailment of rights and freedoms based on some supposed benefit for the public. This is how every dictatorship that ever existed was formed.

German Pastor Martin Niemöller, who survived seven years in Nazi concentration camps, gives an instructive example of what the plight of “Illegals” and undocumented immigrants really means for Bahamians. He said: “First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.”

This is the true nature of the situation we face in The Bahamas today. We in the human rights community recognise the defence of the basic rights of “Illegals” and undocumented migrants is the first and necessary step in the defence of the rights of everyone. If more Bahamians do not come to understand this soon, it will be too late for us all.

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INSIGHT

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2017 PAGE 9

Mugabe: a graceful coup W

World View

HEN independence was finally wrenched from Britain in April 1980, Zimbabwe was described as the “jewel of Africa” by Tanzania’s President Julius

By SIR RONALD SANDERS Nyerere.

Thirty-seven years later, the country is in economic commands the country. ruin. Its 93-year-old leader, The reason for the army’s Robert Mugabe has been separation from Mugabe ousted by the military and came just days before Chiis under house arrest after wenga took control of almost four decades of the country. Mugabe had mostly despotic rule, sup- fired his Vice President ported, incidentally, by the Emmerson Mnangagwa very military that removed for declaring his intention him from office. to run against Mugabe’s Caribbean leaders fought 52-year-old, ambitious and for Zimbabwe’s independ- combative wife, Grace, for ence, for one-man, one-vote the leadership of the party and for an end to white and eventually the Presiminority rule in what was dency. In his dotage, the once then Southern Rhodesia. politically astute Mugabe The pantheon of Caribbean failed to take account of the leaders included Guyana’s fact Mnangagwa was close Forbes Burnham, Jamai- to Chiwenga personally and ca’s Michael the military Manley, generally.

‘Governments Trinidad and Grace Tobago’s Eric around the became the Williams, world have not catalyst for Bahamas’ Mugabe’s condemned what Lynden downfall.

Pindling, Bar- is effectively a Labelled “Disbados’ Errol military coup.

Grace” or Barrow and That is a measure “Gucci Grace” JMG ‘Tom’ on account of of the relief Adams. her widelyAt the felt by many at reported love centre of the the toppling of shopping wider Comand extravaof Mugabe.’ monwealth gant living, struggle was Grace Mugabe another Caribbean crusader, enjoyed a meteoric rise the Guyana-born Secretary- through the ranks the General, Shridath ‘Sonny’ ZANU-PF in the last two Ramphal who, as Brit- years, promoted by a besotish writer Richard Bourne ted Mugabe who is 41 years observed, “was emphatic her senior. The old adage, that he wanted an end to “there’s no fool like an old racism in southern Africa fool” came to pass. The under his watch”. Carib- prospect of her becoming bean leaders were midwives President over Mnangagwa at the birth of Zimbabwe was too far a stretch for the and god parents to the dem- Chiwenga and the military. ocratic election of Robert Governments around the Mugabe as President. world have not condemned Over the years, Car- what is effectively a military ibbean leaders grew coup. That is a measure of disappointed in Mugabe, the relief felt by many at even though they were the toppling of Mugabe, sympathetic to his central who at the beginning was plight which was the legacy a hero to Africa, although of an untenable situation he was always disliked by in which, through years Western governments. of imposed white rule by Normally, condemnaBritain’s “kith and kin”, 90 tion would have been percent of the valuable land ringing around the world was owned by the minority with demands for correcwhite population. tive action against “the state Both Britain and the US of correction”. The coup reneged on a promise to would have been called by fund compulsory land pur- its name and its perpetrachases from the minority tors denounced. Not so with white population so that the Mugabe coup. The US the majority black popula- government said it “does not tion could be empowered take sides in matters of interin their ancestral homeland. nal Zimbabwean politics and Unable to fund the compul- calls for an expedient transisory acquisition of millions tion to democratic, civilian of acres of white-owned order”. The British Foreign farms, Mugabe resorted to Secretary, Boris Johnson was seizing them and to allow- equally not condemnatory, ing lawlessness by his own saying: “I hope that Zimbasupporters in land-grabs. bwean politicians will take The economy, thereafter, this opportunity, rememberwent into steep decline and ing that their country has so with it went democracy and good governance. Mugabe could only hold on to power for his ZANU-PF party and for himself by rigged elections and brutal repression of his opponents.

By the time Caribbean nations joined other Commonwealth countries in a decision to suspend Zimbabwe from its councils in 2002 because of violations of Commonwealth democratic principles, they were highly frustrated with Mugabe’s unyielding intolerance of any form of dissent. Jamaica’s Prime Minister, PJ Patterson, was one of three Commonwealth Heads of Government, in December 2003, who tried to persuade Mugabe to accept Commonwealth help to address the political situation in Zimbabwe while the country remained suspended.

Mugabe refused, choosing instead to withdraw from the Commonwealth.

In the ensuing years, Caribbean countries could do nothing more than watch from the sidelines as Zimbabwe deteriorated.

By the end of the last decade, only the support of the military kept Mugabe and his ZANU-PF party in office. That support dissipated on November 15 when General Constantino Chiwenga led what he insisted is not a coup d’état, but a “state of correction”. Called by any name, Mugabe is being detained, many persons around him are arrested as “criminals” without due process and the military

many strengths that even Mugabe has failed to tarnish it irreparably”.

In reality, Zimbabwe’s political and economic problems are most unlikely to improve with the ignominious end of Mugabe’s rule and the termination of Grace’s ambitions to replace him.

The hope that the ‘path to legitimate government is now open’ or that there will be an ‘expedient transition to democratic, civilian order’ depends on a willingness by the leadership of the ZANU-PF party to accept it is not entitled to rule Zimbabwe forever.

However, nothing in General Chiwenga’s past, or in the record of Emmerson Mnangagwa, suggests they are willing to allow party political contention and free and fair general elections.

Mnangagwa has returned to Zimbabwe from which he fled after Mugabe fired him.

So too has Morgan Tsvangirai, who arguably, won the 2008 Presidential election against Mugabe when Chiwenga intervened, insisting on a second round from which Mugabe was declared winner amid violence and brutality against Tsvangirai himself and thousands of his supporters.

But, Tsvangirai – even though he used to be supported by Western nations – now lacks the capacity to galvanise a united opposition. Those with a vested interest in Zimbabwe won’t back a horse likely to fail.

The more likely scenario is that Mnangagwa, whose own record of brutality and violence is well known, will be named to take charge of the government until the ZANU-PF convention next month when he

ZIMBABWEAN President Robert Mugabe, pictured earlier this year. will become the party’s undisputed leader and its candidate for the 2019 elections. Of course, he will retain the support of Chiwenga, and the military and the ZANU-PF will remain in control.

Mugabe’s autocratic rule may be over in Zimbabwe, but the country’s politics and economy remain deeply troubled.

Caribbean peoples need look no further for good reason to ensure democracy and the rule of law are respected and valued in their own societies.

• Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the OAS. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are his own.

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INSIGHT

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2017 PAGE 9

Pedestrian safety tips WALKING is a healthy activity, but you need to know the rules of pedestrian safety. Especially if you are walking in an area where there aren’t sidewalks or paths separate from the road. To stay safe walking, follow these rules.

1. Walk Facing Traffic When Walking on the Side of the Road If there is no sidewalk and you must walk on the side of the road, choose the side where you are facing oncoming traffic. This gives you the best chance to see traffic approaching closest to you.

2. Cross Safely Look both ways before crossing any street. Make eye contact with any drivers who may be turning. Give them a wave. Make sure they see you.

3. Walk Single File When Not Separated from the Road Unless you are on a sidewalk separated from the road or you are in a wide pedestrian lane, you should walk in single file.

This is especially important on a road with curves and where traffic has only a split second chance of seeing you before hitting you.

4. Stay Aware of Bikes and Runners Share the road and path with bikes and runners.

Police advice

trip other walkers or bikers.

10. Know When to Stop Walking – Heat sickness, dehydration, heart attack or stroke can strike walkers of any age. Learn the symptoms of medical emergencies and carry a cell phone to dial 919 or 911

By SERGEANT NATHALIE RANGER

Bike riders should alert you when approaching from behind with a bike bell. Listen for them, and move to walk single file, allowing them to pass safely.

Runners should also call out for passing.

7. Keep the Volume Down Don’t drown out your environment when listening to your headphones. Keep the volume at a level where you can still hear warnings from other walkers, bikers and runners.

5. Be Visible Wear bright colours when walking in daytime.

When walking at night, wear light-coloured clothing and reflective clothing or a reflective vest to be visible. Drivers are often not expecting walkers to be out after dark, and you need to give them every chance to see you. Be just as cautious at dawn or twilight, as drivers still have limited visibility or may even have the setting or rising sun directly in their eyes.

8. Hang Up and Eyes Up Chatting, texting, or playing games on a mobile device while you walk is as dangerous as doing those things while driving. You are distracted and not as aware of your environment. You are less likely to recognize traffic danger, passing joggers and bikers or tripping hazards.

Potential criminals see you as a distracted easy target.

Adopt habits that can keep your phone in your pocket, or at least stop in a safe place to complete your phone tasks before moving on.

6. Be Predictable Make a practice of staying on one side of the path while walking rather than weaving randomly from side to side. Watch your arm motions, or you may end up giving a black eye to a silently passing walker, runner, or biker.

9. Walk Dogs on Short Leashes It is terrifying and tragic to witness dogs running out into traffic or getting into a fatal dog fight, whether on leash or off leash. But there is also a danger when walking your dog on a long leash that you will

TRIBUNE TEAM SCOOPS PRESS AWARDS MEMBERS of the media were recognised for their accomplishments at the Bahamas Press Club’s third annual awards banquet at the Hilton on Saturday.

Among the winners were Tribune Sports Reporter Renaldo Dorsett for best sports story, Tribune News Editor Taneka Thompson

for excellence in outstanding political journalism and Tribune columnist Inigo “Naughty” Zenicazelaya for best column.

Veteran journalist Gladstone Thurston received the Sir Etienne Dupuch Lifetime Achievement Award.

While accepting his award, Mr Thurston said it

was imperative now more than ever for the media to hold the government to account, particularly after the Free National Movement’s landslide election victory in May. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis was presented with the Person of the Year Award.

11. Be Aware of Stranger Danger Choose your walking route for paths frequented by other walkers, joggers, and bikers. If you see someone suspicious, be prepared to alter your course or go into a store or public building to avoid them.

Acting alert and aware can convince bad guys to choose an easier target.

• For more information, contact the National Crime Prevention on 302-8430, 302-8431, 302-8154 or visit www.royalbahamaspolice. org.

WHEN walking, keep the volume of your headphones at a level where you can still hear warnings from others.

PAGE 12, Monday, November 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

Jollification THE SCENES at the Bahamas National Trust grounds where Jollification was hosted at the weekend - complete with gift ideas ahead of Christmas, food and drink, and arts and crafts.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

MINISTRY OF FINANCE EMPLOYEE ACCUSED OF FRAUD

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

A MINISTRY of Finance employee was arraigned on Friday for several additional fraud-related charges stemming from previous allegations he defrauded the ministry of over half a million dollars within a fivemonth period.

James Anwar Johnson stood before Magistrate Samuel McKinney facing two counts each of falsification of accounts and stealing

GN-1974

by reason of employment for his alleged actions between November 25, 2016, and April 5, 2017.

It is alleged that during this time period, while serving as an accounts clerk at the Ministry of Finance, Johnson falsified the payment records of VMMS Business Service, purporting to show it was entitled to receive two separate payments of of $37,500 and $69,996 respectively.

It is further alleged that on both November 25, 2016 and April 5, 2017, Johnson stole, by reason of his employment, $37,500 and $69,996, the property of the

Bahamas government.

Johnson pleaded not guilty to all of the charges.

Given the nature of the charges, Magistrate McKinney could not consider bail and adjourned the matter to today for a status hearing before the chief magistrate.

Johnson, who is currently on bail for his initial arraignment in August over 22 other fraud related charges, was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until that time. He has the right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail consequent to Friday’s arraignment.

In August, Johnson was

arraigned on allegations that between December 15, 2016 to April 5, 2016, he falsified the payments records of VMMS Business Service, purporting to show it was entitled to receive payments totaling $530,377.67.

He was also accused of stealing a total of $445,996.42 in cash from the ministry between December 21, 2016 and March 31, 2017, which he had access to by virtue of his employment. He also faced one count of attempted stealing by reason of employment for allegedly attempting to steal $41,115 from the ministry on April 5, 2017.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, November 20, 2017, PAGE 13

PARENTS TALK OF ‘OPEN SEASON’ AFTER SHOOTING OUTSIDE SCHOOL

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

PARENTS at St Francis Joseph Catholic Primary School lamented the shooting on school grounds last Thursday, but most said the incident was not surprising given the “open season” state of the country.

The Tribune spoke to parents as they picked up students after school to gain their perspective on the shooting incident that targeted a parent of the school.

“I’m not concerned because they weren’t interested in anyone else,” said one mother of a fourth grader.

“The time has gone when the common person respected the house of God, or anywhere, it’s become an open season where if you do me something I’m gonna get you back.”

The mother continued: “Even in your home you’re not safe, if someone want to get in there, they’re going to get in there. The only thing you could do is just pray to God to keep you.”

Shortly before 3pm on Thursday, police received information that a man was shot in the school’s parking lot on Boyd Road. When officers arrived, they found the victim sitting in a red car with a gunshot wound in his hand.

The parent was taken to hospital where he was listed in stable condition.

The victim’s car also had bullet holes in the driver’s side window and one of the rear windows.

The Catholic Board of Education confirmed the

www.ub.edu.bs

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Suitably qualified candidates are invited to apply for the following positions at University of The Bahamas:POLICE at the school on Thursday. school opened as normal on Friday, adding police said the campus was secure and there was no imminent threat.

Another mother of two said: “The only thing I had a problem with is that he [the victim] ran into the principal’s office, what if the person [gunman] had run behind him and killed those people in there? That’s the only problem I had, I could understand he was looking for safety, yet at the same time he was putting someone else in danger.”

She continued: “The Bahamas is changing, it’s taken a long time but we pattern a lot of stuff off the States. A black man ain’ gonna go and kill a bunch of people, that’s a white person thing. But the time is gonna come when a black man is gonna get tired of the things that are going on and they just gonna take it and deal with whoever they got to deal with and that’s what’s happening now.”

The mother said there were usually several police officers in the area during pickup times, collecting their children. She noted that when the incident occurred there were no

officers in the school yard, adding that she was grateful the matter didn’t escalate.

“They’re not waiting for the law to take its course,” she continued, “they’re getting rid of the problem one time. As for safety issues, I don’t feel there are any issues like the child is not safe because he stayed out in the parking lot he didn’t come behind the wall, he could have followed the person, but he didn’t. Things are changing you have to teach your children to be observant and you yourself have to be observant.”

Another parent expressed similar sentiments about the incident’s impact on campus safety.

“It could happen anywhere,” said a mother of three, “and it’s not about the children, it’s about us. It could happen anywhere, it’s about us, how we live our lives. If you live a clean life then you know they ain’t coming looking for you.

“You got to live a clean life because if they can’t get to you they coming through your children. It’s about what you do with your life and what you get involved in, we have to change. It starts with us.”

ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION Dean, Liberal & Fine Arts Dean, Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning Assistant Vice President, Sponsored Research and Grants Grants Writers

BUSINESS, HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM STUDIES Business and Hospitality Management Assistant/Associate Professor, Accounting Assistant/Associate Professor, Economics and Finance Assistant/Associate Professor, Management and Marketing

LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS English Studies Coordinator, University Writing Centre, UB-North (Staff Position) Writing Tutor, University Writing Centre (part-time, Staff Position) Assistant/Associate Professor, Caribbean Studies and Rhetoric and Composition Assistant/Associate Professor, Cultural Studies and Rhetoric and Composition Assistant/Associate Professor, French Literature and Francophone Studies Assistant/Associate Professor, Rhetoric and Composition Communication and Creative Arts Director, Confucius Institute (Staff Position) Assistant/Associate Professor, Art Assistant/Associate Professor, French and Haitian Creole Assistant/Associate Professor, French Assistant/Associate Professor, Journalism and Communication Assistant/Associate Professor, Spanish (UB-North and Oakes Field) Studio Technician, Art (part-time, Staff Position)

PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES Chemistry, Environmental and Life Sciences Assistant/Associate Professor, Agriculture Assistant/Associate Professor, Architecture Assistant/Associate Professor, Biology (UB-North and Oakes Field) Assistant/Associate Professor, Chemistry Assistant/Associate Professor, Geography

TWO ACCUSED OVER STREET FIGHT

Assistant/Associate Professor, Coastal and Marine Sciences Assistant/Associate Professor, Conservation Biology Assistant/Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering/Engineering Technology

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

Mathematics, Physics and Technology Assistant/Associate Professor, Applied Mathematics (UB-North and Oakes Field) Assistant/Associate Professor, Civil Engineering

TWO men were arraigned in Magistrates Court charged with fighting in public for an incident that was captured on cellphone video and subsequently went viral last week.

Jerry Guillaume, 53, of Glenniston Gardens, and Wilner Louiceus, 42, of Podoleo Street, stood before Magistrate Ambrose Armbrister faced with one count each of fighting in connection with a November 16 incident on Prince Charles Drive.

A video of the incident, captured by a spectator’s cellphone, showed two men embroiled in an intense struggle near a jitney bus on Prince Charles Drive.

In the video, one of the men was seen straddling the other during the fight and grabbed a rock out of his hand before repeatedly beating him on the head with it.

Both men, whose heads were bandaged, pleaded not guilty to the charges on Friday and the matter was adjourned to January 19 for trial.

Magistrate Armbrister granted the two men $1,000 bail with one surety. However, they were remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the bail bonds are executed.

Nursing and Allied Health Professions Assistant/Associate Professor, Nursing

SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL STUDIES Education Assistant/Associate Professor, Mathematics Education (Primary) Assistant/Associate Professor, Mathematics Education (Secondary) Assistant/Associate Professor, Education (UB-North and Oakes Field) Social Sciences Assistant/Associate Professor, Law Assistant/Associate Professor, Political Science Assistant/Associate Professor, Psychology Assistant/Associate Professor, Social Work Assistant/Associate Professor, Religious Studies

COUNSELLING SERVICES Counsellor (Part-Time) Counsellor (Mental Health) Counsellor (Career Counselling) UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES Law Librarian Librarian, UB-North University Archivist (Staff Position) Office Administrator (Staff Position)

GERACE RESEARCH FACILITY (SAN SALVADOR) Facility Manager

PART-TIME POSITIONS (UB-NORTH) Lab Technician (Chemistry, Environmental and Life Sciences) Pure & Applied Sciences (Chemistry, Environmental and Life Sciences) Social & Educational Studies (Education and Social Sciences) Business, Hospitality & Tourism Studies (Accounting, Banking, Computer Information Systems, Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Management, and Marketing) Liberal & Fine Arts (French, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Art and Music)

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS GN-1975

For Academic Administration/Faculty Positions Application materials should include: 1. A cover letter describing academic philosophy and vision, research and publications; 2. Copies of academic qualifications; 3. Copies of transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate degree programmes completed; 4. A current and complete curriculum vitae; 5. Copy of relevant pages of a valid passport showing photo ID, passport number and expiration date; 6. Three letters of reference; 7. Completed UB Application for Employment Form found at this link: http://www.ub.edu.bs/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/UB-Application-for-EmploymentFaculty.pdf

For Staff Positions Application materials should include: 1. A cover letter describing how the applicant’s professional qualifications and experience relate to the responsibilities of the position; 2. Copies of academic qualifications; 3. Copies of transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate degree programmes completed; 4. A current and complete curriculum vitae; 5. Copy of relevant pages of a valid passport showing photo ID, passport number and expiration date; 6. Three letters of reference; 7. Completed UB Application for Employment Form found at this link: http://www.ub.edu.bs/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Application-for-EmploymentStaff.pdf Apply electronically at facultyapply@ub.edu.bs, noting the position in the subject field.

Only electronic submissions will be accepted.

Positions are for the Oakes Field Campus location unless noted otherwise. For additional information or informal inquiries, contact provostoffice@ub.edu.bs.

PAGE 14, Monday, November 20, 2017

HUNT DRAGS ON AS FIRST ‘ILLEGALS’ SENT HOME from page one

On Friday, Mr Neely moved to dispel speculation the boat could have been used for another purpose because immigration officers have yet to find any of the boat’s passengers despite continued sweeps throughout the island, The sweeps, up to Friday, have led to the capture of 210 people and included various nationalities among them Haitian, American, Colombian, Peruvian and Jamaican.

Authorities believe the immigrants who landed last week had help from people already on New Providence and yesterday warned anyone who was found to be hiding them would be jailed, fined or both.

Mr Neely estimated

FRED SMITH between 150 to 250 undocumented migrants were on board the sloop.

The hunt for the migrants began last Sunday when the RBDF said it was investigating reports of a wooden Haitian sloop landing in the southwest area of New Providence.

The ship came ashore

sometime on the night of November 11 or the morning of November 12, the RBDF said, adding the number of suspected migrants on board were unknown. “We still have no one from the boat, we got some information that they were in some bushes but when we got there no one was there,� Mr Neely said. “It is important for Bahamian people to know that you cannot be hiding these people and that is what is happening.�

Mr Neely also denied speculation that immigration officers were physically abusing people during the various raids throughout the island. “Anyone found harbouring these illegal immigrants or any illegals will feel the full brunt of the law. We are not abusing anyone.

You have to understand if a person was living in this country for years illegally when you try to take them in, they are not going peacefully. First and foremost, we have to protect the officers but immigration officers are courteous and kind to everyone but when you abuse us, we do what we have to do, but we do not abuse anyone.�

Mr Neely also said the Department of Immigration is cracking down on people who are working outside of the scope of their work permits. “What is happening is we are cracking down on people who are getting work permits from one person and they work for someone else. We will cancel permits on the spot,�

Mr Neely said. “We will give people a warning but you cannot come here for one thing and do another. You can’t be working out of the scope of your permit and doing

jobs that Bahamians can do.�

The intense immigration sweeps have angered local activist and attorney Fred Smith, QC.  Mr Smith, president of Rights Bahamas (RB), has written to members of the government expressing displeasure about the “complete and intentional� breakdown of the rule of law regarding the actions of immigration officials and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF). “Almost every conceivable constitutional and or statutory right under the Immigration Act, the Police Act, the Criminal Procedure Code Act, and the Defence Force Act - except killings - continues apace in the targeting of noncitizens; this includes those RB refers to as citizens in waiting, referred to by the [Department of Immigration] and the executives of the government of the Bahamas, as ‘Illegals,’� Mr

THE TRIBUNE

Smith wrote. “The breaches of such rights are also being visited upon the general population of The Bahamas, with the unlawful roadblocks, questioning, demands for ‘papers,’ and false imprisonments and detentions without charge, bail, or trial.�

RB has asked for the names of all persons in the custody of the Department of Immigration and the RBDF and their alleged offences. “It is the intention of RB to move the Supreme Court for writs of habeas corpus in respect of all of the such persons. “RB has also secured the services of a group of attorneys, and RB requests permission to visit the [Detention Centre] at the earliest to begin the process of securing the constitutional, statutory and human rights of all those persons in custody,� Mr Smith wrote in part.

TWO CHILDREN HELD BY IMMIGRATION By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

AT least two children, ages five and two, were apprehended by immigration officers searching for migrants believed to have disembarked from the sloop that landed on Adelaide Beach a week ago, human rights group Rights Bahamas said in a press statement.

The group said the toddlers, whose names they have withheld, were detained with their mother. “Both children were born in the Bahamas and as such, have a constitutional right to be registered upon application after their 19th birthday,� the group said. “They are not citizens of Haiti and arbitrarily deporting them to that country will effectively deny them of their rights and, under certain circumstances, could place them at risk of statelessness.�

Immigration Director William Pratt, however, said taking children along with their parents and guardians is customary.

He said: “If a mother is illegal and the mother is taken into custody, would it be right to leave the children alone? It has nothing to do with their constitutional entitlement. If we want to arrest a mother and leave the children because they’re

born here and, God forbid, something happens to the children, who is going to get blamed? Immigration will.

It has nothing to do with their constitutional entitlement. If you arrest an illegal migrant and she has minor children with her, the children will be taken with her.

If the mother is repatriated and let’s say the mother and father aren’t married and the father is here legally and the mother wants to go through the court and grant the father legal custody of the children; once the father does this, he can apply for them to be given a Belonger’s permit. If the mother is arrested because she is illegal, automatically she brings her children along.�

Rights Bahamas said immigration officers have been accused of physically abusive behaviour, however Kirkland Neely, head of the Department of Immigration’s Enforcement Unit, has denied this. “Following the Cowpen Road raid, we understand that armed officers in military fatigues then descended upon a nearby church frequented by members of the HaitianBahamian community,� the group said. “There have been multiple claims of physical abuse by immigration officers during the raids and we urgently call upon Immigration Director William Pratt to restrain his officers in

order to prevent any further violence against defenceless individuals, particularly women and children. “Rights Bahamas demands that all those detained be immediately screened to ensure that there are no other minors among them who have a constitutional right to be in the Bahamas, and also no adults who may have applied for citizenship but constitute part of the backlog of thousands of status cases which the Immigration Department continues to ignore, even as it seeks to expel people from the country in violation of their rights.� “The group must also urgently be screened for individuals who may qualify for refugee status. So far, however, the stated aim of the authorities continues to be the detention and arbitrary deportation of these individuals without due process. Rights Bahamas reiterates in the strongest of terms that each and every one of these detentions is unlawful as officers did not follow due process. The detainees have not been granted the right to see an attorney, have not gone before the courts within the prescribed 48 hours and have not been allowed to apply for bail. Indeed, they now join the hundreds of others held at the Carmichael Road Detention Centre indefinitely, some of them for years.�

SCHOOL PERMIT POLICY ‘RESCINDED’

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

WHILE there has not yet been an official notice circulated by the Cabinet, Immigration Minister Brent Symonette has insisted the school permit policy has been effectively rescinded.

Mr Symonette told The Tribune school officials across The Bahamas have been told not to deny access to children who do not have the special permit. “Any person that has been denied access to register because they do not have a school permit should contact my office directly,� he said during a recent interview. “We’ve spoken to all the schools, no one is

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to be denied access to school.�

The existing policy mandates every foreign person enrolled in schools, including children born in The Bahamas to immigrants, must have a student permit.

As a result, education officials have acknowledged there are children who have been unable to register for school since this aspect of the November 2014 immigration policy took effect for the Fall 2015 school semester.

Last month, officials also acknowledged the policy’s impact on access to education contravenes both Bahamian and International law.

On a radio talk show in September, Education

Minister Jeff Lloyd stressed the impact of the country’s immigration policy on public services had the potential of creating “fatal� consequences, and a serious threat to the country’s national security.

He pointed to a “decided drop� in school enrolment over the last three years as a guest on Guardian radio talk show Real Talk Live with host Carlton Smith.

Notwithstanding the critical need to resolve the complex issue of citizenship surrounding people born in The Bahamas to non-nationals, and illegal immigration challenges, Mr Lloyd said it was unfortunate some people were tying the country’s immigration laws to children’s access to education.

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PAGE 16, Monday, November 20, 2017

THE TRIBUNE

JUDGE ‘HAD A DEEP SENSE OF JUSTICE’, SAYS FORMER AG

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Attorney General Allyson Maynard Gibson offered her condolences Thursday on the death of retired Supreme Court Justice Ricardo Marques.

Justice Marques died on Thursday.

She recalled that Justice Marques came to the Bahamas in the early 1980s to work at the Office of the Attorney General (OAG).

“He was a well educated man, who loved the law and possessed a deep sense of justice,” she said. “Ricardo Marques was an outstanding and highly skilled legislative draftsman who became the director of legal affairs (DLA) at a time that the DLA was in charge of all work in OAG, including criminal work. After serving as the DLA, he was appointed judge of the Supreme Court. Upon his retirement from the bench, he was appointed the law reform commissioner. In

each of these offices, Justice Marques served with distinction.

“Those who encountered him will recall his love for the law, attention to detail, delight in mentoring young lawyers and courtesy towards all whom he encountered. I was so delighted when he agreed to serve as a consultant at the OAG while I was the AG. Justice Marques, although, ‘retired,’ possessed abundant energy.

He worked hard, thoroughly researched matters,

benchmarked bills that he and his team drafted and, importantly, he continued to mentor younger lawyers.

Justice Marques made tremendous contributions to Bahamian jurisprudence and the rule of law, for which the Bahamas will be forever grateful.”

Court of Appeal President Dame Anita Allen, who is set to retire in December, also paid tribute to him on Friday.

“Justice Marques was soft spoken and personable; genteel, but firm; and

although he was a very private man, he spoke effusively about his wife Betty, his children and grandchildren,” she said.

“Suffice it to say, many of the statutes drafted by Justice Marques are still part of our law, and his judgments stand as beacons of the legal issues distilled therein. He was therefore a solid contributor to the development of the statute law of The Bahamas, and of Bahamian jurisprudence.

“Inexorably, Justice Marques’ greatest

contribution was his mentorship of scores of Bahamian lawyers who now hold, or formerly held, top positions in the Legal Department, in the Supreme Court, and indeed, in the Court of Appeal. Through these professionals, his legacy of dedicated service, attainment of excellence, and commitment to hard work will continue to be emulated, and will enure to the benefit of the legal system and the administration of justice in The Bahamas for the foreseeable future.”