PRESS STATEMENT
HON. MICHAEL C. PINTARD, M.P.: FNM Details Third Pillar of Immigration Plan: Investigate Political Abuse
The Free National Movement (FNM) today unveiled the third pillar of its comprehensive immigration policy platform, Operation SHIELD: I- Investigate Political Abuse. The plan represents a bold initiative aimed at exposing and eradicating corruption, political interference, and institutional failure within the current Bahamian immigration system.
“Make no mistake: the first step toward immigration reform is removing the Davis-Cooper PLP Administration. But we know that a change in government alone won’t fix all that is broken. True reform requires independent oversight and institutional safeguards.”
Key elements of the FNM’s plan to Investigate Political Abuse, include:
● A Select Committee of Parliament with full independent authority will be established immediately upon taking office. This committee will have the legal mandate to summon witnesses, compel documents, and conduct a thorough investigation into irregularities, political interference, and corruption in immigration processing. The committee will go beyond partisan boundaries by including law enforcement, immigration professionals, and whistleblowers who have witnessed or benefited from the system’s breakdown and are willing to come forward.
● A government whistleblower hotline will be launched to report misconduct, political abuse, and corruption. This system will be backed by legal protections and offer financial rewards for verified tips that lead to encourage individuals to come forward. Whistleblower protections will also be codified in law, ensuring full immunity from prosecution and protection against victimization or retaliation.
● An Independent Oversight Board for Immigration will be established once the Select Committee completes its work. This board will be inclusive, transparent, and cross-sectoral with representatives nominated by both the Government and Opposition, alongside leaders from civil society. The Oversight Board will report directly to Parliament and be empowered to alert appropriate authorities when immigration decisions violate the law.
“The Bahamian people must see themselves in the institutions that govern them. Immigration is not just a legal issue. It is a social issue, a national security issue, and an economic issue. Immigration decisions must always reflect the best interests of the Bahamian people and earn their trust.”
“Operation SHIELD is the FNM’s clear and comprehensive answer to the immigration crisis. Today’s announcement marks the third pillar of a multi-phase strategy to reclaim control of our borders and restore confidence in the rule of law.”