Former Chief Justice: The Bahamas Has Fallen Behind On Marital Rape Law

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Amid a clear split on the controversial issue of marital rape, former Court of Appeal President and now Law Reform Commissioner Sir Michael Barnett struggles to see the fierce objection on the matter.

The strongest opposition came from the church, who in most instances insisted a married man can rape his wife.

Sir Michael says while old English law did say marriage gives and implied consent, the British has since amended and changed that law.

In April 2024, Prime Minister Philip Davis said he is guided by the party’s blueprint for change, and a commitment to criminalize marital rape was not in it.

In 2022, the Davis administration drafted a bill that could criminalize marital rape and released it for consultation.

Sir Michael recalled a divorce case while he served as an acting judge.