Boyd: “There are Many Bellas out There”

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Amid the heightened focus on child abuse and domestic violence, the Anglican Bishop is calling for the establishment of a family court. During the Anglican Synod, he also warned that the church cannot turn a blind eye to this issue.

Vaughnique Toote reports.

Bishop of the Anglican Diocese Laish Boyd speaking out on the tragic death of four-year-old Bella Walker who was brutally assaulted earlier this month. An autopsy revealed the child had suffered broken ribs and punctured internal organs.

Walker’s mother and her boyfriend have been charged in connection with her death, which sparked national outrage.

Days after the incident, a mother stabbed her boyfriend whom she suspected of sexually assaulting her 12-year-old daughter.

Boyd called on lawmakers to establish a family court.

The Anglican Bishop noted that increased hardship and loss of income during the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened tensions, and resulted in more people seeking help due to violence in the home.

He said the Anglican Church wants to do its part through a diocesan think tank, chaired by Reverend Angela Palacious.

During his charge at the 118th session of the Diocesan Synod, Boyd also said the large margin of victory and low voter turnout during the September 16th General Election has caused him great concern.

Sixty-five percent of voters exercised their right to vote – down from 20 percent in the 2017 election.

The Progressive Liberal Party secured 32 seats while the Free National Movement won seven seats.

He encouraged leaders not to use their majority to pander to their base or settle old scores.