National

PM Defends Controversial Remarks On Crime Coverage

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – “I have the highest respect for the press and its involvement in the dissemination of information,” says the prime minister.

Published

9 months ago

February 15, 2024

Marlena Leonard

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – “I’m not a dictator. I believe all of you in the free press are appreciated. I have the highest respect for the press and its involvement in the dissemination of information.” That coming from Prime Minister Philip Davis on the heels of a Miami Herald article titled “Bahamas Leader Blames Media Stories About the Country’s Spike in Crime for Hurting Tourism”. The international headline comes on the heels of criticism from both the opposition an non-partisan organizations.

But Davis says he feels his comments were taken out of context.

Executive Director of the Organization for Responsible Governance, Matt Aubry reaffirming the importance of a free and transparent press, and had this to say when asked his thoughts on Davis’ suggestion the press should be considering the country’s image when reporting.

The negative international media attention has been largely brought on by the crime wave that has come with 2024. The Bahamas’ current murder count now at 25 just shy of two months into the year.

When asked about the perceived absence of the national security minister, Davis says, the minister is involved in the rehabilitative aspect of security matter.