NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC -Prime Minister Phillip Davis urges members of the Royal Bahamas Police Power (RBPF) to enhance their relationship with most people, noting that the nation is at a crossroads.
“The storms of crime, distrust, and hardship have examined the very basis of our society. However right this moment, we flip the web page. In the present day, we take our first steps towards a brand new chapter, outlined not by worry, however by hope; not by despair, however by dedication,” Prime Minister Davis mentioned at Sunday’s annual RBPF church service.
“It’s the time to step ahead with conviction, goal, and an unshakable perception that collectively we will rebuild what has been damaged. Let this be the second we rise as one individuals, put apart divisions and doubts, and commit ourselves to making a stronger, safer, and extra united Bahamas.”
Davis recalled a state of affairs the place he was approached by an older girl who informed him that there was once a time when the sight of a police officer on her road introduced consolation, not worry, when the uniform represented security, not suspicion.
“Her phrases stayed with me as a result of they jogged my memory of what we’re working to revive: belief. Belief is just not given freely; it’s earned by means of motion, consistency, exhibiting up day by day, and doing what is true.
“It’s the basis upon which the connection between the Police Power and the Bahamian individuals should stand. With out it, the work of defending and serving turns into hole,” he mentioned, including, “That is our second to rebuild that belief.”
Davis acknowledged that it received’t be straightforward and received’t occur in a single day.
“However it will possibly occur. It begins with accountability, making certain that each badge is worn with honor and that each motion displays the values of integrity and equity. It continues with transparency, letting the individuals see not simply what the Police Power does however why it does it.
“To the women and men of the Power, I say this: each interplay you might have with the general public is an opportunity to rebuild that belief. Each dialog, each choice, each act of service is a chance to point out the Bahamian individuals that you’re right here for them.”
However he additionally mentioned that belief is a two-way road and that cops would wish the general public’s assist.
In his tackle, Prime Minister Davis mentioned he wished to “stage” with the RBPF as a result of “this isn’t a straightforward time to put on the badge.”
“Criticism is louder than ever, and belief has been shaken. I do know it’s not honest that the actions of some solid a shadow over so many who serve with honor. However that is our actuality, and it’s as much as you and all of us to alter it.”
He mentioned cops should even be conscious of the long run when their kids or grandchildren ask concerning the nation’s historical past.
“What’s going to you say? Will you inform them you stood agency when it mattered most? Will you inform them you have been a part of the answer? The selection is yours to make each single day. Maintain your head excessive since you are a part of one thing greater than your self. This nation wants you now greater than ever—to guide, shield, and encourage.”
Over the weekend, Shanta Knowles turned the primary girl to move the RBPF, and Prime Minister Davis warned that management is just not a crown however “a cross.
“It’s a weight we select to hold, not for ourselves, however for many who look to us with hope of their hearts and belief of their eyes. The Bahamian individuals don’t ask for perfection however demand accountability. They perceive that the combat in opposition to crime is just not received in a single second however by means of constant effort.
“They count on a Police Power that’s honest, agency, and fearless in upholding the legislation and a management crew that conjures up confidence by means of its actions.”
Prime Minister Davis mentioned that whereas the nation is going through not only a combat in opposition to crime “however a battle for the soul of our nation,” it’s also “not a job for one group or establishment.
“The federal government can’t do it alone. The police can’t do it alone. However collectively, we will reclaim what we’ve misplaced. Collectively, we will construct a Bahamas the place each little one feels cherished, the household is complete, and the group is powerful.
“So, allow us to rise to this second. Allow us to pray for the misplaced, mentor the forgotten, and stand collectively for the way forward for our nation. This can be a battle for the soul of The Bahamas, and I consider, with all my coronary heart, that if we combat collectively, we are going to win,” he added.
