Davis’ Pick for National Security is Worrisome
Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe is among the newly appointed members in Prime Minister Philip Davis’ cabinet and that’s troubling.
His appointment has raised eyebrows since Munroe is a criminal defense lawyer who has gained a reputation for protecting society’s worst.
His career has complicated matters for the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Munroe and his partner, Jomo Campbell, the new Minister of State for Legal Affairs have defended notorious gang leaders and murderers who terrorize the Bahamian society.
Criminals often obtain the services of Munroe and Campbell while being investigated by police for killings. The outcome is usually an acquittal and they are released to commit other killings. And the pattern continues.
Munroe’s name has become synonymous with the representation of hardened criminals.
He has publicly criticized the police force and its duty to carry out law and order.
However, Davis lauded Munroe at the swearing-in ceremony, saying he will “bring balance and fairness to the way the state interacts with the people.”
Munroe said he will waste no time to push for inquests into police shootings.
“A speedy system benefits not only the families who say something went wrong but officers whose careers may be languished and held up while these matters drag on and that will be a matter I will be discussing,” he told reporters after the ceremony.
Reports are that Munroe’s relationship with the Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle is quite frosty due to his prior stands and criticisms levied at the organization.
In a social media post, some members of the public have expressed concerns regarding the appointment of Munroe as National Security Minister.
Cherneka Brown said, “He helps criminals out of jail and now the minister of national security…?
Brent Gibson said, “Gangsterism, who makes a criminal lawyer, a national security minister?”
Liz Jones said, “He will bring strife and turmoil to the police force and other security forces.”
It will be interesting to see how Munroe carries out his duty as the minister with responsibility for national security, his answers for the plaguing crime problem, and whether or not he can balance his relationship and defense of criminals with the rules and laws that govern the country.
